Kids spend a lot more time indoors these days, primarily because of electronics or technology. But mommy and daddy it’s important to know that going outside is not only fun, but it’s also essential. According to Child Mind Institute on their article entitled “Why Kids Need to Spend Time in Nature”, there is broad consensus among researchers that children who play outside are less worried, happier, and more adept at paying attention than children who spend more time indoors.
5 places to visit in Metro Manila to get your kids into nature
Even you are living in the Metro and too busy to visit out-of-town places, you can always bring your kids to these places to get them into nature!
1. Nature in the Metro: La Mesa Eco Park
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La Mesa Eco Park is really one of the destinations that you really have to visit with your family. Located in Quezon City, La Mesa Eco Park boasts of a swimming pool, boating activities, and gorgeous trails that you would have to see to believe!
2. Arroceros Forest Park
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Would you believe us if we told you that right smack dab in the center of Manila lies a gorgeous national park? Well, Arroceros Forest Park is just that.
Located near the old Metropolitan Theater, near Park and Ride in Lawton, Arroceros Forest Park almost feels like it’s hidden in plain sight. Once you go inside however, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to an entirely different place.
If you’re near Manila, and you want to spend some time with your kids just basking in nature’s glory, why not try visiting Arroceros Forest Park?
3. Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center
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Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife Center in Quezon City is another “hidden gem” for those looking to catch a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The amazing thing about the Ninoy Aquino Parks and Wildlife is that there’s a lake right smack dab in the middle of the park. Who could have imagined that there’s a park with a lake near Quezon City Circle? Cool right? And perfect for family picnics. Just make sure to bring a trash bag, so that you can keep the park clean.
4. Nature in the Metro: Ayala Triangle Gardens
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Ayala Triangle Gardens is a pretty well known place, especially for those who are working in Makati. And even if it’s a commonly visited place, it’s still one of the most amazing parks that you can visit in Makati!
Anyone can just drop by and sit on the grass, have some snacks or have lunch at the numerous restaurants inside the Triangle, and some people jog or exercise in the wide open spaces. It’s a great sidetrip if you’re planning to go malling in nearby Glorietta or SM Makati.
5. Nature in the Metro: Fort Santiago
Photo from: flickr.com
Fort Santiago isn’t just a place that’s full of history, it’s also a great destination for families looking to do something different!
Aside from the lush greenery, Fort Santiago is also home to the Jose Rizal Museum, where your kids can learn a lot about our national hero. And really, when would your kids get a chance to explore a Spanish era fort right in Manila? If you’re looking to add some history and culture in your family’s life, then make sure to go visit Fort Santiago!
Benefits of spending time in nature
Boost their confidence
You child’s confidence might grow when they spend time in nature. Compared to most forms of indoor play, there is a lot less organization, and children are free to select how they engage with the surrounding nature. They get experience controlling their own behavior, which fosters imagination and creativity.
Help them learn responsibility
Being outside helps instill responsibility in children as well. They can learn that taking care of living things is necessary to keep them alive, for instance, if they are responsible for watering a plant.
Good exercise
Kids move more when they are outside. There’s frequently more activity involved than if they were lounging on the couch, regardless of what they’re doing. Kids who exercise not only have healthier bodies, but they also appear to be more focused. For children with ADHD in particular, this is beneficial. Children feel less worried when they are outside as well.
Updates by Jobelle Macayan
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