Playing during a Pandemic: Why children need outdoor play more than ever

Abstract

Outdoor play is fundamental to children’s physical, mental, and socio-emotional development. However, with the sudden emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, several restrictions have been put in place limiting the way children play, which has unfortunately impacted their physical and emotional health and well being. This commentary discusses why outdoor play is critical in helping children adapt to the uncertainty presented by COVID-19, and how outdoor play serves as a mechanism for children to keep physically and mentally well.