211: Clara’s Curiosity: Foxy Friends, Nature & Wonder with Karen Belanger-Richmond

### **Clara’s Curiosity: Foxy Friends, Nature & Wonder with Karen Belanger-Richmond** What happens when a child’s curiosity leads her outside—and she discovers a family of foxes? In this episode of the **Outdoor Classrooms Podcast**, I’m joined by children’s author **Karen Belanger-Richmond**, author of Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends. Karen shares the inspiration behind Clara’s story and how a real-life experience grew into a children’s book celebrating curiosity, observation, wildlife, and the simple magic of spending time outdoors. Together, we explore what can happen when children are given the time and space to slow down, notice what’s around them, ask questions, and follow their curiosity. In this episode, we talk about: - The story behind *Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends* - How Karen’s family and experiences in Maine inspired her writing - Why curiosity is such a powerful starting point for outdoor learning - Helping children observe and appreciate wildlife safely and respectfully - Nature journaling, noticing, and asking, “What do you see?” - Simple ways teachers and families can encourage children to become outdoor investigators - What’s next for Clara and her adventures Whether you’re an early childhood educator, teacher, parent, grandparent, or simply someone who believes children need more opportunities to wonder outdoors, this conversation is an invitation to look a little closer at the nature right outside your door. ### **A Special Thank You** A special thank-you to **Karen Belanger-Richmond and *Clara’s Curiosity & Her Foxy Friends*** for sponsoring the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast during **August, September, and October**. We are grateful for Karen’s support of the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast and our mission to inspire more outdoor learning, curiosity, and connection with the natural world. ### **Outdoor Classroom Resources & Links:** 🌿 Our Children's Library: 4 Types of Teaching Gardens Booklist (PDF) (halfway down the page) 🎓 Outdoor Classrooms Teacher Certification Program 🌸 CIRCLE Membership Community ### **Connect with Victoria:** Website: www.outdoor-classrooms.com Email: [Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com](mailto:Victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com) Instagram Facebook ### **Sponsorship Opportunities:** If you believe in the power of outdoor learning and nature-based education, we'd love to partner with you. Sponsoring the *Outdoor Classrooms Podcast* helps support educators while connecting your organization with a passionate community of teachers, school leaders, and families. Contact Victoria at [**victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com**](mailto:victoria@outdoor-classrooms.com) to learn more. ### **Subscribe to the Outdoor Classrooms Podcast** If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast, leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts, and share this conversation with a fellow educator or parent. Your support helps more people discover the transformative power of nature-based education. ### Please take a moment to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, and rate or comment on Spotify. Your support makes a big difference in helping the show reach more educators!