Susie Spikol, a passionate naturalist and author, shares her insights on the magic of nature for children's imagination. She encourages families to step outside and explore everyday wonders, like dandelions and mushrooms, as tools for creativity. Susie discusses her book, "Forest Magic for Kids," which offers playful activities that rekindle a child's connection to the natural world. The conversation highlights the importance of unstructured outdoor play versus tech-driven experiences, nurturing curiosity and strengthening family bonds through nature.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Use Dandelions for Nature Play
Embrace dandelions as magical plants kids can explore through blowing seeds and making tea.
Use their hollow stems to blow bubbles and teach how dandelions follow the sun's position.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Combine Storytelling with Nature
Read aloud fairy tales and then explore outdoors by imagining and building scenes or characters.
Link literature and nature to deepen children’s engagement and wonder.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Press and Craft with Flowers
Press flowers using heavy books and paper like wax or parchment to dry them.
Use dried flowers for crafts such as potions, candles, crowns, or garlands with kids.
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Susie Spikol's "Animal Adventures Guide" is a nature guidebook designed to inspire children and families to connect with the natural world. It encourages exploration and appreciation of everyday nature, emphasizing the wonder found in simple things. The book likely includes activities and stories to engage young readers, fostering a sense of curiosity and wonder about the environment. It aims to bridge the gap between children and nature, promoting outdoor exploration and appreciation for the natural world. The book's focus is on fostering a deeper connection with nature through observation and hands-on activities.
The Book of Fairies
The Book of Fairies
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Susie Spikol
Susie Spikol's "The Book of Fairies" is a children's fiction book that delves into the imaginative world of nature, drawing inspiration from folklore and mythology. It likely features enchanting stories and illustrations, capturing the magical aspects of the natural world. The book is described as a companion to "Forest Magic for Kids," suggesting a similar focus on fostering children's imagination and connection with nature. It aims to transport young readers to a world of wonder and adventure, encouraging them to explore the magical possibilities of the natural world. The book's focus is on blending storytelling with nature exploration, creating a unique and engaging experience for young readers.
Forest Magic for Kids
Forest Magic for Kids
How to Find Fairies, Make a Secret Fort and Cook Up an Elfin Picnic
Susie Spikol
Susie Spikol's "Forest Magic for Kids" is a whimsical guide that blends hands-on nature exploration with folklore, creativity, and fun. It encourages children and families to discover the magic in everyday nature, using simple activities and storytelling to foster a deeper connection with the environment. The book likely includes instructions for activities such as making fairy houses, creating nature art, and preparing elfin picnics. It aims to inspire children's imaginations and encourage them to explore the natural world around them. The book's focus is on fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation for the natural world through imaginative play and hands-on activities.
I'll Take Back the Game
Linda Flanagan
Stuart Little
E. B. White
Garth Williams
Stuart Little is a talking mouse who lives in New York City with his human parents, older brother George, and Snowbell the cat. He is known for his pompous demeanor, dressing in sailor suits or formal clothes, and affecting English manners. The story follows Stuart's adventures, including his friendship with a white bird named Margalo, his participation in a sailboat race in Central Park, and his decision to track down Margalo after she disappears. The book is E.B. White's first foray into children's literature and features illustrations by Garth Williams.
Still
The Art of Noticing
Mary Jo Hoffman
The Lord of the Rings
J.R.R Tolkien
The Lord of the Rings, written by J.R.R. Tolkien, is an epic high fantasy novel set in Middle-earth. The story follows Frodo Baggins, a hobbit who inherits the One Ring from his uncle Bilbo. The Ring, forged by Sauron, holds the power to control all other Rings of Power and must be destroyed in the fires of Mount Doom to prevent Sauron's return. Frodo is joined by a fellowship of other characters, including Gandalf the Grey, Samwise Gamgee, Aragorn, Legolas, Gimli, and Boromir, as they embark on a dangerous quest across Middle-earth. The novel explores themes of good vs. evil, the corrupting influence of power, and the struggle between fate and free will[3][4][5].
What if the most powerful world your child will ever explore isn’t inside a screen—but just outside your door? In this magical episode of The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast, naturalist and author Susie Spikol returns to share enchanting stories, unforgettable facts, and simple, wonder-filled activities that celebrate the everyday wild. From dandelion tea and fairy rings to moss gardens and mushroom lore, Susie invites families to reclaim imagination from the grip of Big Tech and rediscover the joy of small-scale adventure. Her new book Forest Magic for Kids is a whimsical guide that blends hands-on nature exploration with folklore, creativity, and fun.
Susie and Ginny dive into why real-world imagination matters more than ever—and how we can nourish it in our children without needing expertise, expensive tools, or special destinations. You'll learn how nature not only sparks curiosity but also strengthens a child’s connection to place, family, and story. If you've ever needed proof that wonder still lives in the backyard (and that childhood doesn’t need to be fast-tracked), this episode is it. Nature delivers—and so does this conversation.
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Learn more about Susie and all she has to offer here
The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast 
