Blooming Curious

This is a replay of episode 40 - Should teachers be decorating their classrooms? Before you start stressing over classroom decor and spending your own hard earned cash, or worrying about what to do to start off your homeschooling journey, have a listen to top tips that will help you kick off the new year with confidence.You don't need more resources or more stuff, you need some simple things to help you get started and give your students the agency they need to feel like confident learners.In this episode I ask whether it's really necessary to decorate classrooms, and what are the alternatives?Listen to previous episodes that focus on getting set up and organised for a new teaching year focusing most importantly on the strategies to get students engaged.Episode 41 discusses making curiosity a priority.Episode 12 explores enhancing outdoor learning environments.Episode 39 covers overall classroom organisation. Practical advice includes using calming, natural colours, setting up functional learning areas, and incorporating manipulatives for hands-on learning.Episode 57 Essential Planning Tips for Back to School Show notes and more on the episode websiteSign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious educators HERE☕️ If you like my work and want to encourage me to keep going you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the kick I need to keep going.☕️

In this episode of Blooming Curious, we welcome back Jessica Vance, passionate inquiry educator and author, to discuss her latest book, 'Evidence of Inquiry.' The book offers a hands-on guide to making learning visible and building a culture of inquiry through learning walls. Jessica shares her journey and thought process behind writing the book, offers practical advice on creating and using learning walls, and highlights the benefits of these tools in fostering student engagement and assessment. The conversation also covers the differences between learning walls and wonder walls, and how both can be effectively utilised in various educational settings. Jessica emphasises the importance of empowering educators to adopt inquiry-based practices and provides real examples and resources to get started. This episode is a valuable resource for educators looking to deepen their understanding of inquiry-based learning and innovative assessment methods.🔗 For links mentioned and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Welcome Back, Jessica Vance!00:48 The Journey of Writing 'Evidence of Inquiry'01:09 Learning Walls vs. Wonder Walls01:41 Building and Utilizing Learning Walls05:20 Practical Tips for Educators11:31 Modeling and Explicit Teaching15:44 Starting with Learning Walls20:43 Assessment and Documentation29:44 Virtual Learning Walls32:23 Inspiring Stories and Final Thoughts

In this episode, discover how to seamlessly weave literacy into every subject without adding more prep time. Learn three practical strategies: using picture books to create cross-curricular connections, implementing a vocabulary spiral to reinforce key terms, and leveraging the reading-writing connection in subjects like math, science, and social studies. Get actionable tips for starting small and find resources for ready-to-use picture book lesson plans designed to enhance your teaching. Perfect for educators looking to boost literacy while managing a busy curriculum.🔗 For links mentioned and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 Introduction: The Curriculum Tetris Dilemma01:19 Strategy 1: The Picture Book Bridge03:31 Strategy 2: The Vocabulary Spiral04:50 Strategy 3: The Reading-Writing Connection05:55 Implementation Tips and Resources07:30 Conclusion: Stay Blooming Curious

Ignite your classroom with 5 Simple Inquiry Strategies to Spark Classroom Curiosity and Engagement! In this episode, Edwina provides practical, down-to-earth ways to bring inquiry-based learning to life. Discover how to replace textbook questions with real-world problems, embrace the messy middle of student exploration, and use simple tools like “Notice, Wonder, Next” to make thinking visible. Learn how to build on student questions and create low-stakes sharing opportunities to deepen authentic learning. Plus, don’t miss the Curiosity Toolkit—a planning framework with metacognition question starters, provocation prompts, and 33 picture book suggestions to weave inquiry into your lessons. Get it for just $10 and automatically join the Blooming Curious community for free! Visit go.bloomingcurious.com/curiosity-toolkit to grab yours. Perfect for anyone looking to boost student engagement and curiosity. 🔗 For links mentioned and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction to Blooming Curious00:02 The Essence of Inquiry01:04 Real Problems Over Textbook Questions02:11 Embrace the Messy Middle04:23 Make Learning Visible with Simple Tools05:39 Build on Student Questions07:25 Create Low-Stake Sharing Opportunities08:19 Bringing It All Together08:47 Special Offer: Curiosity Toolkit09:56 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode, Edwina explores the importance of harnessing children's natural curiosity through everyday moments. She offers practical advice for homeschooling parents and anyone wanting to create a curiosity-rich learning environment at home. Key strategies include becoming a professional question-asker, modelling curiosity by wondering out loud, and following children's natural fascinations instead of a rigid agenda. 🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction: The Endless 'Why' Questions00:18 The Importance of Curiosity in Learning00:26 Welcome and Episode Overview00:36 Curiosity in Everyday Moments01:11 Three Practical Ways to Foster Curiosity02:43 Addressing Common Concerns02:57 Introducing the Curiosity Bundle03:06 How the Curiosity Bundle Works04:58 Conclusion: Embrace Curiosity05:30 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of Blooming Curious, Edwina discusses the importance of adults modelling curiosity to help children become curious learners. She highlights that children's curiosity mirrors that of the adults around them and provides five practical strategies to foster a curious mindset. 🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Modelling Curiosity00:07 The Problem with Adult Curiosity01:01 Five Practical Ways to Model Curiosity02:13 Curiosity in Action: Real-Life Examples03:35 The Role of Educators in Fostering Curiosity04:11 Conclusion and Resources

In this episode, discover the missing ingredient in early learning environments that can transform how children learn. Edwina reveals a teaching experience that changed everything, and how this experience ignited a passion for learning in her students. Learn practical ways to integrate curiosity into teaching with a downloadable toolkit designed to shift from compliance-based teaching to connection-based learning. Tune in to explore how curiosity can be the true curriculum in both classrooms and homes.🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 Introduction: The Secret to Lifelong Learning00:51 A Transformative Teaching Moment02:28 The Power of Curiosity in Learning03:15 Curiosity Toolkit for Educators04:02 Conclusion and Next Steps  

In this episode Edwina speaks to educators and parents in the northern hemisphere about the importance of summer break, not just as a time for recovery, but as an opportunity for a mindset reset towards intentional growth. The episode offers practical tips for true rest, reflective journaling prompts, and book recommendations to inspire hands-on, human-centered education. Tune in to learn how to embrace rest, reflection, and inspiration this summer.🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Welcome to Blooming Curious00:47 The Importance of Summer Break01:32 Ways to Recharge and Reflect03:35 Book Recommendations for Educators05:08 Preparing for a Human-Centered Future06:53 Curiosity Toolkit and Community07:46 Final Thoughts and Encouragement 

Introducing the Curiosity Toolkit: A simple way to engage students and foster curiosity In this episode, Edwina shares the experience that changed everything for her. She introduces the Curiosity Toolkit, a resource designed for educators to easily incorporate curiosity into their classrooms or homeschool environments. This toolkit doesn't require a complete overhaul of current strategies but offers a mindset shift with practical tweaks. It includes clear strategies, guiding questions, curiosity prompts, and ready-to-use examples that can be applied in any learning environment.🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 Introduction to the Curiosity Toolkit05:23 What is the Curiosity Toolkit?05:46 How the Curiosity Toolkit Works

In this episode, we look at the challenges faced by educators today, from disengaged students to a stifling curriculum. We discuss the results of a recent survey highlighting these issues and propose a pivotal change: focusing on curiosity, creativity, and adaptability to prepare students for a future integrated with AI. If we are to prepare students for a unknown future, then we must face the reality that rote learning and the curriculum are really not that important in the overall scheme of things. Is curiosity the differentiator between success and failure in the future?🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 The Struggles of Modern Teaching00:19 Survey Results: Teachers' Frustrations01:23 The Turning Point in Education02:00 The Importance of Curiosity in the Age of AI03:35 Introducing the Curiosity Bundle04:23 Final Thoughts and Call to Action 

In this episode, Edwina looks at how to turn a 'Wonder Wall' from a static classroom decoration into a dynamic part of the learning process. By using students' questions for guided inquiry, educators can make Wonder Walls meaningful and interactive. This episode provides practical steps for incorporating inquiry-based learning into the curriculum through Wonder Walls. 🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction: The Missed Opportunity of Wonder Walls01:45 Understanding Wonder Walls and Learning Walls02:24 Activating the Wonder Wall for Inquiry-Based Learning03:52 Practical Tips for Dynamic Wonder Walls04:53 Incorporating Wonder Walls into Your Teaching Routine05:26 Conclusion and Weekly Inspiration

Transform Your Teaching: Integrated Learning with Picture BooksThis episode addresses the common frustrations that educators face with lesson planning, and offers a solution through integrated learning using picture books. I share my personal experiences and insights from my teaching career, highlighting the effectiveness of using picture books to create comprehensive, hands-on lesson plans that cover multiple curriculum areas. In this episode I introduce you to a ready-made lesson plan designed to save you time and engage students with creative and interactive learning experiences. Additionally, if you purchase the lesson plan, you'll automatically be invited to join the Blooming Community for additional support and resources.🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 The Struggles of Lesson Planning01:56 Integrating Play into Learning02:57 Using Picture Books as Learning Catalysts04:16 A Real-Life Example: Learning About Movement07:16 Comprehensive Lesson Plan: The Tiger Who Came to Tea09:57 Join the Blooming Community10:35 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of Blooming Curious, Edwina reflects on the insights shared by various experienced educators like Sally Haughey, Claire Warden, Jessica Vance, Tonya Gilchrist, and April Zajko, about the decline of curiosity in children. Emphasizing curiosity as the foundation of learning. Edwina critiques the prevalent easy-route teaching methods such as scripted lessons and reliance on worksheets and urge educators to deeply reflect on their teaching practices, stand up for their belief in nurturing curiosity, and embrace inquiry-based learning to truly enrich children’s learning experiences.🔗 For links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Welcome to Blooming Curious00:01 Highlighting Esteemed Educators00:26 The Decline of Curiosity in Children01:11 Challenges of Inquiry-Based Learning02:04 Reflecting on Educational Values02:54 Call to Action for Educators03:36 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode of Blooming Curious, I welcome Sally Haughey, (pronounced Hoy) the founder and CEO of Wunderled, formerly known as Fairy Dust Teaching. Sally shares her journey from beginning her teaching career in 1996 to building a global community of over 240,000 educators across 120 countries. Sally Emphasises a play-based philosophy inspired by Waldorf and Reggio Emilia approaches, she discusses the profound impact of play on children's development and imagination. She reveals the inspiration behind the creation and evolution of Wunderled and highlights the core philosophy that champions curiosity-driven and wonder-based teaching. Sally also addresses the current challenges educators face, such as classroom management and emotional wellbeing, and provides strategies for incorporating play and building relationships with students. Tune in to learn more about Sally's upcoming projects, her vision for the future of education, and practical ways for educators to foster an engaging, play-centered learning environment.🔗 For the links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction to Sally Haughey and Wunderled01:23 The Birth of Fairy Dust Teaching03:23 The Evolution to Wunderled05:38 Core Philosophy of Wunderled07:06 Challenges in Traditional Education09:14 Play-Based Learning in Practice13:46 Balancing Curriculum and Play14:30 The Importance of Relationships in Education17:30 Empowering Educators and Students30:14 The Future of Education31:43 Introduction to Hummingbird Cottage32:59 The Importance of Meeting Children's Needs35:29 The Role of Play in Child Development38:00 Delaying Formal Education41:18 Parental Pressure and Educational Milestones44:32 The Movement Towards Homeschooling47:08 Challenges in Modern Education51:42 Empowering Educators with Play-Based Learning55:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Blooming Curious, we welcome Ben Scholl and David Berlinski, founders of Toolbox Education. They discuss their initiative to equip children with evidence-based tools for improving mental health in schools. The conversation covers the importance of social-emotional learning, strategies to help kids manage anxiety, regulate emotions, and resolve conflicts. The duo also emphasizes the evolving role of teachers in fostering students’ mental well-being and share useful tried and tested strategies that teachers and parents can implement to help children regulate emotions and deal with anxiety. Learn about Toolbox Education's workshops for students, parents, and educators, designed to provide ongoing support and skills for mental health and well-being. 🔗 For the links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction to Blooming Curious00:03 Meet the Founders of Toolbox Education00:41 The Birth of Toolbox Education02:58 Mental Health Challenges in Classrooms03:50 Addressing Anxiety in Students05:01 The Importance of Outdoor Learning08:01 Communication and Conflict Resolution17:09 The Role of Emotional Regulation22:07 Understanding Emotional Regulation22:39 Physical Sensations of Emotions23:49 Teaching Kids to Recognize and Label Emotions24:32 Challenges in Emotional Awareness26:20 Conflict Resolution Techniques for Kids28:44 Tools for Educators and Parents31:00 Empowering Students with Self-Regulation34:32 The Evolving Role of Educators39:31 Parental Involvement in Emotional Development44:54 Toolbox Education Workshops and Resources46:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Blooming Curious, we dive into the critical topic of building children's confidence in mathematics to combat math anxiety. Following up on last week's discussion with Dr. Aditya Nagrath, who highlighted that many children entering kindergarten are already behind in math skills, we explore practical strategies that parents and educators can use to establish a solid mathematical foundation in young children. From incorporating positional language into everyday conversations to engaging children in counting activities and hands-on math experiences, we discuss various methods to make math a natural and enjoyable part of a child's daily life. The episode underscores the importance of early math education in ensuring long-term academic success and reducing widespread math anxiety. Tune in to discover how everyday actions and simple games can make a significant difference in teaching children numbers and building their confidence.🔗 For the links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction and Recap of Last Episode02:28 Understanding Math Anxiety in Children04:50 Building Mathematical Language at Home09:24 Foundational Skills: Counting Principles16:34 Practical Counting Activities18:16 Incorporating Math in Everyday Life19:13 Pretend Play and Games for Math Learning24:00 Exploring Shapes and Patterns30:09 Encouraging Natural Curiosity and Conclusion

In this episode of Blooming Curious, Dr. Aditya Nagrath, author of 'Treating Mathematics Anxiety' and founder of the Elephant Learning Mathematics Academy, joins the podcast to discuss his mission to remove mathematics anxiety and empower children in their learning. Dr. Nagrath explains how deficits in early childhood mathematics lead to future difficulties, the importance of understanding mathematical language, and provides insights into his program, Elephant Learning. This digital tool uses adaptive algorithms and gamification to personalise learning paths and effectively teach essential math topics from counting to algebra. Dr. Nagrath also shares strategies for parents to incorporate math into daily life and highlights the importance of maintaining high standards and challenging students. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on supporting children's mathematical confidence.🔗 For the links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction to Dr. Aditya Nagarath and Elephant Learning00:56 Understanding Early Childhood Math Deficits02:37 The Language of Mathematics04:47 Overview of Elephant Learning Program08:16 Addressing Math Anxiety16:35 Importance of STEM and Higher-Level Math25:42 Strategies for Parents to Foster Math Skills31:01 Success Stories and Personal Anecdotes35:29 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Blooming Curious, I welcome Shana Roberts, a multi-talented educator, author, and podcast host of 'Talk and Coffee.' Shana shares her 20-year journey in education, emphasising the importance of building strong connections with children to help navigate through difficult situations and emotions. She discusses her work as a trauma-informed educator using the Berry Street education model and offers practical strategies for teachers and parents to support dysregulated children. Additionally, Shana introduces  her books designed to foster emotional connection with children. She underscores the significance of slowing down, having fun, and being present to cultivate a nurturing environment for children. Tune in for valuable insights and actionable tips to help improve connections with children at home and in the classroom.🔗 For the links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning, go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction to Shana Roberts01:01 Shana's Journey in Education02:44 Creating Nurture Connect Play04:32 Understanding Trauma-Informed Education08:12 Strategies for Dealing with Dysregulation11:26 Building Connections with Children19:36 The Importance of Fun and Play20:40 Fostering Resilience in Children26:11 Advice for Parents and Educators29:57 Shana's Work as an Author35:10 Final Thoughts and Impact36:46 Conclusion and Call to Action  

In this episode, we discuss the importance of sparking children's curiosity with loose parts as a key educational strategy. Loose parts is a favourite approach among numerous educators, including Janelle McArdle from My Teaching Cupboard who makes a guest appearance on the show.We explore how these open-ended materials benefit child development across creativity, motor skills, problem-solving, collaboration, and more. With insights from Janelle and practical tips for incorporating loose parts into different classroom settings, listeners are equipped to make learning engaging and impactful. Tune in for a wealth of strategies and resources to foster a love of learning in students.🔗 For links to the blog post and the infographic, go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning , go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️

In this episode of Blooming Curious, we welcome Alex Peterson, a dedicated Montessori teacher who shares her insights and experience in a Montessori classroom online as @missnearingsmontessori. Alex reveals the creative teaching strategies, hands-on activities, and key differences between Montessori and traditional education methods. She discusses the unique structure of Montessori classrooms, the importance of preparing the environment, and the benefits of mixed-age learning. Alex also addresses common misconceptions, emphasises the value of fostering independence in young children, and provides advice for parents and educators considering Montessori. Join us for an enlightening conversation that highlights the beauty and effectiveness of Montessori education.🔗 For the links and details go to the episode website.✍️ To sign up to Get Curious, the newsletter that gives you a dose of weekly inspiration, and the strategies and resources to help you, help children to thrive in their learning , go HERE💌 Connect with Edwina:Email: contact@bloomingcurious.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcuriousYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious☕️ If you appreciate my work and want to encourage me to keep going, you can do so by buying me a coffee! Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the support I need to keep going.☕️00:00 Introduction to Alex Peterson01:22 What is Montessori Education?04:16 Meeting Curriculum Outcomes in Montessori09:26 Classroom Environment and Materials16:06 Food Preparation and Responsibility24:09 Mixed Age Classrooms29:53 Common Misconceptions and Advice34:36 Alex's Journey to Montessori37:25 Conclusion and Contact Information