Blooming Curious

They have screens. They have toys. They have activities. And yet — they trail you around the house saying 'I'm bored.' In this episode I unpack: ● Why having access to everything is making children less able to entertain themselves — not more ● The neuroscience of genuine curiosity and why screens can't replicate it ● What boredom is actually communicating (it's not what you think) ● The gift of t...

In this episode, I'm looking at two of the oldest — and most overlooked — educational philosophies out there: Classical education and the Charlotte Mason method. I work in a Classical school, and the more I learn about it, the more I realise that the oldest approach to education and the most progressive share exactly the same starting point: wonder . We're talking about who Charlotte Mason actuall...

The number one concern teachers have about inquiry learning isn't time, or curriculum pressure — it's control. In this episode, we talk honestly about why that fear makes complete sense, what "losing control" actually looks like in practice (versus what we imagine), and the four simple structures that make inquiry learning manageable in any early years setting. Whether you're brand new to this or...

What does learning actually look like when children are genuinely curious? In this episode, I share real classroom stories — from gifted learners who'd switched off, to children who'd come to see school as a place of failure — and explore what changed when curiosity was given space to lead. We also look at what the research says about interest development in the early years, and why the brain is u...

Children’s curiosity and fascination with the world is declining. Children are asking fewer questions. This loss of curiosity can be due to depleted dopamine, as referenced in NIH-where they identified contributors such as excessive screen time, sleep deprivation, poor high-fat/high-sugar diet, low sunlight exposure, and rare genetic disorders. Research suggests low dopamine manifests as impulsivi...

RE-RUN of a popular episode: You became a teacher to light a fire in kids — not to tick boxes. But somewhere along the way, the curriculum took over, the kids started zoning out, and you're left wondering if there's a better way. Spoiler: there is. In this episode we talk about why curiosity isn't just a lovely classroom add-on anymore — in a world where AI can write, calculate and analyse faster...

Are bright colours and fast-paced screens harming your child's development? In this episode, we take a close look at what the research says about children's media, classroom colour, and why beauty matters more than we think. There's a reason the old Disney films, the gentle pace of Heidi and Little House on the Prairie , and those exquisite hand-illustrated picture books felt so different from wha...

Are your students refusing to start? Struggling to focus? Disinterested in learning? In this episode, we explore a powerful but often overlooked truth: lack of focus is often a lack of curiosity. Instead of choosing between structure (classical education) and engagement (inquiry learning), what if the real solution is combining both? In today’s conversation, I break down: Why children disengage in...

Feeling like your students have lost curiosity and focus? If you’ve been noticing more disengaged students , shorter attention spans, and a lack of enthusiasm for learning, you’re not imagining it. In this episode of Blooming Curious , I’m sharing what I’ve seen change over my 14+ years teaching early childhood , and the exact strategies I use to re-engage children , spark curiosity, and bring lea...

Teaching kindergarten is a little bit like herding cats… but this week gave me two moments that reminded me why curiosity-based learning works. In this episode, I’m sharing a real behind-the-scenes reflection from my first week back teaching kindergarten , and how two small moments (acorns + a daytime moon!) turned into powerful inquiry opportunities. We talk about: If you teach early years and yo...

Ep 100 Feeling overwhelmed by curriculum demands and struggling to make time to plan rich, deep learning experiences? In this episode, I’m sharing the exact planning approach I use to reduce curriculum overwhelm, save hours of planning time, and create integrated learning experiences that truly engage children. You’ll discover: How to stop curriculum overwhelm and reduce planning stress Why compar...

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 th...

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 e...

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,...

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 expe...

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 t...

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 ex...

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 cov...

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 ti...

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...

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 th...

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 tha...

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...

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-dire...

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 pro...