According to research at Cornell University, access to nature, even if it’s only houseplants, can help children cope with stress and adversity. Children who play outside every day are able to release tension and have a means to explore  ideas and emotions.

Researchers have reported that contact with nature can enhance mood, concentration and problem solving especially for patients with ADHD. According  to research published in the American Journal of Public Health, “exposure to ordinary natural settings in the course of common after-school and  weekend activities may be widely effective in reducing attention deficit  symptoms in children.

”Scientists found that ADHD patients who participate in  green activities—such as nature walks—help them keep their focus and complete  tasks. A 20-minute  stroll in the park is enough to improve attention.

Major depression requires medical treatment, but physical activity, especially outdoors, can help ease many symptoms. For your average case of winter blues, the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests spending time outside every day and, if possible, taking the family to a sunny vacation spot in mid-winter.

Basking under the sun for just a few minutes a day can help supply immune  boosting and bone-building vitamin D. There may be emotional benefits as well  that boost immunity. Just having a view of nature has been shown to improve  hospital patients’ recovery and reduce illness rates among office workers and  prison inmates.

Besides getting a glimpse of scenic views, exposure to farms and  wildlife, horseback riding, hiking and camping can also be therapeutic for a  variety of health conditions in adults and children.

Researchers from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine found that children  who had at least 15 minutes of recess a day scored better on  teachers’ behavioral ratings than those children who did not have a break. Kids  need a break during the day to run around and release energy before turning back  to the books.