There’s Much to Explore
While going outside to play might be the very last thing you feel like doing in this season of record-breaking heat, we do want to acknowledge the importance of prioritizing outdoor enjoyment. As July comes to an end, we’d like to recognize National Park and Recreation Month. While it’s easy to take for granted the public outdoor spaces provided and maintained for us, keep in mind that, nation-wide, there are over 160,000 full-time park and recreation employees (which comes out to an average of 3,200 per state!), plus hundreds of thousands of seasonal, part-time, and volunteer workers. In other words, there’s a whole lot that goes into making sure your outdoor experiences are good ones.
At Fountain Hills Medical Center, we have great respect for our local parks department, and we want to provide a few ways you can get the most out of our beautiful surroundings.
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Explore more
Granted, no one feels like playing or walking on a trail when it’s 110 degrees. However, there’s much that can be enjoyed even in this season. For example, aside from the great splash pad in our community’s beloved Fountain Park, this website lists an additional 69 public splash pads throughout Arizona. And speaking of Fountain Park, did you know that it features over 30 pieces of Fountain Hills’ public art collection, an 18-hole disc golf course, and a Veteran’s memorial? And this is in just one of our community’s five parks. We encourage you to take advantage of the cooler morning and evening hours and explore all of what Fountain Hills’ parks have to offer.
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Tech less
Consider this your friendly reminder that too much screen time is unhealthy. For kids in particular, unstructured, screen-free playtime is very important, and a crucial part of growth. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that kids are currently spending an average of 7 hours per day exposed to screens, and much of that content may be inappropriate for their age. Limiting kids’ screen time can reduce their risk for obesity, help them develop better social skills, and improve their mood.
And kids aren’t the only ones on the hook; parents need to limit their screen time also. When kids see their parents engaging with phones or computers, they may feel like they have to compete for their parent’s time and feel less connected. Even having a television on in the background can take focus away from family connectivity.
Have a free afternoon? Instead of settling in for a(nother) viewing of a favorite movie, head out to a local recreation center for a class, swimming, basketball, or any of their many other offerings.
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Learn something new
Speaking of recreation center classes, have you tried one lately? Learning new skills is important for brains at all ages. When you learn how to do something new, you’re building your “cognitive reserve” which keeps your neural connectivity strong. This can help delay or avoid age-related cognitive decline. Learning new skills also helps build confidence and prevent depression.
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Curious about more? Ask us!
The medical professionals at Fountain Hills Medical Center are equipped to provide mental health resources in Fountain Hills, and can address your questions and concerns. We can provide ideas for age-appropriate activities and offer support and encouragement along your journey.
We salute all those who work hard so that our outdoor experience is pleasant, safe, and functional. Regardless of what Arizona weather we’re experiencing, be sure to explore our community’s parks, trails, splash pads, swimming pools, and recreation centers. It’s good for your own physical and mental health, and also that of your loved ones.
