Podcasts about early learning

Heather Bernt-Santy, author of "Using Schema Play Theory to Advocate for Free Play in Early Childhood" has been living her commitment to children, their families and their teachers for over 30 years. You may know Heather from her work as the host of the popular early care and education podcast "That Early Childhood Nerd," but she also loves her work as a speaker, consultant, writer and professor. She has held just about every position possible in the field of early care and education: teacher, director, family child care provider, education director—you name it, she's probably tried it! Heather is an enthusiastic believer in children's right to play and of the research that tells us play IS right.  Amy Reyes has been serving in the Early Childhood space in Wyoming for many years and plays an important role in bridging gaps in ECE across the United States. She is an expert in Early Learning, with specializations in Social Emotional Learning specifically digital tech wellness, Outdoor Learning and Early Literacy. She has over 26 years of combined experience in child development and early childhood education, with expertise in leadership, strategic planning, inclusion models and transformational change. Amy spent her career as a Head Start Director also spending a good portion of her career as a kindergarten teacher. Amy holds degrees in Elementary Education with an endorsement in Early Childhood Education, Outdoor Learning and Education, Child Development, and Organizational Leadership with a minor in law. Amy currently works as the State of Wyoming's State Early Learning and Literacy Specialist with the Wyoming Department of Education.  Amy is an advocate for outdoor learning and emotional intelligence regarding digital tech addiction. She has integrated outdoor learning into over 200 classrooms across her home state of Wyoming with the Get Wild Wyoming Initiative. Amy is an early childhood speaker and motivator who firmly believes children learn best in outdoor learning settings where they are able to self regulate through natural colors, shapes, sounds, feelings and most importantly disconnected from devices. 

Did you know that the packages food and other products come in can build children's fine motor skills and independent abilities? What happens when the packaging of items changes? Join Cindy and Alison to discuss how we can maintain basic skills in this era of quick convenience.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

This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Khan Academy Kids.The webinar recording can be accessed here.Family engagement is one of the highest-leverage ways to accelerate early literacy and math—when it fits real families' time, languages, and routines. In this edWeb podcast, moderated by Allison Leedie, School Partnerships—Khan Academy Kids and former educator and literacy coach, with guests from School City of Hobart, Lori Anderson, Director of Elementary Curriculum, and Sara Gutierrez, Director of Early Learning, PreK–2 educators explore practical strategies that connect school and home.You learn to:Launch weekly home routines for phonological awareness, vocabulary, and early numeracyAdapt multilingual, family-friendly messages and visual guides caregivers can use tomorrowAlign centers and take-home activities so families see and reinforce priority skillsTrack progress with simple checks and celebrate growth to sustain engagementListeners leave with strategies that can be put into action on the very next day, and a district example from Hobart that shows how small habits build big gains—while honoring diverse caregivers and busy schedules. This edWeb podcast is of interest to PreK-2 teachers, school leaders, and district leaders.Khan Academy KidsInspire a lifetime of learning and discovery with our fun educational program for kids ages 2 - 8.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

Cindy and Alison discuss several children's books that did not exist when they were young but are valuable resources for teaching social-emotional skills and emotional regulation. Time to update your book collection? Check this episode first!Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Join Cindy and Alison as they highlight the impacts of chronic absenteeism on children's development and learning, as well as strategies to combat this national epidemic.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Emily Cadiz is a teacher, musician, mom of three, and founder of Prelude Early Learning, home of Finnegan the Dragon. After a traumatic brain injury left her needing to relearn how to talk and walk, she rebuilt her skills through music and singing—an experience that inspired Prelude's music-based approach to teaching language and pre-reading. With 20+ years in education and master's degrees in education, special education, and music, Emily has created an NIH-supported program that's shown up to 250% growth in early literacy skills. In our talk, Emily dives deep into her accident and her history as an educator. She emphasizes why she advocates for inclusive music in classrooms, rather than traditional speech therapy. She also has some great advice for those transitioning from education to entrepreneurship.For all links and resources mentioned in this episode, head to the show notes: https://www.educatorforever.com/episode163.

When children fight, everyone is struggling. We have been told for years to "attend to the victim," which is one piece of what is needed. The aggressor needs you, too! Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about how we can care for the aggressor and help them, too.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Has anyone ever said to you, "That's a feeling, not a fact." Exactly how dismissive does that feel? Of course it does, because your feelings and the emotions of children are a fact! Join Cindy and Alison as they talk more about feelings as facts and how to interact with children who may have more than one feeling for each situation.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

No two children are alike, and no two children experience their early childhood program in the same way. Join Cindy and Alison as they discuss what this means for the assumptions we make and how we need to teach each of the children in our care.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

For years, we have done activities with infants and toddlers that were pushed down from what older children are ready to do. It is time we advocate for infants, toddlers, and the staff who work with them by insisting that our activities and interactions are developmentally appropriate for this age group. Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about what we've done and what is actually how we should work with infants and toddlers.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

The federal government continues to work with provincial governments to fund more child care spaces across the country in an effort to reduce child care costs to $10 a day. On this episode of Your Region Pod, we're going to look at the impact of the Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system (CWELCC) on families in Waterloo Region. So far, 3,725 spaces have opened through CWELCC, with another 411 coming by the end of 2026. The question is, now that we have the funding for these spaces, do we have enough educators to staff them? On this episode we sit down with experts from across the region and learn that as critical as this funding is, it only solves half the problem. Have a listen and let us know what you think on our social channels. Joining us on this episode:Barb Cardow, Director of Children`s Services, Region of WaterlooKristine Parsons, Director of Operations, Rising Oaks Early Learning OntarioCarolyn Finlayson, Chair, Child Development & Education Studies, Conestoga CollegeSend us an email!Instagram: Regional Municipality of Waterloo (@regionofwaterloo) • Instagram photos and videos Facebook: Region of Waterloo | Kitchener ON | Facebook

When Irene Gomez stepped into her role as director at the J Center for Early Learning in El Paso, Texas, she carried what so many new leaders do: hyper-responsibility, people-pleasing, and the pressure to be the “hero” in every situation.In this episode, Irene shares her journey inside the Schools of Excellence coaching program and the transformation that followed—from chasing fires and working late nights, to leading with clarity, boundaries, and trust.You'll hear how a calendar became her leadership lifeline, how gratitude reshaped her staff culture, and how self-trust shifted her from over-functioning into a confident leader who now builds sustainable rhythms for her team and balance for her family.This isn't just a story of better systems. It's a story of reclaiming identity, building trust, and choosing to lead without sacrificing health or home.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why boundaries start with the leader, not with the staffHow shifting from “hero” to CEO changes your school cultureThe role of one-on-one meetings in building trust and career growth for teachersWhy specific gratitude builds safety and resilience in teamsHow leadership growth impacts marriage, parenting, and personal lifeWhy coaching is never “one more thing”—it's the foundation of sustainable leadershipKey InsightsBoundaries are for you first. Without them, you'll always default to rescuing instead of leading.Culture starts with trust. One-on-ones and specific gratitude create safety for real conversations.You can't hustle your way to sustainability. Systems and rhythms—not over-functioning—are what hold schools together.Personal growth multiplies. When leaders evolve, staff mirror that same growth in respect, empowerment, and culture.Memorable Quotes“The boundaries weren't just for others—they were for me.” – Irene Gomez“True success is having a strong team that wants to stay forever.” – Irene Gomez“Enough isn't about getting ahead. It's about trusting that what you did today was enough.” – Chanie WilschanskiWhy This Matters for School LeadersEnds the cycle of firefighting and hyper-responsibilityBuilds cultures of trust where staff thrive and turnover decreasesProtects leaders' health, marriage, and family timeShows how leadership coaching transforms not just schools, but livesResources & Next StepsReflect: Where in your leadership are you holding on to hyper-responsibility?Audit your staff culture: Are you building trust, or chasing harmony?Share this episode with a fellow leader who feels stuck in people-pleasingReady to stop holding everything together alone? Book your Leadership Reset Consultation—a 90-minute strategy session that gives you a 30-day roadmap to build rhythms your team will actually own. Learn more here.

Research has revealed that there is a decline in parents reading to their children. Join Cindy and Alison as they discuss why this might be happening and the impact of bringing reading with children back.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Knowing about something or someone is not the same as accepting them. Join Cindy and Alison as they discuss the distinction between having knowledge about a topic and demonstrating acceptance of it.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer sits down with Christa Ratcliffe, chapel and music teacher at Little Lights Preschool, to discuss spiritual formation in young children. Christa, a dedicated educator with a background in theological studies, emphasizes the importance of building relationships, modeling Jesus' love, and incorporating Bible teachings into everyday interactions with infants and toddlers. The conversation covers practical strategies for integrating faith-based activities into daily classroom routines, the significance of early brain development, and the role of caregivers in shaping a child's spiritual foundation. The episode also recommends resources like the Hug a Bible and music playlists to enhance teaching and engagement. Tune in to explore how intentional teaching and interactions can create lasting spiritual impact from an early age.   00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:41 Meet Christa Ratcliffe: Educator and Musician 01:20 Spiritual Formation in Young Children 03:43 Brain Development and Early Learning 08:19 Practical Activities for Infants and Toddlers 12:16 Regional Conference Promo 14:04 Incorporating Faith in Daily Routines 22:32 Resources and Final Thoughts Download the complete list in one doc HERE or pick and choose what's interesting/useful for you below: Basic Chapel Supplies for Infants - 24 months.  Easy Grip Jingle Bells-https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/products/music/musical-instruments/easy-grip-jingle-bells-set-of-8/p/DB952/ HugaBible-https://a.co/d/06qvEIct Scarves-https://a.co/d/8kQvKJ8 Wrist Ribbons-https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/products/active-play/balance-coordination/lakeshore-wrist-ribbons-set-of-12/p/DD127/ Velcro Dots (to attach Bible Story clip art and pictures to the Flannel Board)-https://a.co/d/5hhBgFl  Flannel/Felt Board-https://a.co/d/09o9rwSV

Are you a responder or a non-responder? Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about the concept of responders and non-responders and how that impacts early childhood education.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

In this powerful episode, Carla welcomes Dawn Montecalvo, CEO of the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee, Florida, to discuss what it really means to go all in when early learning is on the line. From shifting the educator mindset from “job” to “career” to reducing turnover through professional development and support, Dawn shares how her team is creating real, lasting change in a community with tremendous needs.We explore how strategic partnerships, intention in language, and reinforcing early childhood as a nonnegotiable investment are transforming outcomes—one child, one educator, one classroom at a time.If you believe early learning is more than a program—it's a movement—you won't want to miss this conversation.

Math educator and AI pioneer, Professor Ved, explores how artificial intelligence can support early learning without replacing the human touch. He unpacks the power of math education in building confidence and problem-solving skills, and introduces the concept of a “super growth engine” fueled by practice, progress, and curiosity. Professor Ved shares how AI can personalize learning by identifying strengths and gaps, but emphasizes that parents must remain actively involved in the process.

In this episode of "How Preschool Teachers Do It," Cindy and Alison discuss the difference between guilt and shame, inspired by a quote from a TV show. Join us to consider how these emotions affect children in different ways and how we can ensure they know they are enough.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Across the country, early childhood development programs are in increasing demand, leading many experts to discuss best practices to guide this ongoing expansion. For more, visit https://balanceela.com/ Balance Early Learning Academy City: Aurora Address: 15151 E Wesley Ave Website: https://balanceela.com/

In this episode of Waves of Awareness, we're diving into the heart of early intervention and the difference it can make for families. Waves Early Interventionist Tara Gilbert joins the conversation alongside Megan and her son Beau, one of the families she serves. Together, they open up about Beau's personality, the milestones that mean the most, and what early developmental support has looked like in their journey. Our hosts—Staci Davis (Waves CEO) and the Waves adults crew (Matt, John, Eric, and Jeni)—bring their own thoughtful questions and perspectives to the table. You'll hear Megan's reflections as a parent, Tara's simple explanation of what early intervention really is, and the moments that stand out most from their time working together. Of course, no Waves of Awareness episode would be complete without life updates from our hosts—including Eric sharing how things are going at his job at Publix.

Sometimes, we need to wait for a child's tantrum to end or for children to be ready to discuss their big feelings with us. The most important thing we can do is something that wasn't done in past generations. Join Cindy and Alison to learn about handling what challenges us with love.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Children love to pretend to be princesses (and princes). When they do, we are provided with teachable moments about the personalities and, perhaps, flaws in the characters. Join Cindy and Alison to learn about discussions you might want to have with children who are pretending to be royalty.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Oregon’s Tribal Early Learning Hub has faced a number of challenges since its creation. But this summer, state lawmakers passed HB 2815, which would invest more in early learning for Oregon's nine federally recognized tribes. As the school year begins, we hear from Jory Spencer, the early childhood service program manager for the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation. We also hear from Jennifer Reid, education director for Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians. They both join us to share more about their programs and what these new investments mean for them.

Children and adults use more than just the words on your emotions chart to describe how they are feeling. In this episode of "How Preschool Teachers Do It," Cindy and Alison discuss the other words that people use and the validity of them all. Listen and then send your emotions words to us through our website - HowPreschoolTeachersDoIt.com!Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Why is it that the type of ongoing trauma that children may experience is not its own diagnosis in the DSM-5? Join Cindy and Alison for their discussion about why and tips for ensuring we have trauma-informed early childhood environments.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Want to stand out in a crowded dental landscape? It might all come down to when you start learning.In today's episode, Dr. Chad Johnson opens up about the bold decisions and defining moments that set his dental career apart from day one. With an unwavering commitment to learning, Chad jumped straight into post-grad education, quickly making his mark by adopting advanced procedures like dental implants and mastering specialized technologies. He also reveals the entrepreneurial leap of opening his own practice immediately after dental school (a risk that paid off thanks to both market conditions and his vision for what dentistry could be.)Chad offers us a behind-the-scenes look at how he's integrated cutting-edge tools and management systems, such as same-day crowns, laser dentistry, and the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) he follows from the book "Traction." Beyond clinical skills, he dives into practical lessons on marketing, organizational health, and balancing personal ambitions with the demands of running a busy dental practice. Chad's story underscores the value of continuous learning, bold action, and intentional leadership at every stage of your career.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The power of pursuing continuing education immediately after graduation.What it takes to start a dental practice right out of school.Strategies for adopting new dental technologies and advanced services.How implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) transforms team culture and efficiency.The value of setting a clear vision and actionable goals for your practice.Insider tips on work-life balance for high-achieving dentists.Effective approaches for in-house marketing and measuring return on investment.Hit play now to discover the unique strategies that Dr. Chad Johnson has applied during his journey through dentistry!‍Sponsors:‍CallRail: Call tracking + AI that turns calls into campaigns that convert, quality patients, and cost savings. Click our link to start a free trial today! callrail.com/dentalmarketerClick here for a special offer!Guest: Dr. Chad JohnsonPractice Name: Veranda DentistryCheck out Chad's Media:‍Website: verandadentistry.comChad's Podcast "Every Day Practices Dental Podcast": productivedentist.com/podcasts/everyday-practices-dental-podcastEOS: eosworldwide.comEmail: ChadDDS@gmail.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drchadjohnsonYouTube: youtube.com/c/VerandaDentistryFacebook: facebook.com/VerandaDentistryInstagram: instagram.com/verandadentistry‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Let Us Know How We're Doing on Apple Podcasts!

This week on Waves of Awareness, we're joined by Gina Wilson, Director of Waves' Early Learning Program. Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis, with co-hosts Matt Moore and Johnny Sunshine, this episode explores the incredible work early interventionists do to support children with a variety of developmental diagnoses. Gina shares her deep expertise in early learning and developmental therapy, breaking down how Waves' team tailors support for children with unique needs. From navigating complex diagnoses to celebrating every milestone—big or small—Gina offers practical advice and uplifting stories that highlight the hope and progress early intervention can bring to families. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or someone passionate about supporting children's growth, Gina's insights and experience shine a light on how specialized early learning programs can truly change lives. As always, Matt and Johnny bring their own energy to the mic! Johnny recaps his recent visit to the Williamson County Fair with stories that are sure to make you smile.

Have you thought about who should let go first when you interact with children? Who lets go of the hug or conversation? Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about these questions and others related to how our connections with children should end.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

The availability of child care for children ages 3 to 5 in Oregon is steadily increasing, according to a new report from Oregon State University. In 2018, three-quarters of the state’s counties were considered preschool child care deserts, but as of last year, that number dropped to just nine. However, all but two counties are still considered child care deserts for children ages 0 to 2.   Megan Pratt is an associate professor of practice at OSU and the report’s lead author. Alyssa Chatterjee is the director of the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care. They both join us with more details on what the state’s child care landscape looks like today.  

This week on Waves of Awareness, we welcome Jen and Jess Chan, proud parents of Kai, who receives developmental therapy services through Waves' Early Learning Program. They are joined by our very own Michelle Baker, Kai's Early Interventionist. Hosted by Waves CEO Staci Davis—alongside our amazing co-hosts Johnny “Sunshine,” Matt Moore, and Eric Wilson—this episode dives into the Chans' journey of seeking answers, finding support, and celebrating milestones in Kai's development. From the first steps of seeking early intervention to building a strong relationship with Michelle, the Chans share heartfelt stories of growth, hope, and resilience. Whether you're a parent navigating a similar path, a supporter of inclusive communities, or simply someone who loves inspiring stories, this episode will leave you encouraged and uplifted. You'll also hear life updates from Johnny, Matt, and Eric as they continue to kick off this new season with their signature warmth and humor!

In today's technological world, it is important to consider how using devices and apps impacts children's behavior and understanding of how the real world works. Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about how children's behavior is shaped by their technological experiences.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

Kelly Soter joins the Exchange. She's the Director of Community Care and Early Learning at the Phoenix-Talent School District.

Sometimes, adults assume children are being stubborn, picky, and uncooperative when they actually may be responding to sensory input issues. Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about when children's actions are caused by what we do not suspect.Check out our website:  https://www.howpreschoolteachersdoit.com/Be sure to like our Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/howpreschoolteachersdoitLearn more about Cindy's work, including professional development, family education, and consulting opportunities:  https://hihello.com/hi/cindyterebush-RXMBKA

At last, Cindy and Alison are ready to share the magic formula! Are you looking for a magic formula for addressing challenging behavior or for other classroom management or parenting challenges? This episode is for you!

We are human, so there are bound to be activities we enjoy doing with children more than others. We need to be careful not to send silent messages that discourage children based on our preferences. Join Cindy and Alison as they discuss how we can teach children that different people can like different things.

Not every one of your accomplishments shows up on reports of children reaching milestones. Every day, there are quieter actions and interactions that show you are succeeding in this quest to nurture and educate early learners. Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about the importance of tracking the wins that are less visible but just as significant.

What keeps families thriving in some of California's most remote rural areas?  Join Heidi and Wendy as they talk with and learn from Gordon, Shasta County's Head Start Executive Director with over 20 years of passion and purpose! From serving 3 counties to delivering whole-child, whole-family care, this episode dives into what makes Shasta Head Start a lifeline for families — and (spoiler alert ) it's all about the PEOPLE. Discover how evidence-based practices, human connection, and community commitment are creating real change — and why YOU should care.

Just because they sell it and have marketing campaigns doesn't mean it's best for your children. Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about what is actually developmentally appropriate learning for young children (hint: You don't need to buy an expensive curriculum).

The conversation with Cindy and Alison's millennial guest continues as they dive into the differences that technology has made in the lives of young children. Join Cindy, Alison, and Michael as this two-parter wraps up with the changes from one generation to another and how that can impact young children.

Instead of talking ABOUT millennials, in this episode, Cindy and Alison talk WITH a millennial. Join us for a discussion about what today's early learners can gain from the influence of millennials.

Sometimes, information we think is true and have talked about for years turns out to not be so true. What do you think when a child "W" sits? What do you think about the importance of people who work with infants? This and more as Cindy and Alison discuss what we don't think anymore.

In one of the best mashing of two words unintentionally, Cindy's colleague created a great, new word - Intentionable. Are you intentionable? Join Cindy and Alison to learn what it means and join us in a campaign to make it viral and get it in the dictionary! Share this episode far and wide, Preschool Peeps!

Welcome to Part 1 of our illuminating series, "Switch Hats, Not Values - Leading with Clarity and Sanity!" In this episode of the Leadership Sandbox, Tammy J. Bond sits down with Kendall Peterson, Early Learning Manager for the Quinault Nation. Kendall shares her transformative leadership journey through the powerful metaphor of 'switching hats,' revealing how adopting different leadership roles has revolutionized her communication and enhanced team dynamics. This conversation dives deep into why clarity in leadership is non-negotiable and the inherent challenges of setting crucial boundaries. You'll explore how deeply personal values intertwine with professional relationships and discover the significant impact of leading with intention. Kendall's experiences highlight that avoiding difficult conversations ultimately leads to negative team outcomes. Tune in to learn how transparency about your leadership style can foster a healthier work environment and propel your personal growth as a leader. Key Takeaways for Leaders: The "Hats" Concept for Clarity: Learn how intentionally "switching hats" (adopting different roles) provides clarity in communication and sets clear expectations for your team. Boundaries are Non-Negotiable: Effective leadership demands setting firm boundaries to maintain professionalism and reduce stress for both you and your team. Values as Your Compass: Understand why aligning with your personal values is fundamental for authentic and effective leadership. Confronting Avoidance: Discover how avoiding difficult conversations and issues directly leads to negative team dynamics and hinders personal growth. Intentional Leadership: Embrace the importance of leading with intention to foster a healthier and more productive work environment. Onboarding for Success: Learn how clear expectations set during onboarding new staff lay the groundwork for a positive team dynamic. In This Episode, You'll Learn: How Kendall Peterson transformed her leadership style using the 'hats' metaphor. The profound impact of clarity in leadership on reducing stress and improving team morale. Why understanding and integrating personal values is crucial for effective management. The benefits of transparency in your leadership style for building stronger relationships. How team support is essential for a leader's growth and success. Strategies for avoiding difficult conversations and their impact on team dynamics. Meet Kendall: Kendall Peterson has more than 20 years of service in programs supporting children and families, and 9 years as the Early Learning Manager for the Quinault Indian Nation. She oversees Head Start, Early Head Start, and licensed childcare programming for the Nation, building strong, culturally responsive early learning environments grounded in community values. Kendall is passionate about meeting families where they are and offering programming that helps them grow. She brings a reflective, practical approach to her own leadership journey, and is committed to mentoring her team to help them discover and realize their passions and potential. She has successfully navigated the complexities of Tribal governance, federal and state early learning regulations, and diverse stakeholder expectations, while keeping the needs of children, families, and staff at the center of her work. She brings a practical, reflective approach to leadership and is eager to share real-world strategies for staying grounded while managing competing roles. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and the Concept of Hats: Setting the stage for understanding various leadership roles. 01:39 Kendall's Journey and Leadership Challenges: Hear about Kendall's real-world experiences and the obstacles she navigated. 04:56 The Importance of Clarity in Leadership: Why clear communication is vital for effective management. 08:49 Transforming Conversations and Leadership Style: Practical insights into changing your approach to team dynamics. 12:25 The Impact of Values on Leadership: Exploring how personal values shape your professional approach. 16:19 Setting Boundaries and Leading with Clarity: Essential strategies for establishing and maintaining professional boundaries. 19:42 Onboarding New Staff and Establishing Expectations: Best practices for setting a positive tone with new team members. 23:32 The Role of Team Support in Leadership Growth: How strong team dynamics contribute to a leader's success. 27:12 Conclusion and Future Conversations on Leadership: Wrapping up Part 1 and looking ahead in the series. Ready to lead with intention and master the art of 'switching hats' without losing your core values? Tune into Part 1 of this empowering series on the Leadership Sandbox! Learn More Here: bondgroupenterprises.com/podcast  

Have you heard of Theory of Mind? Even if you haven't heard that phrase, you've likely seen it play out in your interactions with early learners. Cindy and Alison discuss Theory of Mind, how it shows up, and the impact on our interactions with young children.

Don't let social media posts fool you into thinking memorization is real knowledge! Just because children can repeat what you say or do doesn't mean they understand it. Join Cindy and Alison for a discussion about what real knowledge and understanding looks like and how to promote it.

Most early educators and families know that positive guidance helps children learn about rules, boundaries, and expectations. Do you know the characteristics of positive approaches for teaching children about behavior? Cindy and Alison discuss the essential elements of a positive approach that supports children and teaches them how to use their power in productive ways.

Welcome to the final episode of Season 10 of Waves of Awareness! We're wrapping up this season with a conversation with the Waves Early Learning leadership team: Gina, Jen and Katie. Our usual co-hosts for this episode are Waves CEO Staci Davis and Waves adult Johnny Sunshine. Johnny shares a few life updates as well as what he's looking forward to this summer. The group then dives into all things Early Learning: why it matters, what referrals look like, some of the best practices they utilize, and a huge milestone Waves Early Learning just hit. Waves considers it a privilege to be able to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilties (IDD) across all seasons of life, and we're excited to highlight the youngest ones this week! Tune in for important information about Early Intervention, some sweet stories from some of our Early Interventionists themselves, and lots of laughs. Be sure to follow us on socials @waves_serves to keep up with the tips our Early Learning team shares every Tuesday! Stay tuned for updated on Season 11 and the amazing guests WOA will be hosting.  ______________________________________ To learn more about Waves go to: wavesinc.com For volunteer opportunities with Waves go to: https://wavesinc.com/volunteer/ 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 view Waves Early Learning Tuesday Tips: https://wavesinc.com/early-learning-program/early-learning-tips/

It's the time of year when families plan their vacations. Let's encourage them to document vacations so their children can share their adventures with teachers and classmates! In this episode of the podcast, Cindy and Alison talk about several ways families can share their vacations with us in early childhood programs.

Why do so many promising solutions in education, medicine, and criminal justice fail to scale up into great policy? And can a new breed of “implementation scientists” crack the code? SOURCES:Patti Chamberlain, senior research scientist at the Oregon Social Learning Center.John List, professor of economics at the University of Chicago.Lauren Supplee, former deputy chief operating officer at Child Trends.Dana L. Suskind, professor of surgery at the University of Chicago. RESOURCES:“How Can Experiments Play a Greater Role in Public Policy? 12 Proposals from an Economic Model of Scaling,” by Omar Al-Ubaydli, John List, Claire Mackevicius, Min Sok Lee, and Dana Suskind.“The Science of Using Science: Towards an Understanding of the Threats to Scaling Experiments,” by Omar Al-Ubaydli, John List, and Dana Suskind (The Field Experiments Website, 2019).“Inconsistent Device Use in Pediatric Cochlear Implant Users: Prevalence and Risk Factors,” by K.B.Wiseman and A.D. Warner-Czyz (U.S. National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, 2018). EXTRAS:"Why Do Most Ideas Fail to Scale?" by Freakonomics Radio (2022)."The Price of Doing Business with John List," by People I (Mostly) Admire (2022).Child Trends.Oregon Social Learning Center.T.M.W. Center for Early Learning and Public Health.The Field Experiments Website.