The Muddy Puddle Teacher

The Muddy Puddle Teacher approach is a revolutionary new outdoor education approach created by teacher and author Sarah Seaman. The Muddy Puddle Teachers focus on the three Muddy M's. Mental Health, More Kids Moving and Mother Nature. Listen to this podcast to get tips on how to teach with a new positive and muddy outlook. A must for all educators and the only Outdoor Learning Podcast out there! Sign up for FREE teaching resources and CPD outdoor learning teacher training www.themuddypuddleteacher.co.uk

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September 23 · 32 min
S2 E11: Cheryl Plant — Helping Young People See What’s Possible
Send us Fan Mail Cheryl Plant — Helping Young People See What’s Possible In this episode of the Muddy Puddle Teacher® Podcast, Sarah is joined by Cheryl Plant, Pathways & Progressions Manager within Sheffield City Council’s Lifelong Learning and Skills Service and lead for the See It Be It team. Cheryl’s work focuses on helping young people make successful transitions from education into employment, working with schools, employers, parents, carers and partners across Sheffield. Her background also includes designing programmes for vulnerable young people, giving her a strong perspective on inclusion, aspiration, social mobility and the importance of giving young people meaningful experiences beyond the classroom. In this conversation, we explore how schools can help children and young people develop confidence, discover opportunities, connect learning to the wider world and begin to imagine futures they may not yet have considered. We also talk about Cheryl’s own learning journey and why practical, applied learning has played such an important role in her development. Find Cheryl and her work: Cheryl Plant on LinkedIn See It Be It Sheffield Support the show
September 23 · 31 min
S2 E13: Caroline Eaton & Leslie Patterson — Learning on Your Doorstep
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of the Muddy Puddle Teacher® Podcast, Sarah is joined by Caroline Eaton and Leslie Patterson, authors of Learning on Your Doorstep: Low-cost and no-cost ideas for Early Years adventures. Their book is a practical guide for Early Years practitioners who want to make greater use of the learning opportunities already sitting just outside their setting. From parks and local streets to buses and laundrettes, Caroline and Leslie show how everyday places can support language development, confidence, cultural capital, physical development and curriculum learning without requiring expensive trips or elaborate planning. In this episode, we talk about why ordinary places can offer extraordinary learning, how adults can slow down and notice what children notice, and whether we have sometimes made outdoor experiences more complicated than they need to be. It is a conversation about curiosity, local communities, affordable experiences and recognising that some of the richest learning opportunities may already be right on our doorstep. Find their book and work: Learning on Your Doorstep — Bloomsbury Education Read Caroline and Leslie’s Bloomsbury article And just to correct my earlier wording: it is Caroline Eaton, not Carol Eaton, and the book title is Learning on Your Doorstep. Support the show
S2 · E11
August 25 · 33 min
S2 E11: Understanding Regulation, Neurodiversity and Big Feelings with Sarah Emerson
Send us Fan Mail About Sarah Emerson and Childhood Understood Sarah Emerson has worked in early years education since her early twenties and focuses particularly on children experiencing big feelings and behaviours. Through Childhood Understood, Sarah works with parents, schools and local authorities to help adults understand why children behave in particular ways. Her work emphasises emotional safety, regulation, compassion and understanding the root causes of behaviour. Sarah is also the author of Childhood Understood: Keys to Behaviour and Big Feelings in the Early Years, which provides strategies for parents and professionals supporting children with complex emotions and behaviour. Learn more : Childhood Understood Support the show
S2 · E10
May 20 · 26 min
S2 E10: Come and Teach Science, Outdoors with Penny!
Send us Fan Mail Find the full blog at: https://themuddypuddleteacher.co.uk/teacher-podcast-science-outdoors/ https://www.saipathmanathan.com/scienceoutdoors https://www.saipathmanathan.com/thelittlegrowersclub https://www.saipathmanathan.com/ https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/creative-approach-to-teaching-science-outdoors-9781801994835/ My Instagram is @Pennyplop7 And Sai’s is @sai_path Support the show
S2 · E9
May 20 · 27 min
S2 E9: Come and chat with Sandra about STEM with Toddlers
Send us Fan Mail Sandra Beale | LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-beale-540359278/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/toddlerandearlyyearsstem/ Toddler and Early Years STEM - YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SandraBealeToddlerSTEM Support the show
S2 · E7
February 11 · 22 min
S2 E7: Come and Bee Green With Edd Moore
Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ S2 E7: Growing Greener Schools with Edd Moore In this inspiring episode, we’re joined by environmental educator, author, and primary teacher Edd Moore, founder of EcoEd. Edd has worked with schools across the UK and beyond to turn environmental concern into meaningful action, helping children see that their voices — and their everyday choices — really do matter. We talk about practical ways to bring sustainability into the classroom without overwhelm, how to nurture young changemakers, and why eco-education isn’t an “extra” but an essential part of preparing children for the future. Expect realistic ideas, honest reflections from school life, and plenty of encouragement for teachers who want to make a difference but don’t know where to start. ✨ In this episode, we explore: Simple ways to embed sustainability into everyday lessons How schools can move from eco-awareness to eco-action Empowering children to lead environmental change Avoiding teacher burnout while still making an impact Building a whole-school culture of care for the planet Find Edd’s work: 🌱 Website & resources: https://www.ecoedd.com/ 📘 Book: 100 Ideas for Primary Teachers: Greener School — packed with practical, classroom-ready ideas for weaving sustainability into school life Perfect for educators who want to raise environmentally aware children while keeping learning hopeful, practical, and empowering. Gain more Eco ideas from The Muddy Puddle Teacher. Support the show
S2 · E8
February 11 · 30 min
S2 E8: Come and Nurture SEND Children with Lorraine
Send us Fan Mail 🎙️ S2 E8: Supporting Every Learner with Lorraine Petersen In this thoughtful and empowering episode, we’re joined by SEND specialist and inclusion advocate Lorraine Petersen to talk about what truly inclusive education looks like in today’s schools. With decades of experience supporting children, families, and educators, Lorraine shares practical insights, compassionate advice, and a clear vision for how we can better meet the needs of learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. We explore the realities teachers face, the importance of strong school–family partnerships, and how small changes in practice can make a big difference to a child’s confidence, independence, and success. This episode is full of reassurance, expertise, and actionable ideas for anyone working to create classrooms where every child feels seen, supported, and valued. ✨ In this episode, we explore: What meaningful inclusion looks like in everyday classroom practice Supporting children with SEND without overwhelm Working positively with parents and carers Building confidence and independence in learners with additional needs Bridging the gap between policy and real classroom life A must-listen for educators, school leaders, and anyone passionate about making education more inclusive, compassionate, and effective for all children. Remember to explore all of the Muddy Puddle Teacher Resources, including SEND packs. Support the show
S2 · E6
February 11 · 25 min
S2 E6: Come and Write Children's Stories with Caryl Hart
Send us Fan Mail S2 E6: Come and Write Children’s Stories with Caryl Hart Join us for a creative and joyful episode with bestselling children’s author Caryl Hart — the imaginative force behind over 80 picture books and inspiring stories for young readers. Caryl shares her personal writing journey, practical tips for sparking ideas, and how to help children (and adults!) feel excited and confident about writing stories. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or aspiring writer, this conversation is packed with fun, insight, and encouragement. ✨ In this episode, we explore: Where story ideas really come from How to build characters that stick Making writing feel playful, not pressured Classroom activities you can use right away Encouraging reluctant writers to find their voice Follow Caryl & explore her work: 🔗 Website: https://carylhart.com/ — find her books, workshops, activities and author insights 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carylhart/ — creative inspiration and updates 👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarylHartAuthor/ — news and community posts Perfect for anyone who wants to make writing more engaging, creative, and fun — for kids and for themselves! Support the show
S2 · E5
January 30 · 57 min
S2 E5: Come and Explore the Life of a Learning Mentor with Faye
Send us Fan Mail What does a Learning Mentor really do each day? In this episode, Faye opens the door to her world, sharing the heart, humour, and challenges of supporting young people in an alternative provision setting for pupils excluded from mainstream education. From building trust and restoring confidence to navigating tough moments with empathy and patience, she shows how the right support at the right time can change a child’s path. Expect real stories, honest reflections, and a behind-the-scenes look at the relationships that help students feel safe, understood, and ready to learn again. Whether you work in education or simply care about young people’s well-being, this is a warm, eye-opening listen that highlights a role that often operates quietly in the background — but makes a life-changing difference every day. Support the show
S2 · E3
Dec 4, 2025 · 47 min
S2 E3: Come and Explore Nature Pre-Schools in the USA with Angie
Send us Fan Mail Guest: Angie Jenkins – Forest School Leader & Nature Preschool Founder (USA) Host: Sarah Seaman Episode Length: 35–45 minutes “Growing Little Explorers: How Angie Jenkins Is Nurturing Nature-Based Learning in the USA” 🌿 Episode Overview In this inspiring international episode, Sarah connects with Angie Jenkins, a Forest School leader and founder of a thriving nature preschool in the United States. Angie shares her journey from traditional teaching to outdoor education, how she’s built a nature-based school from the ground up, and what it means to let children learn through curiosity, freedom, and connection with the land. Together, they explore the similarities — and differences — between the Muddy Puddle Teacher® approach in the UK and the growing Forest School and outdoor preschool movement in the US. 🌎 Key Themes Building a nature-based preschool from scratch Forest School philosophy in the American context Child-led, inquiry-based learning outdoors Supporting emotional well-being and resilience through nature Community engagement and parent involvement Bridging the gap between UK and US outdoor education models Support the show
S2 · E4
Dec 4, 2025 · 22 min
S2 E4: Come and Teach With Joy: How Georgia Lucas Brings Real-Life Classroom Magic to Social Media
Send us Fan Mail Guest: Georgia Lucas – Reception Teacher & Content Creator Host: Sarah Seaman Come and teach With Joy: How Georgia Lucas Brings Real-Life Classroom Magic to Social Media 🌿 Episode Overview In this episode, Sarah talks with Georgia Lucas, a Reception teacher from England whose down-to-earth posts on Instagram and TikTok capture the everyday beauty, chaos and creativity of early years teaching. Together they explore how Georgia uses social media to celebrate teaching, inspire others and show that EYFS life is full of messy, meaningful moments — much like The Muddy Puddle Teacher® approach. 🧩 Key Themes Authentic teaching in Early Years Creativity, play and outdoor learning The teacher-creator balance The power of storytelling and community online Finding joy and well-being in teaching life Support the show
S2 · E2
Oct 22, 2025 · 33 min
S2 E2: Come and Imagine — When a Stick’s Not a Stick with Author Antoinette Portis
Send us Fan Mail Grab your wellies and your wild imagination — this week on Come Chat with Muddy T’s, we’re joined by the brilliant Antoinette Portis, author and illustrator of the much-loved picture books Not a Stick and Not a Box! In this episode, we dig into the power of child-led play and the beauty of seeing the extraordinary in the ordinary. Antoinette shares how a simple stick (or box, or puddle!) can become a gateway to creativity, confidence, and storytelling magic — the very heart of early years exploration. So whether you’re in the mud kitchen, the forest school, or curled up with a cuppa, join us for a joyful chat about imagination, art, and the wonder of open-ended play. Discover more from Antoinette Portis: 🌐 Website → antoinetteportis.com 📸 Instagram → @bathingonthemoon 🐦 X (Twitter) → @aportisa 📘 Facebook → facebook.com/antoinette.portis 📚 Books → Not a Stick | Not a Box Let’s celebrate imagination, one muddy stick at a time! 🌱 Support the show
S2 · E1
Oct 14, 2025 · 36 min
S2 E1: Come and explore the magic of the humble stick with authors Jo and Fiona.
Send us Fan Mail Jo Schofield and Fiona Danks Jo and Fiona are on a mission to encourage more families and children to discover the joys of wild places and to reconnect with nature. By spending time outdoors, children learn vital new skills, find out how to judge risk, and experience the joy and wonder that nature inspires. They also start to understand how we are all connected with the diverse ecosystems on which all of our futures depend. For over twenty years Fiona and Jo have been writing their inspiring Going Wild books, all packed with an incredible variety of fun activities to tempt children outdoors. The books are designed to be used wherever you live (wild spaces can be found everywhere!) and at any time of year. Their thirteen books include Nature’s Playground, Go Wild, Make it Wild, Run Wild, The Stick Book, The Wild Weather Book, The Beach Book, The Wild City Book, The Den Book, The Wild Year Book, Wild Things, Make This Book Wild and the soon to be published Make Every Week Wild (February 2026). All the activities are designed for the outdoors, and don’t need much preparation. The activities are very varied, ranging from creative and imaginary to practical and games. The books are used by teachers, environmental educators and forest school leaders, families and also some have been used in health care settings to improve and promote well being and mental health. Fiona has a degree in ecology and worked in environmental education for two Wildlife Trusts, and Jo was an educational psychologist before a successful career in creative photography. They met in the school playground when their children were young and shared some amazing outdoor experiences with their growing families. They are now each enjoying taking their young grandchildren out into nature. As well as writing their books they have given talks and keynote speeches, written articles, run workshops (including for CBeebies), training events for teachers and activities at book festivals and worked with a range of organisations including Natural England, The National Trust, The Forest School Association, Scouts and the Wildlife Trusts. Our website - www.goingwild.net Facebook - Going Wild Instagram - @goingwild1 Emails - fionadanks@gmail.com and jo1schofield@gmail.com Support the show
S1 · E33
Sep 11, 2024 · 28 min
#33 Let's Diddi Dance with Anne-Marie
Send us Fan Mail The classes were created in 2003 by diddi dance founder, Anne-Marie Martin, a professional dancer with over 25 years teaching experience. After running for over 20 years in London we now have over 40 locations across the UK with more opening up all the time. We are so proud to be celebrating 20 years of pre school dance, exploring so many dance styles from around the world. We love encouraging children and their families to enjoy a love of movement to music that will last a lifetime. Feel free to look around the site to find out more about our classes, parties and early years sessions. Why not join the fun, see where the closest diddi dance is to you and get in touch to request a trial today. Support the show
S1 · E34
Sep 11, 2024 · 23 min
#34 Let's talk Twiddle Food with Viktoria
Send us Fan Mail My name is Viki. I am a qualified Nutrition Coach and specialise in Culinary Medicine. I am also a mum of two young girls and a self-taught chef. Twiddle is my “passion child”, born out desperation to deal with my daughter’s fussy eating habits. It was a side hustle for 5 years while juggling family life and my corporate job. I worked in anti-money laundering compliance for 15 years for DLA Piper, most of this spent managing a large centralised international team. After having children my priorities changed and being diagnosed with IBS put things into a different perspective. Having developed health issues that the doctors tried to medicate me for (for the rest of my life) pushed me to find a better way to live. I re-qualified as a Culinary Medicine Coach that helped me not just to heal myself and manage my IBS but also to coach others to get better too. In 2023, I finally I left the corporate world so that I could concentrate on my family and focus on making Twiddle a full time job. My mission is to help you tune into your body more to become healthier and happier. I believe that we all have the ability to be the best versions of ourselves and are able to make the necessary changes too. Sometimes we just need a little nudge and an expert who can assist in speeding the process up. I am passionate about guiding you, teaching you and inspiring you to achieve this! I am here to be your companion on this journey that can be overwhelming and often scary when you first embark on it. I can help you rebuild your relationship with your diet, your health and wellbeing and inspire you to cook new dishes while also having fun in the kitchen. I will teach you how to roll the perfect dough along with useful tips on how to make it more nutritious. You can also come along to my hands on workshops or cook with me online. I love experimenting with different cuisines and my recipes are infused with herbs and spices I tried visiting different countries and some that are deeply rooted in my Hungarian heritage. I also run in person cookery classes for team building activities, birthday parties and more. If you fancy joining me on an open class, please visit my booking page where you can find out the date of my next event. With the “love of food”, Viki https://www.twiddlefood.co.uk/ Support the show
S1 · E32
Sep 11, 2024 · 26 min
#32 Let's chat Practictioner Fest with Louise
Send us Fan Mail More details on Practitioner Fest. Welcome to Practitioner Fest 2024 Fordell Firs Fife Friday 4th of October to Sunday 6th of October Friday Conference from 6.30pm Festival running on Saturday 9am to 5pm (Play in the dark 6.30pm) Sunday 9am to 5pm Workshops slots will be allocated prior to festival weekend and will run between the hours of 9.30am to 4.30pm Get ready for Practitioner Fest! An exciting outdoor festival for educators to discover the joys of outdoor learning. Unlock new ideas and strategies for taking your children outdoors. Don’t miss out on the adventure! Support the show
Jun 14, 2023 · 23 min
#30 Let's chat with Teacher Tessa about Bob!
Send us Fan Mail Children’s author Tessa Singh visits schools and Eatly Years settings delivering interactive workshops designed to get children bringing books to life, both inside and outside the classroom. Her approach is to use music, books and props to really help get every child’s imaginations flowing. These ideas are captured by teaching the children how to create their own picture books. All details are available on Tessa’s website including lots of free resources for for teachers and parents. Her book “Little Bob Saves the World” is available to buy at all good bookshops. tessasingh.co.uk | Support the show
Jun 14, 2023 · 26 min
#31 Let's chat about government benefits with Simon
Send us Fan Mail Setting up a Help to Save account online is quick and easy to do, and takes less than 5 minutes to sign up. Eligible individuals can find out more and how to apply on GOV.UK or via the HMRC app. Support the show
S1 · E29
May 24, 2023 · 32 min
#29 Let's chat Stories with Liv :)
Send us Fan Mail Oh my goodness I don’t know how I’ve missed this / so sorry what a nightmare! Can I still blame baby brain?? Olivia is an early years literacy consultant from West Yorkshire. She specialises in drama pedagogy and storytelling. Olivia empowers early years staff to go beyond books through interactive storytelling and introducing drama into settings that give children the license to lead their learning. She is passionate about bringing drama into the early years to help practitioners love their work and improve learning outcomes. I’m @storieswithliv on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook and YouTube. Support the show
S1 · E27
Mar 15, 2023 · 35 min
#27 Let's talk about the weather with Caryl Hart
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, 6-year-old Florence Seaman interviews one of her idols, author, Caryl Hart. Caryl Hart is an award-winning children's author who writes picture books and young fiction. She lives with her family in Sheffield and loves café walks, mountain biking and wild swimming. She also runs creative literacy workshops for schools, libraries, festivals and communities. For more information, FREE activity packs and to purchase signed copies of her books, visit her website: www.carylhart.com Thank You for the Little Things: https://carylhart.com/bookshop/p/thank-you-for-the-little-things The Girl Who Planted Trees: https://carylhart.com/bookshop/p/the-girl-who-planted-trees Twitter: @carylhart1 https://twitter.com/carylhart1 Instagram @carylhart https://www.instagram.com/carylhart/ Facebook @CarylHartAuthor https://www.facebook.com/CarylHartAuthor MPT https://themuddypuddleteacher.co.uk/category/outdoor-learning-resources/ Support the show

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