Richard Louv

Richard Louv is the author who coined “nature-deficit disorder.” In Education Nation, Louv makes the point that some students labeled with ADHD may in fact have a form of nature-deficit disorder: students who can’t pay attention in traditional lecture-bound classrooms “come alive when they encounter animals, plants, fresh air, and hands-on activity.” “Nature’s Ritalin,” in his phrase, has a restorative effect on children’s minds and bodies — without the drugs. Milton Chen cites the idea in Education Nation alongside a broader argument for experiential, hands-on schooling.

Where this appears

• Education Nation — argues ADHD labels may mask “nature-deficit disorder”; “Nature’s Ritalin.”