Blooming Curious

Ep 99 A common struggle teachers face with resource overload and the misconception that more resources equate to better teaching. The core issue is often a lack of clarity, not a lack of resources. By understanding and harnessing curiosity, educators can turn everyday moments into meaningful learning experiences without the need for constant new materials. Curiosity Without Chaos is a framework that helps educators plan with confidence, use fewer materials, and keep students genuinely engaged. Listen to learn why trusting yourself and focusing on student curiosity, rather than buying resources can transform your teaching experience.🔗 Links:Sign up for Curiosity Without Chaos - a mini professional framework for educators💻 Read the blog post HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 The Real Reason for Teacher Burnout00:46 The Clarity Problem in Teaching02:09 The Power of Curiosity in Learning03:20 Introducing Curiosity Without Chaos04:16 Conclusion and Next Steps

We're addressing the challenges educators face in maintaining student engagement and exploring how traditional teaching methods might fall short in today's rapidly changing world. I share insights from a survey of educators, revealing a common struggle with student disengagement and the pressure to meet curriculum standards. The key takeaway is the critical role of curiosity in driving authentic engagement and learning. I introduce 'Curiosity Without Chaos,' a professional learning framework designed to revitalise curiosity within structured lesson plans without adding extra workload. Join the waitlist for practical tools and rethink your approach to teaching for a more engaging and meaningful experience both for you and your students.🔗 Links:Sign up for Curiosity Without Chaos - a mini professional framework for educators💻 Read the blog post HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Introduction: The Struggle with Student Engagement00:39 Traditional Teaching Methods: Why They Fall Short02:42 The Real Issue: Lack of Curiosity02:56 The Power of Curiosity in Learning04:11 Introducing Curiosity Without Chaos05:33 Invitation to Join the Waitlist06:02 Conclusion: Embrace Curiosity

Tackling the common challenge of post-holiday burnout in teachers and homeschoolers by introducing a practical strategy that can transform lesson planning. Learn how to use picture books to teach multiple subjects, allowing for more cohesive and engaging learning experiences. Discover how to select books with rich vocabulary, strong story structures, and content connections to subjects like math, science, and social studies. Follow Edwina's step-by-step guide to integrate one powerful picture book into your curriculum, preventing burnout and making planning easier.🔗 Links:Integrated Lesson plans with picture booksIntegrated Inquiry Planner✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 New Year, Same Challenges01:00 The Reality of Planning02:35 A Different Approach: Picture Books03:21 Choosing the Right Books04:27 Implementing Integrated Lessons08:38 Steps to Get Started10:02 Resources to Simplify Planning10:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode, inspired by James Clear's 'Atomic Habits,' we explore how to make teaching fun and impactful by developing small, enjoyable habits. Edwina talks about creating systems instead of just setting goals, the importance of making your environment conducive to habit formation, and practical steps to ensure you consistently engage in rewarding teaching practices. Reflect on your past experiences, and download the goal-setting planner designed for educators to start building habits that will transform your teaching practice and make the new year more enjoyable for both you and your students.Download the Goal Setting Planner and reflection tool below🔗 Links:The Goal Setting Planner and Tracker for Educators✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Introduction: Making Teaching Fun00:23 The Importance of Enjoyment in Teaching00:59 Reflecting on Past Experiences02:28 James Clear's Wisdom on Habits03:20 Implementing Small Daily Habits03:43 Prime Your Environment for Success04:19 The Power of Reflection and Goal Setting06:21 Recap and Final Thoughts07:25 Conclusion and Call to Action

Wondering how to keep kids engaged during the holidays without screens? Here are 24 screen-free activities that build curiosity and problem-solving skills—no technology required.The holidays are here, and if you're dreading weeks of "I'm bored" or battling over screen time, this episode is for you. I'm sharing practical, low-cost activities you can do at home that keep children learning without them even realizing it.From building indoor forts to discovery walks, these activities work whether you're dealing with extreme heat, freezing cold, or just need ideas to fill long holiday days. Plus, I'm sharing why I believe the real solution to technology concerns isn't government bans—it's intentional parenting.You'll learn:· 24 specific activities to try with your kids (free PDF included)· How to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities· Why teaching independence matters more than fitting in· Simple ways to rebuild communication and connection at homeFree downloads: 24 Activities That Instill Natural Curiosity in Kids + How to Instill Natural Curiosity in Children eGuide (links in show notes)Perfect for parents and educators who want practical alternatives to screen time that actually work.🔗 Links:FREE e-guide: How to Nurture Natural Curiosity24 Fun Activities That Instil Curiosity in Kids✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Introduction: Holiday Dilemma00:12 Government's New Law on Social Media00:27 The Case Against Technology for Children01:36 Parental Responsibility vs. Government Intervention05:31 Creative Indoor Activities for Kids06:20 24 Fun Activities to Instill Curiosity06:53 Bonding and Communication Through Activities07:46 Creative Ideas: Picnics and Forts09:15 Discovery Walks and Natural Learning11:01 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes

Feeling like you've failed with incomplete worksheets and rushed curriculum? Discover why inquiry-based learning should be your go-to strategy for deeper, meaningful education. In this episode, we explore the benefits of fostering genuine curiosity and real-life skills in children, and how you can seamlessly incorporate inquiry into your teaching practice. Learn practical steps to turn everyday experiences into rich learning moments, and access go-to resources to get started. Perfect for both classroom and homeschool educators. Download the e-guides, embrace inspired teaching, and watch students thrive. Don't forget to like, share, and review!🔗 Links:FREE e-guide: How to Nurture Natural CuriosityInquiry 101 - Unlock the joy of learning✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Facing the End-of-Year Blues00:39 The Power of Inquiry-Based Learning01:38 Addressing Common Concerns About Inquiry03:05 Practical Steps to Implement Inquiry05:43 Resources to Get Started07:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

The essential steps and strategies for a successful transition to homeschooling with the 'Homeschool Jumpstart' 8-week coaching program. Whether you are new to homeschooling or feeling overwhelmed, this program offers a roadmap to ease your journey. From understanding legal requirements and sourcing affordable curriculums to teaching literacy and math through engaging, hands-on experiences, we cover it all. Discover how to integrate science and humanities using inquiry-based learning and learn effective record-keeping techniques to satisfy the Department of Education. Get access to weekly live coaching calls, a private support group, and templates for long-term success. Sign up now to join our limited 12-person group starting mid-January. Join the waiting list today to secure your spot!🔗 Links:Get on the Homeschool Jumpstart waiting list✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Introduction to Homeschooling Challenges00:59 Introducing the Homeschool Jumpstart Program01:27 Detailed Weekly Breakdown of the Program02:32 Enrollment and Final Thoughts03:48 Conclusion and Call to Action

Exploring the transformative power of creating learning traditions, rather than racing through curriculum checklists. The focus is on establishing repeated practices that truly stick with children. Discover the benefits of traditions such as building mastery through repetition, creating a safe learning environment, and fostering a sense of identity and connection among children. Learn practical tips on how to start with a simple, manageable tradition that can significantly impact your teaching and children's learning experiences. Join our community to share your own traditions and gain support from like-minded educators.🔗 Links:Join the private Facebook Group HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 The Problem with Traditional Teaching Methods00:24 The Power of Learning Traditions01:58 Examples of Effective Traditions03:37 The Science Behind Repetition and Rituals05:07 How to Implement Traditions in Your Teaching07:35 Join the Community and Share Your Traditions07:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Incorporating handmade handicrafts into learning benefits children in a multitude of ways. It helps their developing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, patience, and resilience. Sharing insights from the Charlotte Mason tradition, Edwina underscores the importance of creating useful and meaningful items. Edwina also provides practical tips for integrating handicrafts into the curriculum and suggests various projects, such as French knitting, sewing, and making Christmas ornaments to enhance children's learning experience beyond traditional pencil and paper methods.🔗 Links: Download your Technologies and Design graphic Organiser HERELearn more at How to Engage Young Children and Meet Curriculum Outcomes with Textile Craft Projects✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Welcome to Blooming Curious00:23 Balancing Holiday Chaos with Learning01:07 The Magic of Handicrafts02:18 Handicrafts in the Charlotte Mason Tradition03:18 Practical Handicraft Ideas for Kids06:48 Handicrafts and Curriculum Integration09:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode Edwina explores 3 routines that create joyful learning experiences at home -a morning anchor, a wonder day, one thing to do consistently. These routines provide a sense of anticipation and connection, demonstrating that learning is an essential and integrated part of daily life with the emphasis on making learning an enjoyable and natural part of everyday routines.🔗 Links: Get on the Homeschool Jumpstart wait list HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Introduction to Creating Comfortable Rituals04:29 Reading Aloud: A Daily Ritual04:46 Building Anticipation and Connection Through Reading

In this episode, Edwina unpacks the importance of fostering independence, responsibility, and self-direction in young learners at home. Through real-life examples and personal experiences, we explore how planning, organisation, and specific strategies can help children become more self-reliant and capable. Learn about establishing routines, teaching decision-making skills, and creating systems that empower children to manage tasks on their own. Discover practical tips to build a strong foundation of independence and resilience in young children, preparing them for future success.00:00 Introduction: The Chaos of Parenting01:23 The Importance of Independence02:18 Personal Stories of Fostering Independence06:20 Practical Tips for Organizing and Routine16:37 Teaching Self-Direction and Problem Solving20:46 Conclusion and Support ResourcesSign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️

Discover the power of embracing 'I Don't Know' to foster curiosity and learning in children. This episode explores how admitting when you don't have all the answers can transform the way kids approach learning, encouraging them to take risks and ask questions. Learn practical strategies to model curiosity, make learning an adventure, and nurture natural curiosity in children. Plus, download a free guide with resources to spark wonder and cross-curricular learning experiences. Join us in changing the dynamic from parent-as-expert to co-learner, and help your children become confident knowledge creators.00:00 Introduction: The Power of 'I Wonder'00:35 Embracing Failure in Learning00:53 Modeling Curiosity and Honesty02:11 Transforming Learning Dynamics03:37 Practical Tips for Homeschooling04:19 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsDownload your free eguide mentioned in the episode HERE.Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️

Explore the hidden benefits of boredom for children. Learn how unstructured time can enhance executive function, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Discover three practical strategies to turn boredom into a valuable learning opportunity without resorting to screens or intervening. The episode emphasises the importance of children having access to open-ended materials and engaging in self-directed play. Subscribe to the podcast and newsletter for more insights on raising independent, creative learners.✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.☕️00:00 Introduction: The Boredom Dilemma00:17 The Value of Boredom00:40 The Shift in Childhood Activities01:09 The Importance of Unstructured Time02:21 Personal Anecdote: Creative Play03:28 Practical Strategies for Parents04:34 The Role of Parents in Fostering Creativity04:58 Conclusion and Call to Action

In this episode, Edwina looks at the common issue of children complaining that they're bored, or that what they're doing is boring! She explores the underlying reasons behind this behaviour, categorised into four types: tasks that are too easy, tasks that are too hard, lack of personal relevance, and passive learning experiences. Through evidence-based research and practical strategies, Edwina provides insights on how to diagnose and effectively respond to each type of boredom. Additionally, she discusses the importance of fostering communication skills in children to articulate their needs and the potential benefits of unstructured, free time.Join Edwina to learn actionable strategies to transform 'I'm bored' into opportunities for meaningful engagement and growth.Sign 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.💌 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/@edsbloomingcurious00:00 Introduction: Tackling the Dreaded 'I'm Bored'01:00 Understanding the Real Reasons Behind Boredom01:20 Types of Boredom: Too Easy, Too Hard, and More04:48 Diagnosing Boredom: Key Questions to Ask07:36 Effective Responses to Different Types of Boredom10:36 Teaching Better Communication and Embracing Productive Boredom13:00 Conclusion: Recap and Final Thoughts13:53 Stay Connected: Subscribe for More Tips

Not all questions are created equal. In this episode we discuss how open-ended questions stimulate critical thinking and curiosity. We explore strategies to move away from giving direct answers and instead, encourage exploration and inquiry. The episode emphasises the significance of waiting for children to formulate their responses and using concrete materials to help them understand concepts. Additionally, it highlights the importance of raising a generation of critical thinkers who are not afraid to ask questions and investigate biases.Get your free downloadable PDF with open-ended question prompts HERE00:00 The Power of Questions in Engaging Children00:36 The Purpose of Questions: Inviting Thinking01:05 Encouraging Curiosity: Moving Away from Closed Questions01:46 Building on Children's Interests: Exploration and Inquiry02:43 The Role of Wait Time in Questioning03:23 Handling Incorrect Answers: Encouraging Concrete Understanding04:21 Raising Critical Thinkers: The Importance of Questions05:13 Resources for Encouraging Curiosity05:33 Conclusion and Call to ActionSign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious educators 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 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.☕️

This is a replay of episode 40 - Should educators be decorating their classrooms or learning spaces? 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 children 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 SchoolGet you Inspiring Space Checklist HERESign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators 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 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.🔗 Visit Jessica's website HEREOnline collaborative whiteboards: Figjam, MIRO and PadletMentions: Trevor MacKenzie.✍️ 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 Modelling 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:Q Pootle 5The Curious GardenThe Tiger Who Came to TeaResources.✍️ 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 join the Blooming Curious Community for free!Get you Curiosity Toolkit HERE. 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.🔗 Links mentioned:Get the FREE Curiosity Bundle✍️ 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