When kids go outside to play, they usually don’t just sit around. They run, skip, jump, build, crawl, throw, and hang. It may not seem like it to them, but they are getting great exercise. From decreased anxiety to gross-motor development, kids get zillions of benefits from moving their bodies. But, let’s focus on one that directly benefits parents as well – sleep. In his article, “Your Kid’s Brain on Exercise,” R. Morgan Griffin says, “Kids who exercise regularly fall asleep faster than other kids. They also stay asleep longer. The more vigorous the activity, the bigger the sleep benefit. Getting enough sleep lifts moods, improves judgment, and boosts memory.” A parent with a soundly sleeping baby is a happy parent!
