Blooming Curious

How to incorporate the natural inclinations and traits of children as active learners, into learning experiences that engage children authentically. Using the picture book I Went Walking, I introduce listeners to the multitude of learning experiences that this one little book can bring, and so spark children's natural curiosity and simultaneously tick off multiple curriculum outcomes.For the free download go to the episode website.🔗 Links:Read: 7 Fun Integrated Learning Activities with I Went WalkingDownload your FREE E-guide and lesson experience🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Challenge of Keeping Kids Engaged00:26 Observing Children's Natural Learning Behaviors01:27 Integrating Stories into Learning02:05 Practical Activity: 'I Went Walking'03:07 Cross-Curricular Learning Opportunities04:18 Encouraging Creativity and Writing06:27 Free Resource and Final Tips07:31 Organizing for Success08:30 Upcoming Episode Teaser

Rather than teaching subjects in silos, which can hinder children's ability to make connections, use the science or humanities curriculum as a starting point. Edwina shares how to plan integrated lesson plans that teach the necessary English skills linked to science or humanities topics. The episode also highlights the benefits of using hands-on activities, non-fiction texts, and outdoor experiences to enhance learning.🔗 Links:Teaching K-2 curriculum with picture booksDownload your Integrated Inquiry Planning SheetGet your Integrated Picture book lesson plans HERE🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Curious00:37 The Challenge of Integrating Curriculum01:31 Practical Examples of Integration05:50 Incorporating Math into Real-World Activities08:36 The Impact of Technology on Learning10:00 Planning for the New Term11:09 Free Resource and Final Thoughts

Daniel Burton, a nature educator specialising in outdoor classrooms and the co-founder of Educated by Nature discusses the program's mission to boost the mental, emotional, and physical health of children through connections with nature. Daniel shares the origin story of Educated by Nature, inspired by his experience teaching outdoors at Bold Park Community School. He explains the benefits observed in neurodivergent children and the overall positive impact of outdoor learning on academic performance, social interaction, and resilience. Daniel provides educators and parents with valuable advice on how to incorporate nature into learning and play.🔗 Links:Connect with Daniel at Educated by NatureConnect on FacebookConnect on InstagramRead: The Meaning of Nature Pedagogy in Early Childhood🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Curious with Daniel Burton00:52 The Origin Story of Educated by Nature03:38 Transformative Power of Outdoor Classrooms05:24 Teaching Strategies in Nature-Based Learning07:01 Therapeutic Benefits of Natural Spaces11:02 Building Resilience Through Nature21:48 Challenges in Integrating Nature-Based Learning31:10 Exciting Projects and Future Initiatives35:17 Advice for Parents and Educators36:48 Closing Thoughts and Farewell

Strategies and organisation tips essential for back to school and setting up an engaging classroom. 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 40 warns against over-decorating and the things we should consider when decorating our classrooms.Episode 12 explores enhancing outdoor learning environments.Episode 39 covers overall classroom organization. Practical advice includes using calming, natural colours, setting up functional learning areas, and incorporating manipulatives for hands-on learning.🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Holiday Reflections00:17 Preparing for the New School Year00:57 Prioritizing Curiosity Over Decor02:31 Avoiding Unnecessary Classroom Expenses03:47 Creating a Calming Classroom Environment05:06 Outdoor Learning Environments06:13 Ultimate Back to School Organization09:53 Intentional Classroom Setup10:54 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview

Setting actionable goals instead of traditional New Year's resolutions. Edwina shares insights on the importance of reflection in teaching and the benefits of goal setting to keep students engaged and promote personal growth. We emphasise the pitfalls of reusing old lesson plans without adaptation and guide educators through reflective questions to plan for the year ahead.🔗 Links:Download your free Teacher's Goal Setting Planner to reflect on what worked and what didn't, and help structure your goals and keep motivation high throughout the year.Read: The Power of Goal Setting for Teachers🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Back and New Year Excitement00:34 Setting Goals for Blooming Curious01:55 Reflecting on Last Year's Teaching02:11 The Importance of Goal Setting03:20 Three Key Reflection Questions04:59 Benefits of Goal Setting07:13 Introducing the Teacher's Goal Setting Planner08:11 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Inspired by Jonathan Haidt's book, 'The Anxious Generation,' Edwina unpacks the impact of technology on children's development. The episode discusses the negative effects of excessive screen time on children's emotional and mental health and provides practical strategies for parents and educators to promote healthier alternatives. Edwina encourages parents and teachers to start small and be intentional in fostering connections and creativity, after all it's we the adults who hold the power to change.🔗 Links:Download 24 Screen-free ways to stimulate curiosity🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Year-End Announcement00:23 The Impact of Technology on Children's Development01:03 Practical Strategies to Reduce Screen Time04:04 Engaging with Nature05:24 Reigniting Family and Classroom Traditions06:39 Open-Ended Creative Play07:50 Shared Reading Experiences09:10 Mindfulness and Emotional Regulation11:15 Prioritizing Connection Through Shared Projects12:12 Small Steps for Big Changes13:55 Conclusion and Freebie Announcement

These days just about anyone who wants to get ahead and bring the best out of themselves has a coach. Why should educators be any different? In today's episode Edwina explores why every educator should consider getting a coach and why and how to integrate lessons that bring excitement back into the classroom and tick multiple curriculum outcomes. Edwina also announces her new introductory coaching offer for teachers who want to get the best out of their teaching and learn how to integrate across the curriculum and get the support of a like minded planning buddy.Go to the episode website for all the links mentioned in the episode.🔗 Links:UPDATED: Homeschool Jumpstart - group coaching for new homeschool educators - get on the waiting list🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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: Why Every Teacher Deserves a Coach00:43 Planning Integrated Lessons: Practical Steps03:17 The Role of a Teaching Coach04:46 Benefits of Having a Coach05:52 Coaching Offer and Conclusion

Most of us spend way to much on gifts. Unfortunately, despite our best intentions, most of those gifts end up in landfill.Isn't it time to rethink gift giving? Our gift giving in our families also sets a precedent. What precedent do you want to leave for your children? In today's episode Edwina explores how quality outlives quantity and curates the ultimate list of gifts for the lifelong learner, both adult and child. Educators need to stay on top of their game, and the one thing that keeps them there is research and reading. That's why Edwina has curated the ultimate bookshelf for educators as well as gifts for curious, smart, creative kids. Let this be your ultimate guide for this gift giving season.🔗 Links:The ultimate gift guide for the lifelong learner🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Season of Gift-Giving00:28 Setting a Precedent for Quality Gifts01:21 Curated Gifts for Lifelong Learners01:35 The Power of Books02:40 Educational Toys and Games03:30 Homemade Gifts: A Personal Touch05:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ten High Impact Teaching Strategies proved to be the most popular episode since beginning Blooming Curious in late November 2024. In this episode Edwina looks at the 6 most popular episodes in the past year. What was more surprising than what was popular, was what was not popular.🔗 Links:Episode 1 Welcome to Blooming CuriousEpisode 36 The Most Effective Teaching Strategy for Student LearningEpisode 26 Jessica Vance on Inquiry, Curiosity and Learning WallsEpisode 12 Setting Up an Outdoor Learning Environment for ChildrenEpisode 24 Dr Claire Warden on the meaning of Nature Pedagogy in PracticeEpisode 13 Exploring the Benefits of Loose Parts Play with Ashleigh SharpDownloads mentioned:🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HEREE-guide Inquiry-based learning 101The Curious Garden integrated lesson plan✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Reflection on Podcast Journey01:30 Most Popular Episodes Overview01:41 Episode Highlights: Curiosity and Learning Strategies03:43 Interview with Jessica Vance: Learning Walls05:31 Outdoor Learning Environments05:31 Interview with Dr. Claire Warden: Outdoor Learning08:18 Interview with Ash Sharp: Loose Parts Play08:23 Interview with Marcus Veerman: Innovative Playgrounds09:59 Conclusion and Upcoming Break

When it comes to teaching children how to read, there is only one proven method, and that's through explicit direct instruction. In this episode Edwina unpacks the basic fundamentals of explicit instruction when it comes to the teaching of phonics and phonemic awareness. If we want to give children the gift of knowledge and imagination, we must give them the gift of reading. But for too long, too many people have failed children, and left them illiterate and unable to meet their full potential. The explicit teaching of phonics and phonemic awareness can save children from an uncertain future, and give them the foundational skills they need to grow their curiosity. In this episode Edwina walks you through the step-by-step approach she takes to successfully teach children to read, which in turn has the power to nurture their curiosity and creativity.🔗 Links:How to successfully teach a child to read part 1How to successfully teach a child to read part 2The Power of a Well-Crafted, Well-Taught Lesson by Hollingsworth and YbarraGet Inquiry-Based Learning 101🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Explicit Instruction00:16 The Importance of Reading00:16 The Science Behind Learning to Read00:16 Explicit Phonics Instruction03:43 Phonemic Awareness Activities05:58 Integrating Phonics with Play08:23 Daily Phonics Lessons10:28 Combining Inquiry and Explicit Instruction11:01 Resources and Conclusion

What are the predicted trends in Education for 2025 and beyond? Scouring the internet I found many, so in this episode I curate the top 5 that I think will probably stick and some of the negative impacts that these trends will have on our children.🔗 Links:Download Inquiry-based learning 101Research article🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Episode 50!00:32 Trends in Education: An Overview01:26 Virtual and Online Learning04:54 The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Education06:05 Non-Traditional Models of Schooling09:06 Teacher Retention and Preventing Burnout11:39 The Importance of Social and Emotional Learning13:37 Conclusion and Call to Action

Hands-on learning makes learning and understanding concrete for children. This is never more true than when it comes to learning about history.In this episode I talk to the founder of Play in the Past, Nicola Hoad, who brings hands-on incursions to children in schools where they can experience history in their hands.Play in the Past brings historical artefacts into schools for children to experience change and continuity over time with real historical artefacts. Listen how Nicola explores history with young children and the incredible benefits to children when they are afforded the opportunity to interact and physically explore historical artefacts hands-on.🔗 Links:Contact Nicola at Play in the Past websitePlay in the Past on FacebookPlay in the Past on Instagram🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Nicola Howd and Play in the Past00:37 The Birth of Play in the Past03:15 Acquiring Historical Artifacts06:24 The Magic of Incursions09:42 Impact on Children's Learning17:33 Inquiry-Based Learning and Explicit Instruction25:41 Advice for Educators33:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

How do we keep children engaged until year end and still teach them something useful AND tick off some of our learning outcomes? Term 4 is the ideal term to hook students into learning with hands-on textile crafts. It's also a great time to have a go at some new teaching strategies that you may have been putting off. Now is the time to have a go and enjoy the process alongside your students.In this episode Edwina shares how she incorporates sewing and textile crafts to tick off multiple curriculum outcomes and make learning relatable and transferable for students, all while teaching them lifelong skills in the process. Edwina shares how the project she does with children meets the outcomes in English, Design and Technologies and Digital Technologies.🔗 Links:How to Engage Young Children and Meet Curriculum Outcomes with Textile Craft ProjectsDownload Technologies and Design Graphic Organiser🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Back to Blooming Curious01:13 Integrating Textiles into the Curriculum03:14 Hands-On Learning with Textiles04:25 Student Projects and Skills Development06:07 Planning and Reflection in Textile Projects07:24 Cross-Curricular Connections10:57 End-of-Year Projects and Celebrations12:46 Tips for Teaching Textile Skills

Key insights into classroom engagement by a recent study conducted by Lego Education followup. In this episode I explore the strategies that will motivate students to take ownership for their own learning, which of course has the ripple effect of better overall engagement not just for our students but for ourselves too.Have you noticed that students have become passive recipients of knowledge? They sit there waiting for us to pour knowledge and information into them, and then they don't do anything with that knowledge. They're unable to transfer their learning into other areas. One way that we can ensure that students transfer knowledge, is to better engage them. And the way to better engage students is firstly to make sure that what we are teaching them is relevant to their lives. And when learning is relevant, students are better positioned to take ownership for their learning.🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HEREDownload Inquiry-based learning 101✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Podcast Overview00:42 Understanding Student Engagement02:13 Inquiry and Project-Based Learning03:12 Teaching Inquiry Skills04:34 Practical Techniques for Engagement07:21 Making Learning Relevant09:32 Recap and Final Thoughts10:10 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

How do we better engage our students? What leads to better engagement in classrooms?In today's episode Edwina unpacks the 4 key findings that Lego Education found in their study of over 6000 administrators, teachers, parents and students into classroom engagement. Student engagement has far reaching effects beyond the classroom, including teacher retention. This report from Lego Education brings home the importance of focusing on those teaching strategies that deliver the highest student engagement.🔗 Links:The Importance of Play in Learning and Development🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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: Are Your Students Really Engaged?00:26 Defining Student Engagement01:48 Active Involvement: The Key to Engagement02:25 Survey Insights: What Students Prefer02:57 Lego Education Study: Key Findings03:48 Insight 1: Collaboration Boosts Engagement05:37 Insight 2: Engagement Improves Academic Outcomes07:29 Insight 3: Teacher Retention and Student Engagement10:43 Insight 4: Purposeful Play Enhances Learning13:00 Practical Takeaways and Conclusion

At the free event The Inquiry Educator's Summit Kath Murdoch spoke about the qualities of inquiry educators. How educators shouldn't just accept things as they are but be open to question, change, and make adjustments to better meet the learning needs of our students.In this episode I unpack my own take aways from the episode, the most profound being, "Don't be seduced into the shallow waters." This is what I unpack in this episode and also offer my own help to educators that just want to take that leap and begin integrating inquiry so that they better meet the needs of our modern children.🔗 Links:🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HEREGet Inquiry-based learning 101Lear more: Step by Step Integrated Inquiry Teaching Guide✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Recap00:19 Kath Murdoch's Insights on Inquiry03:05 The Language of Inquiry Educators04:17 Avoiding Shallow Teaching Practices05:22 Practical Tips and Free Guide05:29 Conclusion and Call to Action

At the 2024 Inquiry Educators Summit Trevor MacKenzie, teacher, Education Consultant, speaker and author focused on how we as educators plan for curiosity. How we get children to ask questions and how we use our students' questions as formative evidence to plan the next steps in our students' learning.It all starts with knowing our curriculum and then using our provocations to ignite curiosity and questions from students. Trevor gave some examples of actionable questioning routines and how we use them to stay true to our values as inquiry educators.🔗 Links:🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HEREDownload: Inquiry-based learning 101✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 The Inquiry Educators Summit00:33 Trevor MacKenzie's Insights on Curiosity00:35 Values in Inquiry-Based Education00:35 Practical Strategies for Fostering Curiosity00:35 The Role of Environment and Reflection04:38 Provocations and Questioning Routines04:52 Movement, Collaboration, and Thinking Time08:35 Free Resources and Final Thoughts10:49 Encouragement and Call to Action

If you've ever had an opinion or just wondered about inquiry based learning then this is the episode for you. In this episode, Edwina debunks the comments and misconceptions made by educators about inquiry-based learning on line. Edwina cuts through all the misconceptions and offers practical, honest and straight forward facts around inquiry based learning. If you found this episode interesting or just thought provoking, then please click the forward button and send it to a few friends.🔗 Links:Learn more: Step by Step Integrated Inquiry Teaching Guide🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HEREGet Inquiry-based learning 101✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Inquiry-Based Learning00:14 Personal Journey and Philosophy01:51 Addressing Misconceptions04:07 Teaching Critical Thinking and Questioning05:14 Inquiry in Practice06:07 Work Ethic and Motivation10:47 Resources and Classroom Conditions15:13 Final Thoughts and Course Announcement

Victoria Crossan is a wealth of practical knowledge when it comes to using inquiry as a teaching strategy to nurture children's curiosity. In this episode we unpack how inquiry benefits children's learning, the difference between an invitation and a provocation and how to use what you have to set up provocations. Victoria walks us through how to use provocations to spark children's interests and gives useful advice to educators who are new to inquiry, and are ready to have a go.Victoria's passion is palpable! Let this be the episode that makes you want to have a go and change children's learning for the better.🔗 Links:Connect with Victoria at Learning By InquiryLearning by Inquiry on FacebookLearning by Inquiry on Instagram🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Victoria Crosson and Inquiry-Based Learning00:55 Victoria's Teaching Journey and Early Influences05:26 Differences Between Canadian and English Education Systems08:27 The Importance of Curiosity in Education10:13 Inquiry-Based Learning in Practice15:22 Provocations vs. Invitations in Inquiry Classrooms21:46 Practical Tips for Educators on Using Provocations25:44 Engaging Students with Simple Classroom Materials29:29 A Heartfelt Story of Passionate Learning30:15 The Power of Inquiry-Based Learning33:38 Connecting Curriculum with Student Interests35:43 Interdisciplinary Learning and Real-World Applications37:33 The Role of Teacher Mindset in Inquiry41:26 Measuring the Effectiveness of Provocations44:06 Modeling Inquiry and Embracing Failure45:16 The Rewards of Inquiry-Based Education49:57 Advice for Educators on Implementing Inquiry54:48 Resources and Final Thoughts

What does it take to encourage curiosity and how do we keep those young minds curious? This is what we unpack in this episode just in time for back to school! Classrooms and lesson plans are being prepared in anticipation for that first day and all the days that follow. Of course, ensuring that the learning space is welcoming and sparks curiosity and interest is at the forefront of every teacher's mind, but the greatest challenge for any teacher is how to get kids to be interested in learning, to spark their curiosity and encourage a love for learning.🔗 Links:Download: Simple Guided Inquiry for teachable momentsDownload: Open ended questions🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Introduction00:30 Starting the New School Year01:07 Building Relationships with Students03:56 Encouraging Natural Curiosity09:00 Inquiry-Based Learning16:53 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Why are educators spending a fortune of their own hard earned cash to decorate rooms? Is this really necessary and what are the alternatives? Reflecting on a minimalist approach inspired by Marie Kondo, Edwina emphasizes the importance of reducing overstimulation and focusing on objects that spark curiosity. The episode also touches on the benefits of using natural and second-hand items for creating an engaging learning environment. Edwina calls for a shift towards more intentional spending on long-lasting, imaginative play items like Lego and encourages listeners to consider their 'why' when setting up their classrooms.🔗 Links: Download your FREE Inspiring Space Checklist HERELearn more: How to Set Up An Inspiring Indoor Learning Environment🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Curious00:04 Back to School: Classroom Setups00:38 The Cost of Classroom Decorations01:35 Minimalist Classroom Philosophy02:23 The Appeal of Podcasts Over YouTube03:57 Reflecting on Classroom Simplicity05:11 Encouraging Curiosity with Minimalism07:16 Practical Tips for Classroom Setup10:16 The Importance of Intentional Spending12:38 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

If you're getting ready to go back to school then this episode is your ultimate back to school guide. Today we unpack all the big picture stuff that teachers need to keep in mind when planning and organising for the start of the new school year. Everything from getting organised and why being organised is important, to the best colours for creating a calm learning environment, setting up provocations, thinking about planning, and ultimately our WHY, values and philosophy. We discuss the ultimate strategy for keeping kids curious and how our own mindset matters. Finally, how we as educators in our search for connection and acceptance can find like minded curious educators to connect with.🔗 Links:Episode 11Episode 37Episode 21Episode 23Get your E-guide for Inquiry 101 HERE🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERELearn more: Scheduling and Integrating Inquiry Based Learning✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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: Back to School00:32 Getting Organized for the Classroom05:30 Creating a Calm and Inspiring Learning Environment12:32 The Importance of Inquiry-Based Learning18:16 Building a Supportive Educator Community20:43 Conclusion and Final Tips

Inquiry based learning, is a methodology, a pedagogy, a strategy, it's not a seperate subject. It's a methodology that is a part of the very fabric of an inquiry educator. Inquiry-based learning encourages thinking, questioning and discovery. It's a strategy that engages all children, because it arms children with the skills they need to uncover questions, work independently, and apply their learning to other areas. In this episode I peel back the layers of my own teaching career and how I came to teach with an inquiry mindset, and apply inquiry based learning to my own practice. I uncover the lessons learnt and the challenges we face today in our classrooms. For me, inquiry based learning has been a game changer and my hope is that all educators will implement this strategy into their toolkit so that ALL children can benefit. For me it's always about what's best for children. The results and the attitude of my students towards learning, has convinced me that this is the way to go if we are to educate the whole child and appeal to their individual needs and strengths. If my message resonates with you, or you find it interesting then share it with a friend, and leave a review...that's the ultimate compliment. Thanks!🔗 Links: Get your Inquiry 101 e-guide HERELearn more: Step-by-Step Integrated Inquiry Teaching Guide🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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: My Journey into Teaching00:09 Early Teaching Years in South Africa00:58 A Career Shift and Return to Teaching01:17 Teaching in Dubai: Embracing Diversity03:22 Discovering Inquiry-Based Learning in Australia05:52 Implementing Inquiry-Based Learning09:05 Practical Examples of Inquiry-Based Learning11:41 Encouraging Independent Projects15:23 Final Thoughts and Resources16:38 Conclusion and Listener Engagement

In this episode I unpack how to easily and effectively integrate science with English Language Arts and other subjects, thereby making learning not only authentic and relatable for students but a whole lot more fun for educators too.I break down all the important parts we need to consider when planning an integrated curriculum and give examples of how well planned and spontaneous learning experiences can add to children's understanding of the world, and help them make connections to other learning areas and to their own lived experiences.I unpack why we should be thinking about bringing themes back, and talk about the impact that having specialist science teachers in elementary schools has on student learning.🔗 Links: Download your Technologies and Design graphic Organiser HERELearn more: Step-by-Step Integrated Inquiry Teaching Guide✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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: Why Integrated Curriculum Matters01:01 The Importance of Real-Life Connections01:27 The Role of Themes in Early Education01:51 Developmentally Appropriate Learning03:57 Integrating English Language Arts with Science and Math06:41 Planning Integrated Learning Experiences08:41 The Role of Procedural Writing in Science12:20 Hands-On Learning: Kites and Boats15:11 Reflection and Critical Thinking16:47 Integrating Planting into Learning19:21 The Elephant in the Room: Specialist Teachers21:36 Conclusion and Call to Action

Schools are in crisis. Researchers say that children are not performing as well as they should be, and are falling behind.But who is to blame? The curriculum or the teachers, or something else? Are our teaching strategies ineffective?In this episode we look at what research based evidence says are the most effective teaching strategies for student learning. We dig into High Impact Teaching Strategies as developed by John Hattie, and how these strategies align with inquiry based learning.If we are using these evidence based strategies, then surely student learning will be positively impacted.We unpack how these strategies form part of an inquiry classroom and explore how teachers can get started with inquiry in their classrooms.🔗 Links:Learn more: The Most Effective Teaching Strategies for Student LearningEpisode 22Episode 24Or check out the episodes HERE🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Crisis in Schools00:29 High Impact Teaching Strategies (HITS)03:00 Inquiry-Based Learning: A Deep Dive06:45 The Role of Teachers and Effective Strategies12:02 The Importance of Curiosity and Critical Thinking17:40 Conclusion and Call to Action

When it comes to planning lessons in an early childhood classrooms, picture books are the one resource educators cannot do without. Picture books are not only provocations, they ignite curiosity, stimulate creativity and imagination and are a source for teaching not only literacy skills, but an appreciation and a love for books. In this episode we unpack how we educators plan our learning experiences using picture books to drive our planning and learning experiences.We also discover what the research around the benefits of reading to children says.🔗 Links: Learn more:How to Plan Integrated Lessons Using a CurriculumThe Curious Garden Integrated Lesson PlanIn Depth Lesson Plan and Activities with QPootle 5Integrated Lesson Planning with The tiger Who Came to TeaFREE lesson plan for I Went Walking by Sue Williams🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Introduction00:53 The Importance of Picture Books01:16 Scientific Evidence Supporting Picture Books03:25 Choosing the Right Picture Books05:17 Integrated Lesson Plans with Picture Books06:24 Daily Reading and Phonological Awareness08:31 Recap and Final Thoughts09:48 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Teachers desperately need time to decompress and recharge those spent batteries over the holidays. But teaching is the job that's never done! So, what should they be doing over the holidays and how can holidays be put to good use not just to relax but also to prepare for the term or year ahead. In this episode we look at the types of things teachers could do to relax, things like getting outside, watching movies, cooking and spending time with loved ones. But when it's time to think about preparing for going back to school, what's the best way of doing that? Tune in to listen how to plan lessons smarter not harder and simultaneously spark children's interest!🔗 Links:Books mentioned in this episode:Stone Soup by Ann McGovernPumpkin Soup by Helen CooperTalk for Writing Across the Curriculum by Pie CorbettLearn More: 24 Fun Screen Free Learning Activities for KidsDownload: 24 Screen Free Ways to Stimulate Curiosity🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Reality of Teaching: Beyond the Holidays00:27 The Invisible Work of Teachers01:27 Teacher Burnout and the Need for Change01:50 Preparing for the Holidays: Tips for Teachers03:26 Collaborative Planning for the New Term08:58 Integrating Inquiry and Fun into Lessons09:53 Final Thoughts and Resources

April Zaijko founder of April's Teaching Tree, helps parents and educators deepen their connection to nature. April divides her time between the classroom and providing in-person professional development and consulting with a focus on integrating nature and art in early childhood. April helps educators and parents find ways to use nature to meet early childhood standards through play-based learning, and nature infused materials in joyful nature inspired environments.🔗 Links:April's website: https://aprilsteachingtree.com/April on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aprilsteachingtree/April's Facebook group Nature Inspired Teacher: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1843474542616408/🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 April Zajko and Nature-Inspired Teaching01:08 April's Teaching Journey and Philosophy02:05 The Importance of Nature-Based Learning06:10 Integrating Nature in Urban Settings08:42 Balancing Technology and Nature in Education14:31 Practical Tips for Nature Walks and Field Trips20:14 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Outdoor Learning28:57 Building Confidence and Resilience Through Nature36:40 Encouraging Kids to Explore Nature37:48 Overcoming Barriers to Outdoor Activities40:07 Balancing Technology and Nature41:36 Integrating Art in Nature-Based Education46:33 The Joy of Process Art52:56 Cross-Curricular Connections in Nature-Based Learning01:03:35 Building Community and Overcoming Obstacles01:07:22 Final Thoughts and Future Trends

Strategies, tips and advice to help educators integrate and teach with an inquiry mindset with the help of the creators behind Sqwish Resources, Allanah and Meg. These experienced and passionate educators are on a mission to help bring inquiry to all lessons with their resources based on the 5E model. Listen just how easy it is to flip from chalk and talk to inspiring students to think, wonder and have fun learning.🔗 Links:Sqwish: https://sqwish.com.au/Sqwish on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sqwish_resources/Sqwish on Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sqwish_resourcesSqwish on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558864596356🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 and Welcoming Guests00:47 Alana's Teaching Journey01:33 Meg's Experience with IB Schools02:32 Understanding Inquiry-Based Learning05:03 Alana's Transition to Inquiry-Based Learning08:23 Defining Inquiry-Based Learning11:40 Engaging Students with Inquiry17:58 Incorporating Student Voice and Choice20:29 Making Inquiry Accessible for All Teachers25:40 The 5E Model of Inquiry34:45 Integration in Education35:07 The 5E Model and Extension35:36 Addressing Fast Finishers39:24 Reflection and Metacognition48:17 Success Stories in Inquiry-Based Learning51:51 The Birth of Sqwish56:51 Quality Resources for Educators01:01:20 Advice for New Educators01:02:42 Conclusion and Farewell

As inquiry educators we don't jump in with the answers to questions. Instead we facilitate the finding of the answers. In this episode we explore the how and the where to go to help children find the answers to their questions, and in doing so, we're helping to create independent learners with inquiring minds.🔗 Links:https://www.safesearchkids.com/https://www.kiddle.co/https://www.kidzsearch.com/https://kids.britannica.com/https://kidtopia.info/index.html🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Inquiry-Based Learning00:13 Modeling and Practicing Deep Questions00:38 Facilitating the Search for Answers01:29 Safe Searching for Students03:09 Explicit Teaching of Information Skills04:16 Guided Reading and Cross-Curricular Connections08:41 Building a Supportive Teaching Community09:54 Invitation to Join the Community10:49 Conclusion and Call to Action

As educators we are constantly being watched and copied by the children we teach. Modelling is a powerful strategy that educators use to teach everything from explicit instruction, to being curious and showing grit and determination in the face of struggle. Our attitude towards learning and our enthusiasm for learning are all picked up by children through the power of modelling. Because children learn through observation, we educators and parents must ensure that our attitudes and outlook, mirror that which we would like to see in children.🔗 Links:Learn more: How to Stay Curious as an EducatorThe Power of Observation, A Guide for TeachersHow to Nurture Keen Observational Skills in Kids to Help Them Learn🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Observational Learning00:18 The I Do, We Do, You Do Model01:01 Using Mini White Boards for Immediate Feedback02:12 Modeling Beyond Academics02:53 Teachers as Lifelong Learners03:33 Sharing Personal Learning Struggles05:03 Encouraging Curiosity in Children05:47 The Importance of Enthusiasm in Teaching06:19 The Power of Modeling in Education06:53 Conclusion and Call to Action

Teachers are facilitators of learning, and curators too. To make learning and the learning environment more exciting than an ipad, educators need to curate real life experiences for children that technology cannot hold a candle to. In this episode we unpack the strategies for curating indoor and outdoor spaces and learning experiences that spark curiosity and give children opportunities to explore real life learning.🔗Links:Learn more: How to Create an Inspiring Indoor Learning EnvironmentSetting Up an Outdoor Learning Environment for ChildrenOutdoor Learning - Bringing the Joy back to LearningDownload this free checklist for setting up an inspiring indoor space HERE🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Role of an Educator00:30 The Impact of Technology on Education02:19 The Importance of Real-Life Experiences03:10 Creating Engaging Learning Environments04:08 Curating Indoor and Outdoor Spaces07:06 Encouraging Inquiry and Exploration08:50 Conclusion and Call to Action

The Importance of Documenting the Learning Journey in Inquiry-Based Education. In this episode Edwina explores the various strategies for recoding and documenting students' learning. Key frameworks such as Kath Murdoch's inquiry cycle and the 5 E model are introduced, emphasizing the need for structured support for students. Edwina shares practical tools for making learning visible, including learning walls, mind maps, and floor books, and underscores the significance of reflective practice.🔗 Links:Download the Living Things Investigation Graphic Organiser HEREDownload the Integrating Inquiry Planning Sheet HEREDownload the Observation Record Keeping File HEREDownload the Simple Guided Inquiry for Teachable Moments Graphic Organiser HERE🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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: Learning as a Journey01:07 Planning the Learning Journey01:35 Scaffolding and Support Materials02:25 Documenting the Learning Process03:22 Engaging Learners: The Inquiry Cycle06:31 Tools for Making Learning Visible07:00 Integrating Inquiry Across Curriculum09:13 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode we explore the questions that get children thinking and curious. The questions that parents and educators need to ask to encourage curiosity and thinking, and even those questions that take learning further and deeper. Children ask a lot of questions! They ask questions because they have an innate desire for knowledge. But, sadly as children progress through school and eventually adulthood, the questions become fewer until eventually as adults we may not be questioning at all. Questions are the gateway to knowledge, but not all questions are equal. This episode unpacks the questions that keep children curious and interested in learning and the world around them.🔗 Links:Learn more here: How Questions Lead to Curiosity and KnowledgeDownload your free list of Open Ended Questions HERE🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Power of Questions in Learning00:49 The Role of Questions in Education02:06 Inquiry-Based Learning and Its Impact02:31 Deep Questions vs. Simple Questions03:25 Strategies for Encouraging Inquiry05:42 The Inquiry Cycle and Continuous Learning06:46 Real-Life Example of Inquiry-Based Learning07:59 Challenge for Educators and Final Thoughts

Jessica Vance, inquiry educator, thought leader, consultant and author of Leading with a Lens of Inquiry, talks about the role of leadership in cultivating a culture of inquiry and the strategies and practices that promote curiosity and an inquiry mindset in students, teachers and leaders.🔗 Links:Connect with Jessica at https://leadingwithinquiry.com/Connect with Jessica on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jess_vanceedu/Watch on on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2QVTyUpJq5aZ62ZyoOwpCgPublications mentioned : Leading with a Lens of Inquiry By Jessica VanceRon Ritchhart: Project ZeroAdam Grant: Hidden Potential🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 Jessica Vance01:56 Jessica's Journey into Inquiry-Based Learning04:30 The Concept of Learning Walls08:06 Implementing Learning Walls in Education14:04 The Role of Inquiry in Leadership23:07 The Importance of Asking Questions25:50 Advice for Educators and Leaders33:25 Final Thoughts and Takeaways38:51 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

Marcus Veerman is a playground designer, founder and CEO of a charity called Playground Ideas and designer and founder of the Nudel Kart, Nudel Pod and Nudel Rover, innovative open ended toys based on loose parts. These multilayered innovations allow children's creativity, problem solving, critical thinking and language skills not only to develop, but flourish. In this episode Marcus shares his amazing journey from providing children from impoverished backgrounds incredible opportunities for play and exploration to his latest development the Nudel Kart, which allows multifaceted skill development all neatly packaged in a highly sustainable loose part package making play, creativity, problem solving and language development easily accessible to children everywhere, and simultaneously meeting curriculum outcomes.Purchase Nudel products at https://nudel.shop/Find out all about the Nudel Kart at https://www.nudelkart.com/🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

Dr Claire Warden, Nature Pedagogist, author, education consultant, entrepreneurial leader and founder of Auchlone, a multi award winning nature kindergarten in Scotland, unpacks what nature pedagogy is, and how educators can include it in their settings and teaching practice. We discuss the benefits of risk, and the importance of curiosity and fascination when it comes to sparking a love for learning in children.In addition Claire discusses the importance of observation and documentation when working with children and gives ideas on how to implement floor books for planning, guiding the line of inquiry, and documenting children's learning.🔗Links: Dr Warden's website: Mindstretchers AcademyTo read how you can implement nature pedagogy in an urban environment go to https://bloomingcurious.com/the-meaning-of-n…gogy-in-practice/🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

So you're inspired to integrate inquiry-based learning into your existing lessons, but you 're struggling to know how to go about it. This episode will walk you through the process and give you some ideas of how you can integrate inquiry into your planning and everyday lessons.🔗 Links mentioned:Download the planning sheet HEREStep-by-step Integrated inquiry teaching guide HEREThe most effective strategies for student learning HEREJessica Vance at https://www.instagram.com/jess_vanceedu/🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

What is the most effective strategy for student learning? According to the latest Australian news reports, Australian children are performing terribly and the real culprit is the fact that teachers are not teaching using an explicit instruction model. In today's episode I explore very subtly (can you guess what it is?) what the issue might be, and exactly what it is we're trying to achieve if we are not using a whole repertoire of strategies.🔗 Links mentioned:The most effective strategies for student learninghttps://explicitinstruction.org/download/sample-chapter.pdf an excerpt by Anita L Archer and Charles A Hughes from the publication Explicit Instruction and Efficient Teachinghttps://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1188027.pdf Teachers Taking up Explicit Instruction: The Impact of a Professional Development and Directive Instructional Coaching Model🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

You cannot expect children to be curious, if you yourself are not curious. In this episode Edwina gives you the tips and strategies you need to nurture your own curiosity so that you are better able to spot opportunities for nurturing it in the children you teach. Curiosity naturally leads to inquiry. Edwina demonstrates how the inquiry process is closely aligned to the strategies for nurturing your own curiosity and takes you through the step-by-step process for nurturing that natural curiosity in children and reawakening it in ourselves.🔗 Links mentioned: 🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 two educators respond to the question, "What is your favourite strategy for engaging children and keeping them curious?" Both Veronica Green and April Zajko who are educational consultants and experienced early childhood educators, respond to this question with passion. Their commitment to children's learning is clear and unwavering.🔗 Links mentioned:Read https://bloomingcurious.com/blog/post/best-strategies-for-engaging-children-and-keeping-them-curiousVeronica can be found at Cultivating Confidence. Her Facebook group is All Things Early YearsApril Zajko can be found at April's Teaching Tree or join her Facebook group the Nature Inspired Teacher🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

It's sad but true that curiosity is on the decline, not just among children, but among adults too. If we are to raise and educate children to be the problem solvers and innovators of tomorrow, then we simply must maintain and nurture our own curiosity, in order to be able to nurture it in the children we teach. In this episode I explore some of the reasons for this decline in our curiosity and what we can do to keep nurturing our own curiosity.🔗 Links mentioned:Research mentioned in the episode: https://hbr.org/2018/09/the-business-case-for-curiosityRead: How to stay curious as an educator🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 we take learning outdoors and learn from Victoria Hackett creator of Outdoor Classrooms and The Secret Gardens Outdoor Classroom, how we educators and parents can incorporate the curriculum and learning, by creating inspirational outdoor learning environments that bring joy to learning. Victoria takes educators and parents on a journey of discovery as she introduces us to the four types of gardens we can include in our outdoor spaces as well as the five phases of successfully teaching outdoors. If you are considering your outdoor teaching area, or even your backyard, to create a space where children are inspired to learn, create and investigate, then this is the episode you will want to listen to.🔗 Links mentioned:Victoria Hackett can be found at https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/Outdoor Classrooms podcast: https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/outdoor_classrooms/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OutdoorClassrooms1Read: Outdoor Learning: Bringing the Joy back to Learning🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 early childhood that drive to explore, question, and play is curiosity! Curiosity forms the cornerstone of all learning and discovery. And that initial interest and curiosity, naturally leads to inquiry. It’s a perfectly natural transition. If curiosity is so innate in all of us, why are we losing it? In this episode I explore some of the reasons for the decline in children's curiosity and offer 9 strategies to nurture curiosity so that that spark that we are all born with is not extinguished.🔗 Links mentioned:Curiosity is declining in children: What to do about itThe Best Strategies for Engaging Children and Keeping them CuriousHow to Create an Inspiring Indoor Learning EnvironmentSetting up an outdoor learning environment for chiildrenMaslow's Hirarchy of Needs to Nurture Curiosity in Kids🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

Play is a fundamental aspect of childhood that holds profound implications for children's social, emotional, physical, and cognitive development.In today's episode I unpack the impact of play on children's development and explore some of the research that underscores the immense benefits of play in shaping children's lives and question the lack of play in education despite everything we know about its benefits.🔗 Links mentioned:Read The Importance of play in children's learning and development🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

Observation is the key that sparks curiosity! In today's episode we explore how parents and educators can encourage children to observe the world around them. We talk about how we go about developing observation skills and the strategies that we can employ to get kids curious. Things like modelling, questioning, how to look for answers and even a bit of soul searching to ensure that we are setting a good example of what a curious person looks like.🔗 Links mentioned:Read The Power of Observation: A guide for teachersHow to Nurture observation skills in kids to help them learn🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

Observation provides educators with powerful data and insights to inform their teaching, and make decisions about what's best for learners. In this episode I explore different types of observations and provide some strategies to assist classroom and home educators to collect observations easily.🔗Links:Read The Power of Observation: A guide for TeachersObservation and Record Keeping Template🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

Ashleigh Sharp is a former early childhood classroom teacher and now the founder of Play More, a business focused on the importance of letting children play freely with loose parts. The loose parts mindset enables children to be trusted, to be creative without adult interference, and lets kids (and adults!) learn as they play. Ash talks about avoiding controlled environments and letting kids’ imaginations take over, helping children develop and nurture creativity and problem solving skills. We discuss strategies educators can take to incorporate loose parts into their indoor and outdoor settings and the benefits of loose parts play on academic performance. We chat about Ash's home schooling journey and how the power of loose parts is impacting the way her own child learns.🔗Links:Play More website HEREPlay More on Facebook HEREPlay More on Instagram HERERead: What are the benefits of loose parts play?🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️

The outdoor environment has the potential to be an extraordinary learning space that sparks curiosity and wonder in our children. The outdoor setting offers unique learning opportunities that can't be replicated indoors. In this episode we we unpack the secrets to crafting irresistible outdoor learning spaces and explore the keys to designing outdoor spaces that spark curiosity, foster creativity, and make learning an unforgettable adventure.🔗 Links:Learn more:Setting Up an Outdoor Learning Environment for Children🆓 Download the FREE e-guide How to Nurture Natural Curiosity HERE✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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 art of creating an inspiring indoor learning environment that fosters curiosity and nurtures holistic development in early childhood students. In this episode we explore how we as both classroom and home educators go about preparing our indoor space for deep child centred learning. We explore the benefits of a neutral colour pallet, organisation, setting up different learning zones, how to foster executive function skills in children, the best materials and provocations for sparking curiosity and wonder and how to include children's agency in our learning spaces.🔗 Links:Learn more: How to create an inspiring indoor learning environment✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE💌Connect with Edwina:Email: [email protected]: 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.☕️