Nurturing curiosity and connection

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National Geographic Little Kids magazine supports early years learning through the power of print

When National Geographic Little Kids magazine launched in January 2023, its goal was simple yet ambitious – to help preschoolers explore the world around them through edutainment: a fun and educational, interactive learning experience aligned to trusted educational frameworks.

Less than two years later, that mission has been recognised and validated by our Highly Commended status in the Early Exploration category at the Teach Early Years Awards 2025, praised for its innovation, educational value and eco-conscious approach.

“I really enjoyed these magazines, and I love the idea of children in the early years having a nature and science publication designed specifically for them… They’re sustainable, inclusive, and great value for money.”

— Teach Early Years Awards 2025 Judge

Not only has the magazine been recognised by awarding bodies, educational professionals and early years settings, but National Geographic Little Kids has also become a firm family favourite for thousands of planet-passionate readers across the UK.

Rooted in the EYFS – and backed by data

Every issue of National Geographic Little Kids is designed around the Development Matters Framework, ensuring content aligns with the seven key areas of learning. An in-house early years advisor reviews each issue before publication, so parents and practitioners can be confident that activities are developmentally meaningful and pedagogically sound.

Subscriber surveys help track the magazine’s educational impact – and the results are impressive:

● Over 90% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed that the magazine supports communication, language and literacy development

● 97% agreed or strongly agreed that it supports a child’s understanding of the world

These findings confirm what educators recognise – that Little Kids offers genuine EYFS-aligned learning with every issue.

Collaboration that shapes excellence

The magazine’s success is rooted in collaboration and industry knowledge. It is reviewed and endorsed by the National Day Nurseries Association (NDNA) and the Early Years Alliance (EYA), with their insights directly influencing design and content.

Feedback from the EYA led to a small but powerful change – replacing traditional colouring pages with mark-making spaces, encouraging creativity and fine motor skill development. Customer insights and feedback are thoughtfully considered. Shared moments and learning experiences inspired ‘Sneak Peek’ emails and ‘Explore Together’ in-mag pages – short guides filled with conversation prompts and activity extensions to help adults and children explore each issue together.

“There’s so much information packed into each magazine – they’re fantastic!”

— National Day Nurseries Association

Families and early years settings are regularly invited to share feedback, helping shape future editions, ensuring the magazine continues to meet children’s developmental needs.

Screen-free learning that sticks

In a world where screens dominate children’s play, National Geographic Little Kids champions the joy of print. Every issue includes over 40 interactive sticker activities and games, offering tactile, hands-on opportunities to build fine motor skills, problem-solving, and curiosity.

In fact, 91% of parents surveyed said the magazine provides an excellent alternative to screentime.

Each month’s theme explores the natural world – from animals and habitats to weather, space, and science – brought to life through National Geographic’s world-class photography and storytelling. For educators, it’s a ready-made classroom resource that supports small-group work, topic-based learning, and moments of quiet reflection.

“91% of parents say National Geographic Little Kids is an excellent alternative to screentime.”

A sustainable choice for a greener future

Sustainability sits at the foundation of Creature & Co., the independent publisher of National Geographic Little Kids and a certified B Corp. From ethically sourced materials to a reduction in paper weight – a change projected to save seven trees annually – every decision it makes aims to minimise environmental impact.

“We’re projected to save seven trees a year – and counting.”

The passion for sustainability impressed the Teach Early Years Awards judges, who applauded the team for going to “great trouble to create a sustainable, eco-friendly resource”.

By celebrating the natural world and environmental responsibility, Little Kids helps nurture the next generation of young readers who love – and want to protect – our planet.

Inspiring a lifelong love of learning

At its core, National Geographic Little Kids is about connection – between children and caregivers, between learning and play, and between curiosity and care for the world around us.

For parents, it’s a joyful, screen-free way to explore together. For educators, it’s a trusted, EYFS-aligned tool that inspires curiosity, communication, and discovery in every setting.

With expert-backed content, sustainable values, and award-winning design, National Geographic Little Kids is proud to lead the way in the children’s magazine market as a must-have educational gift that uncovers a world of discovery and sparks a love for learning with every issue.