Nature Based Occupational Therapy
As parents, we all want the best for our children. We want them to grow, learn, and thrive in all aspects of life. However, for some children, developmental challenges can make it difficult for them to accomplish these goals. That's where occupational therapy comes in, and more specifically, nature-based occupational therapy.
What is Nature-Based Occupational Therapy?
Nature-based occupational therapy is a form of therapy that uses natural environments such as parks, gardens, and forests to facilitate therapeutic interventions. It combines the principles of occupational therapy with the benefits of being outdoors in nature. Occupational therapists use various activities and techniques in the natural environment to promote sensory processing, social skills, and gross and fine motor skills in individuals.
Benefits for Children with Disabilities or Conditions
Nature-based occupational therapy can benefit children with different disabilities or conditions, including sensory processing disorder, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays. Being in the natural environment can create a calming effect on children, reduce anxiety and stress, and improve their mood and behavior. Outdoor activities also provide opportunities for physical activity, which is crucial for children's overall health and well-being.
Occupational Therapy Techniques and Activities
Occupational therapists use various techniques and activities to promote different developmental skills in children. For example, they may use outdoor play equipment, such as swings and climbing structures, to encourage gross motor skills and coordination. They may also engage children in scavenger hunts, gardening, and other nature-focused activities to improve their problem-solving skills, social skills, and sensory processing.
Environments for Nature-Based Occupational Therapy
Nature-based occupational therapy can happen in various natural environments, depending on the child's needs and interests. Parks, gardens, and forests are some of the most popular settings for these therapies. However, therapists may also use indoor gardens or aquariums for children who may have difficulty being outside due to allergies or other health conditions.
Importance of Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapy plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for individuals seeking to overcome different life challenges. By utilizing natural environments and engaging in activities that promote developmental skills, nature-based occupational therapy can have significant benefits for children with various disabilities or conditions. Every child is unique, and occupational therapy offers individualized care to help them reach their full potential.
Learn More with These References:
American Occupational Therapy Association. (2018). Occupational therapy practice framework: Domain and process (3rd ed.). American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72(Suppl. 2), 1-48.
Hass-Cohen, N., & Case-Smith, J. (2020). Occupational therapy in the promotion of health and wellness. FA Davis.
Kaplan, R., & Kaplan, S. (1989). The experience of nature: A psychological perspective. Cambridge University Press.
Miller, L. J., & Lane, S. J. (2000). Toward a consensus in terminology in sensory integration theory and practice: Part 1: Taxonomy of neurophysiological processes. Sensory Integration Special Interest Section Quarterly, 23(1), 1–4.
