Blooming Curious

Edwina Cottino
  • 5.0 (2)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Weekly inspiration for educators and parents who want to raise curious, confident learners. Blooming Curious helps you create natural, engaging learning experiences for K-2 children—using picture books, nature exploration, and inquiry-based activities that make teaching and homeschooling feel joyful, not overwhelming. Visit www.bloomingcurious.com for stress-free resources and strategies that put the love into learning. Sign up for your weekly dose of inspiration with Get Curious.

  1. I Almost Ruined Kindergarten on Day One… Here’s What Saved Me

    2D AGO

    I Almost Ruined Kindergarten on Day One… Here’s What Saved Me

    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: A mistake I almost made on day one (and why it matters in early years)How a pile of acorns sparked curiosity and learning without any fancy resourcesThe question a four-year-old asked that instantly became an inquiryHow to spot “curiosity moments” and turn them into meaningful learningIf you teach early years and you want to keep children engaged without worksheets, pressure, or overwhelm, this episode will give you practical inspiration you can use immediately. ✨ Want to learn how to do this consistently? 🔗 Sign up for the mini course Curiosity Without Chaos ✨ If you value curiosity, deep learning, and hands-on teaching, don’t forget to subscribe and follow for weekly inspiration. ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: 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 First Week Back 00:41 Avoiding a Rookie Mistake 01:24 Joyful Moments with Acorns 04:01 Curiosity About the Moon 05:03 Encouraging Everyday Curiosity 06:07 Conclusion and Next Steps 06:58 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

    8 min
  2. How to Plan Rich Learning Experiences Without Curriculum Overwhelm

    JAN 26

    How to Plan Rich Learning Experiences Without Curriculum Overwhelm

    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 stressWhy comparison is making teaching harder than it needs to beHow to use picture books to plan integrated, cross-curricular lessonsHow to create deep learning experiences without worksheetsHow to assess learning through observation (and save time)Why slowing down leads to better learning and less burnoutIf you’re a primary teacher, early childhood educator, or homeschool parent looking for a simpler, deeper way to plan lessons, this episode will help you rethink how you plan — and give you permission to go slower, deeper, and enjoy teaching again. 🔗 Get the Me on the Map lesson plan HERE. 🔗 Get the observation and record keeping template here: https://bloomingcurious.com/b/observation-and-record-keeping-template-for-educators 🔗 Read about the research into picture books here: https://bloomingcurious.com/blog/post/teaching-k-2-curriculum-with-picture-books ✨ If you value curiosity, deep learning, and hands-on teaching, don’t forget to subscribe and follow for weekly inspiration. ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: 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: Overcoming Overwhelm in Lesson Planning 00:39 The Comparison Trap and Finding a Mentor 03:48 Integrating Lessons with Picture Books 04:11 The Cognitive Benefits of Reading to Children 06:20 Strategic Use of Picture Books in Lesson Planning 08:18 Deep Learning Through Repetition and Hands-On Activities 13:27 Effective Assessment Beyond Worksheets 15:39 Recap and Final Thoughts 17:45 Introducing the 'Me on the Map' Lesson Plan 20:12 Conclusion and Upcoming Plans

    22 min
  3. Why More Teaching Resources Won’t Fix Teacher Overwhelm (and What Actually Will)

    JAN 19

    Why More Teaching Resources Won’t Fix Teacher Overwhelm (and What Actually Will)

    Ep 99 A common struggle teachers face with resource overload and the misconception that more resources equate to better teaching. The core issue is often a lack of clarity, not a lack of resources. By understanding and harnessing curiosity, educators can turn everyday moments into meaningful learning experiences without the need for constant new materials. Curiosity Without Chaos is a framework that helps educators plan with confidence, use fewer materials, and keep students genuinely engaged. Listen to learn why trusting yourself and focusing on student curiosity, rather than buying resources can transform your teaching experience. 🔗 Links: Sign up for Curiosity Without Chaos - a mini professional framework for educators 💻 Read the blog post HERE ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious ☕️ If you like my work and want to encourage me to keep going you can do so by Buying me a Coffee. Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the kick I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 The Real Reason for Teacher Burnout 00:46 The Clarity Problem in Teaching 02:09 The Power of Curiosity in Learning 03:20 Introducing Curiosity Without Chaos 04:16 Conclusion and Next Steps

    7 min
  4. Why Curiosity Matters More Than Curriculum in Today’s Classrooms

    JAN 12

    Why Curiosity Matters More Than Curriculum in Today’s Classrooms

    We're addressing the challenges educators face in maintaining student engagement and exploring how traditional teaching methods might fall short in today's rapidly changing world. I share insights from a survey of educators, revealing a common struggle with student disengagement and the pressure to meet curriculum standards. The key takeaway is the critical role of curiosity in driving authentic engagement and learning. I introduce 'Curiosity Without Chaos,' a professional learning framework designed to revitalise curiosity within structured lesson plans without adding extra workload. Join the waitlist for practical tools and rethink your approach to teaching for a more engaging and meaningful experience both for you and your students. 🔗 Links: Sign up for Curiosity Without Chaos - a mini professional framework for educators 💻 Read the blog post HERE ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious ☕️ If you like my work and want to encourage me to keep going you can do so by Buying me a Coffee. Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the kick I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 Introduction: The Struggle with Student Engagement 00:39 Traditional Teaching Methods: Why They Fall Short 02:42 The Real Issue: Lack of Curiosity 02:56 The Power of Curiosity in Learning 04:11 Introducing Curiosity Without Chaos 05:33 Invitation to Join the Waitlist 06:02 Conclusion: Embrace Curiosity

    7 min
  5. January Lesson Planning for Teachers: Using Picture Books to Prevent Burnout

    JAN 6

    January Lesson Planning for Teachers: Using Picture Books to Prevent Burnout

    Tackling the common challenge of post-holiday burnout in teachers and homeschoolers by introducing a practical strategy that can transform lesson planning. Learn how to use picture books to teach multiple subjects, allowing for more cohesive and engaging learning experiences. Discover how to select books with rich vocabulary, strong story structures, and content connections to subjects like math, science, and social studies. Follow Edwina's step-by-step guide to integrate one powerful picture book into your curriculum, preventing burnout and making planning easier. 🔗 Links: Integrated Lesson plans with picture books Integrated Inquiry Planner ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious ☕️ If you like my work and want to encourage me to keep going you can do so by Buying me a Coffee. Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the kick I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 New Year, Same Challenges 01:00 The Reality of Planning 02:35 A Different Approach: Picture Books 03:21 Choosing the Right Books 04:27 Implementing Integrated Lessons 08:38 Steps to Get Started 10:02 Resources to Simplify Planning 10:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    12 min
  6. Small Habits That Transform Teaching: Make It Fun Again

    12/29/2025

    Small Habits That Transform Teaching: Make It Fun Again

    In this episode, inspired by James Clear's 'Atomic Habits,' we explore how to make teaching fun and impactful by developing small, enjoyable habits. Edwina talks about creating systems instead of just setting goals, the importance of making your environment conducive to habit formation, and practical steps to ensure you consistently engage in rewarding teaching practices. Reflect on your past experiences, and download the goal-setting planner designed for educators to start building habits that will transform your teaching practice and make the new year more enjoyable for both you and your students. Download the Goal Setting Planner and reflection tool below 🔗 Links: The Goal Setting Planner and Tracker for Educators ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious ☕️ If you like my work and want to encourage me to keep going you can do so by Buying me a Coffee. Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the kick I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 Introduction: Making Teaching Fun 00:23 The Importance of Enjoyment in Teaching 00:59 Reflecting on Past Experiences 02:28 James Clear's Wisdom on Habits 03:20 Implementing Small Daily Habits 03:43 Prime Your Environment for Success 04:19 The Power of Reflection and Goal Setting 06:21 Recap and Final Thoughts 07:25 Conclusion and Call to Action

    8 min
  7. Tech-Free Kids: 24 Holiday Activities That Actually Work

    12/22/2025

    Tech-Free Kids: 24 Holiday Activities That Actually Work

    Wondering how to keep kids engaged during the holidays without screens? Here are 24 screen-free activities that build curiosity and problem-solving skills—no technology required. The holidays are here, and if you're dreading weeks of "I'm bored" or battling over screen time, this episode is for you. I'm sharing practical, low-cost activities you can do at home that keep children learning without them even realizing it. From building indoor forts to discovery walks, these activities work whether you're dealing with extreme heat, freezing cold, or just need ideas to fill long holiday days. Plus, I'm sharing why I believe the real solution to technology concerns isn't government bans—it's intentional parenting. You'll learn: · 24 specific activities to try with your kids (free PDF included) · How to turn everyday moments into learning opportunities · Why teaching independence matters more than fitting in · Simple ways to rebuild communication and connection at home Free downloads: 24 Activities That Instill Natural Curiosity in Kids + How to Instill Natural Curiosity in Children eGuide (links in show notes) Perfect for parents and educators who want practical alternatives to screen time that actually work. 🔗 Links: FREE e-guide: How to Nurture Natural Curiosity 24 Fun Activities That Instil Curiosity in Kids ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious ☕️ If you like my work and want to encourage me to keep going you can do so by Buying me a Coffee. Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the kick I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 Introduction: Holiday Dilemma 00:12 Government's New Law on Social Media 00:27 The Case Against Technology for Children 01:36 Parental Responsibility vs. Government Intervention 05:31 Creative Indoor Activities for Kids 06:20 24 Fun Activities to Instill Curiosity 06:53 Bonding and Communication Through Activities 07:46 Creative Ideas: Picnics and Forts 09:15 Discovery Walks and Natural Learning 11:01 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes

    13 min
  8. Stop Teaching Worksheets Start Teaching Thinking: Inquiry-Based Learning Made Simple

    12/15/2025

    Stop Teaching Worksheets Start Teaching Thinking: Inquiry-Based Learning Made Simple

    Feeling like you've failed with incomplete worksheets and rushed curriculum? Discover why inquiry-based learning should be your go-to strategy for deeper, meaningful education. In this episode, we explore the benefits of fostering genuine curiosity and real-life skills in children, and how you can seamlessly incorporate inquiry into your teaching practice. Learn practical steps to turn everyday experiences into rich learning moments, and access go-to resources to get started. Perfect for both classroom and homeschool educators. Download the e-guides, embrace inspired teaching, and watch students thrive. Don't forget to like, share, and review! 🔗 Links: FREE e-guide: How to Nurture Natural Curiosity Inquiry 101 - Unlock the joy of learning ✍️ Sign up to Get Curious, the inspirational weekly newsletter for curious parents and educators HERE 💌Connect with Edwina: Email: contact@bloomingcurious.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_curious/ Website: https://www.bloomingcurious.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bloomingcurious YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@edsbloomingcurious ☕️ If you like my work and want to encourage me to keep going you can do so by Buying me a Coffee. Any contribution will be gratefully received and will certainly give me the kick I need to keep going.☕️ 00:00 Facing the End-of-Year Blues 00:39 The Power of Inquiry-Based Learning 01:38 Addressing Common Concerns About Inquiry 03:05 Practical Steps to Implement Inquiry 05:43 Resources to Get Started 07:10 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    8 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Weekly inspiration for educators and parents who want to raise curious, confident learners. Blooming Curious helps you create natural, engaging learning experiences for K-2 children—using picture books, nature exploration, and inquiry-based activities that make teaching and homeschooling feel joyful, not overwhelming. Visit www.bloomingcurious.com for stress-free resources and strategies that put the love into learning. Sign up for your weekly dose of inspiration with Get Curious.

Information

  • Creator
    Edwina Cottino
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    101
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Blooming Curious
  • Show Website
    Blooming Curious