Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Occupational Therapy (OTD)

Department

Occupational Therapy

First Advisor

Wanda Lauer

Abstract

Background: In recent years, children’s use of technology has increased, decreasing the time they spend playing in natural contexts and time spent building the parent-child relationship. The lack of time spent in outdoor contexts has negative influences on the child’s overall health and well-being. The time a child spends with their parent is vitally important for a child’s development, view of the world, and sense of belonging. Parents assist children throughout development by supporting their understanding of themselves and the world, along with supporting the child’s ability to communicate with their parents. Interactions with technology, particularly overuse, can influence a child’s daily activities, typical development, sleep quality, social participation, and play engagement.

Purpose: The purpose of the scholarly project is to educate parents on the importance and benefits of nature-based play. Additionally, the purpose is to inform parents on how technology use may be a barrier to the bond a parent may have with their child, the time a child spends playing outside, and a child’s participation in meaningful occupations.

Methods: The Ecology of Human Performance (EHP) along with andragogy and pedagogy teaching and learning principles were used to guide the creation of the scholarly project. A literature review was completed through PubMed and CINAHL in collaboration with the partnering agency to identify the population’s needs.

Conclusion: Children interacting in natural contexts is important for their typical development and quality of life. Benefits of Nature-Based Play for Children: An Educational Resource for Parents was created to increase parents’ knowledge regarding the importance of outdoor play, the impacts of technology use, and the parent-child relationship.

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