In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, host Rachel Mills converses with Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert and keen nature photographer. They discuss Ian's journey into nature photography, his book " My year in photos: A 365 day nature inspired photo diary," and the charitable contributions from its sales. The episode emphasises the importance of connecting with nature and the joy of capturing nature's beauty. Ian shares anecdotes about photographing wildlife and the need to balance documentation with being present.

Website: https://www.lawnmaster.co.uk/lawn-care/nottingham-lincoln/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/LawnMasterNotts

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LawnMasterUK

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode:

Guest Introduction (00:00:43)

Ian Stephens, a lawn care expert, is welcomed back to discuss his nature photography journey.

Book Publication Announcement (00:01:12)

Ian shares his experience of publishing his book "My Year in Photos: 365 Day Nature Inspired Photo Diary."

Charitable Contributions (00:02:00)

Discussion on profits from book sales being donated to wildlife and hospice charities.

Nature Photography and Conservation (00:02:30)

Ian highlights the connection between his photography and contributions to wildlife conservation.

Ian's Early Nature Experiences (00:03:25)

Ian reflects on his childhood experiences in nature and how they shaped his passion.

Nature Photography Challenge (00:04:01)

Ian explains how he started his nature photography challenge after a friend's suggestion.

Book Two Plans (00:05:21)

Ian reveals plans for a second book and discusses its potential release timeline.

Favourite Photo Titles (00:06:06)

Ian shares amusing titles for his nature photography, emphasizing the fun aspect.

Unique Wildlife Encounters (00:06:55)

Discussion on unusual wildlife names and encounters, including the "vomit fungus."

Using Technology for Identification (00:07:43)

Ian discusses using apps like...

In this episode of the "Curious About Nature" podcast, host Rachel Mills converses with Nicole Bateman, a SEND consultant and advocate for children's sensory needs. They delve into the importance of understanding sensory processing, especially for neurodivergent children. Nicole shares her personal journey and insights on creating resources to help children manage their sensory experiences. The discussion covers practical tips for parents, the benefits of outdoor activities, and Nicole's upcoming initiatives, including a SEND conference and new podcast season.

Nicole Bateman:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesupersensorysquad

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesupersensorysquad

Websites: https://www.thesupersensorysquad.com/

https://aboxfullofjoyuk.co.uk/

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Nicole's Background (00:01:14)

Nicole shares her journey from teaching to creating resources for children with sensory processing differences.

Creating Resources for Children (00:02:54)

Nicole discusses her businesses, "A Box Full of Joy" and "Super Sensory Squad," aimed at helping children express emotions.

Importance of Understanding Sensory Needs (00:03:18)

Rachel shares her personal experience with her daughter's sensory processing differences and the positive changes observed.

Evolving Business Focus (00:04:03)

Nicole explains how her focus has shifted towards sensory regulation and emotional needs in her businesses.

Building Resilience in Children (00:06:10)

Nicole emphasises the importance of creating a safe environment for children to build resilience.

Identifying Sensory Processing Differences (00:06:55)

Nicole provides insights on how to recognise sensory processing differences in children.

Super Sensory Squad Overview (00:09:02)

Nicole describes the Super Sensory Squad programme and its benefits for children and parents.

Impact of Super Sensory Squad (00:09:47)

Rachel shares how the Super Sensory Squad has improved her family's understanding of sensory preferences.

Using Nature for Sensory Exploration (00:15:01)

Nicole discusses the benefits of outdoor activities for sensory exploration and regulation.

Evening Routines and Sensory Needs (00:17:00)

Rachel shares her family's evening routine that incorporates nature walks to help her daughter relax.

Calming Techniques for Children (00:18:44)

Nicole suggests ways to support children’s sensory needs at home by integrating their interests.

Upcoming SEND Conference (00:20:31)

Nicole announces the Adapt and Include SEND conference, aimed at supporting children's activity providers.

Future Plans for Super Sensory Squad (00:22:29)

Nicole discusses her upcoming conference and aspirations for teacher training to support neurodivergent...

In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills interviews Nicola Everitt, founder of Rockpool School. Nicola, a marine biologist, shares her journey from a childhood fascination with the sea to establishing a business dedicated to marine education. She discusses the importance of connecting children with nature, the impact of climate change on marine life, and her experiences working with various age groups. Nicola also offers practical tips for rockpooling and emphasises responsible exploration. The episode highlights the significance of outdoor learning and Nicola's vision to make marine biology accessible to all, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine ecosystems.

Nicola Everitt:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockpoolschool

Curious About Nature is hosted by Buttercup Learning Founder, Rachel Mills.

Website: https://buttercuplearning.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buttercup_hello/

Email: info@buttercuplearning.com

Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe wherever you're listening to this.

Curious About Nature is a nature show for families, home educators and teachers from the team behind Buttercup Learning and UK nature activity boxes that get digital kids outdoors.

There's a new episode every month where guests discuss nature and ways we can connect our families and communities to nature.

What we discussed in the episode

Inspiration behind Rockpool School (00:01:00) Nicola's childhood love for the sea, her dream of becoming a marine biologist, and the lack of marine-related activities and resources during her upbringing.

Awareness of environmental issues (00:02:50) Nicola's growing awareness of environmental issues, including endangered species, climate change, and pollution, as she got older.

Early interest in marine biology (00:03:35) Nicola's early interest in marine biology, her fascination with dolphins, and the importance of getting children interested in marine life.

Activities and resources for exploring marine life (00:05:44) Recommended activities for parents and children to explore marine life, including rockpooling, beachcombing, and litter picking.

Ethical rockpooling (00:06:40) Guidelines for ethical rockpooling to avoid disrupting the environment or marine life.

Favourite marine life and facts (00:07:50) Discussion of Nicola's favourite marine life, including crabs and blue whales, and interesting facts about sea anemones.

Sessions with different age groups (00:09:00) Nicola's experiences conducting sessions with nursery kids, care home residents, and the general public, and the rewarding outcomes of these sessions.

Favourite sessions and discoveries (00:10:44) Memorable sessions and discoveries during rockpooling sessions, including finding a new species of fish and heartwarming interactions with care home residents.

Family involvement and business development (00:15:29) Involvement of Nicola's family in Rockpool School sessions and her plans for the future development of the business.

Recommended books and resources (00:13:18) Recommended books and resources for learning about British marine animals and activities related to rockpooling.

Future of Rockpool School (00:19:00) Nicola's mission to make marine life accessible to children and her hope for the next generation to appreciate and protect the marine...