Hello! Sonia here. I created The Outdoor Childhood Handbook because, like so many parents, I’ve had seasons where I felt lost - unsure how to help my child, unsure how to find time for play, unsure how to support his emotional world, and especially unsure how to navigate the added needs that come with my son's disability and heightened physical and immune vulnerability.

There were days when nothing seemed to soothe him. Days when every tiny task felt overwhelming. Days when I questioned whether I was doing enough. Days when I simply didn’t know what to try next.

And then, slowly, something shifted.

I began taking him outdoors - even when I was scared it was too cold, or he was too fragile but forced myself to even if it was just for a few minutes at a time.

No pressure.

No agenda.

No expectation for it to “fix” anything.

And I watched something beautiful happen.

Outside, he was calmer.

Softer. More grounded.

His body regulated quicker. His emotions settled faster. His curiosity reappeared.

His confidence grew.

His motor skills strengthened.

His immunity improved.

It wasn’t magic - it was nature. Gentle, steady, consistent nature.

Being outdoors transformed our daily life in ways I never imagined possible. And I realised: every parent deserves access to this, even when time, energy, and inspiration feel in short supply.

So, I wrote this handbook for you - the parent who wants to create meaningful moments but feels stretched thin. For the parent whose child struggles with overwhelm, big emotions, health and sensory needs or anxiety. For the parent who wants simple, calm, low-prep ideas that actually work in real family life.

Inside this free guide, you’ll find:

🌱 Gentle science-backed insights

🌱 Outdoor play ideas you can try in 5–10 minutes

🌱 Ways to support emotional regulation outdoors

🌱 Nature invitations that build confidence & curiosity

🌱 Printables for quick inspiration on busy days

🌱 Checklists, rituals & parent tools you can use anywhere

Whether you have a garden, a pavement, a balcony or a patch of local green, this handbook is designed to meet you where you are.

This is my gift to you - from one parent to another - in the hope that it brings a little more peace, a little more clarity, and a lot more joy to your child’s world.

Nature has changed everything for us. I hope it brings something beautiful to your family too🌿