Episode 4: Raising Crunchy Kids: Why Nature Builds Better Brains

Welcome back to the Wannabe Crunchy Podcast! In this episode, host Hannah dives into Balanced and Barefoot by Angela J. Hanscom, a powerful read on the importance of active, outdoor, unstructured play for kids of all ages. We’re talking muddy boots, barefoot adventures, and why letting your toddler taste dirt might actually be a good thing.

Hannah breaks down key takeaways from Hanscom’s research as a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of TimberNook, highlighting the vital role outdoor play has in developing sensory skills, emotional regulation, and physical health. From proprioception to vestibular development, you’ll learn why 3+ hours of free play a day can do wonders for your child (and you).

If you’re a mom wondering whether letting your little one climb trees, roll in the dirt, or just be bored is “okay”—this episode is for you.

Plus, stay to the end for a quick shoutout to Hannah’s new children’s book Dempsey the Dump Truck, available now on Amazon!

https://timbernook.com/?v=0b3b97fa6688

https://www.amazon.com/Balanced-Barefoot-Unrestricted-Confident-Children/dp/1626253730

https://www.audible.com/pd/Balanced-and-Barefoot-Audiobook/B01IDSF3T8

https://www.amazon.com/Dempsey-Dump-Truck-Hannah-Rodwell/dp/B0DYB5ZGGW