5 Benefits of Outdoor Play for Young Kids (And How You Can Join Us on the Farm!)

As parents, it’s easy to feel the pressure to have our little ones constantly entertained, scheduled, and screen-free — but sometimes the simplest things make the biggest impact.

Like dirt, open space, and a little fresh air.

Research (and real life!) shows that outdoor play is one of the BEST gifts we can give our kids — especially in those early years from birth to six. 🌿

Here are five powerful reasons to get outside with your little ones:

1. Outdoor Play Boosts Physical Development

Running, climbing, digging, balancing — all those big movements that little bodies need to grow strong and coordinated happen so naturally outside.(And no tiny living room furniture to dodge!)

2. It Builds Resilience and Confidence

When kids scramble up a ramp or find their way through a muddy puddle, they’re not just having fun — they’re learning problem-solving skills and building real confidence.

3. It Nurtures Creativity and Imagination

Sticks become magic wands. Barley becomes rocks in a dump truck. Every backyard or farm field is a blank canvas for a child's imagination when you let nature lead the way.

4. It Reduces Stress (For Kids and Parents)

Spending time outside lowers cortisol levels (that’s your stress hormone!) and boosts feel-good brain chemicals.A little dirt under the nails and sunshine on the face can work wonders for everyone's mood.

5. It Fosters a Lifelong Love for Nature

When kids grow up feeling connected to the earth, animals, and the simple rhythms of the seasons, they carry that respect and wonder into adulthood. And that matters — now more than ever.

Want to make outdoor play a regular part of your week?

I’m so excited to invite you to our brand-new Explore the Frontier Playgroup at our family farm in Lonsdale, MN! 🛖🐐

Every Thursday morning, we'll open up our late 1800’s barn and play areas for little ones ages 0–6 to explore, climb, and meet our farm animals — while parents enjoy coffee, conversation, and a chance to breathe.

✨ FREE kickoff event on May 1st!✨ Regular playgroups start May 15th ($15/family/week or $40/family/month)

👟 Shoes on, clothes that can get a little dirty, and hearts wide open — that's all you need.

Come be part of this new little community where kids (and moms!) can bloom. 🌸

➡️ Click [here] for all the details and to sign up!