Educate To Elevate

By Rita María Hernández and Carmen WoodEducation Self-Improvement

Educate To Elevate episodes

April 07, 2024The Art Of Joyful Learning: Creating a Joyful and Immersive Learning Environment
In this conversation, Dr. Rita Maria Hernandez and Carmen discuss the importance of play-based learning and how it can be incorporated into education from preschool to adulthood. They emphasize the need for autonomy, exploration, collaboration, and hands-on activities in learning. They also highlight the role of games, simulations, and technology in creating engaging and meaningful learning experiences. The TAC framework is introduced as a guide for lesson planning, which includes starting with a game to set the stage for learning. They stress the importance of asking open-ended questions and fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need to create a joyful and immersive learning environment for students.

Takeaways
Play-based learning is important from preschool to adulthood, fostering autonomy, exploration, collaboration, and hands-on activities.

Games, simulations, and technology can enhance learning experiences and engage students.

The TAC framework (Thinking, Activity, Create) can guide lesson planning, starting with a game to set the stage for learning.

Open-ended questions and critical thinking promote deeper learning and problem-solving skills.

Creating a joyful and immersive learning environment is essential for student engagement and success.

play-based learning, autonomy, exploration, collaboration, hands-on activities, games, simulations, technology, TAC framework, open-ended questions, critical thinking, problem-solving, immersive learning environment

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
02:26 The Importance of Play-Based Learning from Preschool to Adulthood
07:20 Engaging Students with Games, Simulations, and Technology
14:13 Using the TAC Framework for Effective Lesson Planning
26:07 Creating a Joyful and Immersive Learning Environment
39 min
March 24, 2024Play And Emotional Regulation With Heidi Hawkins, M.S., Ed.S
Summary
Heidi Hawkins, M.S., Ed.S, a mother of seven and a school psychologist, shares her passion for child development and offers insights on various topics. She emphasizes the importance of play in child development, the role of failure and risk-taking, and the value of allowing children to solve problems on their own. Heidi also discusses the importance of teaching conflict resolution skills and balancing work and family life. She highlights the significance of prioritizing self-care and offers resources for parents and educators.

Takeaways
Play is a fundamental need for children and should be prioritized as part of their development.

Failure and risk-taking are essential for growth and should be embraced and modeled by parents and educators.

Children should be given the opportunity to solve problems on their own, with guidance and support from adults.

Teaching conflict resolution skills is crucial for children's social and emotional development.

Balancing work and family life requires setting priorities and saying no to certain commitments.

Self-care is essential for parents and educators to effectively support children's development.

Heidi Hawkins is passionate about supporting parents and educators and offers resources and contact information for further assistance.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:02 Technical Difficulties
07:39 The Importance of Play in Child Development
15:45 The Role of Failure and Risk-Taking in Child Development
25:26 Teaching Children Conflict Resolution Skills
27:25 Balancing Work and Family Life
37:35 Prioritizing Self-Care
40:20 Passion for Supporting Parents and Educators
41:17 Resources and Contact Information

Reach Heidi at:
https://www.nestpsychological.com/about

Download the
14 Days to a Calm Nervous System FREEBIE Here:
https://www.nestpsychological.com/nervoussystem

Find Heidi on Instagram
@Heidi_Hawks
39 min
March 18, 2024An Introduction To Play-Based Learning
Summary
In this enlightening episode, Carmen and Rita kickoff their series by exploring diverse learning strategies and educational philosophies with a deep dive into the pivotal role of play-based learning. As a cornerstone of their educational ethos, they advocate for a child-centered approach, underscoring the necessity of evolving educational frameworks to meet the demands of today's dynamic world. The duo sheds light on how play is instrumental in fostering children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. They delve into the advantages of engaging in risky play, advocating for a shift in perception towards the concept of play in education. Highlighting the critical need to dismantle outdated views on play, Carmen and Rita set the stage for future discussions to redefine educational paradigms. Tune in for a compelling call to action to embrace and advocate for the transformative power of play in learning.

Takeaways
Play-based learning is an intentional and well-informed approach to education that promotes cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.

Child-centered education is crucial in understanding and meeting the needs of children in their natural course of development.

The changing landscape of education requires a shift in mindset and a focus on providing children with the knowledge and skills they need to navigate the future.

Risky play is important for building children's resilience, problem-solving skills, and emotional regulation.

Parents and educators should change their mindset about play and recognize its value in promoting curiosity, exploration, and joy in learning.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Series
00:30 Starting with Play-Based Learning
03:39 Child-Centered Education
06:23 Adapting Play-Based Learning to the Digital Generation
08:59 The Changing Landscape of Education
09:29 The Breaking Point and the Need for Information
11:34 Child-Centeredness and the Value of Children
12:23 The Importance of Play in Learning
14:02 Overview of Play-Based Learning
15:32 Benefits of Play-Based Learning
20:06 Children's Natural Desire to Learn
21:47 The Importance of Risky Play
23:36 Promoting Independence and Problem-Solving Skills
26:09 Building Resilience and Emotional Regulation
27:21 Changing the Focus from Right Answers to Exploration
29:37 Children's Responsibility for Their Fun
31:25 Developing Problem-Solving and Critical-Thinking Skills
33:33 Upcoming Topics: Emotional Regulation and Teacher Knowledge
34:30 Conclusion and Homework
34 min
March 10, 2024Cultivating The Love And Joy Of Reading
Summary
In this episode of the Educate to Elevate podcast, Rita and Carmen delve into the multifaceted world of raising bilingual children, shedding light on the challenges and rewards of nurturing linguistic diversity within the family dynamic. With a focus on promoting reading as a cornerstone of bilingualism, they explore innovative strategies for seamlessly integrating reading practices into language development routines. Drawing from personal experiences and professional insights, they underscore the transformative power of reading aloud in instilling a lifelong love of literature in young learners.

Throughout the discussion, Rita and Carmen navigate topics ranging from delayed reading and play-based learning to the pivotal role of parental involvement in cultivating a rich reading culture at home. By emphasizing the importance of active engagement and limiting screen time, they underscore the critical role of parents in fostering healthy reading habits and nurturing cognitive development in their children.

Moreover, the conversation extends to explore the invaluable influence of grandparents in promoting reading and the profound impact of read-aloud sessions in nurturing literacy skills. From practical tips for incorporating reading into daily routines to effective strategies for supporting struggling readers, Rita and Carmen provide actionable insights for parents navigating the complexities of raising bilingual readers in the digital age.

In essence, this illuminating dialogue serves as a compelling reminder of the enduring significance of reading in shaping young minds and fostering a deep appreciation for language and literature. By championing the importance of prioritizing reading amidst the digital distractions of modern life, Rita and Carmen invite listeners to embrace the transformative power of storytelling and create meaningful connections through the shared experience of reading.

Takeaways
Reading is a central part of language development and can be integrated into bilingualism.

Reading aloud is the most effective way to foster a love of reading in children.

Parents play a crucial role in creating a reading culture in the family.

Delayed reading and play-based learning can be beneficial for children's overall cognitive development.

Limiting screen time for young children is recommended by experts. Promoting reading habits in children is essential for cognitive development and language skills.

Non-digital play and imaginative activities are crucial for children's cognitive growth.

Grandparents can play a significant role in promoting reading and creating a love for books.

Read-alouds are valuable for children of all ages and can create lasting memories.

Making intentional time for reading and reducing device usage is important for fostering a reading culture.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Reflection on Previous Episode
02:05 Challenges of Raising Bilingual Children
03:04 The Importance of Reading in Bilingualism
05:28 Integrating Reading into Language Development
07:22 The Power of Reading Aloud
09:19 Reading as a Catalyst for Personal Growth
11:37 The Role of Listening in Language Development
15:15 Delayed Reading and Play-Based Learning
20:07 Creating a Reading Culture in the Family
21:15 The Importance of Opting In
22:05 Limiting Screen Time for Young Children
23:11 The Privilege of Stay-at-Home Parenting
23:51 The Impact of Device Usage on Language Development
25:23 The Importance of Non-Digital Play
26:17 The Cognitive Benefits of Reading
27:43 Promoting Reading Habits in Children
29:39 Incorporating Reading into Daily Life
32:00 Using Audiobooks and Other Resources
34:23 Grandparents' Role in Promoting Reading
35:46 Incentivizing Reading
37:18 The Power of Read-Alouds
39:06 Reading Aloud to Older Children
40:04 Working with Struggling Readers
41:03 Making Room for Reading
42:16 The Value of Shared Reading Time
42 min
March 03, 2024 Gaining Wisdom Through Literature: A Conversation with Calli Birch
Summary
In this conversation, Calli Birch shares her journey as a teacher, homeschooler, and entrepreneur. She discusses her early love for books and literature, her experience homeschooling in Guatemala, and her transition back to teaching in a private school. Calli also talks about her decision to homeschool again and start her own business teaching literature to homeschool families. She emphasizes the power of literature in education, its reflection on cultural shifts, and its role in practicing virtue. The conversation highlights the importance of making hard decisions and the role of the teacher in literature education. In this conversation, Calli Birch discusses the power of literature and its impact on personal growth. She shares her love for classic books and the importance of asking questions while reading. The role of mentors in literature and the value of context are also explored. Calli emphasizes the freedom of interpretation in literature and the importance of peer collaboration in discussions. She highlights the role of literature in personal and social development and the significance of reading aloud to children. Finally, Calli shares her upcoming projects and courses.
Takeaways
Literature can have a profound impact on a person's life, helping them find a sense of belonging and understanding their own experiences.
Homeschooling can provide a unique and personalized education experience, allowing students to pursue their passions and develop their sense of identity.
Literature can teach important life skills and virtues, such as making difficult decisions and practicing empathy.
The role of the teacher is crucial in guiding students through the exploration of literature and helping them develop critical thinking and analytical skills. Literature provides a space for personal growth and exploration.
Asking questions while reading is essential for critical thinking.
Mentors play a significant role in literature, guiding characters and readers alike.
The interpretation of literature is subjective, allowing for diverse perspectives.
Literature fosters communication skills, collaboration, and empathy.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:58 Early Love for Books and Literature
06:27 Homeschooling Experience in Guatemala
09:25 Teaching Career and Transition to Homeschooling
13:59 Return to Teaching and Development of Curriculum
16:38 Decision to Homeschool Again and Starting a Business
22:32 Literature as a Reflection of Cultural Shifts
23:31 Literature as a Practice of Virtue
28:08 The Importance of Making Hard Decisions
29:49 The Role of the Teacher in Literature Education
32:03 Personal Reflections on Literature and Education
33:54 The Power of Literature
34:07 The Impact of Books on Personal Growth
35:04 Literature as a Space for Asking Questions
35:39 Literature as a Tool for Challenging Cultural Norms
36:11 The Role of Mentors in Literature
37:02 The Importance of Context in Literature
38:01 The Interpretation of Literature
39:25 The Value of Asking Questions in Literature
41:21 Literature as a Vehicle for Communication Skills
43:32 The Importance of Listening in Literature Discussions
45:03 The Freedom of Interpretation in Literature
47:42 The Power of Peer Collaboration in Literature
49:45 Literature as a Tool for Personal and Social Development
52:27 The Role of Literature in Personal Identity
54:36 The Importance of Reading Aloud and Allowing Children to Develop at Their Own Pace
56:12 Upcoming Projects and Courses
To reach Callie for her services visit her webpage at storyweaverco.com
59 min
February 26, 2024Uplifting The Art Of Teaching
Summary
This conversation explores the need for change in education and the role of parents as home educators. It discusses the challenges faced by teachers and the lack of respect for the teaching profession. The conversation emphasizes the importance of collaboration between parents and educators and the need for training and support for home educators. It also highlights the value of teachers in shaping children's education and the future of education.

Takeaways
Parents play a crucial role as home educators and need to actively participate in their child's education journey.

Teachers face challenges and lack of respect in the education system, but their role is essential in shaping children's education.

Collaboration between parents and educators is key to providing the best education for children.

Training and support are necessary for home educators to ensure effective teaching and learning.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:27 Observing the Need for Change in Education
04:15 Adopting Principles into Cultural Context
07:35 Complexity of Education Decision-Making
08:42 The Value and Challenges of Teaching
09:39 The Role of Parents as Home Educators
11:28 Different Education Systems and Contexts
13:50 The Importance of Training for Home Educators
14:16 The Influence of Homeschooling Influencers
16:02 The Lack of Respect for Teachers
18:38 The Gender Disparity in Teaching
20:08 Historical Treatment of Female Teachers
22:28 Challenges Faced by Teachers Today
24:44 The Need for Collaboration Between Parents and Educators
25:29 The Vision for Home Educator Institute
26:18 Navigating Education Options for Children
28:14 Understanding and Guiding Children's Education
30:05 Personalized Approaches to Education
32:08 Collaboration Between Parents and Teachers
36:23 The Future of Education and Teaching
38:10 The Value of Teachers in Education
39 min
February 19, 2024Correction vs. Discipline
Summary
In this episode, Rita Maria Hernandez and Carmen discuss the differences between correction and discipline in parenting. They emphasize the importance of a strong relationship with your child and the need for authenticity and apologizing when mistakes are made. They also highlight the significance of believing in your child and yourself as a parent. The conversation explores the role of natural consequences and the importance of labeling behavior rather than labeling the child. They provide guidelines for effective discipline and discuss the importance of building behaviors and establishing expectations. The episode concludes with a discussion on seeking expert advice when needed.

Recommended Book:
Discipline with Love And Logic - by Jim Fay (Author), Foster W. Cline (Author)

Takeaways
Building a strong relationship with your child is essential for effective discipline.

Correction focuses on teaching and training, while discipline focuses on building character and establishing boundaries.

Believe in your child's ability to learn and grow, and believe in yourself as a parent.

Use natural consequences and avoid labeling your child's behavior as part of their identity.

Seek support from a circle of trusted friends and mentors, and be open to seeking expert advice when needed.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setting the Context
03:12 Understanding the Three Types of People
04:34 The Goal of Parenting: Growing in Wisdom
06:55 Correction vs Discipline
08:21 The Importance of a Strong Relationship
12:36 Being Authentic and Apologizing
15:05 Believing in Your Child and Yourself
17:33 Natural Consequences and Labeling Behavior
21:33 The Importance of a Supportive Circle
25:55 Guidelines for Effective Discipline
29:28 Understanding Correction and Discipline
33:25 Correction and Discipline in Daily Routines
37:29 Building Behaviors and Establishing Expectations
40:00 Looking Ahead and Seeking Expert Advice
41 min
February 11, 2024 Discipline - The pillar of Character Development
In this episode, Dr. Rita Hernandez and Carmen Wood have a conversation about character development, boundaries, and the definition of discipline.
42 min
February 04, 2024Correction - A Positive Response to Error
Summary
In this episode, Dr. Rita Maria Hernandez and Carmen discuss the importance of correction in the learning process. They highlight the role of the brain in recognizing and responding to errors, both internally and externally. They emphasize the need for a positive and supportive environment for correction, as well as the importance of effective feedback. They also discuss the challenges of caregiving and the importance of self-care. The limitations of grades as feedback are explored and the TACK method of feedback is introduced. The role of concrete experiences and clear communication in learning is discussed, along with the importance of building a strong learning environment at home.

Takeaways
Correction is an essential part of the learning process, as it helps the brain recognize and respond to errors.

A positive and supportive environment is crucial for effective correction and feedback.

Grades alone are not sufficient feedback for learning, and more specific information and guidance are needed.

The TACK method of feedback (Think, Ask, Create, Keep) can be a helpful framework for providing and receiving feedback.

Concrete experiences and clear communication are important for effective learning.

Building a strong learning environment at home involves creating routines, modeling, and fostering positive relationships.

LINK TO THE FEEDBACK WORKSHEET

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates
03:41 The Importance of Correction in Learning
11:18 Providing Effective Corrective Feedback
15:08 Self-Care and the Challenges of Caregiving
16:54 The Limitations of Grades as Feedback
19:45 The TAC Method of Feedback
22:39 The Role of Concrete Experiences in Learning
25:32 The Importance of Clear Communication and Dialogue
26:47 Building a Strong Learning Environment at Home
28:59 Conclusion
29 min
January 28, 2024Instruction: Clear Structured Guidance
Summary
In this conversation, Carmen and Rita discuss effective instruction and teaching strategies for young children. They emphasize the importance of teaching math concepts through hands-on activities and the joy that comes with understanding these concepts. They also highlight the need for instruction that promotes deep understanding rather than just memorization of facts. The conversation explores the cognitive development of children and the importance of providing the right support during developmental milestones. Carmen and Rita discuss the definition of early childhood and the similarities between different age groups. They also discuss the significance of the interaction between teachers and students and the role of self-reported grades and co-construction of criteria in promoting learning. The conversation concludes with a focus on effective feedback and differentiated assessments.

Takeaways
Teaching math concepts through hands-on activities can foster deep understanding and joy in learning.

Instruction should focus on promoting deep understanding rather than just memorization of facts.

Children's cognitive development involves deconstructing and reconstructing knowledge, requiring support and understanding from teachers.

Early childhood extends up to the age of eight, and developmental milestones can impact behavior and learning.

Interaction between teachers and students is crucial for effective instruction and learning.

Self-reported grades and co-construction of criteria can enhance student understanding and communication of learning.

Effective feedback and differentiated assessments can support student growth and learning.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
02:54 Teaching Math Concepts
07:23 Instruction for Deep Understanding
09:31 Teaching Math Facts
10:41 Cognitive Development and Brain Growth
12:27 Developmental Milestones
13:20 Early Childhood Definition
15:13 Importance of Interaction
17:29 Self-Reported Grades and Co-Construction of Criteria
24:36 Effective Feedback
26:37 Differentiated Assessments
31:23 Conclusion
32 min

About Educate To Elevate

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"Welcome to 'Educate to Elevate: The Home Educator's Hub Podcast.' Join our tribe, which we call the HIVE - as we embark on a journey to empower every parent, mentor, and teacher, but especially…

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