Parks over gadgets! Here's why kids need to spend time with nature

As per data collected from nearly 300 studies, nature exposure can improve physical activity and mental health in children. The review conducted by the Washington State University and the University of Washington was published online in the journal Pediatrics.

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Researchers also found that lack of nature exposure largely impacts marginalised communities that do not have access to residential parks and outdoor spaces. As per the team, not all kids are able to have regular nature contact. This is due partly to urbanisation, increased screen time and more sedentary indoor lifestyles.

The American Academy of Pediatrics routinely recommends outdoor playtime for the better mental health of children. The researchers position their findings in the context of the nation's urgent public health crises around physical inactivity and poor mental health.

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