About Hello Curio & Co.

Hi! I’m Ellie—speech language pathologist by day, curiosity chaser by summer.

Hello Curio & Co. was born during my very first summer off with both of my kids and no childcare—after 15 years of working full-time. I was thrilled (and a little daunted) to finally have this wide-open time together. My children have insatiable curiosity (hence, Hello Curio(sity) and Co(mpany), and I knew I needed a gentle rhythm to our days—not too rigid, but not a total free-for-all either.

That’s how this little project took root: an exploration of what’s possible when we follow our children’s wonder, get outside, and use what’s already around us.

As a speech-language pathologist who works remotely, Hello Curio & Co. became my way to reconnect with in-person, creative, play-centered learning in my own community. It’s where I document the museums we visit, the cultures and languages we explore, the trails we wander, and the sparks of inspiration that guide our days.

Don’t get me wrong—I fiercely defend virtual therapy and will proudly argue that every single activity shared here could be adapted for a virtual setting. I believe in access, flexibility, and the power of creative connection—whether in person or through a screen. You can catch all that razzle dazzle at www.theessentialteletherapist.com.

Here, you’ll find blog posts chronicling our themes, local adventures, and family discoveries—plus 11 whimsical inspiration packets to help guide your own explorations. These aren’t rigid lesson plans. They’re gentle jumping-off points you can tailor to your family’s schedule, your child’s interests, and your own energy. They’ll contain a theme, recommendations for books, manipulatives, field trips, videos, podcasts, restaurants, and recipes (as appropriate).

You know your family best. I'm just here to offer a little inspiration, encouragement, and maybe a fresh way of looking at what’s already in your backyard.

So pull out the sidewalk chalk, pack a few snacks, and follow your kid’s curiosity. There’s magic in the everyday.

Welcome to Hello Curio & Co.
Let’s explore.

The Curious Crew

A woman wearing glasses and a beige sweater is holding a white mug and smiling. She is indoors with a dark background.
A young boy with short brown hair and a white t-shirt sitting on the grass holding a baby girl with a yellow headband, surrounded by yellow decorative eggs, in an outdoor garden setting with a white wagon and flowers in the background.

Ellie Richter
Curiosity Coordinator

James (7) : Head of Inquisitive Investigations
Juniper (1) : Junior Whimsy Consultant

Blue magic wand with a star at the tip, surrounded by small sparkles.

We believe every child is born curious—and at Hello Curio & Co., our mission is to help families nurture that spark by providing 11 lesson plans to guide your summer weeks. Through playful, low-cost adventures and culturally rich explorations, we empower families to connect, learn, and grow together—no matter their schedule, background, or educational path.

A young girl and a woman are smiling and leaning close together, with the girl holding the woman's face. They appear to be happy and sharing a joyful moment indoors.

“The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing.”
— Albert Einstein

Person painting a red, heart-shaped object with a paintbrush, with other colorful heart-shaped objects in the background.

“Chase questions, not answers”