Harnessing the Great Outdoors for Visual Development and Learning

Prepare to explore the deep connections between nature, vision, the brain, and how they intersect with occupational therapy and education. Kim Wilson, with her wealth of experience in adult neurorehabilitation, shines a light on the complexity of the visual system and its impact on learning, particularly in young children. In this episode, we address the often-overlooked significance of vision in nature and how outdoor environments can be instrumental in developing visual and cognitive skills. From the foundations of visual attention to the integration of sensory systems for functional participation, we've got it covered. Kim also shares practical advice for parents on monitoring their child's vision development, introduces us to the free InfantSee vision screening program for the little ones, and advocates for the benefits of play-based activities to enhance visual skills in a natural and engaging way. Stay tuned as we delve into strategies for occupational therapists and parents alike to help children cultivate these vital skills through fun, stress-reducing activities that combine learning with the great outdoors. Plus, we'll touch on the challenge of engaging kids in therapeutic goals and unveil some of Kim's work in Colorado Springs, including her services that support homeschooling parents. In this episode you'll hear about: Importance of Nature and Vision in Occupational Therapy and Education Kim Wilson's experiences with neurological patients and vision effects  The complex nature of the visual system in the brain  The impact of vision on learning and how 80%-90% of learning is visual  Addressing Visual Issues in Children  The repercussions of a malfunctioning visual system on learning and writing  Integration of vision therapy with movement and proprioception  Role of outdoor settings in developing visual and sensory skills  Occupational Therapy's Approach to Vision    The necessity of addressing the visual system for functional participation    Specifics of the Infant C free visual screening program for young children    Simple home methods for vision assessment such as the Hirschberg test  Educating Parents on Children's Vision    Encouraging parents to observe their children's vision    The relation between visual skills and academic performance    Visual skills in frustration management  Play-Based Activities to Address Visual Skills    Convergence insufficiency activity example using a hammock    Emphasizing activities over static exercises like tracking a pencil    Challenges in engaging children with therapeutic goals and home programming  Nature-Based Learning and Skill Development    Benefits of nature journaling for visual and fine motor skill development    Outdoor activities as non-academic yet beneficial for children  Kim Wilson's Professional Services and Resources    Information about her practice in Colorado Springs    Parent coaching, mentoring, and a homeschool OT handwriting focus group  The Foundation of Visual Attention in Nature   Benefits of developing visual attention outdoors    Charlotte Mason's concept of the habit of attention    Integrating all senses, especially in developing visual skills  Progression in Visual Skill Development through Play   The importance of visual attention before higher-level skills    Stress reduction and resilience from nature play-based activities    Incorporating visual skills into challenging physical activities Awareness and Evaluation of a Child's Visual System    The critical role of clinician and parent awareness    Addressing system dependency and recognizing children's visual and vestibular systems    Challenges for parents to identify issues and the importance of professional vision screening  Comprehensive Assessments for Early Childhood Development    The need for early and thorough vision assessments    The importance of ocular motility examinations    The relevance of auditory screenings in conjunction with visual assessments  Links and Resources From Today's Show InfantSee The Skills Nature Builds Movement Throughout the Homeschool Day What is Visual Attention Visual Motor Skills OT Assessments for Visual Motor Skills Homeschool OT Handwriting Focus Group Improving Handwriting without Actually Writing Vision Assessment Screening Connect with Kim Wilson Nature's Path Nature's Path Instagram Connect with Sarah Collins Follow Sarah on Instagram @homeschoolOT Join the Facebook Group: Homeschool and Occupational Therapy with Sarah Collins, homeschoolOT Visit the Homeschool OT Website