Benefits of Nature: Why It's Important for Children
From Conversations About Care by Institute for Healthy Childhood Weight
September 8, 2025 · 34 min
About this episode
The episode discusses the importance of outdoor time for children and families with insights from pediatric experts.
Dr. Sandra Hassink is joined by Dr. Pooja Tandon, a pediatrician and professor at the University of Washington, and Dr. Danette Glassy, a retired primary care pediatrician and co-founder of BestStart Washington. Together, they discuss the book Digging into Nature and the positive impact of outdoor time on children and families. Related Resources: • Digging Into Nature: Outdoor Activities for Happier and Healthier Kids (https://tinyurl.com/2ww4nava) • The Role of the Pediatrician in the Promotion of Healthy, Active Living (https://tinyurl.com/5fts9jhz) • The Power of Play: A Pediatric Role in Enhancing Development in Young Children | Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics (https://tinyurl.com/5y5nyn2p) •AAP Council on Community Pediatrics, Nature & Child Health Special Interest Group (https://tinyurl.com/5736byps) • Playing Outside: Why It’s Important for Kids - HealthyChildren.org (https://tinyurl.com/27mzw728) • Episode 47 – Digging Into Nature: How Outdoor Adventures Help Kids Thrive - HealthyChildren.org (https://tinyurl.com/wd8tw2xx)
People in this episode
Host: Dr. Sandra Hassink
Guests: Dr. Pooja Tandon, Dr. Danette Glassy
Topics covered
- nature
- children
- outdoor activities
- health
- pediatrics
Keywords
- nature
- children's health
- outdoor play
- pediatrics
- family activities
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: University of Washington, BestStart Washington, American Academy of Pediatrics, HealthyChildren.org
Books & works: Digging into Nature
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