RESEARCH

Using Occupational Therapy Principles in Developing a Nature Camp for all Children

This article discusses the TimberNook program, which integrates occupational therapy principles with outdoor play to support children’s physical, social, and emotional development.

Program Types: Therapeutic, Social

Population Groups: Children/Youth, General Population, Neurodevelopmental Differences

Setting or Context: Natural Areas/Parks/Forest

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Cognitive Function, Increased Social Engagement & Skills

Allied Profession Intersections: Occupational Therapy

Type of Activity: Outdoor Gardening, Nature-Based Arts & Crafts, Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Case Studies, Anecdotal Evidence/Testimonials

Measurement and Evaluation: Program Effectiveness

Access: Free

Print Form

Summary

The TimberNook program was developed as a response to the growing need for children to engage in outdoor play, promoting their overall health and well-being. Rooted in occupational therapy principles, the program encourages children to take age-appropriate risks and develop key skills such as gross and fine motor coordination, attention, sensory processing, and social-emotional interaction. Unlike traditional nature education programs, TimberNook emphasizes child-led, unstructured play in natural environments, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and resilience.

The article highlights the importance of outdoor play in preventing health issues like attention deficits, stress, and social withdrawal. It details how the program supports children of all abilities, including those with ADHD and sensory processing challenges, by exposing them to rich sensory and motor experiences in nature. The business model of TimberNook has expanded through workshops and franchise opportunities, reflecting the increasing demand for nature-based interventions. The study underscores the therapeutic potential of outdoor play as a fundamental component of child development and wellness.

Link

Hanscom,Angela, M.O.T.,O.T.R./L., & Schoen, Sarah A,PhD., O.T.R. (2014). Using occupational therapy principles in developing a nature camp for all children. Sensory Integration Special Interest Section Quarterly / American Occupational Therapy Association, 37(4), 1-4.

Other Recommended Research

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.

RESEARCH

Using Occupational Therapy Principles in Developing a Nature Camp for all Children

Summary

Link

Other Recommended Research

Tree-Themed Check-In

Planting a Lemon Tree

Mirroring Nature

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia