Shows
Raising WildlingsEmbracing the Magic of Stick Play with Wildlings Forest SchoolSend us a textEver 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:🌱 The benefits of stick play🌱 How to find 'the perfect stick'🌱What's a 'blood bubble' and how does it create safety2024-02-2729 minRaising WildlingsUnveiling the Truth About Natural Play SpacesSend us a textEver 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:🌱The benefits of running programs in dry locations🌱The three abso...2023-11-2015 minRaising WildlingsNavigating The Muddy Waters Of Insurance with Nicki Farrell & Vicci OliverSend us a text"If nature is free and play is free... Then why would I need to pay $ to insure my Nature Play session? " 😱 - UsYes, that was our actual faces when we heard someone was running a Nature Play session WITHOUT insurance. Not only does this kind of dodgy practice risk people's livelihoods and homes... it also has the potential to completely destroy a whole industry that is supposed to protect childhood and children's right to play in nature.In this episode, Nicki Farrell & Vicci Oliver (co...2023-11-1416 minRaising Wildlings'Not This': Leaving Discontent Behind - Nicki's Moment of ChangeSend us a textHave 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."Ever wondered how to bring the magic of 'Nature Play' into your child's education? Or how to say goodbye to y...2023-11-1015 minRaising WildlingsUnlocking the Power of Wild Business Partnerships With Nicki Farrell and Vicci OliverSend us a textBuckle 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-oliverEver wondered how to bring the magic of 'Nature Play' into your child's education? Or h...2023-10-1137 minRaising WildlingsThe Journey Home With Nicki FarrellSend us a textOne 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 t...2023-07-0546 minRaising WildlingsIf You DON'T Play with Fire, You WILL Get Burned with Nicki and VicciSend us a textYou’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.👉 Nicki and Vicci Share: Some striking facts about fire danger in Australia and around the worldWhy it is important to teach children about fire safetyThe importance and power of fire and how to teach responsibility in children around firesThe har...2023-04-1717 minRaising Wildlings2022 Wrap Up with Nicki and VicciSend us a textIt’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.👉 Nicki and Vicci Share:Some epic podcast stats! Thank you for being a part of this journey with us! Their big business wins for 2022How their roles have changed shape over this year The importance of listening to your bodyTheir proudest achievementsWhat they are looking forward to!👉 Opt In for FREE Downloadable...2022-12-2039 minRaising WildlingsNon-Violent Communication for Families with Kate RaffinSend us a textA 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. 👉 Kate sharesHow she learned about Marshall Rosenberg's work with NVCThe benefits from learning the skills behind NVCNVC basicsBeing specific about our language is a big part of NVC.The difference betwe...2022-12-1240 minRaising WildlingsRed Flags for Teachers with Nicki FarrellSend us a textIn this episode, we are talking about red flags for teachers that shouldn’t be the norm. Now, if you aren’t 100% sold on your career in education, then this episode might just be for you. 👉 Nicki sharesHer story and why she felt so frustratedThe realities of teachingThe role bribery and coercion play in traditional schoolsHow her teaching career impacted her relationships with her own childrenThe true discrepancy between the cost of childcare and the privilege of workingThe different modalities that she explored when doing her researchWhy ‘Unschooling...2022-11-2120 minRaising WildlingsRisky Business or Risk Benefits? with Nicki FarrellSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking about why we don’t use risk assessments and what we use instead. Controversial, I know!! But don’t worry, we promise we’re not just reckless cowgirls!👉 Nicki SharesHow the system worksWhy educators dislike writing risk assessmentsAbout the fear of litigationWhy children need riskLifelong benefits of a risky childhoodWhy the benefits need to be considered in a risk assessmentValues of a balanced assessmentThe power of children’s voices👉 Opt In for FREE Downloadables👉 Links and Res...2022-11-1415 minRaising WildlingsHear Us Out: Prison VS School with Nicki FarrellSend us a textWe have a controversial one for you today, especially if you work in education, because today we’re talking about the ways in which prisons and schools are similar and how in at least one way, prisons are better. Buckle in friends, we’re in for an emotional ride!👉 Nicki SharesHer experience of enlightenment when her students helped her see the similarities in the prison and school systemExamples of how the two comparePeter Gray’s take on this topicHow schools “enclose”The origins of school and how it failed to e...2022-11-0731 minRaising WildlingsOur North West Adventures, Misadventures and LearningsSend us a textIn this episode, Vicci and Nicki chat about all their 11 day camping adventure to the remote North West Island with a group of 45 people, their adventures, misadventures and what they took away from the trip.We talk about:What filled our cupThe logistics of getting there and communal cookingThe adventures on the Great Barrier ReefThe misadventures (including a chopper ride for one family, a coastguard ride for Nicki and an emergency visit) and what we learnt from themHow we knew our business would be fine with us both away because...2022-06-2051 minRaising WildlingsRed Flags to Green Lights with Nicki and VicciSend us a textIn this episode, we are talking about how to turn workplace red flags into business green lights. 👉 Vicci and Nicki ShareThe importance of living within our valuesThe story that highlighted the importance of this in their livesThe strong values that flow in every aspect of their businessThe importance of authenticityTheir perspective on “the system”Why we need to trust children and let them be individualsHow they learned to say noHow they turned their red flags into their ideal businessWhat they focused on when starting Wildlings Forest Sc...2022-06-1323 minRaising WildlingsHow to Feel Supported as an Education Trailblazer with Nicki and VicciSend us a textIn this episode, we are talking about how to feel supported when you’re an education trailblazer.👉 Nicki and Vicci DiscussWhy it is hard to be a trailblazerHow they became trail blazers The challenges of this niche industryQualities that help trailblazers succeedThe role of gratitudeWhy it is important to push the boundaries of the nature play industry👉 Opt In for Free Downloadables👉 Links and ResourcesResources & ReferencesPlease consider supporting us on PatreonLea...2022-06-0621 minRaising WildlingsNature Playgroup - Where it All Began with Vicci OliverSend us a textFor many of us, Playgroup is where our journeys start. For me, playgroup was my weekly anchor for the first five years in my new role as a mother and, I guess, is the reason that Wildlings Forest School and our Raising Wildlings Podcast came into being! Come with me as I share my Nature Playgroup Journey. 👉 Vicci SharesHer inspiration for creating this episodeHow she got started running a playgroupHow her nature playgroup was bornHer experience meeting NickiThe behind the scenes effort in bringing her playgroup under the W...2022-05-1629 minRaising WildlingsShould We Really 'Leave No Trace?' with Vicci OliverSend us a textThe ‘Leave No Trace’ philosophy is one of the cornerstones in minimizing our impact when we are in the great outdoors, but I have some issues with some of the principles, especially when it comes to children. So here me out, let’s take a deep dive into ‘Leave No Trace’ and its place in nature immersion programs.👉 Vicci SharesThe 7 principles of ‘Leave No Trace’How we incorporate this philosophy into our programsHow the philosophy relates to our sitesHer take on why some are not realistic for childrenWhich prin...2022-05-0827 minRaising WildlingsNicki's Wildlings Talk UnschoolingSend us a textIn this episode, Nicki’s children are talking about homeschooling and unschooling and their next big adventure. We get to hear the perspectives of our young Wildlings living the philosophy. 👉 Ra and Sol ShareHow they would describe what unschooling and homeschooling isWhat they love about unschoolingTheir favourite parts of their weeks being unschooledWhy they keep coming back to Forest School when they don’t have to The activities that they participate in so they don’t feel like they are missing out on any school experiencesWhy they don’t think...2022-04-2526 minRaising WildlingsAdventure Day 101 with Nicki and VicciSend us a text In this episode, we’re talking about how and why we try and do adventure days with our children as part of our Unschooling and Wildschooling journeys. 👉 Nicki and Vicci ShareWhat an adventure day looks likeWhy it is important to commit to an adventure dayWhat their children learn on adventure daysThe benefits of adventure daysWhy it helps to dedicate days for adventureTheir fave Sunshine Coast adventure day locationsWhat they bring along to the adventurePacking and gear recommendations How to stock your car kitHow it looks with younger childrenW...2022-03-2856 minRaising WildlingsOpen to the Flow of Reimagined Education with Peter PhillipsSend us a textIt is unsurprising that the COVID 19 Pandemic has been the catalyst for change in education. Today I’ll introduce you to another educational changemaker, Peter Phillips, who has taken a vision shared by his co-founders and started a learning revolution in Bali, Indonesia – Open Flow Learning Centre. 👉 Peter SharesHis journey that led to starting a progressive educational facility overseasHow teaching in Bali differs to AustraliaAbout Open FlowHow the community and Open Flow communicate and coexistHis vision of the future for this education modelHow a model like Open Flow might...2022-02-2146 minRaising WildlingsConscious Education for your Child with Gill HowarthSend us a textIn this episode we are talking to Gill Howarth from Born Wise, who ultimately aims to inspire families to revolutionise education from their own backyards and embrace conscious education! 👉 Gill SharesAbout Born Wise and The Conscious Education MovementHow to see education as learning beyond the boundaries of 'school'How to communicate this movement to those who might have a more constructed viewWhat children are learning about the world in their educationHow we can take some of the pressure off schoolAbout wellbeing in connection to learningWhat education might look like...2022-02-141h 07Raising WildlingsIt Takes a Village and a Mentor with Britt Laidlaw from Wild SongSend us a textImagine a place that recognises children’s need for personal autonomy and emotional safety so that children are re-empowered in the learning process and learn to trust their wild instincts. Well, such a place exists and today I chat with the founder of Wild Song, Britt Laidlaw about the business and Importance of mentoring in our culture & bringing back the village model.👉 Britt sharesHow she discovered her niche passionAbout her business and what she offersWhy the village model is so importantAbout coyote-style mentoring and rapport based relating to une...2022-02-071h 10Raising Wildlings2021 Wrap Up: The Year That Was with Wildlings Forest SchoolSend us a textIt’s our 2021 End of Year Wrap Up! This episode is all about the year that was and what a year it was! 👉 Nicki sharesShocking stats and a summary of why we are doing what we are doing! Some successes of this yearOur 2022 goals Her plea for help finding a new space to run our our businessThe good that get us out of bed in the morningHow our vision is spreading through the networksHow we’ve managed to grow and pandemic proof our businessHow we connect with the communi...2021-12-2134 minRaising WildlingsSelf-Compassion and Mindfulness for Mums with CandiceSend us a text In this episode, we’re talking with the founder of The Kindness Couch, Candice Fraser about nurturing ourselves with holistic self-care and self-compassion so that our children can grow to do the same. Wondering what holistic self-care is and what that can look like in your full life? This is the episode for you.👉 Candice SharesAbout the Kindness CouchWhat inspired her to set off on her own dream of being a coachHer profound view on true self- compassionHer tips for a peaceful holiday seasonOf the Human Experience and how...2021-12-151h 01Raising WildlingsRough and Tumble Weapon Play with Nicki and VicciSend us a textBattle sounds fill the forest, swords clatter and arrows whizz through the air, groans and victorious shouts ring out. Huzzah! It’s not a medieval war you’re witnessing – but children playing with weapons. In today’s episode we talk about this controversial type of rough and tumble play.👉 Nicki and Vicci ShareThe six types of Risky Play What 'Rough and Tumble' play isThe value of rough playHow rough play relates to socialisingHow we can help communicate safe boundariesThe evidence that shows there is no link between weapon play a...2021-12-0631 minRaising WildlingsNutritious Movement with Katy BowmanSend us a textWe know that as a society we are living an increasingly sedentary lifestyle and children have never moved as little as they do today. That’s why people like Katy Bowman, author of Move your DNA and now her latest book Grow Wild, are so important in helping us to recognise why we need to move more. Katy joins us today from the US to chat to us about movement and to give us some simple actionable changes that aim to combat our super sedentary culture.👉 Katy sharesHer in...2021-11-2248 minRaising WildlingsFear and Mindset with Nicki FarrellSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking about the fears people have about starting a nature play business and why we must overcome them. *This episode was created in the context of taking the leap to entrepreneurship, but the advice and lessons may resonate with anyone dealing with fear and insecurity in their life.👉 Nicki sharesWhy educators make wonderful entrepreneurs Some secrets about FEARThe criticism and praise complexThe two types of feedbackHow fear can hold us back The different types of fearAbout perceived riskAbout people pleasingAbout imposter...2021-11-1525 minRaising WildlingsThe Whys and Hows of Navigating Red Tape with Vicci and NickiSend us a textIn this episode, we chat about why society makes it so hard to navigate the legislation and why we need to push through it so that we can get more children outdoors and we chat about our own journey in embracing the red tape as an essential part in advocating for children.👉 Nicki and Vicci discussThe benefits of nature playRisks and resilienceWhy outdoor learning is essential for developing life skillsThe cost of keeping children “safe”Some horrible stats that might make you want to do something about itThe im...2021-11-0828 minRaising WildlingsWe Learned the Hard Way, You Don’t Have To!Send us a textIn this episode, we’re talking about the 4 biggest mistakes we made when we were starting our Forest School business. And some of them were biiiiiig!👉 Wildlings Founder’s ShareThe profound initial mistake Nicki made in her transition to a more positive and fulfilling career and lifeWhat took them so long! How we can grow from our mistakesThe importance of soft skills and interpersonal relationshipsHow releasing the ego builds resilienceHow big risks (in business, not safety) pay offHow to back yourselfAbout growth mindsetHow important it is to invest in...2021-10-2541 minRaising WildlingsRaising Girls Who Like Themselves with Kasey Edwards and Christopher ScanlonSend us a textA couple of months ago a Facebook post caught my eye, the title of a book called Raising Girls Who Like Themselves. This title, whilst so simple, really tugged at a core want that I have for my children. I grabbed a copy, read it within a day, and thought, I need to get the authors Kasey and Chris on the show so that we can help raise more girls who like themselves.👉 Kasey and Chris ShareWhy girls don’t like themselvesThe 7 pillars that every girl needs if she...2021-10-1856 minRaising WildlingsWild Unschooling: How Nicki and Vicci Do it!Send us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting about wild schooling and unschooling, or wild unschooling looks like for our families as part of an exciting upcoming project. 👉 Nicki and Vicci ShareAbout Wildschooling and Forest SchoolHow they do it!What and how their children are learningHow they assess learning and “standardise education” if at allA typical day-in-the-lifeHow they school while workingHow they afford these lifestylesHow they plan for tripsHow they take care of household dutiesWhen they knew they made the right choice to homeschoolThe benefits and drawbacks of schooling this wayThe...2021-10-111h 34Raising WildlingsAt Home in the World with the Kaponay FamilySend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with the Kaponay family who have travelled to over 50 countries on 6 continents over 9 years and in doing so learned how to be at home with themselves, at home with their family and at home in the world.👉 The Kaponay Family SharesThe importance of learning together as a familyHow the freedom and empowerment of children in their family dynamic is critical to them becoming key contributors and full-stakeholders in the life and longevity of the familyWhy questions, not answers are what we are se...2021-10-051h 14Raising WildlingsNature - Its Good For Your Mental Health with Melinda BitoSend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with Melinda Bito, founder of Eco-Explorers in Melbourne about tips on creating a business around your family and dream life, the best and hardest parts of owning your own nature play business and how communities and nature can help mental health. 👉 Melinda SharesAll about Eco-Explorers and what they offer The profound experience that inspired her to start her business?Her strengths and what makes her unique compared to others in the industryThe hardest part of starting her business and what has been the...2021-09-2755 minRaising WildlingsFor the Love of Adventure, Stories and Play with Birdwings Forest SchoolSend us a textNarelle and Jen are two passionate educators who bought the fun and expertise of their own separate businesses, that have been running many years before Bush Kindy and Forest Schools became a thing in Australia, to create Birdwings Forest School located in the magical wilds of the Gold Coast Hinterland. In this episode they share their story and their keen observations of the benefits of adventurous play in the outdoors.👉 Birdwings' Founders ShareAbout their business and what do they doThe inspiration to start their businessTheir thoughts on the importance of a...2021-09-2049 minRaising WildlingsResearch on Homeschooling with Dr. Rebecca EnglishSend us a textAt Raising Wildlings, we have shared our homeschooling journeys along with countless others, but what does the research say about homeschooling in Australia. Well, homeschooling has more than doubled over the last several years. So what is it that is driving these trends, let’s find out in my discussion today with Dr. Rebecca English from QUT.👉 Rebecca sharesHer background and how she got involved in this movementWhat some of the main reasons people make the switch to alternative educationAbout the binaries of ideologs, pedagogs and accidentalsHow the c...2021-09-1347 minRaising WildlingsS2E35: Snakes, Phobia and Ecology with Snake Catcher Gemma SmithSend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with conservationist, budding ecologist and snake catcher, Gemma Smith, about all things snakes. How to keep yourself and your children safe around snakes, what to do on the very chance you get bitten by a snake, the importance of snakes to our environment and for those who are scared of snakes, some tips on how to work on your fear and not pass it onto your children.👉 Gemma sharesHer story of how she got into snake catchingSome of the signs we can be...2021-09-061h 12Raising WildlingsWild Business Series Part 2 - Tinkering School with Gever TulleySend us a textImagine a place where it is believed that kids are more capable than we know – so capable that they make rollercoasters and treehouses, from concept through to the full build, using real tools and the secret ingredient, time. What I am describing is the Tinkering School. Today I have the man behind the concept joining me all the way from the US, welcome Gever Tully. 👉 Gever sharesWhat Tinkering School isWhy it is so important to give children the opportunity to be trustedThe theory behind making mistakesHow you can fig...2021-08-301h 06Raising WildlingsS2E32: Wild Business Series Part 1 - Wild Kindy with Kelly RobertsSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking with Kelly Roberts about her Wild Business, Wild Kindy, based in Sydney, New South Wales. This is the first episode in a series where we’re going to focus on Wild Businesses around Australia and the globe.👉 Kelly sharesAbout her business and what she offersWhat her inspiration was to start her businessInspiring stories from her programsHer strengths and what makes her unique compared to others in the industryThe hardest part of starting a nature play businessThe best part about owning her business...2021-08-2344 minRaising WildlingsSelf- Directed Learning Works with Mimsy SadofskySend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with Mimsy Sadofsky from the democratic Sudbury Valley School in Massachusetts about what a self-directed learning school looks like, what children do after attending such a school, how they learn to read in a democratic school and, of course, how the school is run by its children.👉 Mimsy sharesAll about Sudbury Valley SchoolThe beautiful, mind-blowing philosophy of their schoolWhat their teens do after finishing high schoolThe benefits of self-directed learning for childrenHow the students are involved in the day to day runnin...2021-08-1656 minRaising WildlingsParenting in the Age of Screens and Technology with Cat GreenSend us a textScreens are a part of all our lives, for many a little too much. So how do we create a healthy digital culture in our homes with our children? Today I talked to Cat Green, founder of Everyday Empowered, about why we need to be having a whole family approach to technology use in our homes. 👉 Cat SharesAbout Everyday EmpoweredHer inspiration to create the Screen Smart Families workshopSurprising insights from the research on children’s technology useThe importance of shifting the narrative around technology The most important message...2021-08-0952 minRaising WildlingsYou Just Got 'Unschooled' with Kerry McDonaldSend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with Kerry McDonald, author of Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom, about different models of education around the world, the developmental bell curve of when children read, how Unschooling benefits teenagers and how the school system can harm children.👉 Guest DetailsKerry McDonald is an education policy writer, self-directed learning expert and author of Unschooled: Raising Curious, Well-Educated Children Outside the Conventional Classroom. She is a board member at the Alliance of Self-Directed Education and mother of four never...2021-08-021h 03Raising WildlingsCities for Play with Natalia KrysiakSend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with Natalia Krysiak, founder of Cities for Play, about making play a priority in the design of our urban spaces and how to make the changes we want to see for our children. 👉 Natalie SharesAbout Cities For Play, including what she does there and her vision for the futureSome shocking statistics linked to the built environmentWhat children have to say about designing cities and the beautiful consistencies between children of different culturesHow a built environment can promote children's health and well-being with a...2021-07-2645 minRaising WildlingsCuriosity is the Curriculum with Philip MottSend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with Philip Mott, reluctant learner, turned elementary teacher, turned homeschooling father, about how his family uses curiosity as their curriculum.👉 Philip sharesHis story and how he came to lead the life he lives nowWhy he homeschools his childrenHow his family manages the financial aspect of homeschoolingHis perspective on curiosity as the curriculum What his children are currently curious aboutHow to intrinsically motivate your childrenAbout earning your child’s respect with authority and teamworkOf the disadvantages of education systemThe power of truly getting t...2021-07-191h 06Raising WildlingsS2E27: The Science Behind Wild Play with David SobelSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking with one of the grandfather’s of Nature Play and Adventure Play, David Sobel, who gives us some great ideas on suggested outdoor activities for different developmental stages and also chats about some of his most recent research on the differences between children who attend indoor classrooms versus outdoor classrooms.👉 David sharesHis story and what influenced his childhood and shaped who he isHow he started his career and what he is working on nowHow to quantify vs qualify the difference between putting...2021-07-1246 minRaising WildlingsS2E26: The Wonders of Wild Learning Curriculum with Rachel TiddSend us a textMaths, it’s a dirty word isn’t it? Especially if you take the learning outside. In today’s episode, we are talking to a homeschooling mum who has created a whole curriculum in maths and reading and it is as wild as it gets! 👉 Rachel sharesThe story behind Wild Math and Wild ReadingHow bringing the learning outside helps break down the barriers around the subject of mathsAbout Wild Math and why it is so specialHer favourite activities in her curriculumHow translating maths into real life experiences can increas...2021-07-0537 minRaising WildlingsS2E25: Benign Neglect and the Impacts of Zero-Risk Culture with Tim GillSend us a textWhat is the biggest risk to children in 2021? It could just be not allowing children to take any risks at all? In this episode we talk with Risk Play advocate, Tim Gill, all about risk and adventure play in childhood, child-friendly urban design and the tools we use to change the face of public policy in relation to play. 👉 Tim sharesHis story and why he wanted to share his ideas about risky playThe evolution and impact of ‘Zero-Risk Culture’Some of the big misconceptions adults have about childrenA...2021-06-2946 minRaising WildlingsS2E24: Secret Spaces with Vicci Oliver and Nicki FarrellSend us a textSecret spaces and hidden places – there is something magical about them. Cubbies, forts, dens, tree houses whatever you want to call them, children are absolutely hardwired to design and create these havens that shelter them from the ever watchful and ever present eye of the adults. In this episode we talk all things cubby building and why we should be creating more opportunities for children to engage in this adventurous play. 👉 Nicki and Vicci shareCubby building as a rite of passageThe vast myriad of benefits of building cubbies...2021-06-2128 minRaising WildlingsS2E23: The Magic and Mystery of Roadschooling with Lisa CromptonSend us a textEver dreamt about hitting the road with your kids and heading outback? Today, homeschooling Mum, Lisa Crompton, tells about what and how she did just that, whilst 'roadschooling' her kids. 👉 Lisa shares with NickiThe magic and mystery of how children learn without being explicitly taughtHow she records and documents learning to report to the department What an average day in her life looks like and how it has changed in the last yearTips on travelling alone with childrenThe easiest way to keep the peace on a roadtripThe import...2021-06-141h 04Raising WildlingsPeriod Power with the Period QueenSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking all about Periods and the powers we can tap into within the 4 phases of our cycle with singer, author, human biologist and Period Queen, Lucy Peach. Today’s episode is all about education, empowerment, and choice. Settle in, this is important. 👉 Lucy sharesHow she came to discover the beauty of her own cycle and how she got started on this journeyThe motivation behind her book How we can honour the very special first cycleThe 4 phases of our cycle and what they entailWhat...2021-06-0756 minRaising WildlingsHow to Start a Nature Co-Op with Vanessa HartmannSend us a textIn this episode we are talking to Vanessa Hartmann, creator of the "Year In Nature Guide," about homeschooling, nature co-ops and her profound insights on nature based living.👉 Vanessa describesHer “Year in Nature Guide” and why she created itWhat her guide includesWhere you can access her guideWhy she decided to homeschool and create her own co-opHow she got her husband onboardWhat a nature co-op isThe benefits she sees in the children participatingThe impacts of screen time and the news on children and adultsHer intentions for her child’s educatio...2021-05-3142 minRaising WildlingsS2E20: Real Life on the Road Less Travelled with Naomi MackieSend us a textLife on the road with your family – it’s the dream isn’t it? Well at least I know it is for me, but for now I get to live vicariously through amazing people like Naomi Mackie whom many of you may know as Boys Run Free on Instagram. In today’s episode, we dive into how this family chose homeschooling and the road less travelled. 👉 Naomi sharesThe story of how her family came to be travelling on the roadWhat they are traveling around inWhere their travels took them and...2021-05-2441 minRaising WildlingsYour Child's Body, Your Child's Choice with Lauren French from Body Safety AustraliaSend us a textTRIGGER WARNING: This podcast episode contains references to child sexual and physical abuse, grooming and predatory behaviour. If this episode triggers anything for you please reach out to a loved one who will listen or contact Lifeline 13 11 14 for support. We see you, we hear you, we believe you.*Wondering how to teach your children about consent? Want to know how to empower your kids to be the boss of their own body? In this episode, Lauren French from Body Safety Australia helps us answer these incredibly important questions. 👉 Laure...2021-05-1757 minRaising WildlingsS2E18: Educated by Nature with Daniel BurtonSend us a textIn today's episode we travel to the other side of the country to chat with Daniel Burton, CEO and co-founder of Educated By Nature. I am really excited because these nature immersion programs inspired so much of what we do at Wildlings. Settle in for an enlightening show! 👉 Daniel sharesThe story of how Educated by Nature beganWhat made him step away from formal education and start a businessThe importance of time as a resource for nature playThree key values to persuade educators to embrace nature peda...2021-05-1034 minRaising WildlingsS2E17: Disrupting Education With Peter HostrawserSend us a textIn this episode, we’re traveling to Chicago, Illinois to talk with business teacher, father and podcast host Peter Hostrawser about how and why he’s on a mission to disrupt education.👉 Peter shares with NickiAbout his learning journey, and his most memorable moments in school and outThe importance of confidence and making connectionsHis experience that led him on this path of disrupting educationHow he coped in a system that wasn’t going to change immediatelyThe best advice he received in helping him connect with students from a differen...2021-05-0436 minRaising WildlingsS2E16: Nature is Within Us with Vicky MateauSend us a textCome with us on a virtual travel adventure all the way on the other side of the globe, where we find out about how Forest Schooling is done in Spain with Forest School Leader and fellow unschooling mother, Vicky Mateau. 👉 Vicky shares with VicciWhat led her to make the choice to homeschool her two childrenAbout the homeschooling community in SpainAbout the program she created and how they name their groupsAbout the dynamic wild space she usesThe benefits of connecting children with a changing environmentAbout running her program in a...2021-04-2746 minRaising WildlingsS2E15: How to Get Your Partner Onboard with Scotty FarrellSend us a textToday is going to be a little more personal than usual. In fact, I think I can feel a little vulnerability hangover coming on already because today, we’re chatting with my husband. He is an ex Primary School, Special Education and Behaviour Management Teacher, the co-founder of an online triathlon and endurance racing coaching business, T:Zero Multisport, and a homeschooling father, the myth, the legend, Scotty Farrell. Scotty is here to answer one of our FAQs about home/un schooling- how to get your partner onboard. 👉 Scotty Shares...2021-04-1958 minRaising WildlingsS1E14: Survival, Paternal Connection and Adventures with Rick J PetersonSend us a textIn this episode we are talking with my beautiful friend, an ex SAS soldier, gum leaf whistler, fire starter, survival skills expert and all around good bloke, Rick Petersen. We find out what Rick has been up to since he got back from the desert, his top tips for survival, what he never leaves home without and why he is on a mission to bring fathers and sons together outdoors. Let's hear from the man behind the beard.👉 Rick sharesHis profound life storyAbout his business in connecting with...2021-04-121h 09Raising WildlingsLet Them 'Loose Parts' Play with Nicki Farrell and Vicci OliverSend us a textHere’s the scenario, you stumble across an intricate formation in your garden, rocks lining a maze of dens and caves and paths with other items, maybe leaves, scattered across the space and it feels like you have been transported to a little magical world, one that was created by a child. This is just one example of loose parts play, and what we are going to discuss on today’s episode.👉 Nicki and Vicci shareWhat “loose parts” are exactlyWhy we should encourage loose parts playThe benefits of loose par...2021-04-0638 minRaising WildlingsS2E12: Wildschooling with the Wilder Child Creator Nicolette SowderSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking to Nicolette Sowder, founder of the global nature play movement, Wilder Child, about Wildschooling, creating an online nature connection movement and running a business. Prepared to be so inspired, this girl is golden. 👉 Nicolette talks with us aboutHer story and how she got startedWildschooling and the trifecta behind itThe benefits she has seen in her family from WildschoolingWhy it is so important to have an online presence for an outdoor movementThe biggest lessons she has learned as a business womanHer advice to pare...2021-03-2943 minRaising WildlingsS2E11: Awaken to Art, Connection to Country and Racism with Jandamarra CaddSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking with first custodian artist Jandamarra Cadd about connection to country, art as therapy and how to talk to your kids about racism. Settle in and get ready to be inspired, informed and awakened. 👉 Jandamarra sharesAbout his life story and when he first picked up a paintbrush.How his spirit was awakened. About connection to country as such an important part of culture and why and how all families might benefit from a strong connection to country.His suggestions for those people who are...2021-03-221h 07Raising WildlingsRevitalise Risky Play with Charlotte LucasSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking to Charlotte Lucas of Free Rangers Forest School about Risky Play, educating parents on the importance of outdoor learning and battling red tape. Like us, Charlotte started out teaching, then undertook her Level 3 Forest School Leader’s qualification. Since then she has swapped an indoor classroom for an outdoor one and has enjoyed facilitating learners’ journeys in natural surroundings so much that she decided to embark upon the Free Rangers’ adventure with the belief that children learn best from learning through play within an outdoor environment. 👉 ...2021-03-1556 minRaising WildlingsMaternal Ambivalence with Dr. Margo LowySend us a textIf someone asks you about your role as a mother, you may be quick to say it is the most rewarding experience of your life right? But is it? Do you always feel that way? Motherhood brings us to the depth of all our emotions. Mothers have many varying and contradictory feelings that are not talked about publicly. As well as experiencing love, most experience fleeting feelings of hate. These difficult feelings actually strengthen and fuel a mother's love for their child. Today we explore the idea of maternal ambivalence with Dr. Margo...2021-03-0939 minRaising WildlingsHow to Talk to Your Kids About SexSend us a textIn this episode, we chat with our incredible friend Tasha Lawton, founder of Talk Revolution, about how to talk to you children about sex. If you're not sure when to start talking to your children about sex, or how to talk to them or what to say, then make sure you give this episode a listen because Tash is about to answer every one of your questions you have about these difficult conversations. This episode aims to breakdown the stigma's around one of life's great pleasures.👉 Tasha talks with us abo...2021-03-0350 minRaising WildlingsBabies Need Nature Too!Send us a textIn this episode, we are talking about why taking babies out into nature is not only the ultimate sensory experience, but how it will also help to develop their confidence and understanding of the natural world. Babies are natural investigators. You only have to spend a short amount of time with them to see that they are curious little scientists, experimenting with everything they can get their hands on to make sense of the world, and being a parent of a baby is like seeing the world again with brand new eyes. We...2021-02-2229 minRaising WildlingsDemocracy Wins for Our Teens with Mathilda ElementSend us a textIn this episode, we invited Mathilda Element back to the podcast who you might remember from season one. She has a very special project that she's been working on with a team of passionate and dedicated people including her husband and children. Let's dive in!👉 Mathilda gives us:A reminder on what Pine School values and embodies in their educational systemA sneak-peek into how the idea of Humanitas High School came to fruitionInsight into her experience on the journey to creating an independent school and the importance of havi...2021-02-1542 minRaising WildlingsS2 E5: Democratic, Progressive and Play-Based Pedagogy with Teacher TomSend us a text"Children will be motivated if their learning is based upon their own curiosities and passions." - Teacher TomYou may have come across Teacher Tom’s blog on Facebook, but something you may not know is that he has blogged every single day for a decade, sharing his observations and insights from his work at the Woodland Park Cooperative School in the rain soaked Pacific Northwest. Settle in, this episode is full of gold nuggets. 👉 Teacher Tom Touches OnHow he found his calling in pre-school teachingThe benefi...2021-02-0857 minRaising WildlingsScreentime, Cyberbullying, 'Sextortion' and Safety with Kirra PendergastSend us a textTechnology has come so far, so fast. With cyberbullying, sexting, and exploitation, parents today have a big challenge to face. It may feel daunting, unknown, unescapable, and we can often feel helpless, but we don’t have to navigate this alone. In today’s episode, we talk with Kirra Pendergast, founder of Safe on Socials, and an expert on the ways in which we can work with our children to create loving boundaries around tech in the home. She shares some key advice on doing this in a way that maintains connection and safe...2021-01-2541 minRaising WildlingsLayers of Nature Pedagogy with Dr. Claire WardenSend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with education consultant Dr. Claire Warden about the importance of nature connection, nature pedagogy and her kindergarten, Achlone Nature Kindergarten in Scotland. 👉 Claire and Nicki DiscussHer journey in finding nature pedagogyHer unique and impressive PhD researchHer theory about the primary and secondary meanings of Nature PedagogyHer kindergarten Auchlone Nature Kindergarten in ScotlandWhat a typical day looks like for a child that attends Auchlone?Mindstretchers educational platformThe best and hard parts about running a 'children in nature' based businessAnd of course the famous...2021-01-1839 minRaising WildlingsFailure, Farts and Finding Self-Worth with Maggie DentSend us a textIn this episode, we are thrilled to be chatting with one of Australia’s favourite parenting authors and experts, the perfectly named, Queen of Common sense, Maggie Dent. We chat about getting kids off screens, the importance of failing, and self worth and how to support boys in their big emotions and the importance of a well-timed fart.👉 Maggie sharesWhat it means to be a lighthouse and who her lighthouse was growing upThe importance of nature and play and free time and her favorite adventurous opportunities where childr...2021-01-121h 02Raising Wildlings2020 - Reflections on Growth and GratitudeSend us a textIn this episode, we wrap up the crazy year that was 2020. From expansion plans, to coronavirus, a podcast, online courses, awards and rapid growth, we chat about what’s happened in the Wildlings world this year. And a recap of some of our favourite guests this year. 👉 Nicki and Vicci reflect onWildlings and this wild year The creation of Raising Wildlings PodcastGratitude for the blessings in disguise and hard earned awardsWhat our listeners have to look forward to in the new year including some epic guests!👉 Gues...2020-12-2131 minRaising WildlingsEquitable Education and Passionate Play with Pasi SahlbergSend us a textIn this episode, we chat with Pasi Sahlberg, author, Professor of Education Policy and Deputy Director of the Gonski Institute at the University of New South Wales, about inequality in the Australian education system, some of the excellent things happening in the Finish education system and how we can help rebalance this inequality. 👉 Pasi sharesHis journey that led him to where he is todayThe Gonski Institute of Australia and his work thereEquitable Education Systems and what that looks like in AustraliaThe Australian education funding systemThe discrepancy of compu...2020-12-1450 minRaising WildlingsPresent Parenting and Practicing Self-CompassionSend us a textIt’s been a rough year across the globe, particularly on parents. With lockdowns, quarantines, working and schooling from home, financial and health concerns, we thought it was a good time to get Rebecca Branstetter in. Rebecca is a school psychologist, speaker, and author on a mission to help children thrive by supporting school psychologists, educators, and families.She is the founder of The Thriving School Psychologist Collective, an online community dedicated to improving mental health and learning supports in public schools, as well as the co-creator of the “Make...2020-12-0751 minRaising WildlingsPowerful Realisations and Choices with The Homeschool ProjectSend us a textIn this episode, we’re talking to Nathan and Anita from the Homeschool Project Podcast to hear their perspective on the most common questions we homeschoolers get asked. How do we manage financially, what type of curriculum should I follow, what made you start homeschooling and the most common question of all, what about socialisation?! A few months ago, I had the pleasure of speaking with Anita and Nathan, hosts of The Homeschool Project Podcast about Forest Schooling, Wildschooling and Unschooling. Today, I now have the pleasure of interviewing the beautiful couple. Anita and...2020-11-3052 minRaising WildlingsVicci's Leap to HomeschoolingSend us a textTwo weeks ago, we had a lot of fun when Vicci interviewed Nicki about her family's unschooling journey. In this episode, we flip the table and Nicki interviews Vicci about her family’s journey. We delve into her story of how they made the decision to homeschool based on their children’s personalities and how, after doing all the research, she took the leap.This is part four of our series on families that unschool, homeschool, wildschool and world school that will run until the end of the year. Last week we s...2020-11-2337 minRaising WildlingsOff-Grid and Unschooling with Lucy AitkenReadSend us a textIn this episode we chat to Off-Grid and Unschooling mama and activist, Lucy AitkenRead. We discuss how unschooling allows you to stand back and watch your child bloom and how unschooling your own children can heal your own school wounds. We also chat to Lucy about how to show up as your authentic self in business and her new book 30 Days of Rewilding.👉 We talk to Lucy aboutWhat made her choose to unschool her kids and if there was any defining moment that made the decision for her...2020-11-1657 minRaising WildlingsNicki's Journey to WildschoolingSend us a textIn this episode, I’m chatting with Nicki about how her family ended up going from a teaching family to an unschooling family with two home businesses. This is part two of our series on families that unschool, homeschool, wildschool and world school that will run until the end of the year. Wondering if home schooling or unschooling is for you? Then this is the episode for you.👉 Vicci & Nicki DiscussWhat the one thing was that made her decide to homeschoolHow her family manages financiallySocialisationHow Nicki 'convinced' her hu...2020-11-0935 minRaising WildlingsFearless Homeschool with Kelly GeorgeSend us a textKelly is an Aussie who helps parents fall in love with homeschooling via blogging, summits, and courses. She's a wife plus mum of five never-schooled children. With no fixed address, their long-term travel provides endless adventures and ways of connecting with people and the world. Kelly is also the creator of the Fearless Homeschool and the host of the Australian Homeschool Summit, both of which are unbelievable resources for those families who need some support and encouragement when starting your homeschooling journey. 👉 We Ask Kelly…· How she ma...2020-11-0241 minRaising WildlingsE.25 How to Help Your Child Love Their Body with Jessica SandersSend us a text In this episode, we get some tips and tools from Social Worker and Author, Jessica Sanders about how we can help our children love their bodies, accept who they are and help process their emotions. 👉 Discussion Points Jessica’s journey to becoming a social worker, author and advocateThe inspiration for penning her beautiful books, Love Your Body and your most recent release, Be Your Own ManJess’s tips for how to help our girls love their bodies and boys to be their own manWhat being an advocate for children l...2020-10-1947 minRaising WildlingsBreaking Down the Barriers to Bush KindySend us a textIn this episode we break down three of the barriers that often hold centres and educators back from starting a Forest or Bush School program. Bush or Forest Kindy’s are growing in popularity, and for good reason. There are plenty of educators who are almost ready to take the plunge, but there is something holding them back. Well today we are going to discuss three barriers that may be making the process of even thinking about starting an Forest School session entirely too difficult!👉 Discussion PointsFear of de...2020-10-1517 minRaising WildlingsBreaking Down the Barriers to Starting a Bush KindyIn this episode we break down three of the barriers that often hold centres and educators back from starting a Forest or Bush School program. Bush or Forest Kindy’s are growing in popularity, and for good reason. There are plenty of educators who are almost ready to take the plunge, but there is something holding them back. Well today we are going to discuss three barriers that may be making the process of even thinking about starting an Forest School session entirely too difficult!👉 Discussion PointsFear of death/injury/litigationHow do we minim...2020-10-1200 minRaising WildlingsLet Them Climb Trees!Send us a textDid you spend much of your childhood climbing trees? Did you know that 1 out of 4 Australian children have never climbed a tree and that this quintessential childhood experience is banned in most of our educational settings? In this episode talk about why sharing the view with birds from the branch of a tree is so beneficial for children!In a 2011 study by Planet Ark on Childhood interaction with nature 1000 parents were surveyed. One of the disturbing findings was that only 20% of children today are engaged in tree climbing. It appears that...2020-09-2830 minRaising WildlingsFor the Sheer Joy - with Occupational Therapist Kaya LyonsSend us a textIn this episode we chat with Occupational Therapist Kaya Lyons of Active OT for Kids about how Child Development occurs naturally through play, connecting & exploring. We discuss trauma and the impact on development and interactions and how therapy can and should be integrated into daily life.DiscussionHow occupational therapy helps children to live a joyful life, and how Kaya has created her business around collaboration and sharing of ideas so that she can deliver therapies for children based on their individual needs, with the main goal of...2020-09-2134 minRaising WildlingsBreaking Down Common Misconceptions about our Nature PlaygroupsSend us a textEpisode DescriptionIn this episode, we’re talking about nature playgroups, why we’re so passionate about them, and some of the misconceptions people might have when they go to attend one. So, wondering if nature playgroup is for you? In this episode, we answer that question. 👉 Discussion PointsWhat is nature playgroup?Aimed at 0-3, immersed nature, not skill building. Includes seasonal song time, seasonal story time, seasonal craft or activity and a focus on free play with friends in natur...2020-09-1431 minRaising WildlingsThe Conscious Parenting Revolution with Katherine Winter-SellerySend us a textIn this episode, we’re chatting with conscious parenting expert Katherine Winter- Sellery from Conscious Parenting Revolution, about non-violent communication, habitual parenting responses and how many of us haven’t learnt how to question what comes out of our mouths in response to our children’s behaviour. We also discuss childism, how labelling children can harm them, and why it’s important to break our negative views of children. DiscussionWhat is Conscious Parenting and Non Violent Communication?Childism/Ageism and the problem with having prejudice against childrenHow labellin...2020-09-0747 minRaising Wildlings5 Parenting Hacks on How To Raise Independent ChildrenSend us a textToday, we’re bringing you five parenting hacks on how we foster a family environment that helps raise children who are more independent, and why autonomy is the end goal.👉 Key Points1. Allowing Children to Make Choices - Dinner- Shower- Utensils2. Let children struggle safely- For example, children climbing trees and ‘can’t get down’. We might say, ‘You’re too high for me to help you but I’ll stay here with you while we work it ou...2020-08-3128 min