A Must-Read on Why Outdoor Play Is the Best Therapy for Kids

In Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children, pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom highlights the vital role of unstructured outdoor play in children’s cognitive, emotional, and physical development. She explains how today’s sedentary, screen-filled lifestyles contribute to several health and cognitive difficulties, such as ADHD, sensory processing difficulties, and emotional challenges. Drawing from her TimberNook program, Hanscom offers practical strategies to help kids reconnect with nature and movement, even in urban environments. Throughout the book, you will find easy, everyday ideas to help your kids move more freely, stay active, and grow into healthy, balanced, and resilient individuals.