Nature as Therapy

Nature is more than a beautiful setting. It is a powerful therapeutic partner in child development. Outdoors, children experience rich sensory input, freedom of movement, and opportunities to explore, take risks, and build essential skills.

Through play, they climb, jump, dig, problem-solve, collaborate, and create - supporting development in areas like sensory integration, motor strengthening and coordination, executive functioning, emotional regulation, and social connection. Nature provides the “just-right” challenges that help children flourish in joyful and authentic ways.

As a pediatric occupational therapist, I meet children exactly where they are, celebrate their uniqueness, and build on their strengths so they can grow into their most confident and authentic selves.