Sunshine and happiness: getting outside to play in natural light can benefit you and your toddler

It seems a bit obvious, and not very useful to hear, but remember to go outside! Getting out into sunlight can make you happier, improve sleep and be good for your body.  

Heading outdoors can be the just the thing on a tricky day, resetting everyone’s mood and giving your body a bit of fresh air and exercise, but the benefit of being outside in natural light is often overlooked – and it shouldn’t be! 

Sunlight is essential to the way our bodies function^[1] 

Sunlight does this in several ways, for example, by allowing you to produce vitamin D and by triggering your body to produce serotonin, which is often called ‘the happiness chemical’, although it is also thought to be important for other bodily functions such as digestion, sleep and even healing wounds. 

Being exposed to natural light by going outside in the morning can also help to regulate our circadian rhythm – making it more likely that our body will be ready for sleep at bedtime.  

But don’t worry if it’s not been a sunny day 

Being outside in sunlight has a positive impact on us even if it’s not a bright summer’s day. The key thing here is being exposed to natural sunlight, as well as getting out and enjoying some fresh air and a change of scene, rather than needing to be basking in warm sun.  

So, whatever the weather, go outside as often as possible and see how you can explore your local area in all seasons.  

You’ll find lots of ideas for games and activities that can be played outside in the activity section of the app – or head over to our community Facebook page to ask for ideas and share your advice for getting outside.  

Reference: 

[1] Buscha, F. (2023) ‘Curious Kids: why do I feel happier when the sun is out?’ The Conversation Published online. Accessed 01.03.2023 and available at: https://theconversation.com/curious-kids-why-do-i-feel-happier-when-the-sun-is-out-198200