Things we like 💕

This page is a living, growing archive of ideas and resources that inspire us. We draw from many philosophies, research-backed approaches, and the wisdom of fellow parents and educators who, like us, are committed to nurturing curious, capable, and wholehearted children.

Some of these resources align perfectly with our approach; others challenge us to get outside of our comfort zone. All remind us that great parenting and teaching begin a willingness to keep growing. We try to model a growth mindset (the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication, hard work, and perseverance, rather than being fixed, innate traits), we give children permission to explore, try, fail and get right back up to try again—not just in school, but in life.

Take what resonates, and join us in the pursuit of lifelong learning. 🌱

Wondergarten Early Childhood Instagram Wondergarten is a beautiful account that shares creative activities and thoughtful approaches to early education - reminding us that curiosity and hands-on discovery are the true foundations of learning. Perfect

Wondergarten Early Childhood Instagram

Wondergarten is a beautiful account that shares creative activities and thoughtful approaches to early education - reminding us that curiosity and hands-on discovery are the true foundations of learning. Perfect for parents and educators who believe in nurturing the whole child through play.

Busy Toddler’s "Kindergarten Readiness" Guide This blog post champions social skills, curiosity, and problem-solving over rote memorization, offering practical ways to prepare children for kindergarten without sacrificing the magic of childhood.

Busy Toddler’s "Kindergarten Readiness" Guide

This blog post champions social skills, curiosity, and problem-solving over rote memorization, offering practical ways to prepare children for kindergarten without sacrificing the magic of childhood.

Blossom and Root: Early Years Curriculum: A play-based, nature-infused curriculum designed to ignite wonder. With an emphasis on storytelling, art, and hands-on exploration, it’s perfect for families who believe learning should be joyful, flexible

Blossom and Root: Early Years Curriculum:

A play-based, nature-infused curriculum designed to ignite wonder. With an emphasis on storytelling, art, and hands-on exploration, it’s perfect for families who believe learning should be joyful, flexible, and rooted in real-world experiences.

Raising a Kid Who Can by Catherine McCarthy, MD, et al. A science-backed, compassionate guide to nurturing resilient, emotionally healthy children. Packed with strategies for fostering self-regulation, problem-solving, and independence, this book i

Raising a Kid Who Can by Catherine McCarthy, MD, et al.

A science-backed, compassionate guide to nurturing resilient, emotionally healthy children. Packed with strategies for fostering self-regulation, problem-solving, and independence, this book is a roadmap for raising kids who thrive—in school and in life.

1000 Hours Outside A global movement challenging families to swap screen time for outdoor time. From muddy puddles to bug hunts, the goal is simple: let children learn through unstructured nature play. Because sunshine, fresh air, and risk-taking a

1000 Hours Outside

A global movement challenging families to swap screen time for outdoor time. From muddy puddles to bug hunts, the goal is simple: let children learn through unstructured nature play. Because sunshine, fresh air, and risk-taking are the ultimate teachers.

Mitten Strings for God by Katrina Kenison A lyrical meditation on slow, intentional parenting. Kenison’s essays celebrate quiet moments, unstructured play, and the profound beauty of ordinary childhood—a call to resist hurry and let children grow a

Mitten Strings for God by Katrina Kenison

A lyrical meditation on slow, intentional parenting. Kenison’s essays celebrate quiet moments, unstructured play, and the profound beauty of ordinary childhood—a call to resist hurry and let children grow at their own pace.

The Atlantic: "The Overprotected Kid" A provocative exploration of how overprotection stifles children’s creativity and resilience. Arguing for the value of risk-taking and independent play, this piece challenges modern parenting norms—and inspires

The Atlantic: "The Overprotected Kid"

A provocative exploration of how overprotection stifles children’s creativity and resilience. Arguing for the value of risk-taking and independent play, this piece challenges modern parenting norms—and inspires us to give kids the freedom they need to grow.

Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv In this influential work about the staggering divide between children and the outdoors, child advocacy expert Richard Louv directly links the lack of nature in the lives of today's wired generation—he calls i

Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv

In this influential work about the staggering divide between children and the outdoors, child advocacy expert Richard Louv directly links the lack of nature in the lives of today's wired generation—he calls it nature-deficit—to some of the most disturbing childhood trends, such as the rises in obesity, attention disorders, and depression.

FOR 25 YEARS the Natural Learning Initiative is based on Moore and Wong’s book, Natural Learning (1997). NLI applies community-based, equity-driven design thinking to creating healthy natural play and learning environments, where all children and the

FOR 25 YEARS the Natural Learning Initiative is based on Moore and Wong’s book, Natural Learning (1997). NLI applies community-based, equity-driven design thinking to creating healthy natural play and learning environments, where all children and their families can thrive, learn healthy life habits, and set in motion a life course of peace and love for nature.

Carol Dweck a Stanford Researcher who studies Motivation and Mindset Research has shown that having a growth mindset can lead to better academic performance. Students who believe that their intelligence and abilities can be developed through hard w

Carol Dweck a Stanford Researcher who studies Motivation and Mindset

Research has shown that having a growth mindset can lead to better academic performance. Students who believe that their intelligence and abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication are more likely to put in the effort and persist through difficult tasks.