Benefits Of Outdoor Activities

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In this technologically advanced era, it is widely believed that technology has provide a better living environment for people. People start to complete everything by using electronic devices even some of the outdoor activities have been carried out at indoor place. The time that people spending outside has plummeted. Under this phenomenon, whether children should be encouraged to participate in outdoor activities has sparked out rigorous debate. While some contend that outdoor activities can improve physical and mental health, others are concerned about the safety and pollution problems. This essay examines the benefits and concerns of carrying out outdoor activities.

One argument in favour of children taking part in outdoor activities
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Soori (2000) points out that more than well over half of the children especially deprived children lack safety awareness. They can not recognise the danger and they lack self-defence to protect themselves. For instance, when children are playing bicycle outside, they can not aware the importance of wearing a helmet, for this reason, they have high opportunities to come with the risk of collisions and fails. As Valentine & McKendrick (1997) mention that some children may acquire over-excited and energetic which result in overlooking the risk around them. In case they suffer from accident, they may feel helpless in combating emergency. If children carry out outdoor activities without being accompanied by adult, the existing injury become worsening. From this perspective, Safety problem is an important determinant of encouraging children to participate in outdoor …show more content…
In recent year, undue emphasis is being put on academic subject, it is probable that the time which offered to students keep decreasing. Children have a long study hour, contributing to the mental health problem being deteriorated. It is suggested that outdoor activities is a effective way to reduce the depression and anxiety of children. Some outdoor activities such as swimming and hiking increase “levels of neurotransmitters such as endorphins” Endorphins can enhance self-esteem, thus minimizing the feeling of depression and reduce stress (Sugiyama & Thompson , 2007). Bertera (2003) opines that some outdoor activities facilitate relationship and frequent contact with friends. For example, the interaction can be enhanced in the course of walking or playing basketball. Another study also explains that the view of the natural environment such as the sea and landscaped area may be possible obtain a sense of well-being and satisfaction. It seems that outdoor activities is a practical way to reduce stress and improve children’ mental

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