If I could go back in time when my kids were little and catch a moment or two to keep forever, one would be the delightful sound of their giggles.
I’m not just talking about when they laughed at silly dad jokes or when the ‘tickle monster’ came calling. I’m talking about a particular type of giggle that erupted when they made a new discovery.
You know what I mean.
They giggled because they were in awe, they giggled out of curiosity. They giggled from being full of wonder!
Like all children, they had an innate joy for learning and it was magical to watch.
This happened often while playing in nature or exploring on our little nature walks, baskets in hand collecting natural treasures as we went. Sometimes a curly-whirly leaf, a crawling bug or a bunch of gum nuts was all it took to spark a giggle. It happened while they tinkered with loose parts, built elaborate creations from recyclables, created inventions, or experimented with a new art material such as air-dry clay, giggling as it squished between their fingers.
As parents and educators, we can become so focused on what we think children should be learning such as reading, writing, math and all the things we need to fit into our busy days. Of course, these basics are important, but I have also found some of the most meaningful learning happens when a child is free to be curious and is given the time and space to explore, discover, imagine and create.
This type of learning is more authentic to children as it is self-directed. It is their discovery, their own project or creation that they have ownership over. It belongs to them. They become so motivated! They learn how to think, solve problems, make plans and be resourceful. Along the way they build confidence, resilience and independence, developing skills that reach far beyond childhood.
That magical combination of wonder, curiosity, creativity and play is what inspired Wonder and Giggles.
Wonder Leads to Discovery
I believe natural learning begins with wonder.
First, a child loves to explore, observe and then something interesting will catch their attention.
They wonder about it, ask questions and want to investigate it. With some help, they can research and learn even more. Then, my favourite step, their imagination kicks in and they connect ideas through play. They become inspired and then they…create!
Wonder first their sparks curiosity. Curiosity leads them to discovery and discovery inspires their creativity.
Whether it’s unusual seed pod found on a bushwalk, a messy new art material, or an intriguing book, these small moments often become the starting point for deeper learning.
And do you know what the best part is? When a loving parent or mentor provides the time and space to explore with their children, gently guiding rather than directing, they share something special. Both children and adults get to share these precious moments of wonder and make treasured childhood memories together.
My mission:
To help children connect with nature, cultivate curiosity, nurture creativity and develop a lifelong love of learning through art, storytelling, imaginative play, creative thinking, making and nature-inspired STEAM exploration.
I believe nature is one of the greatest teachers. Not only because we can learn so much from it, but because it is an endless source of inspiration that can inspire us to create!
What you will find in this blog:
This blog is for parents, homeschoolers, educators and anyone who believes childhood should be filled with curiosity, creativity and wonder. Throughout this blog you’ll discover ideas, inspiration and guidance to help you nurture these qualities in your children, including:
Nature Study and Nature Connection
Love the idea of nature study but not sure where to begin?
I’ll be sharing simple ways to help children explore and connect with our amazing natural world, observe and ‘really see’ the incredible designs found throughout nature, and use those discoveries as inspiration for their own art, inventions, stories and creative projects.
With a uniquely Australian focus, I’ll help children discover the remarkable wildlife, plants and habitats they can actually encounter. Australia is home to some of the most fascinating creatures, yet many of us grew up being taught very little about them. I love to help children learn more about these incredible animals, treasure them and become good stewards of their habitats.
I will share wildlife discoveries, nature journaling ideas, outdoor learning inspiration, creative nature projects and explore how nature can spark curiosity, creativity and a lifelong love of learning.
Creativity and Creative Thinking
Creativity is about so much more than drawing pictures!
I’ll explore ways to encourage children to think creatively, experiment with ideas, tackle challenges and build confidence in expressing themselves in their own unique way.
Creativity isn’t just for the naturally artistic. It’s for the builders, makers, tinkerers, inventors, explorers, storytellers and the curious kids who love to ask questions and try new things. I hope to help reluctant little makers discover that creativity can take many forms.
Art, Design and Making
You don’t need to be an artist to nurture creativity. I’ll share nature-inspired art activities, design theory, creative projects and encouragement to help children develop skills while still leaving plenty of room for imagination and personal expression. I always like to keep the focus on the process, not the final piece, so kids can relax and make creations they are proud of.
Storytelling and Imaginative Play
You’ll find storytelling ideas, imaginative play prompts and creative activities that encourage children to compose compelling stories, invent characters, create worlds and develop their ideas. I will explore the importance of play and how to provide an atmosphere for little imaginations to run wild!
Homeschool Encouragement
Have you ever wondered whether you’re doing enough? or get overwhelmed with how you can ‘fit it all in’. You’re not the only one. Like all families, we’ve had squabbles over the binoculars, kids chucking ‘wobblies’ when it’s time to leave the beach and ‘not so positive’ attitudes when it is time to do the ‘basics’. You get the idea, kids will be kids!
On top of that, there is the research involved, juggling multiple kids, the housework, extracurricular and social activities and the never- ending time management issues. How on earth do you fit it all in!
Even after eight years of homeschooling, I don’t have all the answers. But I’ve learned a few things along the way and hope what I have discovered might make your journey a little easier. I’ll share practical ideas, encouragement and reminders that learning doesn’t always need to involve worksheets and textbooks. Learning could be happening while a child sits quietly outdoors, sketching in their nature journal, making a backyard invention made from sticks and string, or when a child discovers something new and you hear that giggle!
Wonder-Filled Childhood
Most of all, this blog celebrates childhood. Cherishing all those moments that will go by so quickly. Those muddy boots or sneakers full of sand (hopefully still outside!), the pockets stuffed full of natural treasures (or your handbag!), the imaginary games as well as all those curious questions and discoveries that are so new to a child.
I’ll be exploring how we can make space for wonder, protect childhood by managing screen-time and provide an atmosphere for creativity and experiences that become cherished childhood memories. Allowing kids to be kids: to play, invent, imagine, explore and have lots of fun!
Come Along on the Adventure
Whether you’re a long-term homeschooler, just beginning your homeschooling journey, or just looking for ways to encourage creativity and curiosity in your children. I hope you find this blog helpful and that it inspires you to slow down and enjoy those little moments of wonder and discovery with your family. I also hope that a giggle or two will be had along the way!