Is it normal to let toddlers play with objects in nature? (like sticks & stones

Your toddler is doing what toddlers have done for millions of generations. For our generation, it's the things we do differently that stand a chance of unpredictable results in adulthood. Casadilla makes a good point about TV.

I'm not suggesting that we all live in caves again, just that we should think carefully about what it is we're evolved to be against what it is we do these days. Many food intolerances and allergies come from food that is relatively new to us. We've only eaten dairy produce for the last eyeblink of evolution, hence lactose intolerance. Same goes for milling grain into flour for bread (gluten allergies).

We're conditioned to think what we do in this generation is normal, hence your friend's judgement of you. I consider your viewpoint a lot more sensible than hers.

i think its better.

i mean, im only a teenager, thus i dont have kids

but ive grown up very afraid of walking through bushes etc, for fear of spiders and insects

i have an intense fear of being near cockroaches or large flies at any given time, and although it isnt good to touch either of those, its inevitable and good for your child to develop an insensitivity to nature.

wow. a child who wants to explore and play. not only is this something absolutely normal but soimething you should encourage.

Normal and it should be encouraged! It will help him learn about and appreciate nature etc...

Agreed...normal!!

Play away...natures free and entertaining...plus it makes kids us their imagination! kudos for you for letting your kid play outside!

I think that's absolutely right for children to play with objects in nature, I always did. I know a little kid who's parents didn't let him to play with anything outside. He was always at home, and now when he gets out on dust he gets sick because his immune system hasn't formed because body finds that unusual. So let your kids play in dirt they will be healthier.

Well what else is he supposed to do. Play away.

If she wants to coop her kid up inside, let her! She'll pay the price later when her child is fat and unhealthy.

Kids would rather play with the box then the toys. It's normal for them to want to play with random things in nature. It's great that you have your baby outside rather than sitting in front of a t.v. You friend is an idiot, who prob has/will have their kid in a bubble if they could.

Get better friends with open minds. You should be more confident in yourself.

Unless your kids are eating the stuff outside, this is perfectly normal and healthy.

Your friend must be related to the boy in the bubble.

Agreed your friend is idiot. Letting your toddler play outside will build his immune system :-)

Your "friend" is an idiot.

That is soooo normal for a child. You can't keep your kid locked up. Take your child camping and let him explore everything.