On today’s episode of Play on Words from Big City Readers with Beth Gaskill I am diving into a recent consultation I had with a family about choosing a preschool. I asked a simple question: Why are you leaving your current school? The answer they gave me shocked me—and it’s one I know you’ll want to hear.

But this episode isn’t just about what can go wrong; it’s also about what parents love about schools that truly support their kids. I’m sharing insights from families on what makes a school feel like the right fit, along with my own BIG feelings about what kids really need to thrive.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

• The one question I think every parent should ask when touring a school.
• What parents say they love about schools that prioritize safety, connection, and growth.
• Why aligned behavior policies across an entire school are critical for kids’ safety and ability to learn.
• What happens to a child’s ability to learn when they’re in a disregulated state—and how schools can do better.
• My own experiences as a deeply feeling kid in a Catholic school, and what those memories taught me about creating safe, supportive environments for children.
• A little side note on leprechaun traps and why open-ended play should always take the lead in early childhood classrooms.

Whether you’re a parent wondering if your child is in the right school or just curious about what makes a truly supportive learning environment, this episode will give you practical insights and lots to think about.

💡 Bonus: If you’re considering my First Grade On-Demand Course, stay tuned for a special offer at the beginning of the episode! Enroll HERE

If you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend! And as always, you can find me on Instagram @BigCityReaders to keep the conversation going.