Playing In Dirt Can Boost Your Child's Immune System
(Undated) -- Playing in mud and dirt could help kids build their immune system. Data on the connection between dirt play and probability of getting allergies and autoimmune diseases found that mud and dirt exposes children to microorganisms which helps with "immune training." Researchers say exposure to an array of microbes teaches a child's immune system to differentiate destructive microbes versus mild ones. Children not exposed to "immune training" could have over sensitive immune systems which can lead to allergies or higher risk of viral sicknesses. Dirt play also helps brain development because it is a sensory play that triggers multiple senses such as touch and smell.