Our approach to nature-based occupational therapy
Discover how From the Ground Up harnesses the power of nature to foster growth, resilience, and essential life skills in children.
Why nature makes our therapy unique and effective
Play in nature offers children rich, developmentally essential experiences that strengthen their bodies, minds, and social worlds. Outdoor environments provide sensory-rich, movement-filled opportunities that build gross and fine motor coordination, balance, strength, and overall physical health. Natural settings encourage longer, more vigorous, and imaginative play, supporting cognitive skills, problem-solving, and executive functioning development. When children engage in natural risky play—such as climbing, balancing on logs, or navigating uneven terrain—they practice evaluating challenges, develop spatial awareness, and build confidence and resilience. Risky play is a crucial driver of social, emotional, and mental health, helping children tolerate uncertainty, manage fear, and strengthen self-regulation and independence.
Who benefits most from our nature-based occupational therapy
Families seeking skilled occupational therapy services to support sensory processing, motor coordination, executive functioning, or social-emotional development may find From the Ground Up to be an excellent fit for their child’s needs. We offer high-quality, evidence-informed intervention delivered by a practitioner with nearly 20 years of experience in the field. With a strong foundation in early childhood development and a broad clinical background, we provide thoughtful, developmentally grounded care designed to help each child thrive.
What to expect during a nature-based therapy session
Your child can expect to participate in outdoor, nature-rooted occupational therapy sessions grounded in evidence-based therapeutic practices. Our small group sessions are held in natural spaces throughout Vigo County and surrounding areas, including locations such as Fowler Park, Griffin Park, and Dobbs Park. Each small group includes two to four children, offering rich opportunities for social engagement, cooperative play, and teamwork. Within this supportive environment, your child will work toward individualized, client-centered goals while benefiting from the developmental advantages of outdoor play and interaction in nature.