Big emotions in little bodies? It’s normal but how can you tell when your child might need extra support? In this episode, we explore early childhood mental health through the Head, Heart, Hands framework. Learn how CPS developmental screenings work, why early intervention matters, and how parents and educators collaborate to support children’s emotional well-being.

What happens when school meals disappear for the summer? For too many Chicago families, it means facing an empty fridge and impossible choices. In this episode, we are joined by Camerin Mattson from the Greater Chicago Food Depository to explore the realities of food insecurity and how local partnerships are addressing the gap. From free summer meals at libraries to wraparound services at community pantries, we explore how families can access resources to cover the loss of meals, such as free lunch, for their children during school breaks.

Lead exposure can impact children before they even step into a classroom. In this episode, we’re joined by Sharita Webb from the Chicago Department of Public Health to talk candidly about how families can prevent lead poisoning and protect their Pre-K children. 

Starting Pre-K means more than new backpacks and fresh crayons—it means doctor’s appointments, medical forms, and school health deadlines that can sneak up fast. In this episode, host Leslie is joined by Alexandra Sontag, a Family Nurse Practitioner supporting school health at the Chicago Department of Public Health. Together, they break down what it really takes to get your child medically cleared for Day One of CPS Pre-K—and why readiness goes far beyond paperwork. From understanding CPS health requirements to tips for supporting your child’s emotional well-being, we’re laying it all out. Tune in now to get expert tips, timelines, and must-know info so your child is clear to start on Day One!

Summer is more than a season—it’s your secret weapon for a smooth start to school. In this episode, Rachel Mayo from Chicago Public Schools’ Office of Early Childhood joins us to break down how families can use the summer months to prepare their little ones for pre-K and kindergarten. From free CPS transition programs like Preview to Pre-K and Kick Off to Kindergarten, to everyday activities in parks, libraries, and living rooms, we explore what readiness really looks like. We also tackle common concerns around separation anxiety and what “homework” should mean for preschoolers (spoiler: it’s not worksheets). Tune in for simple, joyful ways to make the most of summer and give your child a confident, connected start to school.

In this jam-packed episode of Circle Time Convos, we’re talking all things enrollment—from the first application click to walking through the school doors on Day One. Joining us is the one and only Jenny LeFlore, affectionately known as Mama Fresh—the Chicago Tribune’s crowned “Coolest Mama” and a powerhouse in building community around modern motherhood. With two kids and a whole lot of wisdom, Jenny brings the real talk on navigating pre-K applications, prepping your little one emotionally, and embracing the “kiss and fly” drop-off routine. Whether you're a first-time parent or doing it all over again, this one’s full of game-changing tips, heartfelt moments, and laughs you won’t want to miss.

The Pre-K waitlist can feel confusing and frustrating—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, host Leslie McKinily is joined by Tasha from Illinois Action for Children, part of the extended Chicago Early Learning team, to bust the biggest myths about the waitlist process. Together, they demystify how students are prioritized, explain how families can remain on waitlists even after accepting an offer, and break down what happens behind the scenes after you apply. Whether you're still exploring options or anxiously waiting, this episode offers clarity, guidance, and a reminder to stay patient and persistent—your child’s learning journey is worth it.

In this episode of Circle Time Conversations, we answer real parent questions about navigating the Pre-K application process. Hear advice on picking the best program for your family, handling the disappointment of not getting a top choice, and why early learning matters—even when family care is available.

Learn what to look for in a quality program, why trusting your gut is key, and how early childhood experiences shape lifelong learning. Plus, get a simple action step to help you move forward today.

Your voice matters. Join us at chicagoearlylearning.org.

Circle Time Convos is officially here. Our first episode introduces our host, Leslie McKinily, Chief Officer of Early Childhood Education at Chicago Public Schools. Leslie shares personal experiences, expert insights, and the kind of conversation every parent and educator needs to hear. Whether you're raising a little one, teaching a classroom full of them, or just passionate about early childhood education, this podcast is for you.