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 FriendsHow Karen’s family and experiences in Maine inspired her writingWhy curiosity is such a powerful starting point for outdoor learningHelping children observe and appreciate wildlife safely and respectfullyNature journaling, noticing, and asking, “What do you see?”Simple ways teachers and families can encourage children to become outdoor investigatorsWhat’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 YouA 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)

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