Raising Wildlings

Send us a Text Message.Discover the transformative journey of Jane McFadden, a former psychologist and founder of ADHD Mums, as she shares her late ADHD and autism diagnoses. Jane's candid recollection of the challenges she faced as a mother of three, and the realization of her neurodivergence when her eldest child started school, provides crucial insights into the intersection of neurodiversity and parenting. This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating similar paths, especially those in alternative education settings like forest schools, highlighting the importance of recognizing and supporting neurodivergent traits in both children and adults.In this episode, we uncover the chaos and revelations of adult ADHD diagnoses, illustrated by Jane's impulsive decision to embark on a year-long caravan trip around Australia, which brought her ADHD symptoms to the forefront. Her story underscores the unique way ADHD manifests in women and girls, challenging common misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of proper diagnosis and support. From managing a busy lifestyle to persistent psychological consultations, we delve into the real-life impact of living with undiagnosed ADHD and the eventual clarity that comes with understanding one's condition.Finally, we explore the profound benefits of adult diagnoses and medication. Jane shares her personal experiences with ADHD medication, detailing how it improved her ability to manage daily tasks and be more present with her family. We discuss the significance of early intervention and medication for children, the plethora of resources available for ADHD Ever wondered how to bring the magic of 'Nature Play' into your child's education? Or how to say goodbye to your worries about snakes and ticks? With Nature Play Now, crafting an epic outdoor program is easier than you think. You'll boost your confidence, skill sets, and have parents eager to enrol. Join the adventure for just $57, exclusively for Raising Wildlings listeners. Visit our Raising Wildlings website for more details today!"www.r Hey it's Nicki here interrupting this episode to quickly say, if you're like us and feeling torn between your career as an educator vs. your beliefs for child development, We've created a 5 step e-guide to unlock your purpose without compromising your values. This Treasure Map is completely free, takes ten minutes, and is available from our Raising Wildlings website. So dive in and s If you enjoyed this episode of Raising Wildlings. We invite you to check out Your Wild Business, our signature business course for education change-makers who are ready to create or refine their own nature play businesses.Your Wild Business is the only program that focuses on the business side of nature play, with sustainable practices, processes, and systems that will cut down your administration work, giving you more time to focus on building a business that is centered around your eOther ways we can help you: Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

Ever reminisced about the simple joys of childhood when a stick wasn't just a stick but a sword, a wand, or a companion on countless adventures? In today's episode, Nicki and Vicci will unravel the hidden developmental treasures found in stick play and how adults can prioritise safety without dampening the spirit of creativity.Listen in as Nicki and Vicci share their extensive knowledge of:

It's time to gain the confidence to flex your 'uncomfortable muscles' and become an agent of positive change in your family's life – because when it comes to sex education, silence is not an option.This week we're chatting with Cath Hakanson, mother, sex educator, and founder of Sex Ed Rescue. Cath is all about helping kids and parents have better relationships through empowering conversations. With the right tools, self-confidence, and strategies, sex education can be less threatening, more natural, and much easier.Cath is a firm believer that if kids can talk to their parents about sex, they can talk to their parents about anything!In this episode Cath shares:0:00 Empowering Parent-Child Conversations on Sex11:38 Talking About Families, Relationships, and Pleasure19:34 Open Conversations About Sex Education30:36 Resourceful Parenting and Sex Education41:34 Importance of Open Communication About SexFrom conversation starters to tackling sensitive subjects like pornography and consent, Cath's knowledge will help you feel supported and ready to make these crucial conversations a natural and normal part of your child's upbringing.Other ways we can help you: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

Rosie Ricketson is a mother and award-winning creative producer passionate about maternal well-being.  With a background in the arts, Rosie curates community-led experiences and projects with a vision for a more connected world. In this episode, Rosie shares:

As we close the chapter on an incredible year of growth and connection, our latest podcast episode takes you through a heartfelt journey of our key milestones, mistakes and goals for the new year.Somehow during this time, we have hit an astonishing 420,000 downloads and cultivated conversations that have deeply resonated within the realms of parenting, alternative education, forest schooling and child development. Our little project, birthed in our humble home office, has since spread its wings, touching lives and igniting a global dialogue on the transformative power of playing and learning in nature.The hustle of running a small business is nothing short of a rollercoaster, and trust us, we've had our fair share of stomach-dropping moments! From the anticipation of launching our Forest School Skills online course to navigating the choppy waters of economic uncertainty, we share our trials and triumphs. Yet, amidst the challenges, we've seen our programs soar to new heights, with over 5,600 children stepping through the doors of our Forest School sites this year alone to the simple joys of bringing on our first full-time team member. It's these victories, large and small, that chart the course for future growth and sustainability.Fasten your seatbelts as we map out the adventures and aspirations that await us in the coming year. Our heart is set on deepening the roots of our existing projects and empowering educators through our forest school skills course. We're also gearing up for personal travel escapades, including a five-week caravan journey through Tasmania! Stay wild and join us on the journey—there's so much more to explore together.Other ways we can help you: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

We're back, baby! Kicking off the 2024 season of the Raising Wildlings Podcast with our friend and fellow business owner Gill Howarth from Born Wise Education.Gill always brings her wisdom to the table and it's great to have her back for an in-depth discussion on what raising "wild and free" children truly means.Listen in as Gill shares:

Have you ever questioned the traditional education system and its one-size-fits-all approach? If so, this episode is a must-listen as clinical psychologist and education advocate Dr. Naomi Fisher embarks on a deep discussion about alternative pathways to learning. Dr Naomi Fisher is a clinical psychologist who specialises in autism, trauma and alternative ways to learn. She is the author of two books, both about self-directed education, and she is the mother of two children. For full show notes head to

Are you curious about how to reconnect with your inner wisdom and that of the land, seasons, and cycles? Today we are in conversation with the wonderful Tiffany Gesler, a proud Gunggari woman passionate about connecting people to their own nature.  Tiffany is a seasoned early years and outdoor learning educator with expertise in Aboriginal health, midwifery, and women's business. In this last year, she launched her wild business Sowed and Nurtured, Toowoomba's first private bush school. Join us as we delve into the process of decolonizing outdoor education, promoting First Nation perspectives, and the impact of nature play businesses on families and communities. Don't miss out on this enriching conversation that is sure to challenge, educate, and inspire!Register for our FREE 3-Day Training Series

Stepping out of the mainstream education system and into the business world is equal parts daunting and exhilarating.In today's episode, we are talking with one of our founding Your Wild Business students Leanne Webster who has created a community and connection in Bundaberg QLD with her wonderful business Wild Gully.In this episode Leanne shares:

Ever thought you couldn't run a Nature Play program because your site isn't postcard-worthy?    Newsflash: Picturesque beaches, a bubbling creek, or a lush rainforest are pretty but they are not essential for your Nature Play program.We repeat they are not essential. Today we are discussing place-based learning and how it's actually really important that children connect with their own local environment in a deep and meaningful way.Nicki and Vicci will share:

"If nature is free and play is free... Then why would I need to pay $ to insure my Nature Play session? "

Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you're screaming internally, "Not this!"? You're not alone. Inspired by Elizabeth Gilbert's empowering post, this episode delves into Nicki's process of courageously saying ,'Not this,' and stepping away from situations that no longer served her and opting for a path of uncertainty over a life of discontent. Tune in and unleash the courage within you to say, "Not this."When You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

How do you define success as a mother and business owner? What does it mean to find your threshold of "enoughness"?  We are back this week with Gill Howarth, owner of Bornwise Education, as she uncovers her journey through the peaks and valleys of motherhood and entrepreneurship. For Full Show Notes Head To

Do you ever wonder what it takes to start a business while wrestling with the complexities of parenting young children? Join us as we delve deep into the journey of Gill Howarth, the founder of Born Wise Education, who remarkably embarked on her entrepreneurial expedition during her maternity leave - just like we did with Wildlings Forest School!Gill invites us into her world, sharing her story with honesty, courage, and inspiration. For Full Show Notes Head To

Ever wondered how to package your passion for nature into a profitable venture? This week we're uncovering the untapped potentials in the Nature Play industry and  translating your unique gifts into a viable business. We'll walk you through the diverse niches in the industry, from age-based businesses to corporate events, and even delve into the advantageous role of location in attracting success to your venture. It's tempting to mirror what others are doing, but we reveal why this could be a dangerous path and why harnessing your unique skills and passions is crucial.  Full Show Notes Can Be Found Athttps://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/carving-your-niche-untapped-potentials-in-the-nature-play-industryWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

Get ready to be inspired as we journey into the heart of an exceptional early childhood education center with Narelle Dawson, the esteemed Director of Bribe Island Community Kindy. Narelle offers rare insights into leading a team that's been rated excellent four times in a row, a testament to their commitment, dedication, and unwavering focus on building meaningful relationships. She reveals the secrets behind their success and the transformative power of fostering a nurturing environment and maintaining a balanced focus on learning and growth.For Full Show Notes Head to

Buckle up! We are spilling our secrets on how collaborations have been a game-changer in our Wild Play business and how they can be for you too!Ever wondered what makes a partnership thrive?Let us share our experience in business partnerships and what we'd do differently if we were starting a new business today.  Full Show notes can be found here:https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/unlocking-the-power-of-wild-business-partnerships-with-nicki-farrell-and-vicci-oliverWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

Have you ever wondered how an educational institution could place well-being at the heart of its ethos and practice? Join us for an eye-opening talk with Claire Bartlett, the founding Principal of Woodline Primary, as we discuss its journey from ideation to a growing community of students and families.  Claire opens the door to Woodline's unique perspective on education. She highlights how the school's emphasis on connection, language, and individual attention fosters an environment that nurtures emotional intelligence. We also gain insight into the school's restorative practice and the role of families in the education process. Hear firsthand the challenges faced in setting up a school and the crucial part the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority played in ensuring Woodline met the approval requirements. For Full Show Notes Head To: https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/building-community-through-education-woodline-primary-s-success-story  When You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

While playtime might seem straightforward, it's fraught with challenges and nuances that parents often overlook. In this podcast, we are joined again by researcher, author, and Professor Dr Peter Gray and today we are unraveling the intricacies of play and its influence on a child's growth. We discuss why simply taking your child to the park isn't the same as neighborhood play and the difference between 'play' and a 'playful approach to learning'. Join us for this enlightening conversation that promises insights that are sure to change how you perceive children's playtime.When You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

Prepare to be captivated by this deep dive into the world of childhood play. In our latest episode, we have the esteemed pleasure of welcoming back Dr Peter Gray, a research professor of psychology and neuroscience at Boston College. With an impressive track record of studying play's importance, Dr Gray's insights are sure to fascinate you as he unveils how play shapes children into responsible, creative, and socially adept individuals.Full Show Notes

The transformative power of parenthood gives many of us a renewed passion for the importance of advocating for our children's play needs. Today's guest is no different, Dr. Carla Gull is an academic researcher, speaker, and environmental education program facilitator at Goshen College. In this episode we will be deep-diving into Dr. Carla's research work around loose parts play and the importance of unexpected curiosity.For full show notes head to:  https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/power-of-loose-parts-play-with-dr-carlaWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

Today, we are delighted to have Dr Arne Rubenstein back to answer your questions about the role of father figures and how to maintain meaningful connections during a boy's journey toward adulthood.Dr Arne is the CEO and Founder of the Rites of Passage Institute. He has over 30 years of experience as a medical doctor, counselor, speaker, workshop facilitator, and the proud father of two wonderful young men and a mentor to many others.For full show notes head to: https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/From-Boys-To-Men-With-Dr-ArneWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

Dr Kate Grarock is an Ecologist, Hiker, YouTube Creator, passionate storyteller, Mum and most recently, a participant on the incredibly popular SBS TV show, Alone Australia. Today, we'll be talking all about her time on the survival show, the best and hardest parts, and her current ecology work and her tips and tricks for solo hiking – including her favourite hiking treat!For Full Show Notes Head To https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/Alone-With-Dr-Kate-GrarockWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the game-changing soft skills you'll need while leading group activities with fire, water and tools? Catch Our FREE Mini Training On The First Steps You Must Take To Lead A Forest School Program Ready to create your own Nature Play business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to starting your business journey. Keen to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Want to know how to craft an epic outdoor program that has parents and directors lining up to enrol? You need Nature Play Now our $57 Workshop and Bundle series (people are saying this is a steal!)

At forest school, we often talk about how nature play is so important for our sensory development, but did you know that many of the developmental and behavioural challenges we see in children stem from our nervous system? In today's episode we scratch the surface of sensory integration, sensory processing and retained reflexes with Occupational Therapists, Rachel Harrington and Jessica Hill. 

Today we're chatting to Sarah Aiono, international speaker, coach, teacher, researcher, CEO of Longworth Education and one of Aotearoa New Zealand's leading play pedagogy experts all about the biological need for all humans to play, the need for us as parents and educators to slow down childhood, how the early academic pushdown is harming children and how Sarah and her passionate team help teachers implement evidence-based play pedagogy in their everyday classroom practices. 

If you're anything like us, the title of today's episode, “Low Demand Parenting”, made you take a hopeful gasp and wonder if low-demand parenting could actually work for your family and take some of the weight and pressure of parenting off of your chest. Well, after chatting with Amanda Diekman, author and leading voice in the neurodiversity parenting movement, I can honestly say I felt some of that weight lift as she gave me and all our listeners permission to say, ‘It's too hard right now” and let some things go. Amanda's wisdom and insight into the realities of parenting uniquely wired children hit a chord for me and I hope you too find the permission you may be seeking today to radically accept your child and family where you and they are at.For Full Show Notes Head Tohttps://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/low-demand-parentingWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You:Want to learn the "on the ground" skills you NEED to run children's activities with fire, water and hand tools?  Bush Kindy Skills is for play workers, educators and aspiring forest school leaders. Apply now to get an invitation to our FREE training.Are you ready to create your own Wildly Successful Nature Play Business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to start your own Wild Business. Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values.

What do you feel when you walk into a perfectly instagrammable Early Years setting, or when you see an education space wrapped in artificial turf? Today we're chatting with husband and wife duo, architects and owners of Landings Studio, Emma Healy and David Pratt all about biophilic design, the benefits of it, what we can do instead of laying astro turf and immovable playgrounds, and how we can implement some of these ideas in our homes and early years settings.For Full Show Notes Head Tohttps://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/How-Biophilic-Design-Connects-Us-AllWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You:Ready to learn tried and tested group management skills for children's activities in risky playscapes?  Click here to access our recent masterclass and level up with Forest School Skills.Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values. Wondering how to navigate your outdoor learning environment with complete confidence? You need our $27 Nature Play Now Workshop and Bundle series (people constantly tell us they love this program and it's an absolute bargain! )

If you've ever been to one of our Brisbane Forest School sessions, you may have been lucky enough to meet today's guest, Amanda England. Amanda is our Brisbane manager, friend, and business partner. On today's podcast, Amanda is sharing her journey from preschool teacher to kickstarting our Wildlings Forest Kindy Program in Brisbane, Australia.Amanda will also share how investing her time and energy into building stakeholder relationships helped her successfully advocate for children and play in South East Queensland.For Full Show Notes Head Tohttps://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/it-takes-a-village-to-run-a-forest-schoolWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You:Want to learn the "on the ground" skills you NEED to run children's activities with fire, water and hand tools?  Bush Kindy Skills is for play workers, educators and aspiring forest school leaders. Apply now to get an invitation to our FREE training.Are you ready to create your own Wildly Successful Nature Play Business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to start your own Wild Business. Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values.

One of the biggest reasons for starting our own business was to be able to jump at opportunities when adventure called. It's a great privilege to be able to do this and it's not something we take for granted. This week on the podcast we are diving into Nicki's recent unplanned 5-week road trip into the outback with her two homeschooled boys and dog in tow. The road schooling trip back to Nicki's own childhood roots in South Australia. Were they new places to visit? No. Was it going to have the same awe and wonder that it had 30 years ago?  Surprisingly, yes!For Full Show Notes Head To https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/the-journey-home-with-nicki-farrell  When You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You:Want to learn the "on the ground" skills you NEED to run children's activities with fire, water and hand tools?  Forest School Skills is for play workers, educators and aspiring forest school leaders. Apply now to get an invitation to our FREE training.Are you ready to create your own Wildly Successful Nature Play Business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to start your own Wild Business. Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values.

Imagine being labeled America's worst mother just because you made the conscious decision to allow your child to experience some independence. If you haven't heard Lenore Skenazy's story or read her book Free Range Kids, today's episode is a great introduction to the Free Range Children and Grow Wild movements. 

Issac Newton once said “What goes up must come down”, but what on Earth are we supposed to do when children climb up too high and call out for help?Recently, we've witnessed several occurrences where tiny climbers reach great heights only to get stuck when it comes to getting back down to the ground.In today's podcast episode, we are deep diving into the physiology behind this and what adults can do to coach children down from great heights.In this episode, we discuss:✔️ Fear Of Heights vs. Height Vertigo✔️The physiology behind “Height Vertigo” and its impact on the senses✔️Our 4 top tips to respectfully coach children down from heightsFull show notes for this episode can be found at:https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/dizzy-heights-and-how-to-get-downWhen You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Playworkers, educators and aspiring forest school leaders. Apply now to get an invitation to our FREE training "The First Steps You Must Take Before Leading A Nature Immersion Program" and steal our signature Gather, Guide & Grow framework for starting your own Nature Immersion or Forest School Program https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/registerAre you ready to create your own Wildly Successful Nature Play Business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to start your own Wild Business. Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/Opt-In

Tree climbing has always been a rite of passage. Whether it was the mango tree in the backyard or the massive jacaranda at the local park. Where there were trees…. there were children hanging from the branches.At least, that's what is why like in our own childhood.But did you know that 1 in 4 Australian children have never climbed a tree?That's a quarter of Australian children!Missing out on the pure joy, freedom, and learning experiences that come from being able to scale, swing and hang from nature's original jungle gym… the tree!Where did it all go wrong?In today's episode, we are sharing our tips on how you can help children climb trees safely and we are asking some tough questions about whether the presence of adults is actually hindering children's ability to risk assess.In this episode, we discuss:✔️ The shocking decline of tree climbing✔️Our own experiences with being chastised for our children's tree climbing✔️Why you should not lift children into trees✔️How to coach children's climbing and what NOT to do✔️Our game-changing tree-climbing advice for young childrenFull show notes for this episode can be found at:https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/tree-climbing-the-forgotten-playground When You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the "on the ground" skills you NEED to run children's activities with fire, water and hand tools? Wild School Skills is for playworkers, educators and aspiring forest school leaders. Apply now to get an invitation to our FREE training https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/waitlistAre you ready to create your own Wildly Successful Nature Play Business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to start your own Wild Business. Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/Opt-In

❌Newsflash: Risky Play isn't as simple as giving children the old hammer from the rusty toolbox in the garage. In fact, doing that will probably cause more accidents and set everyone up for a negative experience. We used to think that ‘any' hand tool was better than none.... until we saw some were too heavy, too bulky, and hindering the learning process for children.It was a bit like trying to eat soup with a fork. Rather frustrating for all involved.So today we will share with you the TOP THREE hand tools we believe every child and educator should be using to extend learning with loose parts and adventurous play. In this episode, we discuss:✔️ Why less is more when it comes to resources and loose parts✔️The benefits of child-size hand tools✔️How learning injuries are a part of the process✔️Top Three Hand Tools for young children (3-12 years)✔️Additional Hand Tools for advanced learning (7-12 years)_____________________________________________________Full show notes for this episode can be found at: https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/right-tools-for-the-job _____________________________________________________When You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You: Want to learn the "on the ground" skills you NEED to run children's activities with fire, water and hand tools? Wild School Skills is for playworkers, educators and aspiring forest school leaders. Apply now to get an invitation to our FREE training https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/waitlistAre you ready to create your own Wildly Successful Nature Play Business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to start your own Wild Business. Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/Opt-In 

"Look, it has pockets!" said the child as they emptied the rocks, shells, and leaves from the pockets of their new skirt.And we have to admit, as grown women, we too have twirled in excitement when FINALLY finding a dress or skirt that can fit our wallets, phones, and car keys but it makes us ask the question... Are we letting "looks" get in the way of "life" and what kind of message is that sending to our children especially when that comes to nature play?In this episode, we discuss:✔️Our experiences with children wearing inappropriate clothing in a nature play session and what are the best clothes and shoes to wear✔️The adulteration of children's clothing ✔️Our thoughts on the gender discussion when it comes to clothing for boys and girls✔️Why children need to feel free to move in their clothing and how this impacts their sensory experiences✔️How dressing children in “hi-vis” vests sends the message that children are separate from natureFull show notes for this episode can be found at:https://www.raisingwildlings.com.au/blog/is-fashion-stifling-childhood When You're Ready, Here's How We Can Help You:Want to learn the "on the ground" skills you NEED to run children's activities with fire, water and hand tools?  Wild School Skills is for play workers, educators and aspiring forest school leaders. Apply now to get an invitation to our FREE training in May  Are you ready to create your own Wildly Successful Nature Play Business? Head to www.raisingwildlings.com.au/wildbusiness to access the roadmap to start your own Wild Business. Want to find your purpose in 10 minutes? Download our FREE treasure map to find your passion without compromising your educational values.

Sometimes in life you meet people who's experience and inspiration mirrors your own and that is what I feel about my guest today. Celia Hogan is the founder of Little Kiwis in Aeoteroa (New Zealand) and we shared such a rich and inspiring chat today which I think you are going to love. 

You've all heard the saying, ‘If you play with fire, you're going to get burnt,' well we have another saying at Wildlings, and that's, ‘If you don't play with fire you WILL get burnt.' Today's episode is all about why we must teach children fire safety.

Imagine making play your life's work. In today's podcast, I talk with professional playworker and child advocate, Marc Armitage, who has done just that. We are chatting all about the role of adults and he asks us what is our agenda when it comes to providing play opportunities for children. 

Nature schools are on the rise here in Australia and around the world and I am not just talking about Forest Schools like Wildlings. These schools have to follow Australian Curriculum, but are prioritising getting kids outside! Today I want to introduce Joanna Griffith from Kwoorabup Nature School in Western Australia.

Honestly, our kids get a rough go. What we often expect of them at a young age can far outweigh what their brain can actually manage — and we don't even realise we're doing it! Today we're finishing our chat with Allison Davies.Today we're chatting about the importance of predictability for children, Hyperactivity and her family's journey from homeschooling to schooling.You can catch the first part of our conversation in last week's episode. 

In this episode, we chat to former Neurologic Music Therapist Allison who stepped out of the allied health system after 16 years, and now focuses on enacting societal change by dismantling harmful musical myths. To get a sense of what Alli is all about, I thought I'd read one of her quotes which I love.‘As a woman I was suppressed by the systems that told me to ‘be seen and not heard', to ‘stop being hysterical' and to ‘not give up my day job' in response to my musical expression.Others were led to believe that not being able to play an instrument, sing in tune or access lessons meant they were ‘not musical'. Some were told to mime in the school choir. Many were punished for using their voice to speak up.These systems are coming to an end.AND WE ARE THE ONES DISMANTLING THEM.”Oof. Did you feel that? Yes? Then let's chat to Alli about music and the brain, how to use music to help children regulate and how we are all musical. This is episode one of two of our chat together.

Did you know that 1 in 14 children experience an anxiety disorder in Australia and that anxiety is becoming more and more prevalent in our youth? In this episode, we're chatting with social worker and author, Jessica Sanders, about how to help our children wrangle their worries. We talk about what anxiety might feel like in children's bodies, simple strategies for parents wanting to help their children manage anxiety and why it's important to start these conversations with children from a young age.

Today, we're chatting with Meg Berryman about remedial vs regenerative business, stewardship vs leadership, the new and calmer questions to ask ourselves about obtaining the elusive work life balance and how the sensitive ones are leading the way in finding our way back to regenerative culture. This one is for those who feel like listening to an episode where you will leave with a feeling of being settled.  

We all know that getting children outside is good for them, but that doesn't mean that everybody that works with/for children does. That is where organisations like Nature Play WA come in and why I have invited CEO and researcher, Dr. Kelsie Prabawa-Sear onto the podcast today to share why children really do need a childhood with play and nature and the challenges that we face trying to achieve our mission. 

If there is one thing I know that brings us all together when we are outside with our families and children, its music. I was so excited to find our guest today who has created the most beautiful songs that are loved by children and adults! Today we will be speaking with Sara Ernst, all about her music and children's books in nature!

In this episode, we're chatting with Psychotherapist,  Arsho Kalloghlian, about all things teenage relationships: what Red flags to look out for in potential partners, the  the difference between selfless giving and martyrdom and how to ask for what you need in a relationship respectfully. Come and join us for the info I wish I had as a lovestruck teen!

In this episode, we're talking with Tracey Gillet, founder, writer and advocate behind the award-winning blog, Raised Good - a guide to natural parenting in the modern world. And today we're chatting about punishments, time outs and rewards and why conditional parenting doesn't work.

In today's episode, I'm joined by the beautiful Psychologist,  Dr Martha Deiros Collado. If you don't already follow her on instagram, now is the time to start. Her mission is to make the science of psychology accessible to all and support parents to see their child behind the behaviour. She distills big topics into simple ideas and actionable strategies to support you every day, with your family. 

In this episode, it's all about the Dad's as we chat to Sam Patterson of All Time Dads who tells us how Dads can flick the switch between work and life so they can be present with their family for the moments that count. If you're a father or have a partner or co-partner who wants some tips on how to be more present with your family, then this is the episode for you.

Happy New Year and Welcome back to season 4 of the Raising Wildlings Podcast!In this episode, I get to chat with Alfie Kohn, the author of my all-time favourite parenting book, Unconditional Parenting.

It's the end of the year here at Wildlings, so come and join us for our wrap up of 2022. Our highest highs, our lowest lows and some big news about next year.

A little while ago, Nicki and I attended a three day Non-Violent Communication workshop which started us on a journey to better understand ourselves, our needs and to get curious when it comes to conflict and uncomfortable conversations. Today I invited our NVC facilitator Kate Raffin to the podcast to chat about the power of Non-Violent Communication.