Whatever the topic, there’s probably a group of people with similar interests nearby. Try looking online, sharing your interests with others, or asking at your local library – they’re great places for information on community activities and, of course, for learning through reading!

Learning starts with being curious

We’re all born learners, curious about the world around us. Curiosity drove us to explore and get up on two feet in those first months of life. Being curious is great for our mental wellbeing, but it’s a characteristic that sometimes fades in adulthood.

Curiosity can be nurtured by asking questions or trying new things, and, when it is, it helps us adapt, supports positive mental wellbeing and may even help to protect our memory as we age.

Learning about the world around us

There’s so much to learn about, and opportunities are all around us – in both the digital world and the real world. Nature is full of opportunities for learning, from getting to know the creatures beneath our feet, insects, plants and fungi, to looking up to learn about birds or the stars in the night sky.

We can learn about our local history and feel more connected to our local area or learn about our family. Or we can learn new skills, from trying out a new recipe to finding new ways to express our creativity.

Learning about the people around us

Learning can also mean discovering more about the people the around us. Being curious about others’ experiences, their thoughts and feelings can help us to connect more meaningfully and build and maintain relationships.