Pediatrician: Let Kids Play in Mud to Build Immunity
A pediatrician explains that children who play in mud and spend time outdoors develop stronger immune systems. Overly sanitized environments may increase the risk of allergies and asthma.
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11159 results for "outdoor play"
A pediatrician explains that children who play in mud and spend time outdoors develop stronger immune systems. Overly sanitized environments may increase the risk of allergies and asthma.

Three-quarters of children spend less time outside than prison inmates, but a growing movement of forest schools is changing that. These outdoor classrooms are teaching kids to love nature through play and exploration.

A new nature trail in Dunkirk, New York is calling for volunteers to help build music and play areas designed by local kids. Next week, up to 60 helpers per day will create outdoor activity spaces inspired by an autism-friendly trail at Letchworth State Park.

A sports marketing mom discovered that pretend play—the same tool that worked when her daughter was little—breaks through teenage angst and creates genuine connection. Research shows parent and child brains literally sync up during play, making it easier for kids to share their feelings.

A dropped catch turned into one of baseball's rarest plays when two Oklahoma City teammates turned chaos into a spectacular 7-5-3 double play. The unlikely combination required split-second instincts and perfect teamwork to pull off.

While children worldwide scroll through screens, Denmark is doubling down on imagination with forest kindergartens, maker workshops, and iconic attractions like Lego House. The country is now restricting social media access for kids, proving play isn't just nostalgic—it's essential.
When a Nampa boy with disabilities needed a safe space to play, his entire community came together to build it. Volunteers, businesses, and neighbors united to create an accessible outdoor area where he can explore and grow. ---
Children who spend more time in unstructured, self-directed play show stronger emotional regulation and problem-solving abilities years later. New research suggests stepping back might be one of the smartest things parents can do.

Most professionals improvise 60-80% of their workday, yet almost none receive training in the skills that make improvisation work. New brain research shows why play and improv aren't just fun—they're the missing tools for thriving in an AI-driven workplace.

TED partnered with LEGO Group and LEGO Foundation for a groundbreaking event exploring how creative play can build brighter minds and more imaginative futures. The five-hour Play@TED summit featured inventors, athletes, and designers sharing how play transforms lives at every age.

Google Play just launched Game Trials, letting mobile gamers test paid games before spending money. The feature gives players up to 60 minutes of free gameplay to decide if a game is worth buying.

Yonderland, an outdoor retail group operating across five European countries, slashed its direct emissions by 71% and beat its 2027 climate target three years early. The company also grew its repair, rental, and secondhand services while political support for climate action weakens worldwide.

A therapist noticed runners open up more easily while moving, sparking a growing trend in outdoor therapy sessions. Walk-and-talk therapy combines mental health support with the proven benefits of nature and exercise.

Utah just became the latest state to ban cellphones bell-to-bell in all K-12 schools. Now education advocates want to replace screen time with something better: outdoor learning programs that boost grades and mental health.

After years of practice, Chicago Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner finally pulled off a perfect no-look, between-the-legs throw to first base during Saturday's game. The jaw-dropping play shows what happens when creativity meets dedication.

Three families in India traded tablets and TV time for crafts, chores, and outdoor play. Their children are now more engaged, independent, and curious about the world around them.

Creative health scientist Katina Bajaj says adults are stuck in a "play deprivation crisis," trading fun for endless optimization. Her TED talk makes the case that play isn't frivolous—it's a survival skill that boosts creativity and resilience.

When temperatures soared, Rome transformed the city into an open-air movie paradise with more than 50 free outdoor cinemas. Residents can now enjoy new releases and classic films while staying cool during the heatwave.

Ghana is transforming early childhood education by training 30,000 kindergarten teachers to replace rote memorization with play-based learning nationwide. The shift puts exploration, storytelling, and games at the heart of how young children build foundational skills.

Medical experts are pushing back against remote learning on snow days, saying the old-school day off provides crucial mental health benefits. Kids need unstructured outdoor play and permission to unplug, not more screen time.
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