In "Balanced and Barefoot," authors Angela J. Hanscom and Dena L. H. K. A. Moorman explore the transformative power of unstructured play for children in an increasingly structured world. They argue that barefoot activities foster not only physical strength and balance but also vital sensory experiences that enhance cognitive development. The book draws on research and real-life examples to illustrate the detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle on young minds and bodies. Packed with practical ideas and inspiration, it invites parents and educators to reclaim outdoor play as an essential element of childhood. Discover how embracing natural play can empower the next generation to thrive and flourish!
By Angela J. Hanscom
Published: 2016
"Children need to be physically active and engage with the world around them."
"Angela Hanscom is a powerful voice for balance." —Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods In this important book, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of TimberNook shows how outdoor play and unstructured freedom of movement are vital for children’s cognitive development and growth, and offers tons of fun, engaging ways to help ensure that kids grow into healthy, balanced, and resilient adults. Today’s kids have adopted sedentary lifestyles filled with television, video games, and computer screens. But more and more, studies show that children need “rough and tumble” outdoor play in order to develop their sensory, motor, and executive functions. Disturbingly, a lack of movement has been shown to lead to a number of health and cognitive difficulties, such as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), emotion regulation and sensory processing issues, and aggressiveness at school recess break. So, how can you ensure your child is fully engaging their body, mind, and all of their senses? Using the same philosophy that lies at the heart of her popular TimberNook program—that nature is the ultimate sensory experience, and that psychological and physical health improves for children when they spend time outside on a regular basis—author Angela Hanscom offers several strategies to help your child thrive, even if you live in an urban environment. Today it is rare to find children rolling down hills, climbing trees, or spinning in circles just for fun. We’ve taken away merry-go-rounds, shortened the length of swings, and done away with teeter-totters to keep children safe. Children have fewer opportunities for unstructured outdoor play than ever before, and recess times at school are shrinking due to demanding educational environments. With this book, you’ll discover little things you can do anytime, anywhere to help your kids achieve the movement they need to be happy and healthy in mind, body, and spirit.
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“Children need to be physically active and engage with the world around them.”
Balanced and Barefoot
By Angela J. Hanscom
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Angela J. Hanscom is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of TimberNook, a creative outdoor program that reconnects children with nature. With a passion for promoting healthy play and childhood development, she has authored the book "Balanced and Barefoot," which emphasizes the importance of unstructured play for young children. Hanscom is a sought-after speaker and consultant, sharing her expertise on the significance of outdoor experiences in fostering children's well-being. Through her work, she advocates for renewed outdoor play opportunities, aiming to combat the challenges of our increasingly screen-oriented society. Angela lives in New England, where she continues to inspire families and educators to embrace the benefits of nature-based play.
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