Our Team

My Journey to Creating My Learning Toolbox Education: A Mother's Vision and an Educator's Mission

My academic journey, which includes a Bachelor's Degree, a Post-Graduate Certificate, a Master of Education, and a Master of Philosophy in Social & Emotional Learning, had always been a source of pride for me. Working as an Educational Researcher at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) further deepened my understanding of the educational landscape. But it was motherhood that truly opened my eyes to the gaps in our system.

Over a decade in the education sector taught me a lot, but nothing prepared me for the lessons I'd learn as a mother. I realised that while we place so much emphasis on academic achievements, we often overlook the emotional and social development of our children. I wanted more for my kids. I wanted to understand their feelings, to approach their big emotions with empathy, compassion, and knowledge.

This personal revelation was the catalyst for My Learning Toolbox Education. I envisioned a platform where parents, educators, and therapists could come together, armed with tools and resources to foster emotional intelligence from a young age. I wanted to create a space where the emotional wellbeing of children was as valued as their academic progress.

My Learning Toolbox Education is more than just a business to me; it's a piece of my heart, my mission, and my commitment to every child, parent, educator, and therapist out there. It's the culmination of my experiences, both as a mother and an educator, and my unwavering belief in the transformative power of social-emotional learning.

I invite you to join me on this journey. Together, we can shape a future where every child feels understood, valued, and deeply nurtured.

Read my recent publications:

Close, M., Killingly, C., Gaumer-Erickson, A., & Noonan, P. (2023). What is Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and why is it important? In Graham, J. L. (Ed.), Inclusive Education for the 21st Century: Theory, Policy, and Practice (2nd ed., pp. 275-301). Routledge.

Close, M., & Graham, L. J. (2024, February 7). Australia doesn't need a 'Behaviour Curriculum'. We need to implement Social and Emotional Learning now. Australian Association for Research in Education. https://blog.aare.edu.au/australia-doesnt-need-a-behaviour-curriculum-we-need-to-implement-social-and-emotional-learning-now/