Top Books on Outdoor Nature Play
1. Balanced and Barefoot by Angela Hanscom
A must-read for any parent or educator. Hanscom, a paediatric OT, explains how lack of movement and outdoor time is contributing to developmental delays and emotional dysregulation—and what we can do to fix it.
Why it’s great: Practical advice, developmental insights, and real-life examples from outdoor nature programs.
2. Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv
This modern classic introduced the term “nature-deficit disorder.” Louv explores how disconnection from nature impacts children's wellbeing—and how getting back outdoors helps them thrive.
Why it’s great: Combines personal stories, research, and advocacy in an inspiring, hopeful tone.
3. There’s No Such Thing as Bad Weather by Linda Åkeson McGurk
A Scandinavian-style take on raising resilient kids. McGurk shares how letting kids play outside in all weather builds independence, creativity, and emotional strength.
Why it’s great: Encouraging for parents who worry about safety, mess, or weather—it’s all part of the learning!
4. “Children’s Contact with the Outdoors and Nature” (Planet Ark, 2011)
A highly accessible Australian report that summarises the developmental, mental health, and academic benefits of time in nature.
“Time in nature improves children's learning, concentration, and social interactions—yet it’s declining fast.”
🌳 Why It Matters in Everyday Life
The research is clear: outdoor nature play boosts:
Gross motor skills and physical confidence
Emotional regulation and resilience
Focus, attention, and early learning skills
Social communication and imaginative play
And perhaps most importantly—it’s fun.
You don’t need fancy toys or curated activities. A stick, a puddle, and some time to explore can work wonders.
🌿 Want to Explore More?
If you’re looking for a laid back, outdoor group for your toddler or preschooler on the Northern Beaches, I run small OT-led outdoor playgroup sessions focused on sensory-rich, nature-based play.
We welcome muddy hands, curious minds, and all kinds of kids.
📍 Balgowlah and Fairlight
💚 Led by a qualified paediatric occupational therapist
🧺 Relaxed, evidence-informed, and fun!