Toddlers, Children Who Access Green Space May Experience Less Mental Health Risks

Warm weather has arrived. Turn off the TV! Consider heading outside with toddlers and young children to let them play! NIH recently reported that children aged two to five years old and six to eleven who live in areas with more green spaces experienced fewer symptoms of anxiety and depression. These researched findings appeared in Jama Network Open.

“Green space refers to areas of vegetation, such as parks, gardens, lawns, and natural environments, that are found within urban and suburban settings. These spaces are often maintained for recreational use, environmental benefits, and aesthetic purposes. They include public parks, community gardens, playgrounds, and even areas like green rooftops or urban forests,” said Rinku Mehra, MD, MBA and founder of The Mehra Clinic.

The distinguished pediatric endocrinologist and obesity medicine specialist agreed that outdoor play in green spaces is a vital component of urban and suburban environments that offer numerous health, environmental and social benefits.  

“Green spaces are important because they offer places for people to exercise, play, and unwind, contributing to physical and mental well-being. Additionally, plants in green spaces produce oxygen and help filter out pollutants, improving the overall air quality,”  said Dr. Mehra.

She points out that parks and gardens provide venues for community events and social gatherings, fostering a sense of community. But not all toddlers (ages 2 to 5) and young children (ages 6 to 11) are getting enough exercise and time spent in green spaces.

 “The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that toddlers should spend at least 180 minutes in a variety of physical activities at any intensity throughout the day. This includes active play both indoors and outdoors. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that children in this age group should get at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day. This should include aerobic, muscle-strengthening, and bone-strengthening activities,” Dr. Mehra added.

Additionally, children living in urban environments can experience more social barriers and mental health challenges compared to those in rural areas. 

“Urban settings often come with higher levels of noise, pollution, and crowded living conditions, which can contribute to stress and anxiety. Limited access to natural green spaces in cities can also impact children’s ability to relax and unwind, exacerbating feelings of isolation and stress,” said Dr. Mehra.

She further explained that lack of time spent in green spaces can contribute to behavioral issues such as aggression and rule-breaking since green spaces provide children with opportunities for unstructured play, physical activity, and stress relief.

It is critical to remember that when children soak up the sun, they reap additional benefits. 

“Physically, sunlight is a natural source of Vitamin D, which is crucial for bone health and immune function. Mentally and emotionally, exposure to natural light helps regulate sleep-wake cycles and can improve mood by boosting serotonin levels. This can lead to better mental health and emotional well-being in children,” Dr. Mehra stated.

Natural environments provide a sensory-rich experience that can stimulate brain development, particularly in young children. However, some parents and children who reside in urban areas such as Baltimore City may face more barriers than individuals who reside in suburban areas.

Dr. Mehra provides creative recommendations for parents in urban environments who want to help toddlers and children to access green space more:

1. Use Indoor Green Spaces: Many cities have indoor gardens or botanical centers that provide a nature-like environment.

2. Balcony or Rooftop Gardens: Create a small garden on your balcony or rooftop where children can plant and care for flowers or vegetables.

3. Local Community Gardens: Participate in community garden projects where families can work together on gardening activities.

4. Nature-Inspired Play Areas: Use parks or playgrounds designed with natural elements such as wooden structures, sand, and water features.

5. Weekend Nature Trips: Plan regular weekend trips to nearby nature reserves or countryside areas for a dose of green space.

Exposing young children to green space can reduce mental health symptoms and foster positive relationships. Dr. Mehra further agreed that visiting green surroundings as a family can significantly enhance family bonding.

“Shared outdoor experiences such as hiking, picnicking, or playing games in the park provide opportunities for communication, teamwork, and creating lasting memories. These activities foster a sense of togetherness and strengthen family relationships, contributing to a supportive and nurturing family environment,” she said.

Follow Dr. Mehra on Instagram via @drmehra. Visit www.themehraclinic.com to learn more information about The Mehra Clinic.