In this episode of Early Years Explorers, we explore a reality many parents and early years educators experience but rarely talk about openly — the pressure of constant check-ins, the expectation of immediate responses, and the anxiety that can quietly sit beneath it all.

Together, we reflect on where this need for reassurance comes from, how it impacts teachers who are caring for whole classrooms, and what research from Europe and Australia tells us about trust, independence, and healthy partnerships in the early years.

This episode isn’t about blame or labels. It’s an invitation to pause, reflect, and consider how stepping back at times can actually support children’s confidence, resilience, and sense of security — while strengthening the partnership between home and school.

Whether you’re listening as a parent, an educator, or both, this conversation offers gentle insight, honest reflection, and practical perspective on what true partnership can look like in the early years.

Discipline doesn’t have to mean power struggles, punishments, or constant reminders that leave everyone feeling exhausted. In this episode of Early Years Explorers, we dive into what positive discipline really looks like in the early years—and how it can support children’s behaviour and their emotional development.

We explore practical, age-appropriate strategies that actually work in real homes and classrooms, helping adults set clear boundaries while staying calm, connected, and respectful. From understanding what behaviour is communicating, to responding in ways that build self-regulation and empathy, this episode focuses on discipline that feels right—for children and for the adults guiding them.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, you’ll walk away with simple tools and reassuring reminders that guidance can be kind, consistent, and effective—without losing your values along the way.

Screen time doesn’t have to come with guilt.

In this episode of Early Years Explorers, early years educator and parent Afaf Zaidan breaks down what experts really recommend when it comes to young children and screens—using research from Australia, Qatar, and the UK.

We talk about why screen limits are hard to stick to, what recent global research tells us about child development, how classrooms are moving away from passive tech, and how parents can find balance without aiming for perfection.

This episode is about intention, connection, and real life—not counting minutes.

Perfect for parents and educators raising young children in a digital world.

In this episode of Early Years Explorers, we take a real, honest look behind those picture-perfect learning invitations and talk about what actually makes them meaningful in real classrooms. If you’ve ever spent time carefully setting up a beautiful provocation only to watch it turn into something completely unexpected within minutes—this episode is for you.

We explore what learning invitations truly are (and what they are not), why open-ended, child-led experiences matter, and how meaningful invitations support cognitive development, language, creativity, and emotional regulation. Grounded in research and inspired by approaches like Reggio Emilia, this episode reminds us that the environment is more than decoration—it’s a conversation starter.

Through relatable classroom stories—blocks becoming a hospital, watercolor turning into scientific inquiry, and a sensory tray transforming into a traditional meal—we unpack how learning unfolds when children are trusted to lead. You’ll also hear practical tips for creating invitations that are intentional, flexible, and realistic, without the pressure of perfection.

This episode is a must-listen for educators and parents who want to move beyond Pinterest-worthy setups and focus on what truly matters: meaningful learning, curiosity, and embracing the beautiful chaos of the early years.

In this parent-focused episode, we explore the heart of social and emotional learning in the early years. Episode 14 features a recorded parent video session that unpacks why emotional development is just as important as academic learning, and how everyday moments at home play a powerful role in shaping confident, resilient children.

Whether you’re navigating big feelings, supporting friendships, or simply wanting to better understand your child’s emotional world, this episode offers reassurance, practical insights, and meaningful strategies you can use right away. A must-watch for parents wanting to support the whole child.

In this episode of Early Years Explorers, host Afaf Zaidan unpacks what assessment really means in early childhood — beyond checklists and clipboards. From observing children’s play and curiosity to capturing learning through stories, Afaf explores how assessment can be authentic, joyful, and deeply meaningful.

Discover how everyday moments — a block tower that just won’t stand, a paint mix gone delightfully wrong, or a child’s proud retelling of their own story — reveal powerful insights about learning and growth.

Join us as we rethink assessment not as a test, but as a way of seeing the whole child: their strengths, emotions, creativity, and voice.

Reflective. Practical. Heartfelt. This episode reminds us that even the glitter explosions count… kind of.

Get ready to tap your toes and move your hearts! In this episode of Early Years Explorers, Afaf Zaidan dives into the rhythm and wonder of music and movement in early childhood. From spontaneous dance parties to the magic of a well-timed cleanup song, discover how rhythm, repetition, and joy become powerful tools for learning.

We’ll explore what research says about how music supports brain development, emotional regulation, and language growth — and of course, share a few real classroom moments (yes, including the one where the freeze dance went hilariously wrong).

Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or anyone who’s ever hummed “Baby Shark” on repeat, this episode reminds us that music isn’t just an activity — it’s a language children use to connect, express, and thrive.

In this episode, we dive into one of the most important aspects of early childhood education — social-emotional development. From building friendships and learning to share, to managing big feelings and developing empathy, these early years lay the foundation for children’s well-being and future success.

Join me as I explore practical strategies, classroom stories, and research-based insights that highlight how educators and families can support children in becoming confident, resilient, and compassionate learners.

The first six weeks of preschool are a whirlwind — for teachers, parents, and especially for our tiny learners. In this episode of Early Years Explorers, Afaf Zaidan dives into the ups, downs, and unexpected moments that make this “settling-in” period so important. From snack times that turn into mini buffets to parents staking out the classroom window, Afaf shares the humor and heart of those early days. You’ll also hear tried-and-true strategies for easing the transition, building trust, and setting the tone for a successful school year. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or early years enthusiast, this episode will make you laugh, nod in recognition, and maybe even jot down a few tips for your own settling-in journey.

In this playful and thought-provoking episode, we dive into the magical world of manipulatives and loose parts in early childhood education. How do simple materials like buttons, pebbles, lids, or fabric scraps spark complex thinking and creativity in young learners?

Join us as we explore how open-ended, hands-on play with manipulatives encourages problem-solving, language development, fine motor skills, and imaginative thinking. We discuss how educators can thoughtfully curate loose parts and create rich environments that inspire curiosity and exploration.

Whether it’s sorting, building, storytelling, or representing mathematical thinking, manipulatives are more than just play — they’re powerful tools for learning!

Tune in and discover why bright minds truly start with loose parts.