The Tiny Wild Earth & Animal Wisdom
SEL & Nature-Based Learning for Children
for classrooms, therapeutic spaces & learning communities
The Tiny Wild Earth & Animal Wisdom
A story-based SEL and nature-learning resource that includes:
• A 33 animal card deck
• A children’s book with 33 conversations and stories between each animal and a child
• Reflection prompts and questions following each story
This tool is designed for discussion, reflection, and creativity, grounded in emotional awareness and connection to self, others, and nature.
Together, the cards and book offer a flexible tool for classrooms, counseling spaces, and therapeutic environments for children of all ages.
Created for Learning & Therapeutic Spaces
The Tiny Wild Earth & Animal Wisdom is used in settings where children’s emotional, social, and creative development are supported, including:
Classrooms and schools
Counseling and therapeutic spaces
Neurodivergent and inclusive learning environments
Nature-based and outdoor education programs
Small-group, one-on-one, and whole-class settings
The stories and cards are designed to meet children where they are — without requiring a scripted curriculum or rigid structure.
What It Supports
Through animal-led stories, conversations, and reflection, children are invited to:
Notice and name emotions and body sensations
Build empathy and perspective-taking
Practice self-regulation and calming strategies
Express thoughts through storytelling, play, and imagination
Develop a sense of connection to nature and the world around them
These experiences support social-emotional learning, communication, and emotional safety in both educational and therapeutic contexts.
How Educators & Practitioners Use It
The Tiny Wild Earth & Animal Wisdom is intentionally flexible and open-ended for ages 3+ (yes adults enjoy too!). It is commonly used for:
Morning meetings and classroom circles
Counseling and therapeutic sessions
Emotional check-ins and transitions
Storytelling, literacy, and creative expression
Nature-based reflection and outdoor learning
Movement and breathing exercises
There is no “right” way to use it. Children or educators often pull a card, read the story and prompt, and allow children to guide the conversation.
Why It Works Across Diverse Settings
Story-based and non-directive
Inviting for a wide range of communication styles
Gentle entry point for children who struggle with traditional SEL approaches
Adaptable for individuals, small groups, or full classrooms
Complements existing SEL frameworks rather than replacing them
This makes it easy to integrate into current practices without additional training or preparation.
Extending Support Beyond the Classroom
Some schools and organizations also use The Tiny Wild Earth & Animal Wisdom as part of family-support or community-based initiatives — such as take-home resources or small group programs — to help children experience continuity of emotional support beyond the school day.
What Educators & Therapists Are Saying
“I’ve used The Tiny Wild cards as prompts and story starters with students. Some of my younger students even created movements and breathing exercises inspired by their animal, which has been incredibly engaging. I’m very happy and grateful for this tool.”
— School-Based Mental Health Clinician, Mira Monte Elementary
“My younger students (kindergarten through third grade) absolutely love these cards. The animal analogies align beautifully with their developmental level and offer meaningful messages. It’s a great tool.”
— Associate Marriage & Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, Topa Topa Elementary
“We love using The Tiny Wild cards to spark learning around emotional language, especially in neurodivergent-affirming therapy.”
— Speech Therapist, Neurodivergent Children
Ordering for Schools & Organizations
The Tiny Wild Earth & Animal Wisdom is available for:
Individual classrooms or therapeutic practices
Schools and early learning centers
District or organization-wide pilots
Bulk ordering, invoicing, and classroom or school pilot options are available.
About the Creator
Created by Libby McKay, author and illustrator of The Tiny Wild Earth & Animal Wisdom, inspired by a deep belief in supporting children’s emotional lives through story, imagination, and connection to nature.