Thriving Children Podcast

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats to Rebecca Thompson, Early Childhood Educator and Director of Stone and Sprocket.They discuss the difference between routines and rhythms, the importance of following the children as much as the clock, and how rituals can be used to create a deep sense of belonging and inclusion.

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare welcomes back Gill Connell one final time, to talk about children's learning of language through interaction and experience.Links for this episode:Moving Smart website: www.movingsmart.co.nzA moving child is a learning childMove, play, and learn with smart stepsEpisode 119: Moving Smart with Gill ConnellEpisode 120: The Kinetic Scale with Gill Connell

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks with early childhood author and advocate, Heather Shumaker.While Heather is the author of three books, in this episode a spotlight is shined on It's OK to Go Up the Slide: Renegade Rules for Raising Confident and Creative Kids.

In this episode the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare revisits the topic of homework, with educator, author and advocate Alfie Kohn.Listen in to hear:What the research says about the impact of homework on academic learning, time management skills and school/home continuity3 reasons that we cling to homework in spite of what the research saysWhat the alternative to homework looks like Links for this episode:Alfie Kohn's Website: www.alfiekohn.orgAlfie Kohn on Twitter

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks with Angela Hanscom, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and author of 'Balanced and Barefoot. How unrestricted outdoor play makes for strong, confident, and capable children'.Nature is at the centre of everything Angela does, and so too with this conversation. From the developmental benefits of being outdoors, to how to encourage reluctant children to be in the elements, this is a delightful conversation about children and their wellbeing. Links for this episode:Balanced and Barefoot by Angela HanscomTimbernook website - www.Timbernook.comTimbernook on Facebook

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Gill Connell returns to explain 'the Kinetic Scale', a way of understanding the movement needs of young children.Gill is an educator and child development authority who has a wealth of information to share. She also appeared on episode 119.LISTEN INLinks for the episode:Moving Smart website: www.movingsmart.co.nzA moving child is a learning childMove, play, and learn with smart steps

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks to Gill Connell from Moving Smart, all about the connection between movement and learning.Gill is an educator and child development authority who has a wealth of information to share. You'll love this one!Links for the episode:Moving Smart website: www.movingsmart.co.nzA moving child is a learning childMove, play, and learn with smart steps

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats about Autism with Rhiannon Crispe from Homebase Hope.Rhiannon is an Occupational Therapist and GAPS Practitioner who spreads a message of positivity and possibility for people caring for a child on the spectrum.Hear:Autism defined differentlyThe advantages that come with a diagnostic label, as well as some of the limitationsRhiannon's whole child approach to interventionThe reason home based interventions are often the most powerfulLinks for this episode:Homebase Hope WebsiteHomebase Hope on FacebookRhiannon's 'All About Autism' podcastLimitations of a Label (Clare's blog post)

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with writer and recovering teacher, Gabbie Stroud.They discuss:Gabbie's new book 'Teacher: One woman’s struggle to keep the heart in teaching’. Being a school parent after seeing classroom life behind the scenesHow we can stop losing brilliant whole-hearted educators from the teaching professionLinks for this episode:Gabbie's book, available at all good book stores - Teacher: One woman's struggle to keep the heart in teachingGabbie's website: www.gjstroud.comGabbie Stroud on Facebook

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare talks about technology with Anna from Kids Play Space and Natalie Smith from Brilliant Boys.Hear about the impact of screens on behaviour and development (especially before sleep), what children see when we're staring at our phones, why 'Bring Your Own Device' policies aren't always wonderful and so much more! Links for this episode:Brilliant Boys WebsiteBrilliant Boys on FacebookKids Play Space WebsiteKids Play Space on Facebookhttps://www.brilliantboys.com.au/

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks with David Sewell McCann, from Sparkle Stories. The conversation dives deeply into the magic of storytelling, a powerful medium for supporting children's development, and their engagement with literacy.Visit SparkleStories.com for your free 10 day trial.You can also find Sparkle Stories on Facebook. Literacy is the theme for this month's episodes. Subscribe to the Thriving Children Podcast via iTunes so that you don't miss other related topics.To subscribe to Clare's newsletter list, visit www.ThrivingChildren.com.auTo follow on Facebook, search for Thriving Children.

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks with Pedagocial Consultant Lisa Burman, about the roots of literacy. This conversation centres around three foundations of reading, writing and spelling -  symbolic play, oral language and mark making.Links for this episode:LisaBurman.com.auLisaBurman.thinkific.comLisa Burman on Facebook ('Lisa Burman  - Consulting in Pedagogical Growth')Literacy is the theme for this month's episodes. Subscribe to the Thriving Children Podcast via iTunes so that you don't miss other related topics.To subscribe to Clare's newsletter list, visit www.ThrivingChildren.com.auTo follow on Facebook, search for Thriving Children.

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks with Daniel Burton and Trudi Bennett from Educated by Nature. In their second appearance on the podcast, Daniel and Trudi share their knowledge about tool use, how and why saws and hammers are used within their nature education programs, as well as the brave steps parents and educators can take to give their children thrilling experiences such as these. Links for this episode:Educated by Nature WebsiteEducated by Nature on FacebookEducated by Nature on Instagram'Safety' is the theme for this month's episodes. Subscribe to the Thriving Children Podcast via iTunes so that you don't miss other related topics.To subscribe to Clare's newsletter list, visit www.ThrivingChildren.com.auTo follow on Facebook, search for Thriving Children.

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks to Michelle Derrig about child protection. They discuss the prevalence of child sexual abuse, as well as the importance of informing and empowering our children with protective behaviour conversations.Michelle is author of the picture book 'Only for Me'. "Only For Me was written in consultation with child protection experts, adult survivors of child abuse and countless parents. It is designed to enable parents and educators to empower young children with the critical information that they need to know, whilst still protecting their innocence".  100% of Author Royalties are donated to agencies treating victims and preventing child sexual abuse.Links for this episode:Bravehearts Organisation: www.Bravehearts.org.auOnly for Me Book (to preview or purchase): www.onlyforme.com.auOnly for Me Facebook Page'Safety' is the theme for this month's episodes. Subscribe to the Thriving Children Podcast via iTunes so that you don't miss other related topics.To subscribe to Clare's newsletter list, visit www.ThrivingChildren.com.auTo follow on Facebook, search for Thriving Children.

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare offers motor play (movement) ideas for the first year of life. Links for this episode:A pictorial guide of how to leave a podcast reviewSmart Start by Margaret Sasse (I forgot to mention this book but it shares wonderful motor play ideas for the first 5 years)Clare's Website: www.ThrivingChildren.com.au​Music by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with Australian Parenting Expert, Justin Coulson.Their conversation centres around how to connect with our children, where people typically get stuck and how to create positive change in this area. It’s an inspiring and practical conversation that parents, as well as educators, will benefit from. Links for this episode:Justin Coulson’s Happy Families WebsiteJustin’s PodcastClare’s WebsiteJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with previous guests, Nat Smith and Anna Meadows. They share their dreams for children, describing how they’d use three wishes (granted by a genie) to create positive change within the education system, within families and for our youngest citizens. ​Links for this episode:Episode 41 with Nat Smith: Brilliant Boys Episode 65 with Anna Meadows: The Senses at PlayBrilliant Boys on FacebookKids Play Space on FacebookBrilliant Boys WebsiteKids Play Space WebsiteClare’s WebsiteJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare dives into her third episode dedicated to tummy time.  This one is full of practical ideas, 11 in fact, for injecting fun and variety into this daily practice with your baby. Links for this episode:What Next? A blog post about different ways to integrate primitive reflexes beyond babyhood.How long does primitive reflex integration take? A blog post that directly answers this common question. Join Term 4 of the Thriving Children Book ClubClare’s WebsiteJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook Community for images that reinforce the ideas shared in this episodeMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with the Queen of Commonsense, Maggie Dent. She is an author, educator and resilience specialist, passionate about the preservation of childhood. This is a deep and wide conversation that centers around the early academic push in our classrooms, to the detriment of children’s physical, social, emotional and language development. You’ll also be hearing the one change Maggie would create for today’s children, if she had a magic wand. Parents and educators, you won't be disappointed in this conversation. It's both informative and empowering. Links for this episode:Maggie’s WebsiteMaggie’s Facebook PageProtecting Childhood OrganisationClare’s WebsiteJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare dives into her second episode dedicated to tummy time.  Listen in to hear what it looks like at different ages and stages and how you can still make it work if there’s resistance or reflux. Join Term 4 of the Thriving Children Book ClubClare’s WebsiteJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast Clare dives into the topic of play therapy, with guest Renae Plueckhahn. So what is play therapy? Which children benefit? And how can we play in a more beneficial way with the children in our life?Links for this episode:Renae's Website: Play Therapy SARenae's Facebook Page: Play Therapy SAJo's tedx talkAPPTABecentre on FacebookPlay Therapy Circle on Facebook Clare’s WebsiteJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare talks about one of her favourite topics, tummy time. We've all heard it's important but why? And will a baby be worse off without it? Listen in to hear about three key developmental stages that are dependent upon this position. Links for this episode:Get your free eBook about the Primitive ReflexesJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com​

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with Gerda Foster about play deprivation. Gerda is a Criminologist, who works in a maximum security jail.  This is a conversation about many things but ultimately, our pressing need as human beings to both play and connect.Listen in to hear:The connection between prison inmates and missed play experiences during childhoodThe role of play in rehabilitationWhy bullies need our compassionThe importance of self directed play and boredomWhy laughter is the best medicineLinks for this episode:Free Range Kids by Lenore SkenazyA Year of Slow Food bookLaughter Yoga AustraliaJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with Rebecca Thompson from Stone and Sprocket, about schema in children’s play.Listen in to hear:Rebecca’s professional journey thus farWhat is schema? How does it play out in children’s lives?The importance of reflective practice and continual questioningTips if you’re experiencing information overwhelmThe need to step back but tune inLinks for this episode:Stone and Sprocket WebsiteStone and Sprocket on FacebookInclusion Support Facebook GroupClare’s upcoming eventsJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with Daniel Burton and Trudi Bennett from Educated by Nature. And they’re talking about, you guessed it, the importance of nature in children’s development. Listen in to hear:How Daniel and Trudi’s nature journey began, when they were challenged to take classroom learning outside two days per week.Why being outside is crucial to our wellbeing, rain, hail or shineThe art of mentoringThe sensory development that unfolds when we are in natureThe need for children to connect with their local environment, before being asked to preserve itPractical tips for getting started in nature education, as a parent or educatorLinks for this episode:Educated by Nature WebsiteEducated by Nature on FacebookEducated by Nature on InstagramJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats to Tom Hobson, also known as ‘Teacher Tom’.  Listen in to hear:What a Cooperative Preschool looks likeWhy a child’s learning agenda is of greater importance than an adultsHow to respond to conflict between childrenThe trend of school readiness and academic creepWhat the research says about early literacy learning (it’s not good)Tom’s learning from the children he teaches Links for this episode:Teacher Tom’s BlogInspired EC - Tom’s Tour Dates & Locations (July/August 2017)Adelaide Event (Sponsored by Thriving Children)Join Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook Community Music by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare speaks to Anna Meadows, a Pediatric Occupational Therapist and fierce play advocate.  Listen in to hear about sensory development, the role that play has in regulating our system, how to help children develop social skills, and so much more, including what Anna thinks about fidget spinners! Links for this episode:Playing with Friends: Supporting Social Skills in PlayKids Play Space WebsiteAnna on InstagramAnna on PinterestKids Play Space on FacebookClare’s WebsiteJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook Community and let me know your take aways from this episode.  Music by BenSound.com

This episode of the Thriving Children Podcast is a game changer. I chat with Bruce McLachlan, Principal of Swanson School in New Zealand. It’s a setting also known as ‘the school with no rules’ (in the playground that is). Listen in to find out:What recess and lunchtime actually look like at SwansonHow ‘free play’ has unfolded over the years (including the response of parents and teachers in the early days)What yard duty now looks likeHow creating freedom in children’s playtime has lead to less bullying and more focus in the classroomThe first steps for others in removing ridiculous rules. My favourite quote from this episode: “We’ve stopped trusting children”. Links for this episode:No Rules School documentary on SBSSwanson School Website - Free PlayProject Play at Swanson School (article by Bruce)Join Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook CommunityMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare interviews global education thought leader Charles Fadel.  They discuss:Why the education system is no longer meeting the needs of today’s children or tomorrow’s workforceWhat skills and qualities we need to foster in students, in order to better prepare them for the futureAdopting a ‘growth mindset’ in our classrooms-is it enough?Charles’ surprising thoughts on standardisation and technologyAnd finally, what each of us can do to create big change within the education system Links for this episode:Four Dimensional Education Book CurriculumRedesign.orgJoin Clare’s Thriving Children Facebook Community Music by BenSound.com

In this episode Clare and Nat Smith (from Brilliant Boys)  share their experiences from day one at this year’s National Play & Playwork Conference. As roommates in Melbourne, they chat informally about the presentations they heard and the take aways they gleaned (and you get to listen in too).Links for this episode:Join the Thriving Children Facebook CommunityPlay & Playwork Video (mentioned by Nat)The Land DocumentaryThe Big 8 Malarkey TourClare’s Website

What is the field of behavioural optometry all about? How is reflex development, nutrition and vision connected to learning? These are some of the many questions I ask James in this chat, an optometrist who has an incredibly holistic approach to helping children reach their full potential.Links for this episode:Sleeman Optometry WebsiteClare’s WebsiteClare’s Facebook PageHow to leave an iTunes ReviewMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with someone who knows more about reflex development than she does, her friend and mentor Evonne Bennell.  They discuss the phase of reflex integration which occurs during babyhood, challenges that present when skipped, what Rhythmic Movement Training is and does, as well as how to support tummy time.Links for this episode:Evonne’s WebsiteEvonne’s Facebook pageRhythmic Movement Training websiteGymbarooFree Primitive Reflexes eBookClare’s WebsiteClare’s Facebook PageMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with Justine Walsh from Journey into Play.We cover:Justine’s story of evolution as an educatorThe importance of creating spaces that prioritise opportunity rather than ‘prettiness’What loose parts are and where to source themHow to combine their use with the playwork approachLinks for this episode:Journey into Play WebsiteJourney into Play Facebook PageMalarkey Playwork WebsiteMalarkey Playwork Facebook PageNational Play & Playwork Conference Facebook PageResource Rescue in MelbourneClare’s WebsiteClare’s Facebook PageMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with Marc Armitage, Playworker, Writer and Researcher in children’s play.This fascinating conversation gets into the nitty gritty of what playwork is, why children will always be found playing, the importance of flow, and why ‘learning through play’ is a trap.Links for this episode:Malarkey Playwork WebsiteMalarkey Playwork Facebook PageNational Play & Playwork Conference Facebook PageBig 8 Event: Marc, Clare & friends speaking about play and children with additional needsClare’s WebsiteClare’s Facebook PageMusic by BenSound.com

In this episode of the Thriving Children Podcast, Clare chats with Natalie Smith from Brilliant Boys.They talk about the differences of boys in relation to brain development and play, covering controversial topics such as rough play and gun play.If you’re an educator or you have a son, this episode will help you to understand the boys in your life a whole lot better. And once you see the world through their eyes, you’ll be able to meet them where they’re at, connecting with them more deeply.Links for this episode:Brilliant Boys on FacebookBrilliant Boys WebsiteClare on FacebookClare’s WebsiteRaising Cain bookMusic by BenSound.com