Forget the Eiffel Tower and the pyramids! What truly sparks wonder in the eyes of children are the simple delights of our everyday world. Sunflowers, seashells, and rocks topped the list of ‘wonders’ according to a recent survey of nearly 400 six and seven-year-olds.
It turns out the tiny explorers are captivated by caterpillars, puddles, and even diggers! A massive 80% of these young adventurers love collecting treasures like colourful seaside pebbles or twigs found in the forest. Meanwhile, their parents have noticed that these ‘everyday wonders’ help their children appreciate the magic in their surroundings, with many confessing to finding themselves slowing down to take in the marvels too!
As part of its ‘Wonder’ campaign, Specsavers has crafted museum-style displays across the UK, showcasing these magical items. Each display in cities like London, Manchester, Belfast, Edinburgh, and Cardiff highlights a different wonder, complete with plaques bearing heartfelt descriptions by local youngsters.
Professor Sam Wass, a noted child psychologist and neuroscientist, explains, “Children view the world as a place full of magic and mystery. Ensuring good vision is vital to fostering their natural curiosity and supporting their learning journey.”
According to research from OnePoll.com, 68% of children are wowed by wonders they find at the seaside, 63% find them in their back gardens, and 50% spot them in local parks. Everyday sights like birds on telephone wires, shimmering puddles, and the glistening trails of snails fascinate these little observers and remind us of the joy in the simple things. Every now and then, take a page out of their book: look around you, and rediscover the everyday wonders that surround us all!