In this episode of the Curious About Nature podcast, host Rachel Mills speaks with Katie Stacey and Luke Massey about their move to Asturias, Northern Spain, to live sustainably and create a nature reserve. They discuss the challenges and joys of adapting to rural life in Spain, raising their children in a natural environment, and their commitment to rewilding efforts. The couple shares insights on balancing family life with their conservation projects, the importance of outdoor exploration for children, and the role of technology in connecting with nature.

Website: https://www.wildfinca.com/

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

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:

Introducing Katie and Luke (00:00:43)

Katie and Luke share their journey to Asturias, Spain, aiming for sustainable living with their children.

Motivation for Moving to Spain (00:01:08)

Katie discusses their previous travels and desire for a more nature-rich base.

Discovering Asturias (00:02:07)

Katie explains their love for Asturias and their decision to settle there after a road trip.

Adapting to Local Life (00:03:30)

Katie and Luke describe their initial experiences and friendships with local farmers upon arrival.

Background in Nature Conservation (00:04:32)

Luke shares his early interest in nature and his experiences with rewilding projects in the UK.

Community Support in Rewilding (00:05:24)

Katie highlights the local community's fascination with their rewilding efforts as a young couple.

Farming for Nature (00:06:14)

Katie explains their vision of farming for biodiversity rather than traditional farming methods.

Daily Life and Routine (00:07:35)

Katie describes their family routine, including school drop-offs and animal care responsibilities.

Children's Involvement in Nature (00:09:16)

Katie shares how their children participate in daily tasks and engage with nature.

Nurturing Children's Connection to Nature (00:11:05)

Katie discusses the innate connection children have with nature and the importance of nurturing it.

Comparing Childhood Experiences (00:11:27)

Katie reflects on her own childhood connection to nature compared to Luke's urban upbringing.

Learning from Nature Experiences (00:13:05)

Katie discusses the positive changes in her attitude towards nature from hands-on experiences.

Small Changes, Big Impact (00:15:09)

Katie emphasises that small actions can significantly enhance local wildlife and nature.

Enjoying Life in Asturias (00:16:00)

Katie shares her love for various outdoor activities and the joy they bring to her life.

Learning from Mistakes (00:16:49)

Katie and Luke reflect on challenges faced and lessons learned during their rewilding journey.

Challenges with Goats (00:17:00)

Luke recounts the difficulties they faced with goats and the lessons learned from that experience.

Pond Installation Insights (00:19:49)

Luke discusses the challenges of installing ponds and the importance of timing in the process.

Parenting and Projects (00:20:22)

Discussion on balancing parenting responsibilities with the demands of their sustainable living...

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...