Episode 9: Angela J. Hanscom, Author of “Balanced and Barefoot”

Dynamic Duo Podcast

After observations made through her career and personal life, Angela J. Hanscom became interested in the factors that play into a child’s development. Because of her inspiration and passion, she is dedicated to sharing her knowledge and findings. We welcome Angela J. Hanscom!

Things you will learn in this episode:

• There has been a drastic increase in children enrolled in occupational therapy in the past ten years and may be correlated to the fact that children fall short of the expected strength and balance for their age.
• Every child’s brain has different demands and the outdoors allows children to let their body move freely and explore their imagination. Her program “TimberNook” gives children an unstructured playtime to encourage children to be pushed out of their comfort zones.
• Taking away outdoor play or limiting it reduces sensory organization and can hinder children later in life.
• Risks are important for physical, sensory, and mental development. Creativity stems from exploration and it is important for children to do this independently.

References mentioned:

Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life

Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children

TimberNook

Angela J. Hanscom is a pediatric occupational therapist and the founder of TimberNook, an award-winning developmental and nature-based program that has gained international popularity. She holds a master’s degree in occupational therapy and an undergraduate degree in kinesiology, with a concentration in health fitness.

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