We all know playing outdoors is essential for our mental health, for child’s development and for the connection between ourselves and the world. There are so many places we can visit to create memories together when going on family adventures, and the beach is our favourite! I know the Irish weather isn’t ideal for a beach day paradise, but the benefits are the same even without the sunshine (or even better as we won’t get burned!). Why should we go to the beach with our kids whatever the weather?
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The beach is a natural environment that encourages curiosity, learning and appreciation for nature. Children can learn about many things as they explore, move and have fun. They will explore marine life, shells, rocks, tidal pools, sea creatures, rhythm of waves, changes in colours. The beach offers endless learning possibilities and it’s free and available to us all year long
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Going to the beach together is such a good opportunity for quality family time and bonding. Kids can interact with other children and with their own family or friends, which fosters social skills and creates lasting memories. It’s a relaxed environment where everyone can getto know each other better while playing games, having conversations, reading books and having a good time.
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Children’s senses are stimulated through the feel of sand, the sound of waves, smell of ocean... This sensory experience is calming and self regulating which means everyone will feel so relaxed going home. Try to fully embrace the experience by taking off your shoes and socks and walking on sand on water together. Watch your stress fade away with the waves.
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The beach provides the perfect space for children (and adults) to engage in physical activities like swimming, running, climbing, walking, playing beach games, building sandcastles... Children will feel so tired and satisfied afterwards, so in peace with themselves and this will open up their creative mind for any other quieter activities.
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The beach’s quiet environment and soothing sounds of waves as well as the connection with nature and feel of the sand on your feet can help you and your child reduce stress levels and promote relaxation and well-being.
We are all so busy these days that it is very difficult to find some time to look after ourselves and create moments of quality time, but let’s not forget that we can’t pour from an empty cup. Minding yourself...
