top of page
Life on the Ground


From Classrooms to Communities: What I’ve Learned About What Kids Really Need
This work didn’t start as a business idea. It grew from years working alongside children. Before I became a teacher, I’d already lived and worked with families in many different ways - nannying, volunteering, travelling, and being part of everyday life with children in very different cultures. I experienced childhood in busy cities, small communities, and places where life moved at a completely different pace. Turkey, Vietnam, Nepal, The Middle East, Australia, New Zealand -

Anna | The Groundwork
Feb 263 min read


When Kids Say “I’m Bored” - Don’t Fix It
The moment a child says,“I’m bored”… we fix it. We offer a screen. Suggest an activity. Turn something on. Fill the space. Because boredom feels uncomfortable. But boredom isn’t a problem. It’s actually where something important begins. When there’s nothing to do…the brain has to figure something out. That’s when imagination kicks in. That’s when creativity starts. That’s when kids learn to entertain themselves, solve problems, and think for their own ideas. But if every qui

Anna | The Groundwork
Feb 221 min read


Childhood Is Becoming an Indoor Experience
Childhood used to live outside.
Now it mostly lives indoors.
And we’re starting to see the impact.

Anna | The Groundwork
Feb 222 min read


After School Meltdowns: Why They Happen (and What Helps)
Your child gets through the school day…Then the moment they’re home, everything falls apart. Tears. Anger. Big emotions over small things. If this happens in your house, you’re not alone. And it’s not bad behaviour. WHAT’S REALLY GOING ON All day at school, children are holding it together. • sitting still • following instructions • managing noise and busy spaces • trying to get things right • keeping their emotions in By the time they get home, their system is full. Home is

Anna | The Groundwork
Feb 191 min read


Nature Programs for Children in Christchurch: Why They Matter More Than Ever
Kids today are growing up in a busy, fast world.More noise. More screens. More pressure.And we’re seeing the impact - anxiety, overwhelm, big emotions, and tired kids who just can’t keep up. Our kids don’t need more structure.They need space. What’s really going on Children spend most of their day inside, being told what to do, where to sit, and how to behave. Their bodies hold a lot in. By the end of the day, that load comes out as: meltdowns shutdown frustration “challengin

Anna | The Groundwork
Feb 191 min read
bottom of page