Building Strong Relationships in Early Childhood Education

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, host Monica Healer interviews Dan St. Romain, an experienced educational consultant specializing in early childhood and behavior support. The discussion focuses on the changing societal norms and their impact on children's behavior, emphasizing the need to shift the mindset from punishment to discipline based on strong relationships. Dan shares practical strategies for managing classroom behavior, stressing the importance of developmental understanding and giving children the support they need. The conversation also highlights the significance of empathy, grace, and assuming positive intent in interactions with children and their parents.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:42 Meet Dan St. Romain: Educational Consultant

02:21 Current Challenges in Early Childhood Behavior

03:09 The Problem with Strategy vs. Mindset

05:40 Discipline vs. Punishment: A Mindset Shift

10:20 Impact of Societal Changes on Children's Behavior

20:01 Building Strong Relationships and Providing Clarity

25:05 Understanding Children's Natural Reactions

26:52 Assuming Positive Intent

28:20 Empathy in Discipline

36:15 The Impact of the Pandemic on Development

41:43 Patience and Grace in Early Childhood Education

45:33 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Dan has written several books for educators. You can find them on his website: https://danstromain.com/dans-store/. Monica's favorite is Lessons From LaRoux, which compares puppy training to shaping behavior in developing brains!

Dan also has several social resources available at the same link including songs and read-aloud for your classroom.

Dan offers an online course with monthly Zoom coaching sessions where you can bring your "real-life" challenges and problem-solve together. You can find more information on that course at this link - https://danstromain.com/online-course/