Today's children are constantly in an upright position. 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. What we don't realize is that we are keeping children from attaining the very skills needed to keep them safe in the first place! Hanscom upends traditional thought and practice by revealing the critical links between the child, the brain, and the great outdoors.
Hanscom will talk about the how lack of movement and play outdoors is affecting child development and academic
success. Here is a sampling of the topics that will be covered:
* Nature as the ultimate sensory experience
* The Upright Children - balance system affected by lack of full-body play
* Water Works - emotional regulation and time spent outdoors
* Double Vision - how movement supports eye function
* Sick, Pale, and Frail - children are getting weaker...
* The Playground Dilemma - link between playgrounds and development
* Promoting Independence Outside
* Fostering Creativity in the Great Outdoors
Angela Hanscom is a revolutionary pediatric occupational therapist turned nature enthusiast--using the woods, river, and giant mud puddles to prevent disabilities. She is the founder of the unique and unconventional TimberNook camps that are
spreading in New England - with the potential to go nationwide. Hanscom is also writing a book, Balanced & Barefoot, which discusses the critical links between play outdoors, child development, and academic success.
Contact admissions@hartsbrook.org or call (413) 584-3198 for more information. Registration is appreciated but not required.
