In this episode of the Where Parents Talk podcast, host Lianne Castelino speaks to Kathleen Lockyer, occupational therapist, naturalist, parent coach, and founder of the Nature Led Approach, to explore a powerful—and often overlooked—foundation of children’s mental health: our connection to nature.
Drawing on more than 25 years of experience in child development, sensory integration, trauma-informed care, and mental health, Lockyer explains why so many behaviours that parents struggle with today are rooted not in defiance, but in the nervous system and sensory development. She shares how modern, indoor-centric childhoods can disrupt regulation, belonging, and emotional well-being—and how nature helps restore balance in simple, accessible ways.
In this conversation, parents will learn:
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Why modern parenting often feels like a race against time
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How disconnection from nature affects children’s mental and emotional health
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Why behaviour is often a signal of unmet sensory or nervous system needs
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The science showing how just 10 minutes outdoors can reduce anxiety, depression, and ADHD symptoms
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How nature supports regulation through all of the senses
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Practical ways families can reconnect with nature—without camping trips or special equipment
Lockyer also shares deeply personal reflections from her own parenting journey, introducing concepts such as “sit spots” and “ecoception” to help parents slow down, build connection, and support their children through stress, transitions, and mental health challenges.
KATHLEEN LOCKYER
Occupational Therapist
Naturalist
Developmental & Behavioural Expert
Parent Coach
Founder, Nature-Led approach
Author
Mother of 2
““I don’t think it’s any one thing, but I do think that there is a real lack of a feeling of belonging for most people, parents, and then obviously their children feel that as well. And part of that comes from our disconnection from the natural world, which has been our home since the beginning of time.”
