The children of today live in a technologically saturated environment. Most of them prefer to stay indoors and play with gadgets. Not many children want to play outdoors. This is a phenomenon unique to the current generation of digital natives and their children.
That said, there are plenty of studies that point to the hazardous effects technology may have on the physical and mental health of children.
For parents who have experienced the joy of playing outdoors, it may be challenging for them to get their children interested in such activities. But if you’re the kind of person who’s immersed in technology yet eager to get their offspring to play with something other than gadgets, here’s one thing you can do: build them a treehouse!
You’ll be surprised to know that many children still like climbing trees, so why not make it more fun for them to do so by building a treehouse?
Here are some of the notable benefits of having a treehouse on your property.
Nature is something people may take for granted. But it actually has a big impact on our mental health. Engaging with nature after spending so much time in urban areas can give us a breather and make us feel better.
If you build a treehouse, the calming effect of being surrounded by that many green leaves can reduce anxiety, stress, and other mental health problems. Exposure to a lot of natural light can also help alleviate symptoms of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). In fact, a new type of therapy called eco-therapy involves the use of nature.
Furthermore, declaring that your treehouse is a gadget-free zone will force your children to let go of their gadgets and make it a place where they can truly have fun and relax.
If you build a treehouse using eco-friendly materials, you can use this as an opportunity to teach your children to care for the environment. When buying materials to build your treehouse, take some time to explain to your children why the materials you use matter and how your choices in this regard affect the environment.
Check if you can also accommodate different seasons, such as winter, so you can continue your family activities all year round.
Using the treehouse for various reasons will help your children make good memories that they can look back on overtime. If you have picnics and playing board games with your children in the treehouse are fun ways to bring the family together. That said, you and your children need to be careful, as they can slip and fall from the treehouse.
Therefore, parents and guardians must take this opportunity to implement safety measures. The treehouse may be a second home for your children, but that doesn’t mean they can forget about being careful while they’re spending time in it.
Admit it, having your own playhouse as a kid is cool. Children can play and be themselves in the right way when they’re in the treehouse. They can also do their homework there if they want. It would be a nice change of pace compared to studying in their rooms all the time. Alternatively, a treehouse can be a place where your children can hang out alone or with their peers.
Alone time is as important as social time, and striking a balance between the two may benefit your children greatly. The treehouse, like any safe space, is a space for learning and fun. Children must have their private time too, and adults can supervise from a distance.
Having a treehouse will encourage children to go outdoors. They will be able to enjoy the fresh air and engage in physical activities like climbing and jumping.
This will make them happier and healthier, which is something they may not be able to get from gadgets or video games. Having a treehouse will also encourage them to engage in other activities besides those they can do in front of a screen.
If you’re looking to save time & have your treehouse built safely, get in touch with Cheeky Monkey Treehouses today! We’re happy to help make a treehouse that’s perfect for your home.