World Mental Health Day: The Benefits of Nature and Green Spaces | idverde's Perspective
At iidverde, we firmly believe that one of the most powerful tools for mental health is also one of the simplest: nature.
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Grounds Maintenance, Landscape Creation, Arboriculture, Sports Surfacing, Parks management, IOS Managing Safely Training, Ecology & Biodiversity, Grass cutting, Horticulture, Street Cleaning, Soft Landscaping, Hard Landscaping
Our Services
idverde provides a wide range of green services, including grounds maintenance, landscape creation, and advice services, to both private and public sectors across the UK.
31 July 2024
The Power of Play Nurturing Children’s Growth and Well-Being
At idverde, our Play division is passionate about creating outdoor play environments that inspire and nurture children’s development. Play is a fundamental aspect of childhood, serving as a cornerstone for physical, emotional, social, and cognitive growth. Here, we explore the multifaceted benefits of play and why it is essential for every child’s development.
Physical Development
Outdoor play encourages physical activity, which is crucial for healthy growth. Climbing structures, slides, and swings help children develop their gross motor skills, strength, and coordination. Regular physical activity through play promotes cardiovascular health, builds muscle, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, it supports the development of fine motor skills as children manipulate smaller objects and navigate their environment.
Social Development
Interacting with peers during playtime is essential for social development. Children learn to share, negotiate, and collaborate, which are critical skills for building relationships. Playgrounds serve as microcosms of society where children practice communication, conflict resolution, and teamwork. Inclusive play environments cater to children of all abilities and further enhance social development by promoting diversity, acceptance, and inclusivity.
Cognitive Development
Play stimulates cognitive development by encouraging problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking. Puzzles, building blocks, and interactive play panels challenge children’s minds and promote intellectual growth. Imaginative play fosters creativity and innovation, allowing children to explore new ideas and concepts. Through play, children learn about cause and effect, spatial relationships, and basic scientific principles, laying the foundation for lifelong learning.
Importance of Nature Integration
Integrating natural elements into play areas enriches the play experience and enhances development. Natural features like sand, water, and plants stimulate the senses and encourage exploration. These elements offer diverse imaginative and sensory play opportunities, which are crucial for cognitive and emotional growth. Nature-based play also fosters a connection with the environment, instilling a sense of responsibility and stewardship in children from a young age.
The Role of Community Input
At idverde, we believe involving the community in planning and designing play spaces is vital. By engaging children, parents, and local stakeholders, we create environments that meet the specific needs and preferences of the community.
This collaborative approach ensures that play areas are not only functional and safe but also beloved and well-used.
Community involvement fosters a sense of ownership and pride, encouraging ongoing care and maintenance of the play spaces.
Contact us today to see how we can meet your specific needs, here.
