#319: Outdoor Play is the Ultimate Brain Booster for Kids—A Must-Listen for Parents! with Kim Wilson Pediatric OT

 Did you know that nature play is one of the most powerful ways to support your child’s brain development? In this episode, occupational therapist Kim Wilson reveals why outdoor play is essential for strengthening sensory processing, motor skills, and cognitive function. She explains how nature-based activities help wire young brains, build resilience, and even improve emotional regulation. We explore the science behind synaptic connections, why movement-rich play fosters executive function, and how simple outdoor experiences can set your child up for lifelong success. Plus, Kim shares easy, practical ways to incorporate more nature play into your child’s daily routine—no matter where you live! If you want to help your kids thrive, encourage their imagination, problem-solving skills, and physical health, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and discover how stepping outside can make a lasting impact on your child’s future Topics covered in this episode: How nature play boosts brain development Outdoor play for sensory processing The role of movement in executive function Fine and gross motor skill development in nature Reducing screen time with outdoor activities Show Notes: Visit Kim’s Website Follow @natures.path.ot on Instagram Handout Links Click here to learn more about Dr. Elana Roumell’s Doctor Mom Membership, a membership designed for moms who want to be their child’s number one health advocate! Click here to learn more about Steph Greunke, RD’s online nutrition program and community, Postpartum Reset, an intimate private community and online roadmap for any mama (or mama-to-be) who feels stuck, alone, and depleted and wants to learn how to thrive in motherhood Listen to today’s episode on our website Kim is the owner and founder of Nature's Path Occupational Therapy, and is a pediatric occupational therapist in Colorado Springs, CO. With 17 years of experience as an OT, her initial 3 years were dedicated to adult neuro-rehab, focusing on brain and spinal cord injuries. She continues PRN work with this group. For the past 13 years, Kim has specialized in pediatric clinic-based and early intervention services, often incorporating outdoor therapy. Witnessing nature's therapeutic benefits both professionally and as a mother of 6, she is fervently devoted to integrating nature into childhood development. Nature's Path was conceived as an alternative therapeutic model. Kim holds a B.S. in Occupational Therapy from Boston University and an M.S. in Occupational Therapy from the University of Alabama, where she also earned her Low Vision certificate. As a Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC), she supports the mother-baby dyad in the infant's first year, addressing infant and toddler feeding from a developmentally holistic perspective. Beyond her roles as a mother and OT, Kim enjoys running, hiking, snowboarding, camping, and exploring the mountains. This Episode’s Sponsors  Enjoy the health benefits of PaleoValley’s products such as their supplements, superfood bars and meat sticks.  Receive 15% off your purchase by heading to paleovalley.com/doctormom  Discover for yourself why Needed is trusted by women’s health practitioners and mamas alike to support optimal pregnancy outcomes. Try their 4 Part Complete Nutrition plan which includes a Prenatal Multi, Omega-3, Collagen Protein, and Pre/Probiotic. To get started, head to thisisneeded.com, and use code DOCTORMOM20 for 20% off Needed’s Complete Plan! Active Skin Repair is a must-have for everyone to keep themselves and their families healthy and clean.  Keep a bottle in the car to spray your face after removing your mask, a bottle in your medicine cabinet to replace your toxic first aid products, and one in your outdoor pack for whatever life throws at you.  Use code DOCTORMOM to receive 20% off your order + free shipping (with $35 minimum purchase). Visit BLDGActive.com to order. INTRODUCE YOURSELF to Steph and Dr. Elana on Instagram. They can’t wait to meet you! @stephgreunke @drelanaroumell Please remember that the views and ideas presented on this podcast are for informational purposes only.  All information presented on this podcast is for informational purposes and not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a healthcare provider. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any diet, supplement regimen, or to determine the appropriateness of the information shared on this podcast, or if you have any questions regarding your treatment plan.