Episode 13 – Amber Scherkenbach – Nature Play: Unlocking Your Child’s Potential

Episode Summary

In this episode of Mommasota, host Monica Eickman interviews Amber Scherkenbach, a mom of two and occupational therapist who specializes in nature-based services and enrichment programs. They discuss the benefits of outdoor play for children’s development and well-being. They emphasize the importance of nature play in building sensory motor skills, promoting movement and exploration, and fostering connection with the natural world. They also address common concerns and barriers to outdoor play, such as the effort required to get kids ready and the fear of dirt and bugs. Overall, the conversation highlights the value of nature play in supporting children’s growth and development. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of allowing children to engage in risky play and explore nature. They emphasize the need to question rules and expectations, and to pause and wonder why we say no to certain activities. The speakers encourage parents to let their children lead in their play and to provide support and guidance rather than constantly correcting and directing. They also highlight the benefits of nature-based play for children’s development, including sensory and motor skills, and suggest ways to bring nature indoors.

Key Takeaways

• Outdoor play in nature provides a dynamic and complex sensory and motor experience for children, supporting their development and well-being.
• Getting outside and engaging in nature play can help regulate the nervous system, reduce symptoms of ADHD, and improve sleep.
• Parents should trust their instincts and advocate for their children’s development, even if it goes against societal norms or professional opinions.
• Nature play doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive; simple natural materials like sticks and rocks can provide endless opportunities for creative play.
• While there may be barriers to outdoor play, such as the effort required or concerns about dirt and bugs, the benefits far outweigh the challenges. Question rules and expectations and pause to wonder why we say no to certain activities.
• Let children lead in their play and provide support and guidance rather than constantly correcting and directing.
• Nature-based play provides opportunities for sensory and motor skill development.
• Bringing nature indoors can also provide benefits for children’s development.
• Start small and find accountability to help incorporate more outdoor time.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mommasota and the Importance of Outdoor Play

01:26 Guest Introduction and Personal Experience with Nature Play

04:13 The Intersection of Occupational Therapy and Parenting

06:06 Navigating Milestones and Avoiding Comparison

10:25 The Benefits of Nature Play and Minimalism

18:08 The Impact of Sunshine and Outdoor Time on Sleep

20:59 Overcoming Barriers to Outdoor Play

23:17 Strategies for Embracing Messy Play

25:40 The Power of Nature Play in Child Development

26:07 Questioning Rules and Expectations

29:22 Teetering on the Line of Risky Play

31:17 Letting Children Lead in Play

36:41 The Beauty of Nature

39:26 The Benefits of Outdoor OT

46:30 Mother Nature’s Embrace

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