Dale Atkins, Ph.D. '82
The second children’s book by Dale Atkins, Ph.D. '82, former “Today Show” expert and psychologist best known for sharing guidance on how to navigate life’s complicated questions and uncomfortable feelings, was released this month.
"Dear Deer" focuses on the importance of spending time off our screens and more time in green/in nature. Atkins discussed the book in a Q&A with Psychology Today.
From the press release:
Drawing on psychological insight and real-world observation, Atkins’ "Dear Deer" highlights how time outdoors nurtures the whole child:
- Emotional resilience: Nature helps children regulate emotions, cope with stress and build inner strength.
- Cognitive growth: Unstructured outdoor play enhances problem-solving skills and encourages independent thinking.
- Creativity and imagination: Without rigid rules or screens, children invent, design and interact with their surroundings in uniquely personal ways.
- Sensory development: Nature activates all five senses—sight, sound, touch, smell and even taste—broadening children’s awareness and perception.
- Focus and attention: Time outdoors promotes a more relaxed, open form of attention that feels effortless and deeply rewarding.
Beyond its developmental benefits, "Dear Deer" invites children to see themselves as caretakers of the natural world. In connecting with their environment, they learn a simple but powerful truth: their actions matter, and they can help protect what is fragile and alive around them, whether that is a vast forest or the flowers between city blocks.
Importantly, the book underscores that less structured play builds confidence. Outdoors, there are no predefined outcomes—only endless possibilities. Children take risks and learn to trust themselves, take initiative and engage with their environment in meaningful, self-directed ways.
Read Atkins' previous class note here:
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