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