The ECE Classroom with Susie Beghin

In this episode of the ECE Classroom podcast, host Susie Beghin and guest Amanda Da Costa discuss the importance of embracing silliness in early childhood education. They explore how being silly can enhance connections with children, support social emotional development, and create apositive learning environment. The conversation also highlights practical ways educators can incorporate silliness and singing into their daily routines to foster engagement and joy in the classroom.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Early Childhood Education andEmbracing Silliness02:58 The Importance of Embracing Your Silly Side06:45 Silliness and Social Emotional Development09:25 Building Connections Through Playfulness13:15 Practical Ways to Incorporate Silliness18:38 The Power of Singing in Early Childhood23:50 Favorite Songs and Games for Educators28:28 Susie's Summary and TakeawaysMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode, we're diving into the heart of every early childhood classroom and learning space—circle time! Susie talks to Jacky Sheppard, Early Years Consultant, about how to turn this daily routine into a powerful moment of connection, learning, and joy through creative music and movement activities and imaginative storytelling.As an educator, you'll walk away with fresh, playful ideasto keep little ones engaged and excited to participate. From fingerplays and movement songs that boost coordination to storytelling that sparks curiosity and language development, you'll learn how to transform circle time into a magical experience filled with inquiry, discovery, and exploration.Get ready to sing, move, and make some circle time memories!Chapters00:00 Introduction to Circle Time 02:58 Why is Circle Time Important in the Early Years06:00 Components of a Successful Circle Time 09:12 Benefits of Circle Time for Transitions11:42 Spontaneous Circles 14:50 Music and Movement Ideas21:27 Storytelling Ideas29:14 Susie's reflection and takeawaysAbout Jacky SheppardWith over 45 years of experience in early childhoodeducation, Jacky Sheppard is a trailblazer and passionate advocate for high-quality child care. As the visionary behind the Streetsville Children's Centre and Streetsville Academy, she has dedicated a lifetime to nurturing young minds and supporting families.An influential voice in the industry, Jacky serves on the Executive of the Private Daycare Operators Group and is an active member of the Education Minister Advisory Committee, where she champions policies that put childrenfirst. In addition to operating outstanding child care centres, she consults and trains early childhood educators, equipping the next generation of professionals with the tools and inspiration they need to thrive. She continues to shape the future of early learning through advocacy, mentorship, and asteadfast commitment to excellence in early years education.If you would like to book a workshop with Susie and Jacky, visit www.susiebeghin.com for more information.Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode of the ECE Classroom podcast, host SusieBeghin welcomes behaviour specialist Andy Baker to discuss effective strategies for managing challenging behaviors in early childhood education classrooms. Andy emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for behaviors. He introduces his Six-Stage Target Model for behavior management, which focuses on proactive strategies and building trust with children. The conversation highlights the significance of a person-centered approach in education, recognizing that each child's needs and responses are unique. Andy shares practical advice for educators on fostering trust and connection with young children, especially those experiencing separation anxiety. The episode concludes with insights on the profound impact educators have on children's emotional development and behaviour.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Early Childhood Education and Behaviour Management03:25 A shift in language from 'challenging behaviors' to'behaviors that challenge"07:14 Attention-seeking Behaviour11:51 The Six-Stage Target Model for Behaviour Management14:47 Practical Strategies for Educators19:29 Building Trust with Young Children26:12 The Importance of a Person-Centered Approach31:17 Susie's reflection and takeawaysAbout Andy BakerAndy Baker is a renowned Behavior Specialist, author,and entrepreneur with over 20 years of expertise in health and social care. A leading voice in the field of human behavior, Andy combines deep professional insight with a proven track record in business innovation. His latest book, Targeting the Positive, launched in November 2024, offers transformative strategies for personal and professional growth.  https://www.able-training.co.uk/Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie Beghin interviews ECE Professor, Christine Zupo, about the Science of Happiness and its relevance to early childhood education.Christine explains the principles of positive psychology, the sustainable happiness model, and how educators can influence children's emotional well-being. The conversation delves into intentional strategies for fostering happiness, the distinction between joy and happiness, and the physical effects of positive emotions.Christine emphasizes the importance of intentionality in creating positive experiences and the significant role educators play in shaping children's baseline of happiness.Chapters 00:00 Introductions02:21 What is the Science of Happiness04:24 The Sustainable Happiness Model09:26 Intentional Strategies to Achieve Happiness16:12 Influence of Educators on Children's Happiness20:17 Physical Effects of Positive Emotions25:57 Susie's Reflection and TakeawaysAbout Christine ZupoChristine Zupo is a professor at the University of Guelph-Humber and Humber College in the Early Childhood degree/diploma and Electives programs, bringing over 35 years of experience working with young children andfamilies in a variety of Early Learning and Care settings.Christine has been teaching post-secondary education for over 18 years, holds a Master of Arts degree and is a passionate advocate for social justice issues.Christine's research interest is studying the effects of positive emotions on the subjective sense of wellbeing to better understand how post-secondary institutions can build initiatives that create a culture of mental wellness.About The WorkshopsPlease check out this link for more details about her professional development workshops.https://www.canva.com/design/DAGbYWfTKKI/KUsvEReTZ1wmaZOBk1jLJg/edit?utm_content=DAGbYWfTKKI&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link2&utm_source=sharebuttonMusic from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this conversation, Susie Beghin discusses the significance of storytelling for young children with guests Daniela and Dina from Little Light Books. They explore the inspiration behind their children's books, the key messages they aim to convey, and the developmental benefits of storytelling. The discussion highlights the importance of creating a safe and engaging environment for children through interactive storytelling techniques. Daniela and Dina share their experiences as educators and authors, emphasizing the impact their stories have on children's learning and emotional development. Susie Beghin reflects on the need for interactive storytelling techniques to engage children and enhance their imagination. The episode encourages educators and parents to incorporate props and real-life experiences into storytelling to create a more immersive learning environment. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Storytelling for Young Children 01:15 Inspiration Behind Writing Children's Books 03:48 Key Messages in Children's Literature 08:00 The Importance of Storytelling in Development 09:57 Creating a Safe Space Through Storytelling 14:23 Engaging Storytelling Techniques for Educators 19:08 Favorite Stories and Their Impact 24:00 Susie's episode reflection and takeaways About Daniela and Dina (Little Light Books Inc) Igniting the love of reading was the inspiration behind creating this series for young children.  The engaging stories are familiar and relatable, as well as diverse and inclusive; expressing the message, "I believe in you!" Ethically produced on FSC paper with an environmentally soft touch finish. Proudly manufactured in Canada from start to finish. https://www.littlelightbooks.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/littlelightbooks_/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/LittleLightBooksInc/ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this bonus episode, The ECE Power Hour gathered leading early childhood education podcasters for a dynamic roundtable discussion on the future of the field. Susie Beghin joined the conversation to explore impactful topics, including the significance of play, the value of mentorship, and innovative strategies to elevate early childhood education. This bonus episode is a collaboration between: The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast (moderator) The Everything ECE Podcast ECE Honestly Podcast Child Care Conversations Podcast The Forgotten ECE Podcast Pre-K Spot Podcast The Inspiring ECE Podcast Shaping Little Minds Podcast

In this holiday episode of the ECE Classroom, host Susie Beghin addresses pressing questions from early childhood educators about managing challenging behaviors in the classroom, effective parent communication, classroom strategies and team dynamics. The episode covers challenging behavior topics such as aggressive behavior, tantrums, biting, speech difficulties and handling conflict between children. Susie discusses effective communication with parents while emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding child development, and building trust with both children and parents to create a supportive learning environment and great relationships with parents. In this episode, Susie Beghin addresses key questions related to early childhood classrooms, focusing on managing transitions, the importance of messy play, fostering inclusion, effective team dynamics, addressing educator burnout, and the challenges of opening a daycare. She provides practical strategies and insights for educators to enhance their teaching practices and support their students' development. More information about Susie Beghin is available at www.susiebeghin.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Holiday Episode and Q&A Format 01:00 Strategies for Managing Aggressive Behavior 06:10 Strategies to Deal with a Tantrum 07:11 Strategies for Children who are Biting 11:08 Strategies to Support Children with Speech Difficulties 12:30 Supporting Conflict Between Children 15:05 How to Stop Children from Using Inappropriate Language 17:07 How to Support New Children in the Classroom 19:30 Lingering Parents at Drop-off Time 21:16 Effective Parent Communication 23:29 Managing Transitions in Early Childhood Education 26:33 How to Manage Messy Play 30:03 Fostering Inclusion in the Classroom 31:50 Team Communication and Celebrating our Differences 36:30 Addressing Educator Burnout 39:00 Challenges of Opening a New Daycare Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie Beghin speaks with Cameile Henry, co-founder of Strengthen Hands and author of several children's books focused on emotional regulation. They discuss the importance of understanding children's emotions, recognizing signs of emotional struggles, and the role of books in helping children express their feelings. Cameile shares insights from her workshops for parents and educators, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in supporting children's emotional development. The conversation highlights the significance of community and resources in fostering emotional literacy and well-being in children. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emotional Regulation and Strengthen Hands 02:11 Common Signs that a Child is Struggling with their Emotions 11:22 The Role of Storytelling in Emotional Regulation 20:37 Workshops and Community Engagement for Parents and Educators 27:27 Susie's Reflection on Emotional Regulation in the Early Years About Cameile Henry As an ECE professor she has facilitated numerous learning opportunities to enrich the lives of preservice educators. She has supported children from infancy to 12 years of age as an ECE. She is a registered facilitator for Circle of Security, an international program that supports primary care providers with the tools to enhance building strong attachments with children. She also serves as an educational consultant for the CBC animation series ‘Jeremy and Jazzy'. Instagram - StrengthenHands Youtube - @StrengthenHandsEDU Website - www.strengthenhands.com Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie Beghin speaks with Mary Plain, a speech and language pathologist from Hello Speech. They discuss the importance of early identification of speech delays in children, strategies for educators to support language development, and how to approach parents about potential concerns. Mary emphasizes the distinction between speech and language, the significance of early intervention, and the resources available for educators and parents to enhance communication skills in children. Susie further explores the differences between speech and language and emphasizes the importance of language development in early childhood education. She highlights the impact of daycare programs on speech and language development and the benefits of a classroom environment. She emphasizes the importance of early intervention and the de-stigmatization of speech and language services in education. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Hello Speech Developmental Services 02:15 Identifying Speech Delays in Early Childhood Education 06:25 Approaching Parents About Speech Services 10:10 Strategies for Supporting Children with Speech Delays 11:56 Understanding the Difference Between Speech and Language 16:45 Enhancing Communication with Visual Aids and Sign Language 20:52 The Impact of Daycare Programs on Speech and Language Development 22:54 Looking Beyond Words: Assessing Communication in Children About Mary Plain (Hello Speech) Mary Plain is a Master's level Speech-Language Pathologist and is registered with the College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario (CASLPO). Since 2005, she has been practicing with specialties in the areas of Autism Spectrum Disorder, Motor Speech Disorders, Social-Communication challenges, Late Talkers, and Language Disorders. www.hellospeechgta.com Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Amanda DaCosta, a supervisor at Alpha's Discovery Kids Preschool and Daycare, about how to educate parents on the importance of play and how to engage with their children. They discuss the need for educators to empathize with parents and understand that they may not have the same knowledge or tools. They also emphasize the role of parents as the first and best educators for their children. The conversation covers the use of everyday household items for play and learning, the four pillars of learning (language and literacy, STEAM, physical activity and nutrition, and mindful awareness), and the importance of communication between educators and parents to show the value of play-based learning. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:04 Empathizing with Parents and Understanding Their Perspective 02:45 The Role of Parents as the First Educators 04:27 Using Everyday Household Items for Play and Learning 08:04 The Four Pillars of Learning: Language and Literacy, STEAM, Physical Activity and Nutrition, Mindful Awareness 13:08 Favorite Activities for Parents to Do with Their Children 16:12 The Importance of Communication in Showing the Value of Play-Based Learning 21:15 The Spark that Keeps us Learning 23:51 Susie's new book launch: Parents Learn To Play Too Parents Learn To Play Too: A Parent's Guide to the Early Years is available on Amazon or on Susie's website at www.susiebeghin.com Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie Beghin interviews Rusty Keeler, a natural playscape designer and advocate for nature play. They discuss the importance of nature play for children's development and how to incorporate nature into outdoor play spaces. Rusty emphasizes the need for small steps, such as adding planter boxes or loose parts, to create a more natural environment. They also touch on the concept of risky play and the benefits it offers. But before you acquire materials to transform your outdoor space, Rusty suggests the most important thing to do is to evaluate what you will allow - what you say "yes" to! Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:50 The Importance of Nature Play 05:00 Incorporating Nature into Outdoor Play Spaces 12:05 Must-have Play Equipment to Improve Outdoor Spaces 16:03 What Loose Parts to Add to Outdoor Spaces 19:34 Addressing Concerns about Messy Play and Risky Play 28:55 Susie's Reflection and Takeaways About Nature Play and Improving Outdoor Play Spaces About Rusty Keeler Rusty Keeler is a designer, author, and speaker with a unique sensitivity to the sights, sounds and experiences of childhood. For over 30 years Rusty has traveled the world designing natural outdoor play environments and speaking about the benefits and beauty of saying “yes” to children's play. Creating a sense of place and playful connections to the natural world are at the heart of Rusty's design work. Described as a cross between Mr Rogers and Jerry Garcia, Rusty is the author of multiple books on play and playscapes including his new book Adventures in Risky Play: What is Your Yes? (Exchange Press: 2020)Rusty is a frequent keynote speaker and presenter at conferences, communities, and colleges worldwide — but he also likes being home enjoying a creative life with his family in his backyard and the creeks and gorges of Ithaca, NY. www.rustykeeler.com Free OUTDOOR LOOSE PARTS Guide https://rustykeeler.com/loosepartslistfd/ @rusty_keeler_designs Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode, host Susie Beghin interviews Ana Valle Rivera, a public speaker and workshop facilitator, about the importance of lifelong learning and professional development for early childhood educators. They discuss the impact of professional development on educators' well-being and its positive effect on children's learning. They also explore different ways of learning, including in-person workshops, virtual learning, and communities of practice. Ana emphasizes the importance of having a growth mindset and being open to new learning opportunities. They also discuss strategies for implementing new knowledge into practice and encouraging educators to become lifelong learners. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:18 The Importance of Professional Development 04:58 Different Ways of Learning 11:26 Virtual vs In-person Learning 17:00 How to Implement What You Learn in your Practice 19:07 How to Encourage Lifelong Learning 21:46 The Difference Between Professional Learning and Professional Development About Our Guest Ana is a proud mother of three, a public speaker, a consultant, and the founder of Early Years Thriving. Since 2007 Ana has gained experience working with children and families using inclusive and trauma-informed approaches. Through her passion for teaching, Ana has also facilitated hundreds of educational workshops for thousands of ECEs, teachers, caregivers, and parents. Ana has a background in ECE, a Bachelor's Degree in Child and Youth Care, and is completing a Master's in Professional Education in ECE. Link to a free workshop on making the most of your professional learning can be found here: https://workshops.earlyyearsthriving.com/courses/making-the-most-of-pd www.earlyyearsthriving.com Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Erica Saccoccio, the owner of a multi-location child care center, about play-based learning. Erica explains that play-based learning should be fun and engaging while also having a learning goal in mind. She emphasizes the importance of intentional materials and guiding children in their learning. Erica also discusses the use of observation-based learning and the importance of teacher engagement and enjoyment in the learning process. The conversation covers topics such as the role of routines in play-based learning, the importance of autonomy for children, and how to communicate the benefits of play-based learning to parents. Play-based learning is more than just unstructured free play. It requires intent and purpose. Susie Beghin shares five key principles of play: following the child's lead, engaging in meaningful conversation, asking open-ended questions, playing at the child's physical level, and engaging in both free play and intentional play. These principles create a safe space for children to learn, explore, and express themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:34 Defining Play-Based Learning 03:35 How to Encourage Educators to Play 7:28 How to make Routines Playful and Child-Directed 9:25 Fostering Autonomy and Belonging in the Classroom 12:35 Communicating the Benefits of Play-Based Learning to Parents 20:02 Susie's Reflection on Creating Engaging and Intentional Play Experiences using the 5 Key Principles of Play About Our Guest Erica is a motivational speaker with 23+ years of experience as an entrepreneur. Erica is the owner of a multi-location child care centre called “Family Tree” in Rhode Island, USA. Erica is a passionate leader in the early childhood education industry and hosts a podcast called, The Child Care Director's Chair. www.stellarbusinessconcepts.com https://www.instagram.com/ccdcpodcast https://www.youtube.com/@childcaredirectorschair690 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Carla Ward, an early childhood educator and host of The Everything ECE Podcast, about creating an inviting classroom environment with plants. They discuss the importance of the environment in early childhood education, the benefits of incorporating nature into the classroom, and strategies for introducing and caring for plants. Carla emphasizes the role of the environment in creating a sense of belonging for children and highlights the calming and nurturing effects of plants. She also provides practical tips for selecting and caring for plants in the classroom. Chapters  00:00 Introduction and Background 02:39 Environment as the Third Teacher 04:58 Safety and Toxicity of Plants 07:28 Plants Bring Out Children's Nurturing Side 09:57 Getting Started with Plants in the Classroom 13:10 Choosing the Location for Plants 15:38 Plants Create a Calm Environment 18:14 Experimenting with Plants Can Be Fun 20:30 Plants Provide Learning Opportunities Carla is an experienced Early Childhood Educator and the visionary founder of Early Learning Foundations, a business dedicated to promoting education and elevating the profession of Early Childhood Education. Carla is dedicated to the Early Childhood Education profession in many ways, including hosting The Everything ECE Podcast, offering professional development workshops and ECE consulting. @Elfoundations on Instagram www.elfoundations.com Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

The first episode focuses on the most important thing about early childhood education, and that is the educators. We want to give a special shout out to all the Early Childhood Educators and this episode is dedicated to all ECEs. In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Anisha Angella, an early childhood education coach and trainer, about educator engagement. They discuss the struggles that early childhood educators face, such as burnout and lack of creativity, especially in the context of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Anisha provides strategies for educators to improve engagement, including reconnecting with their why, creating a supportive team dynamic, and finding joy in the small moments. They also touch on the importance of leaders and parents supporting educators and the need for work-life harmony. In the second segment, Susie reflects on educator engagement and provides tips and strategies on how to deal with feelings of dysregulation or stress. She discusses her self-regulation techniques using the acronym: F-A-C-E, which has helped her to feel grounded and to really experience joy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:04 Welcome Special Guest: Anisha Angela 03:06 Struggles of Educators: Burnout, Lack of Creativity, Impact of COVID-19 07:55 Strategies for Educator Engagement: Embracing a New Norm after COVID-19, Create a Culture of Appreciation 11:35 Reconnecting with Your Why, Find your Spark, Leaving a Legacy 14:34 Team Dynamic, Workplace Harmony 17:15 Leaders Support Educators, Working with Parents as a Team 20:20 Finding Joy in Small Moments 22:59 Self-Regulation and Stress Management Techniques for Educators Special Guest: Anisha Angella is an Early Childhood Education (ECE) coach and expert who has been in the industry for over 14+ years. She is the CEO and Founder of her business, "The Early Childhood Coach + Co" — a powerhouse for all things childcare consulting, coaching, and training. Instagram: @anishaangella.coFacebook: @AnishaAngella.coYoutube: @Anisha Angella - YouTube Website: www.anishaangellabooks.ca General Email: info@anishaangellabooks.ca Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): ⁠https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b⁠ License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA

In this trailer episode, Susie talks about what to expect from the ECE classroom podcast. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA