Balanced and Barefoot
Angela J. Hanscom
2016
Pediatric occupational therapist Angela Hanscom makes a compelling case for the essential role of movement and outdoor play in childhood development. Balanced and Barefoot explores how modern lifestyles — with indoor living, structured schedules, and screen time — are limiting children’s physical and emotional growth, and offers practical ways to restore balance through free play in nature.
Why It’s Included:
This book strongly supports natural, child-led development and reinforces the benefits of slowing down, simplifying, and reconnecting with the outdoors. It aligns beautifully with holistic, gentle parenting philosophies by advocating for trust in children’s instincts and bodily wisdom.
Who It’s For:
Perfect for parents, educators, and caregivers who want to better understand children’s sensory and physical needs. Especially relevant for those noticing behavioural or developmental concerns, or seeking more freedom and joy in daily life.
“This book presents an approach to childhood which puts unstructured play outdoors back in its place of importance. The rapidly evolving world we live in has made natural play an optional extra too often set aside. Embracing nature play has been a core of our group since the beginning and this book shares why.”
Further Reading:
There’s No Such Thing As Bad Weather – Linda Åkeson McGurk
The Last Child in the Woods – Richard Louv
