Champions for NorCal kids

Join us for an exciting conversation during the week of the young child, where we talk about local events and opportunities for families with young children in our community. Visit CAEYC here: https://caeyc.org/board-chapters/chapters/california-cascade-chapter/

Join podcast co-hosts and First 5 Executive Directors of First 5 Shasta and First 5 Tehama as they reflect on the year through data. Getting to know First 5 through data is a powerful way to monitor the effectiveness of early childhood programs and policies. Data helps identify needs, track progress, and make informed decisions about how to best support young children and their families. 

Join us for a lighthearted and fun conversation for our local First 5 Fall Favorite activities and experiences. Sometimes we can all use a reminder of how to play in nature, enjoy the small moments and regulate our nervous system through connection. Together, we share some of the ways we celebrate fall and do all these things keeping the light hearted feeling of childhood in our hearts. 

Celebrating Breast Cancer Awareness has an extra special meaning to us this year. Co-host Wendy Dickens bravely and boldly shares key learning moments; vulnerable moments; and hard moments of her personal journey with Breast Cancer. There is something breathlessly special about being welcomed into someone's journey before they are through the tunnel- this podcast is just that. If you are experiencing your own hard tunnel; or you are a community member, parent, educator, or friend supporting someone through theirs this podcast is for you. In true rural Northern Ca fashion Wendy shares with us her relational learnings.

Join us for an extra special episode where we celebrate awareness of the National Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and learn about common the "NICU"  through our very own co-host Wendy's personal experience having an infant in the NICU as a new mom. Wendy will share her top strategy for supporting new parents with similar experiences and empower us all to advocate as families. We consider the need for families to feel heard and share two critical resources:  Postpartum Support NICU Family Support

In this episode Wendy and Heidi discuss tips for keeping our kids safe in the water, tell you about some options for where to swim and how to be safe in the water on those hot summer days.

In this episode we have a compilation of our past discussions of home visiting. Featuring guests like: Tarrah Selland of Northern Valley Catholic Social Service & TAPP Teen SVCS, Denise Hobbs R.N. P.H.N, and Amy Hobbs of Nurse Family Partnership. The episode not only discusses the resources available in regards to home visiting, but also some personal anecdotes about the benefits of home visiting. Enjoy this exciting episode and get in touch with us via the contact information below! Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org & first5tehama.org

In this episode, Wendy and Heidi give us tips about utilizing holidays like Valentine's day to encourage our children, help them develop emotionally, and strengthen our bond with them.

Quality Counts North State uses a systemic approach to assess, improve, and communicate the level of quality in early care and education programs. In this episode, Wendy and Heidi chat with Alexis Duffy about QCNS and more.

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In this enlightening episode, Wendy and Heidi engage in an insightful conversation with Mary Ann Hansen, Executive Director of First 5 Humboldt County, and her colleague Jennifer Gonzalez, Community Engagement Coordinator and Family Support Navigator at First 5 Humboldt.  The focus of this episode centers around their collaborative effort, the "Hiking Humboldt KIDS” Mary Ann and Jennifer delve into the motivations and inspirations that drove them to create this innovative guide, rooted in the principles of the Surgeon General's Stress Busters. By utilizing these stress-reduction techniques, they've crafted a resource aimed at mitigating toxic stress among families and children. The guide encourages outdoor exploration, aiming to foster learning, relationship building, and personal growth through the wonders of nature. Tune in to discover how this hiking guide provides a pathway for families to not only embrace the great outdoors but also nurture the development of meaningful connections, all while promoting overall well-being and resilience. Join the conversation as they share their valuable insights and experiences, igniting a passion for nature-based education and empowering families to embark on an enriching journey together. Hiking Humboldt Kids is available in English and Spanish.  Learn More:  https://www.first5humboldt.org/hiking-humboldt-kids-brings-excitement-to-explore-the-outdoors/ Book Link: https://backcountrypress.com/book/hiking-humboldt-kids/ Get in touch and let us know what else you'd like to hear on our podcast! Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org & first5tehama.org

Join us in a heartfelt conversation as we delve into the world of perinatal and postpartum care with the incredible Anna, Executive Director of Butte County First 5.

If you enjoyed part 1, you'll love part 2! Postpartum depression is depression that occurs after having a baby. In this #championchat, Wendy and Heidi chat with Morgan Vasquez - licensed family and marriage therapist - regarding post-partum depression and anxiety and how it affects both mothers and fathers. Follow Morgan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy.with.morgan/ Get in touch and let us know what else you'd like to hear on our podcast! Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org & first5tehama.org

Postpartum depression is depression that occurs after having a baby. In this #championchat, Wendy and Heidi chat with Morgan Vasquez - licensed family and marriage therapist - regarding post-partum depression and anxiety and how it affects both mothers and fathers. Follow Morgan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therapy.with.morgan/ Get in touch and let us know what else you'd like to hear on our podcast! Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org & first5tehama.org

Get ready for an empowering episode with our fabulous hosts, Wendy and Heidi, as they dive into the world of ASQ (Ages and Stages Questionnaires) and developmental milestones. They're tackling that common concern of measuring your child's progress and introducing ASQ as a super valuable tool to assess those milestones in various areas. Best part? Wendy and Heidi want you to know that every child develops in their own special way, so no more stressing or comparing with other children. To view ASQ's, visit: https://www.helpmegrowshasta.com/child-development/

We have them. You have them. Our children have them. You got it, we're talking about BIG feelings. Join Wendy and Heidi on this thought provoking, funny, casual, yet educational conversation. Get in touch and let us know what else you'd like to hear on our podcast! Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org & first5tehama.org

In this episode of "Champions for NorCal Kids," co-hosts Wendy and Heidi get real about mental health. As #Champions who wear many hats, they know how stressful it can be to find balance within it all. They share some of the things that work for them, like connecting with nature and getting active. And they remind us of the importance of filling own bucket so we can continue to pour into others. This episode is a must-listen for tips on taking care of your mental health. Get in touch: Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org & first5tehama.org

Join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with special guest Susan Wilson about the 40 Developmental Assets. You'll laugh and learn during this information-packed Champion Chat. Susan Wilson works as a consultant in the community at a variety of nonprofit organizations primarily focused on children and youth. To learn more about the 40 developmental assets, visit the following link: https://www.search-institute.org/our-research/development-assets/developmental-assets-framework/ Contact us: Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org & first5tehama.org

Have you heard the phrase "Do as I say, not as I do?" This episode reminds us that 'role modeling' is one of the most powerful tools we have to positively influence our little one's personalities. Children are constantly absorbing the information they see around them. They are watching everything we say and do from how we handle stress, to how we treat others and how we manage our emotions. In this episode, Wendy and Heidi chat about the importance of modeling. This episode is #ChampionApproved Contact us: Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com | Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Have you ever wondered what it means for a child to be “kindergarten ready”? In this episode, Wendy and Heidi discuss this topic and share valuable resources that will help us set our little ones up for success. Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com | Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

In this episode, Wendy and Heidi chat with Dr. Chan Hellman about his book "Hope Rising" (Co-authored with Casey Gwinn) Listen in as Dr. Chan shares more on his book and the fulfilling work he is blessed to be a part of. We have a few copies of "Hope Rising" to give away, please contact us via DM, Facebook or email to request yours! First come, first served. Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com | Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org View "Hope Rising" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Rising-Science-HOPE-Change/dp/168350965X Watch Dr. Chan's Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qt0fRSx5Kl4

We are in for a treat! Join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with Dr. Chan Hellman. Chan M. Hellman is a professor at the University of Oklahoma and Director of The Hope Research Center. He has written more than 150 scientific publications and has presented at numerous national and international conferences worldwide. Chan also presented his work on hope with TEDx in May of 2021. Chan's current research is focused on the application of hope theory to predict adaptive behaviors, and hope as a psychological strength that buffer stress and adversity among those impacted by family violence. In this context, he is also interested in the impact of prevention and intervention services on improving client hope and wellbeing. Dr. Hellman wrote Hope Rising How the Science of Hope can change your life with Casey Gwinn. View "Hope Rising" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Hope-Rising-Science-HOPE-Change/dp/168350965X Watch Dr. Chan's Ted Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qt0fRSx5Kl4

In the second part of this this two part episode, Heidi and Wendy chat with Tamarra Barrett-Osborne about training and coaching from the heart. Listen in as Tamara shares a walkthrough including the "golden nuggets" or main takeaways in each chapter of her upcoming book “The introductional coaching handbook”. This episode is #championapproved

In this two part episode, Heidi and Wendy chat with Tamarra Barrett-Osborne about training and coaching from the heart. Listen in as Tamara shares a bit about the writing process for her upcoming book “The introductional coaching handbook”. Part two includes a book walk through where Tamara shares main takeaways in each chapter. This episode is #championapproved

Julie Kurtz is an author, national speaker and the Co-founder of the Center for Optimal Brain Integration. Join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with Julie about trauma, the importance of play, and many other interesting topics. This episode is CHAMPION APPROVED! Learn More about Julie Kurtz at: https://www.optimalbrainintegration.com/ Follow us at @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com | Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Today's episode is special! Join our book discussion of “The Deepest Well” by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris. This discussion features Anna Bauer of First 5 Butte County, Mary Ann Hansen of First 5 Humboldt County, Nicole Hinton of First 5 Modoc County, and as always Heidi Mendenhall of First 5 Tehama and Wendy Dickens of First 5 Shasta. Follow us on Instagram.com/championsfornorcalkids DM us on Instagram to get a free copy of The Deepest Well. We are giving away a few copies on a first come, first serve basis. Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com | Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Wendy and Heidi have embarked on a new adventure! Listen in as they introduce "The Deepest Well" by Dr. Nadine Burke Harris and stay tuned for the next episode where other Champions in the 0 to 5 space share their comments and findings after reading this wonderful book. DM us on Instagram to get a free copy of The Deepest Well. We are giving away 8 copies on a first come, first serve basis. Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com | Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Meet one of the CHAMPIONS in our region! Tarrah Selland is a Supervisor at Northern Valley Catholic Social Service and shares a passion for helping Teen Parents connect to the resources they need in order to be better equipped for their little one. Join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with her and learn more about the wonderful work she is doing in the community. To learn about NVCSS: https://nvcss.org/ For more information about the TAPP Program: https://nvcss.org/programs/tapp-teen-services/ Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

On this episode of Champions for Norcal Kids, join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with Pamela Newman, founder and publisher of North State Parent Magazine. North State Parent Magazine is an important resource for Shasta, Tehama, and surrounding counties. Learn more about Pamela's passion for hosting events that nurture families and her work at NSP Mag for the last 30 years. Visit northstateparent.com/ to view the magazine, and learn more. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with Renee Menefee from the Shasta County Office of Education - Early Childhood services about Preschool and Kindergarten! There have been a few changes regarding universal transitional kindergarten in the recent years. This episode will update and inform you on the amazing new things happening for our 4 and 5 year olds. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Join Wendy Dickens as she chats with Denise Hobbs R.N., P.H.N, and Amy Hawes, of Nurse Family Partnership. Nurse Family Partnership is a Home visiting program in Shasta county and across the nation that pairs a nurse that has received specialized training with a first time new mom. This program helps mothers work through diverse topics and areas that come with being a new parent. Enjoy this super informative, and fun episode and visit the links below for resources. Nurse-Family Partnership main phone number is 530-225-5394 NFPmom.org is a great resource for new moms interested in self-referrals: Nurse-Family Partnership – Helping First-Time Parents Succeed (nursefamilypartnership.org) Here is our local NFP website that can be used by community members (moms or referral sources): Shasta County HHSA - Health and Safety - Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP)

We're in for a treat this week as Wendy and Heidi chat with Erika Jones (Professor of Psychology at Simpson University, Library Foundation) You will enjoy this information packed episode where we touch learning styles, behavioral changes, early literacy, forming habits, rewards & gratitude, and several other enriching topics. This episode is #ChampionApproved Make sure to share it with a #Champion near you

Join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with Michelle Schmidt, Supervising Public Health Nurse for Tehama County about Home Visiting. This episode is rich with experiences and perspective. Enjoy! FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Join Wendy Dickens and Heidi Mendenhall as they discuss home visiting. Whether it be for early intervention, school readiness or a distinct model, all home visiting programs aim to support families and children. Listen to part one of this series and stay tuned for more. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org Here is a helpful resource about home visiting: https://mailchi.mp/fb112302a1ad/october_f5tehama-14589917?e=13a7ac750e

You've probably heard about First 5 Shasta's new partnership with Bright by Text. On this episode, Wendy and Heidi chat with First 5 Shasta's very own Grant Coordinator, Jackie Scott about this amazing new program. Listen to learn more! FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Many resources train teachers for urban spaces but not many prepare them for rural spaces. How far north have you partnered with your community? Join Wendy and Heidi as they chat with Anne Schulte about rural spaces, urban spaces, and the space in-between. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Join Wendy and Heidi as they discuss the importance of a Father figure and talk about Brian's Fatherhood journey. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Join Wendy and Heidi as they discuss the importance of a Father figure and talk about Kenneth's Fatherhood journey. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org https://morganhilllife.com/2016/05/07/junior-journalism-talent-show-helps-students-learn-gain-self-confidence/#:~:text=Talents%20are%20things%20you're,discover%20our%20performing%20arts%20gifts.&text=Our%20school's%20talent%20show%20helps,confidence%20through%20dancing%20and%20singing. https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-21-irrefutable-laws-of-leadership-by-john-c-maxwell/247051/item/5749441/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIta6o_aqu8QIVQTytBh10ZgmgEAQYASABEgIQmPD_BwE#idiq=5749441&edition=3394150

Doug Woodworth is First 5 Shasta's Data Analyst. Wendy and Heidi as they discuss the importance of a Father figure and talk about Doug's Fatherhood journey. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Joe Chimenti is a board supervisor for District 1 in Shasta County. He is a husband, father of four, and a resident of Shasta County since 1996. Join Wendy and Joe as they discuss the importance of a Father figure and talk about Joe's fatherhood journey. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Jake Mangas is the President and CEO of the Redding Chamber of Commerce. Join Wendy Dickens and Heidi Mendenhall as they discuss the importance of a Father figure and talk about Jake's fatherhood journey. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

Kevin O'Rourke serves as the Assistant Superintendent/Vice President of Student Services and the Chief Executive Officer for North State Together. Join Wendy Dickens and Heidi Mendenhall as they discuss the importance of a Father figure and talk about Kevin's fatherhood journey. FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM @championsfornorcalkids Email Heidi: hmendenhall@first5tehama.com Email Wendy: wdickens@first5shasta.org first5shasta.org | first5tehama.org

#72 Join Wendy Dickens, Heidi Mendenhall, and Superintendent of schools in Shasta County Office of Education Judy Flores as they discuss important topics such as education, early education, and Reach Higher Shasta! wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhall@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org https://reachhighershasta.com/

#71 Join Wendy Dickens, Heidi Mendenhall, and special guest Julie Fetherston from First 5 Mendocino as they discuss important resources! wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhall@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org http://www.mendochildren.org/

#70 Listen in to the conversation with Wendy Dickens and Mike Freeman about hinge moments, having intentionality, and staying curious. Who is your champion? wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhall@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org

#69 Listen in to the conversation with Wendy Dickens and Mike Freeman about hinge moments, having intentionality, and staying curious. Who is your champion? wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhall@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org

#68 Join Wendy Dickens, Heidi Mendenhall, and special guest Nick Webb to expand in the conversation that started last week and learn how you can support books in the NICU in the north state. wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhal@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org https://www.supportmercynorth.org/Mercy-Redding-NICU https://www.amazon.com/Soccernomics-England-Germany-Australia-Destined/dp/1568584814 https://www.amazon.com/Humble-Pi-When-Wrong-World/dp/0593084691/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=when+math+goes+wrong+in+the+real+world&qid=1644430516&s=books&sprefix=when+math+goes%2Cstripbooks%2C108&sr=1-1 https://www.amazon.com/Humble-Pi-When-Wrong-World/dp/0593084691/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=when+math+goes+wrong+in+the+real+world&qid=1644430516&s=books&sprefix=when+math+goes%2Cstripbooks%2C108&sr=1-1

#67 Join Wendy Dickens, Heidi Mendenhall, and special guest Nick Webb who discusses his family's journey in the NICU and how it lead to his ongoing championing of early literacy. Hearing the first-hand account of the birth of both Nick's twins and the NICU book project will leave you inspired. And don't miss the expert tip at the end of the episode, three things we can all do when it is our friend who is heading to the NICU. This episode is filled with personal stories and wisdom. wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhal@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org

#66 Join Wendy Dickens, Heidi Mendenhall, and Simply Well Balanced founder and local first-grade teacher Lauren Tingley as she discusses her own journey to a more balanced life and how she now uses the information and strategies she has learned to support her students, her community, and her family. wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhall@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org https://simply-well-balanced.com/kids-declutter-bedroom-fun-game/ https://simply-well-balanced.com/benefits-minimalism-mom/ https://simply-well-balanced.com/why-kids-need-minimalism-benefits/ https://simply-well-balanced.com/start-a-toy-rotation-10-important-reasons/

#65 Join regular podcast host Heidi Mendenhall in a special edition podcast featuring Family Table Talks. Heidi Mendenhall and Jennifer Torres host a local youtube series discussing topics that truly matter. This episode will discuss Oral Health; discuss local resources and share strategies through the lens of children and family. Champions for Norcal Kids is proud to present this special edition! wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhall@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org

#64 Join Wendy Dickens, Heidi Mendenhall, and local school administrator, literacy champion, and author Nancy Veatch as they discuss early and middle literacy! wdickens@first5shasta.org hmendenhall@first5tehama.com first5shasta.org first5tehama.org https://www.amazon.com/Literacy-Context-LinC-Instructional-Strategies/dp/0135034841