My Big Why

Wanderwing was created for families who want their kids to grow up curious, confident, and comfortable in their own minds—without screens running the show.

We use gentle gamification to turn outdoor exploration, everyday adventures, and quiet moments into something kids want to engage with. Children earn Wanderwings as they explore outside, journal their experiences, try simple creative games like wandering drawings, or pause for a short meditation when they need a minute. No pressure. No competition. Just small moments that build independence and self-trust.

For parents, Wanderwing offers support without overwhelm. Instead of policing screen time, we help families redirect it—toward imagination, mindfulness, and connection. We also make travel prep easier by giving kids age-appropriate prompts that help them feel involved, prepared, and excited rather than overstimulated or anxious.

This Substack is where I’ll share the thinking behind Wanderwing: ideas about raising screen-balanced kids, reflections from building the product, tools you can use right away, and stories from families learning how to wander a little more—together.

If you’re here, you’re probably not trying to raise a “perfect” child.
You’re trying to raise a curious one.
You’re in the right place.

Emily Carter

Watching my youngest daughter find a snail, name the snail, talk incessantly about the snail, and then look up 'how to care for snails' was the inspiration for this app.

My name is Emily Carter, and I want to get our kids outside. As a mother of two girls and vice president at a major non-profit, I have spent more time than I want to admit wondering if my kids are getting enough free play time.

Outside of work, I love leading my daughter's Girl Scout troop, coaching Girls on the Run, mentoring fundraising professionals, and wandering with my family. My husband, Sam, is an award winning artist, the man who can always 'fix it,' and the shop foreman at the Center for Puppetry Arts.

https://wanderwing.org
Previous
Previous

My daughters are Gen Alpha

Next
Next

Wait! I forgot to tell you…