January 18th

Girl running outside with TurfMutt

A recent report from Canada researchers confirms what many of us already know. Our kids are spending less time playing outside and more time indoors watching screens. And, all of this screen time is hurting our kids.

The report, Screen Time vs. Green Time: The Health Impacts of Too Much Screen Time, was issued by Nature Canada. It details a dramatic shift in the way Canadian kids and teens spend their time. It also connects the dots between the amount of screen time kids get and the physical and mental health issues that result.

Here are a few of the key findings from the report:

  • Students in grades 7 to 12 spend about seven hours per day on screens. That’s much more than the recommended amount of two hours per day.
  • More screen time was linked with poor behavior and lower self-esteem.
  • Children who spent more time on social media and smartphones were more likely to report having symptoms of anxiety and depression.
  • Spending time being active in nature is beneficial to children’s overall health. It improves resiliency, social skills and performance in school.

The great news for parents? Nature starts right in your very own backyard! That means your kids don’t have to venture far to reap the benefits of being outside.

To get some inspiring activity ideas from your favorite superhero dog, TurfMutt, go to TurfMutt.com. Learn more about the benefits of our living landscapes – and why we should all strive to be “outsiders!” – at SaveLivingLandscapes.com.