Nurturing Curiosity through our Environments

Join us at our host service: Tillys Play & Development Centre Waratah 2

This workshop invites educators to reflect deeply on the environments they create for children and how these spaces nurture curiosity, inquiry, and discovery. Drawing on reflective practice, collaborative dialogue, and hands-on exploration, participants will consider how the physical and emotional environment acts as a “third teacher,” shaping children’s learning and sense of wonder.

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

• Reflect on their own image of the child and how this impacts environment design.
• Identify the characteristics of an inviting and curious environment in early childhood settings.
• Understand the educator’s role as a facilitator in supporting curiosity and discovery.
• Explore the use of curious materials, pre-loved pieces, and delicate objects to provoke inquiry.
• Experience group breakaway activities that encourage seeing environments through a child’s eyes.
• Engage with tools such as the Story Suitcase and the Wondering Portal to spark imagination.
• Consider strategies for slow pedagogy and how to introduce materials with care and intention.
• Practice ways of co-creating agreements with children that foster respect, responsibility, and engagement.