The Wonder Years is a heartfelt summer project honoring the raw imagination, joy, and creativity of early childhood. Through a series of video interviews, photos, and a culminating public showcase of original artwork, this experience highlights what it means to see the world through a child’s eyes, before structure and schooling shape how they express themselves.

WHO IS NIMMI MALAICKAL?

Spoiler: she's the dreamer, doer, and director of this whole thing. Full bio here.

NOMINATE A YOUNG ARTIST

Parents, guardians, grandparents, aunts, and uncles, you're all welcome to nominate a child you love who is between 2.5–5 years old and based in the New York / New Jersey area.

We're looking for curious minds who light up when they're coloring, painting, building, baking, dancing, storytelling, or simply exploring. No prior "talent" is necessary, just a spark of wonder.

DEADLINE TO NOMINATE: May 2, 2025
We’ll be reaching out to selected families by mid-May.

WHAT’S INVOLVED?

Each selected child will participate in a summer-long creative journey, documented in a thoughtful and joyful way in and around each participants’ homes.

This includes:

*a short video interview with your child

*photo and video documentation of them creating their artwork(s)

*a collaborative piece made with the other featured children

*a final exhibition where their work, voice, and spirit will be showcased

*parents will receive keepsake materials and will be involved every step of the way.

TIME COMMITMENT

Filming & Creative Sessions: 2–3 short visits between late May and July 31st (each 1–2 hours long, scheduled in advance)

Parental Presence Required: A parent or guardian must be present for every interaction and filming session.

Consent for your child’s image and story to be shared on our website, social media, and during the exhibition.

Showcase Date: You must be available on Saturday, August 23 or Saturday, September 6, 2025 for the in-person event.

OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY

As the project lead, I bring 8+ years of experience volunteering in kindergarten classrooms, working with children through photography, and being a proud aunt to many nieces and nephews.

All sessions will be supervised by a parent or guardian, and we’ll ensure full transparency through model releases and written agreements. Your child’s safety, comfort, and joy are our top priority.

HOW CHILDREN WILL BE SELECTED

This project is intentionally small so each child gets the care and time they deserve and therefore only 5 children will be selected at this time. Selections will be based on:

Schedule alignment

Proximity to NYC

Ensuring a range of personalities, backgrounds, and ways of creating

We’re striving for a vibrant and balanced group that reflects the many shades of childhood magic.

If your child isn’t selected this time, please still join us! We welcome you to support the cause by:

*Attending the showcase

*Sharing the project with others

*Contributing (see below!)

WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PROJECT?

The Wonder Years is independently produced with the intention of creating something meaningful and community-rooted. If you believe in this mission and would like to help bring it to life, we’re open to partnerships, donations, or in-kind support (art supplies, snacks for the kids, venue contributions, etc.).

Every little bit helps. This is not a fundraiser. It’s a labor of love. Let’s make something beautiful together.

Contact: nimmimalaickal@gmail.com