A Big Hooty Hello, my dear friends,
Hi, it’s Miss Honey & Miss Rosie Owl!
Today we are writing to you from the edge of Laanecoorie Reservoir after another lovely day of adventure. We couldn’t wait to tell you about the walk we had this morning!
When the sun rose on the second morning of our holidays, I stretched my wings wide and smiled at the soft mist hovering over the water. The air was cool and fresh, but I knew it would warm up later. It was the perfect kind of day for exploring!
After a healthy breakfast of berries and seeds, we gathered the young ones together. “Before we head out,” I reminded them kindly, “we always check the weather, tell a grown-up where we’re going, and stay together.” They all nodded eagerly, adjusting their sun hats and fluffing their feathers, ready for the day ahead. Even Mr. Wombat, the park manager, gave us a thoughtful nod of approval. “It’s a good day to explore,” he said.
So off we went, taking a gentle walk along the water’s edge. The path wound through the native gum trees that lined the bank, with dragonflies shimmering and dancing in the sunshine. The cicadas sang their summer song, and colourful rosellas flew overhead. As we walked, I pointed out the slippery rocks near the water’s edge and explained how important it was to keep a safe distance unless an adult was close by.
We were lucky enough to meet Mr. Platypus paddling calmly near the reeds. He waved hello and shared a wise reminder, “The water might look still and safe on the surface, but there could be hidden dangers beneath.” I added, “That’s why we never jump in without checking first,” and I was so glad to see the children listening carefully and nodding with understanding.
After a morning of exploring and learning, we made our way back to camp, feeling content and safe.
Until we write again,
Stay curious, have fun and be kind.
With a happy hoot,
💛 Miss Honey & Miss Rosie Owl
P.S. If these stories have given your classroom a little flutter of curiosity and kindness, I would be delighted for you to discover The Hoot Hoot Way—a book created to nurture safe, caring and joyful learning spaces. The book, along with its matching lesson plans, activities and discussion prompts, is waiting for you at www.inkypopshop.com/ Within the lesson plans you will also find the Short Stories in The Together Wood Forest, offering extra adventures, discussion starters and creative activities to deepen each theme.
If you would like more ideas, gentle inspirations and the occasional hooty hello, you can join Miss Owl’s Mail with the subscription form below. New subscribers receive a free classroom activity to welcome their children to the Together Wood Forest, along with stories, tips and creative surprises fluttering straight to your inbox.
Everything is waiting for you at inkypopshop.com, ready to support busy teachers and curious hearts alike. Your purchase helps more gentle stories take flight, and I hope to see you in Together Wood Forest very soon… where learning always begins with a great big hooty hello. 🦉
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Information for families:
SunSmart: Prevent skin cancer & sunburn this summer - SunSmart
Kids Alive Do The Five - Kids Alive Do the Five
Water safety for kids | Raising Children Network
Kids Health Info : Water safety
Preparing before exploring: This story highlights the importance of planning before going on outings: checking the weather, wearing sun protection, telling a trusted adult where you’re going, and staying together help children learn safe habits for outdoor adventures.
Water awareness and supervision: Through Miss Honey, Miss Rosie, and Mr. Platypus, children are reminded that water can look calm but may still be unsafe. We talk about never jumping into water if you can’t see what’s underneath, and at the beach, always swimming between the flags while being mindful of currents and undertows. Families are encouraged to maintain close supervision near lakes, rivers, and reservoirs, and to talk with children about keeping a safe distance from the water unless a trusted adult is present.
Discussion Prompts (Preschool & Early Primary)
“What did Miss Honey and Miss Rosie do before they went on their walk to stay safe?”
“Why do you think it’s important to stay together when we are exploring outside?”
“What did Miss Honey point out near the water that could be dangerous?”
“What wise advice did Mr. Platypus share about the water?”
“Who do you tell before you go exploring, and how do they help keep you safe?”
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