A new study found that green spaces near homes can benefit young children with cognitive development.
A new University of Illinois study shows that green spaces near homes can benefit young children. The study focused on children aged 2 to 5 and found that early access to green space and interactive nature elements around family homes influence household chaos and children’s executive function. Samantha Iwinski, postdoctoral research associate at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is one of the study authors. She said having things such as sandboxes, outdoor sitting areas, and more greenness around homes were associated with better cognitive development for children. For families with limited access to green spaces, she suggested that bringing nature indoors through activities such as growing bean sprouts, discussing weather patterns, or participating in community programs.