The Curiosity Approach

An Introduction to The Curiosity Approach: Inspiring a Love for Learning

At Yewlands Day Nursery, we believe that children learn best when they are free to explore, create, and follow their natural sense of wonder. That’s why we embrace The Curiosity Approach—a modern early years philosophy that encourages children to become confident, independent learners through hands-on experiences and open-ended play.

If you’ve ever wondered why we use wooden resources instead of plastic toys, why we swap worksheets for real-world exploration, or why your child comes home talking about making potions with leaves and water, this post is for you!

What is The Curiosity Approach?

The Curiosity Approach is an early years teaching philosophy that combines the best of Reggio Emilia, Montessori, Steiner, and loose-parts play. It focuses on creating inspiring environments and giving children the freedom to follow their interests, rather than directing their every move.

At its heart, The Curiosity Approach:✨ Encourages children to think critically and solve problems✨ Promotes independence, confidence, and resilience✨ Sparks creativity through open-ended resources✨ Fosters a lifelong love of learning

Instead of bright, overstimulating classrooms packed with plastic toys, we create calm, natural spaces filled with real-world materials, such as wooden blocks, metal kitchenware, shells, and fabric. This encourages children to use their imagination, explore textures, and engage in meaningful play.

How Does The Curiosity Approach Benefit My Child?

✅ Encourages IndependenceChildren learn best when they are given the freedom to try things for themselves. Instead of showing them exactly how to complete a task, we provide opportunities to explore, experiment, and discover their own solutions.

✅ Develops Problem-Solving SkillsLoose parts play—using natural and repurposed materials—allows children to think critically and use objects in creative ways. A wooden spool could be a rolling pin, a tower, or even a car wheel!

✅ Builds Confidence & ResilienceMistakes are part of the learning journey. The Curiosity Approach helps children develop resilience by encouraging them to try new things, embrace challenges, and learn from experience.

✅ Creates a Love for Nature & SustainabilityBy using natural materials and real-world objects, children develop a greater connection with the environment and learn the importance of caring for their world.

✅ Supports Language & Social DevelopmentWith fewer flashy, battery-operated toys, children engage more in meaningful conversations, storytelling, and imaginative role play, which enhances their communication skills.

What Does The Curiosity Approach Look Like at Yewlands Day Nursery?

At Yewlands Day Nursery, you’ll notice:🌿 Natural, inviting play spaces with wooden furniture, soft lighting, and real-life objects🪵 Loose parts play with open-ended materials like pinecones, fabric, and kitchen utensils📚 Cosy reading corners with books and storytelling props🧑‍🍳 Real-world experiences, such as baking, gardening, and sensory exploration🎨 Creative play without limits—children can mix, build, and design however they choose

Our role as practitioners is to observe, support, and guide rather than instruct. We ask open-ended questions like “I wonder what will happen if…?” to spark curiosity and deepen learning.

How Can You Support The Curiosity Approach at Home?

The beauty of The Curiosity Approach is that you can easily bring it into your home!

🏡 Encourage open-ended play – Swap battery-operated toys for everyday objects like wooden spoons, cardboard boxes, or fabric scraps.🌱 Spend time outdoors – Let your child explore nature, collect leaves, or dig in the mud.🤔 Ask open-ended questions – Instead of “What color is that?” try “What can you do with this?”📦 Create a treasure basket – Fill a basket with safe, interesting objects like a whisk, a shell, or wooden blocks for sensory exploration.⏳ Allow time for deep play – Avoid rushing your child from one activity to another—let them get lost in their imagination!

Final Thoughts

The Curiosity Approach transforms learning into an adventure, where children are free to explore, discover, and develop essential life skills in a natural, engaging, and meaningful way. At Yewlands Day Nursery, we are proud to embrace this philosophy, creating an environment that nurtures curiosity, creativity, and confidence in every child.

If you have any questions about The Curiosity Approach or how it benefits your child, feel free to chat with us—we love sharing our passion for child-led learning!

Let’s spark curiosity together! 🌿✨