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Jennifer sits down with Ty Johnson, ELV’s Head Start Director to discuss the Notice of Proposed Rule Making or NPRM released by the Adminstration for Children and Families and the sweeping changes that it entails.  They discuss why it matters, what changes will affect families the most and how to take action 

Sign the Parent Letter: How Parents and Caregivers Can Protect Head Start Standards - NHSA 

Learn how to make a public comment: How to Submit a Public Comment on the Head Start Proposed Changes - NHSA 

Get support: Email Jennifer Garcia Rosendo at [email protected]  

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In honor of Baby Safety Month, this episode of Family Engagement Fridays explores common household safety hazards for babies and toddlers while reminding parents that mistakes and close calls can happen to anyone. From babies rolling off beds to toddlers discovering new ways to climb, children often develop skills faster than we expect. Join us as we discuss practical ways to identify hidden hazards, create a safer environment, and remember that being a good parent doesn't mean being a perfect parent. You'll walk away with simple safety tips, greater confidence, and a reminder to give yourself the same grace you would offer another family. 

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Summer is a great time to review family safety practices. In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we focus on child passenger safety and the importance of building routines that help keep children safe around vehicles. Learn practical tips for preventing hot car incidents, creating reminder systems, and establishing simple habits that can make a lifesaving difference. This conversation is a reminder that safety starts with preparation, awareness, and supporting one another as caregivers.

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In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, Petora Manetto-Spratt, PT, DPT, PCS, IMH-E Infant Family Specialist, discusses the services and supports available for children with disabilities and developmental differences. Petora explains how families can navigate resources from birth through age three, including Early Intervention services, and what changes as children transition to services through the school system after age three. She also shares guidance on developmental areas that may qualify for support and how families can access individualized services to help their children learn, grow, and thrive. Whether you're concerned about your child's development or looking to better understand available resources, this episode provides valuable information to help families navigate the journey with confidence.

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In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we welcome Sierra Boone, host and executive producer of The Nap Time Show. Together, we explore the important role rest plays in young children's growth, learning, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. Sierra shares practical strategies for creating calming routines, discusses the difference between sleep and rest, and offers encouragement for caregivers who may be running on empty themselves. 

We also learn about the inspiration behind The Nap Time Show and how its relationship-based approach helps families build peaceful moments of connection throughout the day. Whether you're navigating nap struggles, bedtime routines, or simply looking for ways to slow down as a family, this conversation offers thoughtful insights and reassurance for both children and the adults who care for them. Links to The Nap Time Show and related resources can be found in the show notes.

The Nap Time Show 

The Nap Time Show Resources 

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Life with young children can feel busy, overwhelming, and sometimes just plain complicated. In honor of National Simplify Your Life Week, this episode of Family Engagement Fridays encourages parents to take a step back and focus on what matters most. We'll talk about letting go of the pressure to do it all, finding simple ways to reduce stress, and remembering that children don't need perfection—they need connection. Tune in for practical ideas and a simple challenge that can help your family create a little more breathing room and a lot more joy.

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In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, Laura Vega Flores, Early Learning Ventures' Early Intervention Manager, shares her personal experience as the parent of a child with autism and the journey of helping her son develop self-advocacy skills. Laura discusses the importance of advocating for your child while also modeling and gradually teaching them how to advocate for themselves. This conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for families looking to empower their children to become active participants in their learning and everyday lives. 

Frank's Short Film: Watermelon Thieves

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July is Anti-Boredom Month, but what if boredom isn't actually a bad thing? In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we explore how unstructured play helps young children develop creativity, independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence. Parents often feel pressure to keep children constantly entertained, but sometimes the best learning happens when children are given the space to imagine, create, and discover on their own. 

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In this episode, Michelle Gilman, Speech-Language Pathologist with Early Intervention Colorado, discusses the importance of Disability Awareness and how greater understanding can strengthen families, schools, and communities. Michelle shares practical ways to recognize and appreciate individual differences, communicate with respect, and support people with disabilities in everyday interaction

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In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we welcome Lucy Soffer from Parent Possible, a Colorado organization dedicated to helping parents access the tools, resources, and support they need to help their children thrive. 

Lucy joins us to talk about Vroom, a free app that helps parents turn everyday moments into meaningful learning opportunities for young children. From mealtime to bath time, Vroom provides simple, science-based tips that support early brain development and strengthen parent-child connections. 

As a new parent herself, Lucy shares how she's using Vroom with her own child and why these easy, everyday activities can make a big difference in a child's growth and development. 

Learn how Vroom can help you build learning, connection, and confidence into your family's daily routine. 

Boost your child's learning with free Vroom Tips   

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ELV Monthly Newsletter - Early Learning Ventures