Beyond Visibility: The Impact of High-Visibility Colours on Children's Well-being"

As a parent, I’m passionate about keeping my children safe (I assume that most of you are). You’ve heard me go on about how certain colours make it easy and quick to recognise our babies (my oldest is 5, but will always be my baby!).

However, the benefits of high-visibility colours extend far beyond just visibility.

In fact, I read some articles and studies suggesting that these vibrant hues can have a significant impact on children's mood and behaviour as well as cognitive function.

Vibrant hues can have a significant impact on children's mood and behaviour as well as cognitive function.

Which colours positively affect wellbeing

Let's start by exploring the positive effects of high-visibility colours.

Bright colours and attention-grabbing hues, like red and yellow are known to stimulate the brain and promote feelings of energy, optimism, and happiness.

These colours are often associated with warmth, vitality, and positivity, making them ideal choices for children's clothing, toys, and learning environments.

For example, studies published by the “Journal of Color Research and Application,” showed that exposure to red can increase heart rate and blood pressure, leading to heightened alertness and concentration.

This can be beneficial in situations where children need to be engaged and focused, such as during learning activities or sports. It also shows a correlation between academic performance and colours.

Similarly, the colour yellow is associated with optimism, creativity, and happiness, making it a popular choice for promoting a positive mood and mindset in children. And we all want our kiddies to have a positive mood and mindset! Am I right!?

Which colours negatively affect wellbeing

On the other hand, certain colours have been found to have a negative impact on children's mood and behaviour.

Muted or dull hues like grey, brown, and beige are often perceived as boring, uninspiring, and even depressing. These colours can evoke feelings of sadness, fatigue, and lethargy, leading to decreased motivation and engagement in activities.

When reading this I was a little upset, not only because it was from a credible source like the “Journal BMC Medical Research Mythology” so it's most likely accurate, but also because my home is pretty beige, with that said, I do love a pop of colour, I’ve rainbow coordinated my son’s bookshelf.

Anyway, continuing, the research from these guys shows that exposure to grey can evoke feelings of sadness and depression, while brown is often associated with boredom and monotony.

The colour red can enhance attention to detail and improve performance on tasks requiring accuracy and precision.

How colours shape our children

In contrast, vibrant, high-visibility colours have been found to boost mood and energy levels, leading to increased enthusiasm and participation in activities.

Apart from mood, a study published in the Journal of Education Psychology, found that students performed better on cognitive tasks when exposed to environments decorated in warm, stimulating colours like yellow.

Similarly, a study by researchers at the University of British Columbia found that the colour red can enhance attention to detail and improve performance on tasks requiring accuracy and precision!

I would have loved to have known this when I was practising for my piano exams back in the day!

So, what I’m trying to say is that the significance of colour in our children's lives cannot be overstated.

From influencing children's mood and behaviour to enhancing their cognitive function and academic performance, the colours we surround our children with, play a crucial role in shaping their experiences and well-being.

Choosing colours wisely

As parents, the choices we make, even when it comes to something as seemingly simple as clothing, can have a profound impact on our children's lives.

Choosing high-visibility clothing, not only helps keep children visible but also promotes positivity and engagement. This way we can create a vibrant and supportive environment that nurtures their growth and development.

So, the next time you're selecting clothing for your little ones, remember the power of colour—and choose wisely. With My Bright Tyke, you're not just dressing your child; you're shaping their world in bright and beautiful ways. So try bright colours for kids and make a difference in their lives as well.