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Balanced and Barefoot: Why Nature Supports Emotional and Sensory Development

Angela J. Hanscom
40 min

Description

This session explores the deep connection between movement, nature, and the developing brain. Angela Hanscom, pediatric occupational therapist and founder of TimberNook, shares how outdoor time supports emotional regulation, focus, and social development in ways that indoor environments often cannot.

Grounded in neuroscience and real-world experience, this talk will shift the way you view outdoor play from something extra to something essential.

By the end of this session, participants will:

  • Understand the link between nature play and sensory integration in early childhood
  • Recognize common signs of sensory dysregulation and how nature can support balance
  • Learn why children need more movement, risk, and unstructured outdoor time to thrive
  • Gain strategies for using outdoor time to reduce emotional outbursts and improve focus
  • Feel empowered to prioritize nature, even in busy or urban environments

Featuring

Angela Hanscom

Angela J. Hanscom 

Angela J. Hanscom is a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of TimberNook—an award-winning developmental and nature-based program that has gained international popularity. She is the author of Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children. Hanscom is also a frequent contributor to The Washington Post and in 2019 won the Small Business of the Year Award for the State of New Hampshire.  

Lucie-Tamasova-SQ2-461x461

Lucie Brixí Tamášová Host

Lucie Brixí Tamášová is first of all a mother of three (+two) children. She has made a significant impact through her NGO, Centrum Dialog, which provides education to underprivileged children in Kenya and Guinea. She is also the owner of Montessorihracky.cz, a shop specializing in Montessori materials and didactical toys. Lucie’s passion for empowering children extends beyond her NGO work; she is the founder of the Childhood Potential Conference and Montessori Parenting courses. As a fervent Montessori enthusiast, Lucie is committed to connecting people and ensuring the Montessori message reaches a global audience by bringing the best speakers to her events. Her work reflects a profound dedication to creating a brighter future for children across the globe.

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