Podcasts about early learning

In this episode of ShiftED, Chris Colley sits down with Amy Reyes-Hauff to rethink what young children really need to learn, grow, and thrive. They explore why play shouldn't be treated as a break from learning, how movement and outdoor experiences support development and self-regulation, and what happens when screens become too central to early childhood. Amy brings decades of experience in early learning to a conversation about balancing technology with connection, curiosity, nature, and real-world experiences — and offers practical ideas for educators looking to make a meaningful shift.https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-reyes-hauff-a1b15844/

On the radio show this week, we start by exploring the vital importance of moms running for office and how their unique perspectives can shape better policies for families. After that, we delve into critical early learning funding, including the Child Care Development Fund and programs like Headstart. Next, we discuss the push for healthy school meals for all, highlighting a congressional briefing and the urgent need for robust policies as millions face SNAP cuts. Finally, we close the show by examining how ordinary people can reclaim their power, fight for freedom, and reimagine democracy, inspired by a new book. Special Guests Liuba Grechen Shirley, Vote Mama, @liubagrechenshirley @votemamalobby; Lauren Hipp, MomsRising, @MomsRising @MamasConPoder; Alexis Bylander, Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), @fractweets, @fracposts.bsky.social, @fracgram; Skye Perryman, Democracy Fwd, @DemocracyFwd, @democracyforward.org, @democracyforward

It's Labor Day in the United States, so Cynthia and Alison are taking the day off. Enjoy this rewind of a special lost episode about play. New episodes are back next week!Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Wrap up Season 13 of Waves of Awareness with a heartfelt conversation about early intervention, family, growth, and the impact of developmental therapy. In the Season 13 finale of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Shanelle Rauh, a mom of twins who receive developmental therapy through the Waves Early Learning Program. Shanelle sits down with Matt "The Man" Moore, Johnny Sunshine, Jeni the Star, and Waves CEO Staci Davis to talk about her family's journey with Waves, what led them to the Early Learning Program, and the hopes she has for her children as they continue to grow and learn. She also shares about the changes she's seen in her twins since beginning developmental therapy and what the experience has meant to her as a parent. Whether you're a parent navigating early intervention, someone who works with children and families, or simply want to better understand the impact of these services, this conversation offers a meaningful look at the journey. Plus, the crew shares a few personal updates along the way, from Jeni's job search to birthday plans and Matt's speech therapy sessions. Hit play and celebrate the Season 13 finale with us! ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/ To learn more about Waves Early Learning, visit: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/ To purchase tickets to Waves' Brews & Grooves fundraiser, click here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745

It is true that working with or raising very young children is demanding. Perhaps, we can build more patience by thinking about what it is like to be them. Join Cynthia and Alison for true tales and thoughts about feeling helpless.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

In this episode I explore the history of two philanthropists: Andrew Carnegie and Dolly Parton whose charitable work impacted libraries and early learning in Michigan.For more information on the Imagination Library, visit:https://imaginationlibrary.com/For more information on Michael Delaware, visit:https://michaeldelaware.com

It's time to circle back to an episode we did years ago to see if there's been progress. Join Cynthia and Alison for a discussion about what has happened with time-out as a reaction to children's behavior.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Dr. Dana Suskind is the Founder and Co-Director of the TMW Center for Early Learning and Public Health, and the Founding Director of the Pediatric Cochlear Implant Program. She has dedicated her research and clinical work to optimizing foundational brain development, with an emphasis on helping parents and caregivers understand their power as brain architects. Her new book, Human Raised: Nurturing Connection, Curiosity and Lifelong Learning in the Age of AI, explores how families can stay grounded in human connection as AI becomes part of how kids learn, socialize, and think.In this conversation, we went beyond the usual questions about screen time and app safety to ask what we risk losing if we outsource too much of childhood to systems built for optimization rather than connection. We talked about how the way children are raised today intersects with the future of democracy, misinformation, and civic life, and why it matters that many of the people building these technologies keep their own kids away from them. We also talked honestly about how parents can hold the tension between preparing their children for a high tech future and protecting a meaningful, deeply human childhood, without falling into fear or fatalism.Connect with Dr. Dana: Website | Instagram | Substack | Buy the BookIf you're looking to unleash your potential, find your personal, professional, or political fire, and to connect with a community who is doing the same, click here to learn more. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit shannonwatts.substack.com/subscribe

Cynthia and Alison believe that when you see something, say something. They've seen more demands or expectations for children's learning that are not research-based milestones. Join them for a continuation of a topic discussed on the podcast in a prior episode.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Siyabonga Motha speaks to Nicola Crooks, Head of Early Learning and Junior Preparatory School at Reddam House Helderfontein, about what women’s leadership can teach children and how young learners can begin developing and understanding their own leadership skills from an early age. You’re listening to The Aubrey Masango Show with Aubrey Masango, where real conversations meet expert insights – from politics to life, personal finance, and more. Thanks for listening. Listen live on 702 weekdays from 8 pm to midnight, or on CapeTalk from 8 pm to 9 pm (South African time) https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj For more from the show and catch-up podcasts, visit Primedia+ here https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj Subscribe to the 702 Daily and Weekly Newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Keep the conversation going online: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/capetalkza/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Confirmation bias impacts our relationships with children, families, and colleagues. Join Cynthia and Alison to learn what it is and how we can work to prevent its impact.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Society expects young children to possess such advanced social-emotional skills! Let's be honest - we are all still working on those skills. Join Cynthia and Alison for a conversation about the social-emotional skills we are still honing, how we know, and what we can do for children and for us.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

In today's episode, Kim Taylor and Julie Bloss from NAESP's Center for Early Learning Leadership talk with Jillayne Flanders and Dr. Orinthia Harris about how school leaders can begin conversations about empathy, equity, belonging, and anti-racism with young learners, staff, and families. From leading with heart to helping children see themselves represented, this conversation explores practical ways school leaders can support belonging in early learning communities. Jillayne Flanders is an author, educational consultant, and former elementary principal. Dr. Orinthia Harris is a former early childhood educator and founder & CEO of STEMearly LLC. Julie Bloss, a retired principal, is fellow at the NAESP Center for Early Learning Leadership. Kim Taylor is principal of F.X. O'Regan Early Childhood Development Center in Franklin, Massachusetts, and fellow at the NAESP Center for Early Learning Leadership.

It's time to circle back to a topic from much earlier in the How Preschool Teachers Do It podcast! It's been years since we started talking about separation anxiety on the podcast. Join Cynthia and Alison as they discuss whether the ways we help children through separations have improved.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

What does early intervention really look like for a family? On this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Erica Shannon, mom to Connor, who receives services through the Waves Early Learning Program. Erica shares her family's experience with early intervention, from taking those initial steps to finding support and watching Connor grow through developmental therapy. Hear how Early Learning has helped build Connor's confidence, encouraged new skills, and supported his development, while Erica reflects on the importance of having a strong support system and offers encouragement for parents who may be considering early intervention services for their own child. Co-hosted by Waves adults John and Jeni alongside Waves CEO Staci Davis, this episode also includes fun conversations about favorite music, movies, upcoming Waves events, and Jeni's bingo nights with The Arc of Williamson County. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply passionate about disability inclusion and child development, this episode offers an encouraging look at the impact early support can have on a family's journey. ________________________________________ To learn more about Waves, go to: wavesinc.com To watch Waves of Awareness on YouTube, go to: https://www.youtube.com/@Waves_of_Awareness To purchase presale tickets to Waves' annual Brews & Grooves fundraiser, visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/brews-grooves-a-concert-benefiting-waves-tickets-1988557744745 To learn about Spread The Positive, go to: https://spreadthepositive.net/

What if multilingualism isn't something to overcome—but one of a child's greatest strengths? In this episode of Our Classroom, Roberto Germán sits down with educator, school leader, and multilingual education advocate Elise Genao to explore the power of translanguaging and why honoring children's full linguistic identities creates stronger learners and more inclusive classrooms. Drawing from her experience as a teacher, instructional coach, administrator, and consultant, Elise shares how educators can move beyond deficit thinking and embrace language as an asset. In this conversation, we discuss: What translanguaging is—and what it is not Why multilingualism is a strength, not a barrier Common misconceptions about multilingual learners Practical classroom strategies that honor students' home languages The connection between language, identity, and belonging How school leaders can better support multilingual students and families Why every educator—not just bilingual teachers—has a role to play This episode is a reminder that when students are invited to bring all of who they are into the classroom, everyone benefits. Key Reflection "Students shouldn't have to leave part of themselves at the classroom door in order to learn." About Elise Genao Elise Genao is an educator, instructional leader, and consultant with extensive experience supporting multilingual learners. She is passionate about helping schools create language-rich environments where every child's identity is valued and every language is seen as an asset. Teach in Truth.Lead with Courage.Belong to a Community That Gets It.

It is essential that we work toward strong relationships and high-quality environments for young children, but that isn't the only level of support that may be needed for persistent, intense, challenging behavior. Join Cynthia and Alison for a discussion about the tiers of support when behavior needs more intervention.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

For generations, people concerned themselves with "spoiling" children. Join Cynthia and Alison for a dynamic conversation about what we can do, what we cannot do, and how to address it with people who still talk about it.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

At a time when forty percent of American two-year-olds have their own tablet, a new generation of AI toys and chatbots is being marketed as a better alternative to screens. On this episode, Dana Suskind, pediatric cochlear implant surgeon, co-director of the TMW Center for Early Learning and Public Health, and author of the new book Human Raised, explains the importance of human interaction for children's brain development.

Did you know that there is a Ladder of Participation that helps us understand at what level children are meaningfully involved in what they are doing? Join Cynthia and Alison to learn about the ladder and the levels at which children participate in activities.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

We talk with Elizabeth Nelson about how USD 383 Early Learning keeps working through the summer and why now is the time to apply for preschool. We break down the July 16 in-person application day, what “kindergarten readiness” really looks like, and how one central application connects families to inclusive support. • Summer learning and year-round enrollment work in USD 383 • July 16 application day details and what families should bring • How the program supports ages three to five not yet in kindergarten • Funding options including Head Start, at-risk grants, and fee-paying slots • Fall-to-spring growth in early literacy, numbers, and social-emotional skills • One-stop application model that replaces multiple waiting lists • Head Start's comprehensive services that support the whole family network • What a typical preschool day feels like and why routines matter Get online, fill out an application, and get in contact with us to attend our July 16th application day at 2600 Kimball at College Hill Early Learning Center, and you can find out more at USD383.orgGMCFCFAs

Join Cynthia and Alison as they "circle back" to a topic they discussed years ago.  Has circle time / morning meeting improved since then?  What other strategies can we add now that years have gone by? Don't miss this special circle back episode of How Preschool Teachers Do It!Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

It is true that in games and in life, there may be one winner. We can teach children that one person won, AND in some ways, we all win. Join Cynthia and Alison to learn how one person can be declared the winner while we all win something.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

One of the cognitive skills we want to encourage in the early learning years is persistence. Intentional productive struggles help children to think more deeply and build persistence. Join Cynthia and Alison to learn the meaning of a productive struggle and how to plan for them.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

In this episode of The Light Inside, host Jeffrey Besecker welcomes Ben Oofana for a deep dive into the complexities of relational ambiguity, separation, and unresolved grief. They discuss how these emotional states can activate older attachment patterns, leading clients into cycles of connection-restoring emotional rumination that mimic repair but often result in reactivation of past traumas. The conversation emphasizes the importance for clinicians to formulate care strategies when clients are driven by grief, shame, longing, or relational threats. By understanding these dynamics, therapists can help clients move beyond fixed narratives and reclaim their agency, differentiation, and adaptive contact. Tune in to explore these transformative insights and more.Timestamp00:00:00 - Introduction to The Light Inside00:00:22 - Relational Ambiguity and Emotional Rumination00:01:10 - Mint Mobile Advertisement00:02:24 - Early Attachment Learning and Emotional Rumination00:03:28 - Clinician's Role in Addressing Rumination00:04:06 - Ben Ofana's Background in Somatic Therapies00:05:57 - Early Relational Patterns and Their Impact00:09:08 - Transition from Implicit Learning to Narrative Identity00:12:04 - Psychological Arousal and Relational Misinterpretation00:14:08 - Emotional Processing and Cognitive Understanding00:17:12 - Slowing Down and Holding the Field00:19:14 - Relational Dynamics and Overextension00:21:00 - Personal Reflections on Emotional Saturation00:24:44 - Fear of Loss and Desperation in Relationships00:25:55 - Constructive Work with Rumination00:28:26 - Clinical Takeaways and Interventions00:31:22 - Overthinking and Cognitive Cycles00:34:09 - Healing Process and Letting Go of Unhealthy Attachments00:35:26 - Relational Contact and Boundaries00:38:27 - Personal Experience with Anger and Guilt-Shame Cycle00:40:27 - Core Childhood Patterns and Activation00:42:43 - Emotional States and Relationship Dynamics00:44:02 - Biological Flooding and Regulation00:45:19 - Skills for Deactivating Emotional States00:46:51 - Insight and Internal Change00:48:09 - Attunement and Empathy in Therapy00:50:10 - Client Awareness and Emotional Processing00:52:11 - Tracking and Metabolizing Bias in TherapyCreditsHost: Jeffrey BeseckerGuest:Ben OofanaExecutive Program Director: Anna GetzProduction Team: Aloft Media GroupMusic: Courtesy of Aloft Media GroupConnect with host Jeffrey Besecker on LinkedIn.What if many of the secondary behaviors we label as “seeking safety” are actually attempts to restore coherence at the deeper primary level?Developmental and attachment research suggests that before children can reason about trust, risk, or safety, they are learning through load, responsiveness, attunement, and the capacity of caregivers to regulate environmental demands.

Graduation season is here, and with it comes all the excitement, emotions, and unforgettable moments that make early childhood education so special. In this episode of The Teacher's Lounge, we're sharing our new superhero-themed approach to Pre-K graduation and discussing why meaningful celebrations don't have to be perfect to be memorable. Join us as we explore how to balance tradition with fun, support children through big milestones, and create experiences that families will cherish for years to come. Whether you're planning a graduation, end-of-year celebration, or special family event, you'll find practical ideas, reflections, and encouragement to help make it a success. LET'S CONNECT!We would love to connect with you!  Here are all the ways we can support you in your early education career!The Teacher's Lounge Website:     theearlyeducationteacherslounge.comPodcast:   The Teacher's Lounge For Early EducationFacebook:  The Early Education Teacher's LoungeInstagram:  @eecteachersloungePinterest:

Have you encountered very young children who get upset when they are not perfect? Do you want to avoid creating perfectionism when interacting with young children? Join Cynthia and Alison for this listener-request-inspired episode focusing on strategies to deal with and avoid perfectionism.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Mandy Wiener speaks to Minister of Basic Education, Siviwe Gwarube about the Basic Education Budget prioritises early learning, literacy and school reform. The Midday Report with Mandy Wiener is 702 and CapeTalk’s flagship news show, your hour of essential news radio. The show is podcasted every weekday, allowing you to catch up with a 60-minute weekday wrap of the day's main news. It's packed with fast-paced interviews with the day’s newsmakers, as well as those who can make sense of the news and explain what's happening in your world. All the interviews are podcasted for you to catch up and listen to. Thank you for listening to this podcast of The Midday Report Listen live on weekdays between 12:00 and 13:00 (SA Time) to The Midday Report broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and on CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from The Midday Report, go to https://buff.ly/BTGmL9H and find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/LcbDdFI Subscribe to the 702 and CapeTalk daily and weekly newsletters https://buff.ly/v5mfetc Follow us on social media: 702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/Radio702 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702 CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Understanding how children learn and develop in the early years is key to supporting strong educational outcomes and lifelong wellbeing. Last month, the OECD released findings from the 2025 Early Learning and Child Well-being Study, or IELS, the first internationally comparable study designed to measure how children are learning and developing at age 5. The study looks across 3 key domains: foundational learning, executive function, and social and emotional skills. As we know, the early years from birth to age 5 are a critical period for building the foundations children need to communicate, regulate their emotions, concentrate, solve problems and engage with others. In today's episode, we're joined by Dr Dan Cloney, Senior Research Fellow at the Australian Council for Educational Research and Lead Researcher for IELS here at ACER. We unpack some of the key findings from the study, explore what made the assessment design unique, and discuss why it's so important to ensure every child arrives at school with the strongest possible foundations. Host: Rebecca Vukovic Guest: Dr Dan Cloney

Norma Foley, Minister for Children, Disability and Equality

Join Cynthia and Alison for a discussion about what to do when the desire to avoid cleaning up becomes contagious in an early childhood setting.Note: The only AI used in this episode is the image - everything we say is all us humans!Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebushThis episode includes AI-generated content.

Seattle's Preschool Program (SPP) and the City's Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) are actively working to expand access to early childhood education, addressing a critical challenge for families seeking affordable, high-quality care. The Seattle Preschool Program is currently open for enrollment for the 2026-2027 school year. Concurrently, the Child Care Assistance Program offers financial support to eligible families, offsetting the cost of licensed child care and potentially saving them an average of $10,000 annually. Leilani Dela Cruz, Director of Programs with the Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning, and Erica Linear, Executive Director and CEO of Seed of Life, one of DEEL's preschool partners, joins the Rhythm & News Podcast to share more about the program. Interview by Chris B. Bennett.

There are many reasons why a child may feel lonely, and they might not be able to express them. Join Cynthia and Alison for a discussion about the signs, impact, and strategies related to childhood loneliness.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

For generations, and still today, there has been a belief that young children need to "cry it out" when they are upset. We now know the long-term impact of crying it out on children's psyches as they head toward adulthood. Are you trying to get someone to understand why you don't let your child "cry it out?" Then, this episode is for you!Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

In this episode of the How Preschool Teachers Do It Podcast, Cynthia and Alison discuss the stages through which children perceive their caregivers. Join us to see you through their eyes and discover how we can support their changing perspectives on who we are and what we do for them.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Have you seen the standards that govern expectations for children's learning? Many people work with and raise young children without knowing the expectations for their learning and development. Join Cindy and Alison as they discuss the value of understanding the standards and how they impact early educators and families.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

What's the difference between today's AI toys and talking toys from the past? Today's AI toys can learn from their interactions with children and adults. Join Cynthia and Alison for a discussion about what these toys can and maybe shouldn't do.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Prue Car is the Deputy Premier of NSW, Minister for Education and Early Learning, and Minister for Western Sydney. Prue grew up in Western Sydney and has represented the Western Sydney seat of Londonderry in NSW Parliament since 2015. Following the 2023 NSW election, Prue was appointed Deputy Premier, Minister for Education and Early Learning and Minister for Western Sydney. In her role as Minister for Education and Early Learning, Prue has prioritised listening to teachers, principals, and parents and is working tirelessly to improve the NSW education system. Prue's goal is to ensure every child in the state can access high-quality public education and achieve their potential. In September 2023, Prue made a historic agreement which saw the state's 95,000 public school teachers receive the largest pay increase in a generation. Prue has also prioritised addressing the needs of growing communities, addressing the backlog of school infrastructure needs in the state. The NSW Labor Government's first Budget invested $3.5 billion over four years for new schools and school upgrades in Western Sydney, and an additional $1.4 for new schools and upgrades in regional NSW. Prue is also delivering the largest ever expansion of public preschools in the state's history, investing a record $769 million to deliver 100 new public preschools by 2027. Together with the Premier of NSW, Chris Minns, Prue is committed to working hard for the students, families and people of NSW. Her website is: https://www.pruecar.au/  

In a rare How Preschool Teachers Do It occurrence, Cindy and Alison disagree! In this episode, learn about the new tech being developed and decide how you feel about it. Who do you agree with? Let us know by visiting https://HowPreschoolTeachersDoIt.com and navigating to the poll page.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

The early learning centers, operated by the United Planning Organization, provide subsidized care for lower-income families, many of them in Southeast D.C. In March, UPO announced it was closing four of its 15 centers in early April, three of them in Wards 7 and 8. Parents had just about a month to find new places, and some are still searching.

Children's basic needs must be met for them to be the best version of themselves. Join Cynthia and Alison for a discussion about what it looks like when those needs are not met, which unfortunately happens more often than we may think.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about the concept that two truths can coexist for children, their families, and their early educators simultaneously. Why? Because of human behavior!Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Clapping games are more than just a source of fun. Join Cynthia and Alison for a discussion about the skills built when we play clapping games and why it's concerning that we often don't know many of them.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKASubscribe to Cynthia's SubStack for free to receive articles and more in your email:  https://substack.com/@cynthiaterebush

Joy is one of those concepts that everyone understands until you try to define it.  And yet, the research is remarkably clear about what it does. In this episode, we explore what joy actually is, why it matters so profoundly for young children, and what it looks like in the early childhood classroom. From the neuroscience of how joy changes the brain's chemistry and learning capacity, to the relational dimension of shared delight between children and the adults who care for them, this episode grounds joy firmly in both science and practice. If you work with young children or advocate for play-based learning, this episode will give you the research and the language to protect joy in your program — and a compelling reminder of why that work matters. Part two of a two-episode series with Episode 84 on agency. Because Play = Agency + Joy Show Notes: https://notjustcute.com/podcast/episode85

Note:  The co-hosts of this podcast are not mental health professionals.  If you or someone you love is struggling with loss and grief, please seek the help of a qualified mental health professional.  From the viewpoint of early educators, Cynthia and Alison discuss the impact of grief and loss on young children. Join this episode to consider the importance of supporting children through these experiences by using clear and age-appropriate language to explain loss and by providing consistent care and understanding.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Do you say "centers," "houskeeping area," "show and tell," or other common early childhood words without thinking about whether they matter? What we say impacts how we act and how we view expectations of young children. In this episode of "How Preschool Teachers Do It," Cynthia and Alison discuss the importance of broadening our language to help everyone.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Agency — the ability to make choices, act on them, and feel that those actions matter — is key to play and learning. In this episode, we dig into what agency really means for young children, tracing it through the work of foundational developmental theorists and grounding it in current research on how play, agency, and learning work together as a powerful, reinforcing system. Along the way, we name what's getting in the way — a cultural pattern I call pervasive passivity — and explore what it looks like when children lose access to the agency they need to thrive. If you work with young children or advocate for play-based learning, this episode will give you both the research and the practical language to protect what matters most — including a surprising look at what current AI advances reveal about what we actually want for our young children. Find shownotes at https://notjustcute.com/podcast/episode84

Are there lessons about taking care of yourself that you wish you had learned when you were younger? Did you understand why you were told to eat certain foods or be active? Join Cindy and Alison as they discuss how we can help today's children establish healthy habits as part of their everyday lives.Note: Only the image for today's episode was generated by AI.  Cynthia and Alison couldn't be more real.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cynthia's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKAThis episode includes AI-generated content.

MPR News host Angela Davis talks with former St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter about his eight years in City Hall, the lessons he's learned and what's next.Guest:Melvin Carter III served as mayor of St. Paul for eight years. Elected in 2017 and reelected in 2021, he was the city's first African American mayor. Prior to his election as mayor, he served as St. Paul City Council member for Ward 1, representing the neighborhood he grew up in. He is the founding board chair of the St. Paul Promise Neighborhood and served as the director of the Minnesota Office of Early Learning. He has roots that go back four generations in St. Paul. His father was a St. Paul police officer and his mother was a teacher and Ramsey County commissioner.