At our play-based learning centre, we warmly invite families to explore a vibrant,
interactive space where children flourish through the blend of Montessori, Reggio
Emilia, and other inspiring philosophies. Here, children and parents alike can engage
with open-ended materials and authentic resources that spark creativity and
curiosity. Our text-rich environment fosters a love for learning, while parents can
join workshops on child development and practitioners can deepen their practice
through professional growth. Together, we create a supportive community where
every child’s journey of discovery is celebrated.
Our setting is thoughtfully designed to welcome children from 4 months to 5 years,
offering a space that’s engaging and suitable for all. We have one ticket price of
£8.50 for this age range, and there’s no charge for parents and carers—your
presence is always welcome!
Give your little one the chance to explore, learn, and grow in a world of curiosity—
book an Explore session today and watch them discover endless possibilities!
Welcome to The Curiosity Cafe: Where Play Sparks Discovery!
The Curiosity Collective!
Families are encouraged to explore
a thoughtfully curated space filled
with loose parts and authentic
resources that spark creativity
and imagination. Our text-rich
environment fosters a love for
learning, inviting curious minds to
engage with stories and ideas.
Play Based
Learning Session
Join us for our parent workshops
on child development and learning
in the Early Years, where we dive
into the world of play-based
learning and the curiosity
approach! Come along, and let’s
share this journey of discovery!
Parent
Workshops
I'm excited to offer a series of
workshops and talks tailored
specifically for Early Years
practitioners! .In these relaxed and
informal sessions, we’ll explore
topics like Enabling Environments,
Invitations vs. Provocations, and
Bringing Nature Indoors.
Practitioner
Workshops
Discover the Wonders: What We Offer!
Parent Praise: Real Voices, Real Experiences!
“What a lovely environment Sarah has created to
encourage and foster creativity for children. My 3
year old has thoroughly enjoyed his session this
morning. Thank you Sarah!”
Grace V.
“Sarah has created a lovely environment for
children to play and learn. The resources are well-
thought out and encourage the children to use their
imagination. My 2 and 5 year old enjoyed the
reading area, play dough table, transport area and
building blocks. A perfect place for pre-schoolers to
play and adults to enjoy a cup of tea and a cake!”
Suki E.
“We loved it! Such a wonderfully calm space for
children to explore beautiful, high quality toys and
resources. Everything has been carefully and
thoughtfully chosen to invite curiosity and
imaginative play, and the set up of the room is
cosy and welcoming. We’ll definitely be coming
back!”
Rose M.
Embracing Learning
Through Play: A Joyful
Journey for You and
Your Child
Bringing Nature
Indoors: A Guide for
Early Years
Practitioners
The Importance of
“Me Time” for
Mums: Because You
Matter Too!
Embracing Hygge in
Early Years Settings:
Creating That “Just
Like Grandma’s
House” Vibe
Curious Insights: Explore, Learn, and Grow with our Blog
Let's Connect: Your Curiosity Awaits!
The Curiosity Cafe
St John’s Community
Centre
Church Road
RH1 6QA
Monday
9:15-3pm
Wednesday
9:15-12
Thursday
9:15-12
Friday
9:15-4:30pm
Saturday (Once a month-)
please see booking system for time
slots.
Business Hours
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Street Parking Available.
Please be mindful of residents driveways.
Parking on the side of the park is advised
There is a small amount of parking next to the Church. Please use the sign posted
one way system and parl to the side if using ‘car park’.
Curious Insights: Explore, Learn, and Grow!
Embracing Learning Through Play: A Joyful
Journey for You and Your Child
If you’re anything like me, you often feel that nagging mum guilt. You know, the
kind that whispers, “Am I doing enough for my child’s learning?” It’s easy to feel
overwhelmed, especially when you’re juggling a million things and just trying to
make it through the day. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to put in
hours of structured lessons to foster your child’s development. In fact, play is one
of the most powerful ways for your little one to learn!
Both Montessori and Reggio Emilia approaches emphasise the importance of
learning through play. Maria Montessori once said, “Play is the work of the child.”
This simple statement reminds us that when our kids are playing, they’re not
just having fun—they're developing critical skills, problem-solving, and creativity.
Similarly, the Reggio Emilia philosophy encourages exploration and discovery,
stating, “The child is made of one hundred.” This means that children come with
countless potentials, and play helps them express all those unique aspects of
themselves.
Even Albert Einstein believed in the value of play, famously saying, “Play is the
highest form of research.” So, the next time you feel guilty for not doing enough,
remember that playtime is essential for learning and growth. It’s okay to let
your little one explore, create, and discover on their own terms!
Home Adventure: A Fun Activity to Dive into!
One super simple and fun activity you can try at home or outside is creating a
“nature treasure hunt.” Grab a bag and head outdoors—whether it’s your back
garden, a local park, or even just a walk around the local area. Challenge your
child to find specific items like a smooth stone, a yellow leaf, a flower, or a
feather. Encourage them to describe each find and share what they like about
it. This not only gets them moving but also enhances their observational skills
and vocabulary.
Remember, every moment spent playing is a moment spent learning.
Embrace the chaos and the joy of play, and know that you’re doing a fantastic
job. Let go of the guilt and celebrate the beautiful learning that happens
through play. Your child’s journey is all about discovery—so let’s enjoy it
together! Happy exploring!
Until next time, keep exploring and stay curious! – Sarah
Let’s talk about something that often gets pushed aside amid the chaos of
parenting: you! If you’re like many other mothers, you’re probably juggling
endless to-do lists, managing tantrums, and feeling that familiar pang of mum
guilt when you sit down for a moment. You might be thinking, “Am I doing
enough for my child?” But here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup.
As the saying goes, “You can’t take care of others until you take care of yourself.”
Prioritising your own well-being is not selfish; it’s essential. Your mental health
plays a huge role in how you parent, and when you take time for yourself, you’re
actually setting a positive example for your little ones. After all, when we feel
good, we’re more patient, more present, and more fun!
Quick Bliss: Easy Self-Care for Busy Days!
So, what does self-care look like when you’re short on time and energy? Here are
a few ideas to squeeze some “me time” into your busy schedule:
1. Short, Sweet Breaks: Take 5-10 minutes a day to enjoy a cup of tea or coffee in
peace. Use this time to breathe, meditate, or simply savour the moment.
2. Move Your Body: Even a quick walk around the block can boost your mood and
energy levels. Put on your favourite playlist and enjoy some time outside.
3. Read a Book: Escape into a different world, even if it’s just for 15 minutes
before bed. Pick a book that excites you—this is your time to indulge!
4. Pamper Yourself: Whether it’s a bubble bath, a face mask, or just some quiet
time with your favourite show, do something that makes you feel special.
5. Connect with Friends: Arrange a coffee date or a phone call with a friend.
Sometimes, a good chat is all you need to recharge.
Curious Insights: Explore, Learn, and Grow!
The Importance of “Me Time” for Mums: Because
You Matter Too!
Why “Me Time” Matters
Think about it—if you’re running on empty, how can you support your child’s
learning and emotional needs? As the lovely Brené Brown reminds us, “You
cannot give what you do not have.” When you invest in your own self-care, you’re
not just improving your own life; you’re enhancing the environment for your child
to thrive.
Remember, You’re Not Alone
It’s completely normal to feel tired and overwhelmed. Just know that taking
time for yourself is not only okay—it’s necessary. When you prioritise your own
well-being, you’re setting the stage for a happier, healthier family. As the saying
goes, “happy mum, happy baby”
So go ahead and carve out that “me time.” You deserve it, happy self-caring!
Wishing you joy and relaxation—until next time! – Sarah
Curious Insights: Explore, Learn, and Grow!
Bringing Nature Indoors: A Guide for Early Years Practitioners
Let’s chat about something that can truly transform our learning environments:
bringing nature indoors. We all know how beneficial nature is for children’s
development, but sometimes it feels challenging to make that connection in our
settings. As the amazing Dr. Maria Montessori said, “The child is both a hope and
a promise for mankind.” Let’s nurture that promise by creating spaces that
reflect the beauty and wonder of the outdoors!
Why Bring Nature Inside?
Incorporating natural elements into our learning spaces can promote curiosity,
creativity, and a sense of calm. As Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the
Woods points out, “Nature-deficit disorder” can impact our children’s health and
well-being. By infusing our indoor environments with nature, we can help bridge
that gap and create a more holistic learning experience.
Simple Ways to Bring Nature Indoors
1. Indoor Gardens: Set up a small indoor garden with pots of herbs, flowers, or
even small vegetables. Kids can help plant, water, and care for the plants,
learning about responsibility and the life cycle.
2. Natural Materials for Play: Fill your play areas with natural materials like pine
cones, leaves, stones, and wood pieces. These can spark imaginative play and
sensory exploration. Plus, they’re great for building and creating!
3. Nature Wall or Display: Create a nature wall with photos, artwork, and items
collected from outdoor adventures. This can serve as a vibrant reminder of the
natural world and encourage discussions about what they see and feel.
4. Sensory Bins with Natural Elements: Fill sensory bins with sand, soil, or water,
and add natural items like shells, stones, or flowers. This hands-on experience
helps children explore different textures and encourages imaginative play.
5. Nature Crafts: Incorporate nature into your art projects. Use leaves, twigs, and
flowers to create collages, prints, or sculptures. Not only is this a creative outlet,
but it also teaches respect for the environment.
6. Incorporate Natural Light: If possible, maximise natural light in your space.
Position tables near windows or use light colours for walls to create a bright,
uplifting atmosphere. Natural light has a big impact on mood and energy levels!
Final Thoughts
Bringing nature indoors doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. It’s all about
being creative and using what’s available to us. Remember, as the Reggio Emilia
philosophy teaches us, “The environment is the third teacher.” Let’s make our
classrooms as inspiring and natural as possible!
So, fellow educators, let’s embrace the great outdoors and bring its wonders into
our spaces. Your little ones will thrive, and you might find a little piece of nature
brings a lot of joy into your day, too! Happy nature-ing!
Here’s to nurturing nature in our spaces—happy exploring! - Sarah
Let’s talk about something that can truly warm up our classrooms: Hygge! This
cozy Danish concept is all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that
fosters comfort and well-being. Imagine stepping into a space that feels just like
grandma’s house—a safe, caring environment where everyone feels secure and
happy to learn.
As educator and author Jan Miller puts it, “A nurturing environment fosters
trust and exploration.” When our settings radiate warmth and comfort, children
can focus on what truly matters: their learning and growth.
Simple Ways to Bring Hygge Into Your Setting
1. Soft Lighting: Swap harsh fluorescent lights for softer, warm lighting. You
could use fairy lights, lamps, or even candles (LED) to create a cosy glow that
makes everyone feel at ease.
2. Comfortable Seating Areas: Create inviting reading nooks with cushions,
blankets, and soft rugs. Encourage snuggling up with a book or simply relaxing
in a warm corner. Think “just like grandma’s house” where there’s always a
comfy spot to settle in!
3. Natural Elements: Incorporate natural materials like wood, plants, and textiles.
Use wooden furniture, soft wool throws, and plenty of greenery to bring a touch
of the outdoors inside. These elements can create a soothing atmosphere that
invites exploration.
4. Sensory Play Spaces: Set up sensory areas where children can explore
different textures, scents, and sounds. Think of a calming water play station, a
sand table, or even a cosy area with soft toys and calming materials.
Curious Insights: Explore,
Learn, and Grow!
Embracing Hygge in Early Years Settings: Creating That
“Just Like Grandma’s House” Vibe
Why Hygge Matters
Creating a “home away from home” vibe can significantly impact children’s
emotional well-being. As the brilliant Maria Montessori once said, “The
environment should be rich in motives which lend to activity and invite the child
to conduct his own experiences.” By bringing in elements of Hygge, we can inspire
children to engage more fully with their surroundings.
5. Family Photos and Art: Decorate your space with photos of families, children’s
artwork, and items that reflect a sense of community. This makes the
environment feel personal and connected, just like the warmth of a loving home.
6. Mindfulness Moments: Incorporate short mindfulness activities, like deep
breathing or simple yoga stretches, to help children feel calm. This can create a
peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for learning.
Final Thoughts
Bringing Hygge into our settings is all about creating that nurturing, cosy
environment where children feel safe and happy to explore and learn.
Remember, as early childhood educator Loris Malaguzzi said, “The child is made
of one hundred.” Let’s honour all those aspects by crafting spaces that truly
reflect warmth and comfort.
So, let’s embrace the Hygge vibe and create settings that feel just like grandma’s
house—inviting, secure, and full of love. Your little ones will thrive in a space that
feels like home, and you’ll find joy in fostering that nurturing environment.
Happy Hygge-ing!
Wishing you cosy moments and joyful discoveries! Until next time! – Sarah
The Curiosity Cafe: Play-based Learning
Session
Book a Play-based Learning session today and let’s share this journey of discovery!
Discover the magic of play-based learning with our sessions designed for parents who want their children to
thrive in a nurturing environment! Our carefully curated space is filled with loose parts and authentic
resources that spark creativity and imagination, inviting families to explore and discover together. In our text-
rich environment, your little one can engage with stories and ideas, fostering a lifelong love for learning. Don’t
miss this opportunity to create lasting memories—book your session today and watch your child's curiosity
blossom!
Join us for our parent workshops on child development and learning in the Early
Years, where we dive into the world of play-based learning. With over 16 years
of teaching experience and my own adventures as a parent, I’m truly passionate
about helping kids thrive during these crucial years. Our relaxed, friendly
sessions are designed to give you practical tips and fun ideas to support your
little one's growth and curiosity at home. Let’s explore how play can unlock their
potential and create joyful learning experiences together. Come along, and let’s
share this journey of discovery!
The Curiosity Cafe: Parent
Workshops
email: sarah@thecuriositycafe.uk
to find out more.
The Curiosity Cafe: Practitioner
Workshops and Training.
I'm excited to offer a series of workshops and talks tailored specifically for Early
Years practitioners! With over 16 years of teaching experience and a deep
inspiration drawn from Montessori and Reggio philosophies, as well as the
Curiosity Approach, I’m passionate about creating calm and engaging learning
environments for young children. Having also completed my NPQ in Early Years
Leadership along with navigating the journey of parenthood myself, I understand
the unique challenges we face. In these relaxed and informal sessions, we’ll
explore topics like Enabling Environments, Invitations vs. Provocations, and
Bringing Nature Indoors. It’s a great opportunity to share thoughts, ideas, and
best practices with fellow educators while inspiring each other to create even
more magical spaces for our little learners!
email: sarah@thecuriositycafe.uk
to find out more.
Are you an Early Years practitioner passionate about sparking curiosity,
awe, and wonder in young minds? Become part of our Curiosity Collective—
a vibrant community of like-minded educators dedicated to inspiring the
next generation through play, exploration, and creativity.
In this special space, you'll connect with fellow professionals, share ideas,
and access valuable resources to enhance your practice. Together, we’ll
foster environments where curiosity thrives, and every child’s potential is
celebrated.
Join us today and let’s spark endless possibilities in Early Years education!
Join The Early Years
Curiosity Collective!
Curiosity Catalyst: Igniting Imagination and Learning.
Hi there, I’m Sarah, a qualified teacher with over 16 years of experience in the
education system, but it’s the Early Years that truly lights me up! As a mum to
two wonderful kids, Oscar and Rosy, and wife to my incredibly patient husband,
Jimmy, I’ve seen firsthand the magic of those early learning moments. My ethos
centres around creating a nurturing and inspiring learning environment where
children can thrive, drawing inspiration from Montessori and Reggio philosophies.
I’ve also been deeply influenced by my Curiosity Approach workshops and
training, which have shaped my belief in the power of exploration and play. I’m
passionate about helping young learners discover the world around them in a
way that sparks their creativity and curiosity!
Terms and Conditions for The Curiosity Cafe:
Terms and Conditions for The Curiosity Cafe
Welcome to The Curiosity Cafe! By using our services, including our play-based learning space and training sessions, you agree to these Terms and
Conditions, designed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
1. Acceptance of Terms
By visiting or using The Curiosity Cafe’s services, you agree to be bound by these Terms. If you don’t agree, please refrain from using our services.
2. Definitions
The Curiosity Cafe: Refers to our play-based learning space and all related services.
Visitors: Includes parents, carers, children, early years practitioners, and any individuals using our services.
Services: Includes access to our play space, training, learning resources, and additional services.
3. Use of the Learning Space
Supervision: Parents/carers must supervise children at all times.
Professional Development: Early Years practitioners should follow our team’s guidance and respect the environment.
4. Fees and Payments
Session Fees: Fees will be communicated when booking.
Training Fees: A 50% deposit is required to secure your training spot, with the balance due 3 weeks before the session. Full payment is required for all
other services unless stated otherwise.
5. Privacy and Data Protection
Data Collection: We collect necessary contact and payment details to process bookings and provide services.
How We Use Your Data: Your data is used for processing bookings, communication, service improvement, and marketing (with your consent). You can opt
out at any time by unsubscribing from our emails.
Data Retention: We keep your personal data only as long as needed for the purpose it was collected.
6. Photography and Image Use
Privacy: You can take photos of your own children for personal use, but sharing photos of other children without permission is prohibited.
Promotions: We use photos for promotions only with explicit consent from parents.
7. Code of Conduct
By visiting The Curiosity Cafe, you agree to:
Treat everyone with respect and kindness.
Follow the guidelines set by our team.
Refrain from disruptive behaviour that may affect other visitors’ experience.
8. Liability
Visitors use our services at their own risk. While we take steps to ensure safety, we are not liable for personal injury, loss, or damage unless caused by
our negligence.
9. Termination of Access
We reserve the right to suspend or terminate access for anyone who violates these terms or disrupts the environment.
10. Amendments to Terms
We may update these terms when needed. You’ll be notified of significant changes, and your continued use means you accept the updated terms.
11. Governing Law
These terms are governed by UK law, and any disputes will be resolved in UK courts.
12. Orders
Order Confirmation: When you place an order with us, you’re making an offer based on these terms. You’ll receive an email confirmation, and your order
is accepted once dispatched.
Refusal of Order: We reserve the right to refuse any order.
13. Product Descriptions
Product Variations: Items may slightly vary from images online. We may substitute an item if we cannot fulfill your exact request. If you're unhappy with
the substitution, you can return it for a refund within 7 days.
14. Pricing
Prices: Prices are confirmed when we receive your order. Delivery charges may vary, and we may adjust prices before dispatch due to external factors.
Order Cancellation: If prices change before delivery, you can cancel your order.
15. Payment
Payment Terms: By placing an order, you consent to payment via the provided credit card details. Ownership of the products is transferred once full
payment is received.
16. Delivery
Delivery Dates: Delivery times are approximate. If delivery is delayed, you can cancel your order. If delivery is incomplete, we will promptly send missing
items or offer a cancellation.
17. Returns
Returns Policy: You can return items within 14 days of receipt for a full refund or exchange, subject to our conditions.
18. Website and Intellectual Property
Website Accuracy: We strive for accuracy but are not responsible for errors.
Content Ownership: All website content is our property and for personal, non-commercial use only. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
19. Customer Support
We aim to respond to all emails within 24-48 hours and resolve complaints within 7 days. Contact us at sarah@thecuriositycafe.uk for any issues.
20. Contact Us
For questions or concerns about these Terms and Conditions, please contact us via sarah@thecuriositycafe.uk.
By using The Curiosity Cafe’s services, you agree to these Terms and Conditions, helping us provide a safe, respectful, and enriching environment for all.
Thank you for being part of our community!