The Sunniest Secret
The power of sunlight is an unsung hero for human health as a whole–and such an easy gift to give to children. Sunlight is a free and natural tool that helps support children’s growth, immune systems, emotions, cognitive development and so much more. Much more than just a backdrop to a lovely day, in the world of early childhood development and education, sunshine plays a role too important to keep secret. Keep reading to uncover the truth behind the beautiful benefits of sunlight.
Outside time is a must here at Crestwood Childcare and Learning Center we have outside time built into our daily schedule to make sure we get our students and early childhood educators out into the fresh air and sunshine on a daily basis. Schedule a tour and come check out our awesome playground and outdoor space today!
1. Stronger Bones and Immunity
Getting adequate sunshine helps fuel the production of vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones and a strong immune system–hugely important within a daycare or childcare setting where children are prone to share germs. Vitamin D also helps children absorb calcium, supporting their skeletal growth during vital early years. Spending even as little as about 5 to 15 minutes in the midday sun can help children meet their Vitamin D needs (Source). Additionally, a review in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition highlights vitamin D’s role in regulating immune defenses and preventing deficiencies that can lead to rickets and other health concerns.
As cold and flu season approaches, here at Crestwood Childcare and Learning Center we not only keep our cleaning game up-to-par, but we also ensure that we continue to get outside time–grabbing some sun, fresh air, and a break from the classroom to play and exercise! Grab your jacket, come by for a tour, and come and join the fun!
2. Sunshine and Brain Power
Research shows that sunlight can influence brain chemistry and furthermore, bright outdoor light stimulates the release of serotonin. This in turn supports mood regulation and helps children stay alert, happy, and ready to learn (source). Natural daylight is a brain and mood booster, making it a key ingredient for early childhood education–whether at home, in a daycare or a childcare setting.
Here at Crestwood Childcare and Learning Center we love to give our students a boost up in the world, through their education, personal growth and also through some good ol’ fashioned sunshine. Call today to ask about our classroom openings and to see what our daily schedule (both inside and out) looks like between the age groups.
3. Mood, Sleep, and Emotional Health
Sunlight helps regulate circadian rhythms (the body’s internal clock) in children and adults. regular exposure to sunlight will help regulate sleep cycles (Source). It is no secret that good sleep and healthy rhythms can lead to a better attitude and approach to the day! Especially helpful in keeping with a daily schedule and getting to childcare or daycare on time.
There is also a connection between sunlight and serotonin (the body’s ‘happy hormone’)! The Brain Balance Center supports that time outside in natural light, notably for children with behavioral challenges, has been shown to improve mood stability and focus.
We are up and at ’em with the sun here at Crestwood Childcare and Learning Center. We are ready to greet your little one with a smile at 7:00 am. Call today to ask about our classroom openings and to schedule to come see our facility and meet our lovely early childhood educators.
Sunshine and Sensibility
According to the organization Teach Early Years, fresh air and sunshine combine to create an idyllic setting for creativity, exploration, and discovery–perfect for setting a solid foundation for learning within early childhood education! Sunshine is simply a natural powerhouse for good. From bone strength, brain development, emotional well-being and even encouraging play, sunshine is an excellent resource that is (relatively) always available for taking.
While embracing the rays, remember to do so wisely. A day on the lake in a swimsuit with no sunscreen, hat, or sleeves is going to end poorly for many. Pay attention to your skin and ensure that you are receiving smart sun exposure and either retreat to the shade or take precautions when necessary.
Laying a solid foundation for education, health, and having fun while doing it is important to us here at Crestwood Childcare and Learning Center. We love to incorporate movement, outside time, structured learning and more into our days, and would love to share them with your family. Schedule a tour to come on by and let us impress you with everything from our outside play areas to our well thought out classrooms. We would love to support your child in their bright future by building a solid early childhood education for them today.