Hey there! We’re Donna and Karen.

We make learning fun. Keep reading to learn about us!

Specializing in creating enjoyable learning experiences, our content blends education with engagement to enrich your students’ learning journeys.

Partners in life and work, we’re a unique duo – one quirky Montessori elementary trained teacher and one smiley digital designer. Together, our mission is to make learning through the second plane of development meaningful and a ton of fun.

We create engaging content aligned with Montessori principles for teachers, parents, and caregivers working with kids ages 6 to 12. With our combined knowledge and experience, we’re committed to making learning both enjoyable and visually appealing.

Our talents come together in the form of printable and digital Montessori-aligned products and resources. My engaging concepts are brought to life by Karen’s design flair, captivating learners and making them smile!

Meet the Teacher – Donna

I’m a quirky, passionate Montessori guide with over 15 years of in-class experience at the elementary level, plus several years supporting homeschooled students as a virtual Montessori teacher. I’ve also taught ESL online to kids in China aged 6 to 13 — what can I say, I really connect with the elementary-aged child!

I’m also a proud stepmom to a now-adult, bright young woman and had the joy of helping raise her, too.

Whether in person or online, I love sparking curiosity and creating lessons students truly remember – even if it means being a little over the top! I believe deeply in the power of play and purposeful fun: when students are engaged, they’re learning.

My teaching journey began in a Montessori school in Toronto that stayed true to the philosophy, even in the elementary years. I started with 10 upper elementary students; within five years, we grew to over 25 as families saw how the program helped kids thrive, not just academically, but as capable, confident humans.

I believe Montessori education is about more than subjects, it’s about preparing kids for life. That’s why I’m here: to help you bring a little Montessori magic into your elementary learning space.

Meet the Creative – Karen

I’m incredibly grateful for my partner, Karen, who brings all my wild ideas to life and makes everything look amazing. Her creativity turns concepts into eye-catching, kid-friendly resources that are as fun as they are functional.

A playful, smiley graphic designer with over 25 years of experience, Karen’s happy place is behind the camera and designing unique products. Her creative journey includes designing kids’ clothing for Please Mum, stickers for Sandylion, branding for small businesses, and bold, attention-grabbing ads.

She doesn’t just make our products pop, she challenges me to explain Montessori principles clearly and helps me keep my ‘teacher voice’ in check. Her perspective brings clarity, balance, and a touch of whimsy to everything we make.

Karen’s fun, fearless style invites students to jump in, explore, and learn with confidence. Her work reminds all of us that creativity belongs in every corner of the classroom.

More About Us

Did I mention that we self-published a picture book, a cat coloring book, and an activity book? We also have a shop on Teacher Pay Teachers (and on Etsy) where we share fun, Montessori-aligned resources designed for elementary-aged learners. What can we say, we’ve been busy (in the best way) creating together.

When we’re not working, you’ll probably find us walking for miles, working out in the park, enjoying plant-based eats, or on a mission to find the perfect latte at a local coffee shop.

Want to know even more about us?

Meet Dewey, our rescued chihuahua/rat terrier mix from the streets of Texas. With his giant ears and sweet face, he reminds us daily to slow down and enjoy the little things (like naps and treats, despite his allergies!). He’s got a big personality and takes his job as house protector very seriously.

Speaking of houses, we’ve taken ours on the road! As The Nomadic Strays, we live and work full-time in our converted camper van, traveling from one pet sit to the next with Dewey in tow. We’re professional pet sitters, product creators, published authors, and adventure seekers – living tiny, traveling light, and loving the journey.

We’re also eco-conscious and plant-based eaters, always on the lookout for fresh air, good coffee, and new places to explore.

Where We’ve Been Featured

Discover our work in various collaborations and features! Explore more about us in these spaces:

We Are Teachers – 30 Fun Pride Month Activities To Promote Love and Acceptance + Best Montessori Bookshelf Options for School and Home + LGBTQ History Month Origins (Plus 11 Powerful Ways To Celebrate) + 111 Daily Positive Affirmations for Kids (Free Printable Cards) 51 End-of-Year Reflection Questions for Students (Free Slides) + How To Write Acrostic Poems (Examples and Free Templates) + 33 Fun Facts About Space for Curious Minds + 55 Inspiring Leadership Activities To Empower Kids and Adults + 250+ Best Would You Rather Questions for Kids

Edutopia – 6 Dictionary Games to Boost Students’ Vocabulary Skills + Celebrate Earth Day With 5 Hands-On Activities + Using the Montessori Approach to Field Trips + Teaching Leadership Skills With PE Games + 4 Ways to Use the Spring Equinox as a Learning Experience + 21 Effective Learning Games for ELA Classes

Teach Mag – How Spelling Bees Can Improve Literacy Skills in the Classroom

Up Journey – 50+ Qualities of a Good Student

My Four and More – White Elephant Gift Guide

Pretty Progressive – The Best Wholesome Books for 3rd Graders

Swoon Hub – 13 Kid’s Books Streaming on Netflix + 13 Educational Netflix Shows That Are Perfect for Screen Time + 13 Binge-Worthy Netflix Shows and Movies That Teachers Will Love

We’re thrilled you’re here with us and know you’ll love what we have to offer!

Donna and Karen