Research

Why Outdoor Play Is Critical for Children's Physical and Mental Health

Summary of 2025 findings from a University of Michigan Mott Children's Hospital poll and international position statement showing outdoor play supports emotional regulation, focus, and buffers the effects of screen time.

Playing in mud and dirt can boost your child's immune system — here's how

A researcher-authored explainer on how soil microbes, including Mycobacterium vaccae, help train children's immune systems and may even reduce inflammation and boost mood.

Screen Time and Children: How to Guide Your Child

The Benefits of Outdoor Play for Children's Development

Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans: Youth

Risky play and mental health

An expert review of how age-appropriate risky play in early childhood helps build lifelong emotional resilience and reduces anxiety symptoms in children as young as two.

The Physical Activity Benefits of Playing Outdoors

Children and Nature: A Global Perspective

The Risks of Children Having Too Little Outdoor Play

Outdoor Play and the Developing Brain

Risk-Taking in Outdoor Play: Benefits and Parental Guidance

Children Who Play Adventurously Have Better Mental Health

Coverage of a University of Exeter study of nearly 2,000 families finding that children who engage in adventurous outdoor play have lower anxiety and depression symptoms and fared better during lockdowns.

The Growing Evidence for Nature's Role in Child Development

How Gardening Benefits Children's Health

Fresh Air, Fun, and Exploration: Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Healthy Development

A practical parent- and educator-facing piece on how daily outdoor play supports sleep, attention, STEM learning, and caregiver-child relationships in young children.

'Dirt Is Good': Why Kids Need Exposure To Germs

An interview with microbiome scientist Jack Gilbert explaining why exposure to dirt, animals and soil in early childhood supports immune development and may reduce allergy risk.

How to Protect Kids from Nature-Deficit Disorder

An interview with Richard Louv on the concept of nature-deficit disorder and practical ways parents can help children build focus, confidence, and executive function through nature.