The quality of the outdoor environment influences childrens health – a cross‐sectional study of preschools

Abstract Aim To test how the quality of the outdoor environment of child day care centres ( DCC s) influences children's health. Methods The environment was assessed using the Outdoor Play Environmental Categories ( OPEC ) tool, time spent outdoors and physical activity as measured by pedometer. 172/253 (68%) of children aged 3.0–5.9 from nine DCC s participated in Southern Sweden. Health data collected were body mass index, waist circumference, saliva cortisol, length of night sleep during study, and symptoms and well‐being which were scored (1‐week diary – 121 parent responders). Also, parent‐rated well‐being and health of their child were scored (questionnaire, 132 parent responders). MANOVA , ANOVA and principal component analyses were performed to identify impacts of the outdoor environment on health. Results High‐quality outdoor environment at DCC s is associated with several health aspects in children such as leaner body, longer night sleep, better well‐being and higher mid‐morning saliva cortisol levels. Conclusion The quality of the outdoor environment at DCC s influenced the health and well‐being of preschool children and should be given more attention among health care professionals and community planners.