TimberNook Greater Baltimore
Millstad Center, 701 Whitaker Mill Rd, Joppatowne, MD 21085
About
TimberNook Greater Baltimore is part of the TimberNook network, which uses extended outdoor play to spark creativity, build confidence, and strengthen resilience. TimberNook programs are described as child-led and nature-driven, with providers and certified schools creating outdoor sensory-rich, child-directed experiences that blend the power of story with the therapeutic benefits of nature. TimberNook is described as a research-based program that nurtures natural development and empowers every child to step into their true self within a supportive community.
Angela Hanscom, the founder of TimberNook, is a pediatric occupational therapist and the author of “Balanced & Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children.” TimberNook’s mission is to restore the vital role of outdoor play in childhood and to restore children’s authentic occupation of play, based on research that shows kids grow, learn, and develop better when given the freedom to play outside. The organization states that it believes play is both a fundamental right and a profound source of healing and describes itself as mission-driven, championing the right to play through education, research, and hands-on opportunities. Today, TimberNook offers programs in 51 locations in 4 countries, and Angela Hanscom is recognized as a Glamour “Hometown Hero” for her innovative work.
Parents, educators, and professionals have shared feedback about TimberNook and Angela Hanscom’s work. Dr. Anita Bundy, Sc.D., OT/L, FAOTA, FOTARA, a researcher and professor, states, “Play is a powerful tool, enabling important learning that school curricula usually do not yield. Among other things, children learn that problems can be solved in many ways.” One teacher says, “Angela’s message is profound and EVERY educator and EVERY parent needs to learn this wisdom.” A parent, Candace DiGiacomo, says, “My daughter loves this program!! One of the best programs I have seen in my almost 12 years of being a parent. I highly recommend it!” Provider Kevin Kane says, “Kids want action, movement, and even drama in their play. I love the idea of children transforming through play, through living stories, through full on imagination come to life.” Angela Hanscom states, “In order for children to learn, they need to be able to pay attention. In order to pay attention, we must let them move.” Author Richard Louv, who wrote “Last Child in the Woods,” says, “Angela Hanscom Is a Powerful Voice For Balance.”
Last updated July 21, 2026.
Angela Hanscom, the founder of TimberNook, is a pediatric occupational therapist and the author of “Balanced & Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children.” TimberNook’s mission is to restore the vital role of outdoor play in childhood and to restore children’s authentic occupation of play, based on research that shows kids grow, learn, and develop better when given the freedom to play outside. The organization states that it believes play is both a fundamental right and a profound source of healing and describes itself as mission-driven, championing the right to play through education, research, and hands-on opportunities. Today, TimberNook offers programs in 51 locations in 4 countries, and Angela Hanscom is recognized as a Glamour “Hometown Hero” for her innovative work.
Parents, educators, and professionals have shared feedback about TimberNook and Angela Hanscom’s work. Dr. Anita Bundy, Sc.D., OT/L, FAOTA, FOTARA, a researcher and professor, states, “Play is a powerful tool, enabling important learning that school curricula usually do not yield. Among other things, children learn that problems can be solved in many ways.” One teacher says, “Angela’s message is profound and EVERY educator and EVERY parent needs to learn this wisdom.” A parent, Candace DiGiacomo, says, “My daughter loves this program!! One of the best programs I have seen in my almost 12 years of being a parent. I highly recommend it!” Provider Kevin Kane says, “Kids want action, movement, and even drama in their play. I love the idea of children transforming through play, through living stories, through full on imagination come to life.” Angela Hanscom states, “In order for children to learn, they need to be able to pay attention. In order to pay attention, we must let them move.” Author Richard Louv, who wrote “Last Child in the Woods,” says, “Angela Hanscom Is a Powerful Voice For Balance.”
Last updated July 21, 2026.
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