Remembering the Wisdom of Childhood

We are living through a children’s mental health crisis. Anxiety, depression, and behavioural struggles are at unprecedented levels. Parents and caregivers are exhausted, juggling meltdowns, schedules, strategies, and screens, often feeling like there is no time to simply be.

What if the solution isn’t more charts, rewards, or punishments? What if it’s about more than just screens and social media? Most importantly, what if the answer has been within reach all along: remembering and honouring the wisdom of children?

In this intimate gathering, Jess VanderWier, therapist, writer, and founder of Nurtured First, will share stories from her upcoming book about the timeless songs of childhood wisdom that many adults have forgotten. Through her professional expertise, personal experiences, and work with families, Jess invites participants to see children not as problems to fix, but as teachers with insights to share.

Attendees will explore seven core “songs” of childhood wisdom: the ability to love oneself, play, explore with curiosity, rest, depend on others, and express emotions. Through storytelling, reflection, and guided exercises, you will reconnect with your own childhood wisdom, discover practical ways to nurture these instincts in the children in your life, and leave feeling renewed, hopeful, and inspired.

This is not a lecture; it is a conversation. You will hear never-before-told stories, reflect on your own experiences, and walk away with actionable insights to strengthen connection, resilience, and joy for both children and adults.

Who This Is For:

• Parents and caregivers
• Educators and therapists
• Anyone interested in children’s mental health and the power of childhood wisdom

Host or Publisher Nurtured First