Spending time in nature in nature is not only beneficial for us as parents but it is especially beneficial for children. Here's how nature positively impacts kids mental, emotional and social health:

Mental Health

• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Nature has a calming effect on children, helping them manage stress and emotions more effectively.
• Improved Mood: Time outdoors increases happiness and reduces symptoms of depression.
• Focus and Attention: Especially for children with ADHD, nature can significantly improve attention spans and reduce hyperactivity.

Emotional Well-Being

• Building Resilience: Facing small challenges in nature, such as climbing a tree or crossing a stream, helps children develop confidence and problem-solving skills.
• Increased Empathy: Interacting with animals, plants, and ecosystems fosters a sense of care and compassion for living things.
• Sense of Freedom: Nature provides a space for kids to feel independent and self-reliant.

• Improved Social Skills: Playing in nature with other kids and adults encourages cooperation, communication, and conflict resolution.
• Stronger Family Connection: Outdoor family time together having new experiences create shared memories and deepens family connections.

By helping our kids to connect with the natural world, we can help our children grow into healthier, happier, and more well-rounded individuals.

Your Challenge This Week: Get your kids to spend 20 minutes a day outside and this coming weekend set aside time to have a new experience in the great outdoors with your kids by taking them to a park, forest, or beach.   A happy and self-regulated child awaits as well as a more  closely connected family!

(Damian Geleyns, Wellness Kids Summit)

The Healthy Lunch Box website is your one-stop shop for recipe inspiration and information to help you add more fruit, veg and wholegrains into your child's diet to improve their health.

 Lots of quick and easy recipes and snack ideas.

 Informative blogs about healthy eating.

 Healthy swaps.

 Interactive lunch box builder that helps parents and kids plan and pack a healthy lunch box with foods they like.

Sultana & Coconut Bliss Balls

Click here for an easy and delicious lunchbox snack idea!