Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV

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In this episode, Julie Mendenhall and Colleen Roahrig share practical strategies for getting children involved in household chores. Learn why age‑appropriate responsibilities are important for building independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging within the family.

Julie and Colleen offer simple ideas for creating chore plans, using chore charts, and finding the right approach to encourage your child to contribute at home. This conversation will help families turn everyday routines into meaningful opportunities for growth and teamwork.

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In this special Mother’s Day episode, we offer a heartfelt reminder for moms of young children: you are doing better than you think. Parenting can feel overwhelming, but your presence, love, and everyday moments matter more than perfection.

If you’re feeling tired, unsure, or stretched thin, this gentle pep talk is for you. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and remember—you are enough. 💛

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In this episode, Jess shares practical guidance on how to introduce solid foods to babies and build healthy eating habits from the very beginning. She offers easy, realistic strategies to encourage children of all ages to try a variety of foods, without turning mealtimes into a battle. Jess also discusses how parents can model positive, healthy dinnertime routines to create stress‑free, enjoyable meals for the whole family. Parents will learn when picky eating is typical, when to seek support, and why talking with your child’s healthcare provider is important if you have concerns about your child’s eating habits.

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What happens to perfectly good food that would otherwise go to waste? In this episode, we’re joined by Caroline from We Don’t Waste, an organization transforming surplus food into meaningful community nourishment across Colorado.

Caroline shares how We Don’t Waste recovers food from retailers, producers, and partners—then redistributes it through mobile food markets, community organizations, and food access programs. Learn how families in the Denver Metro area can find mobile markets, and explore additional food recovery and pantry resources available outside the metro region.

This episode is a must‑listen for families, caregivers, and community partners looking to connect with food resources and support sustainable solutions to hunger.

Featured Resources:
🥕 We Don’t Waste
📱 Plentiful App (find pantries & food distribution sites)
🏔️ Summit FIRC
🥦 Boulder Food Rescue
🧊 Community Fridges
📞 Call 211 for local food resources statewide

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Jessica King PA talks about the importance of your child’s “Well Child Visits”. You will learn what you can do to prepare for these appointments, what you can expect to discuss, and questions that you could and should be asking. You will learn about topics to discuss with your medical provider that your child is currently displaying and any things to look for as your child gets older.  

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Are screens stealing your child’s attention? In this eye‑opening episode, mental health therapist Elizabeth Clark, who works directly with students and families in Mesa County’s SD51, breaks down the real impacts of excessive technology use on kids’ behavior, learning, and emotional health.

Elizabeth shares the most common tech‑related issues she sees in schools today, why kids struggle to unplug, and the signs families should watch for. You’ll also learn practical, realistic strategies to set healthy boundaries, reduce screen time battles, and help kids build a healthier relationship with technology.

If you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator navigating the digital world with children, this episode gives you the tools and insight you need to feel more confident and in control.

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In light of the recent measles cases confirmed here in Colorado, including a rare breakthrough infection in a vaccinated individual, we’re re‑releasing one of our most relevant conversations. In this episode, Colleen Roahrig sits down with Heidi Belatti, RN, to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand what measles is, how it spreads, and what families can watch for during an outbreak.

Heidi breaks down early warning signs, common symptoms, and what puts certain communities at higher risk. She also discusses practical ways families can stay informed, reduce exposure in school and childcare settings, and navigate public health updates with confidence.

This replay offers calm, clear, fact‑based information to help parents stay aware.

Helpful Resources for Families:

•   Colorado School & Child Care Immunization Data: 
•  HealthyChildren.org – Measles Overview (American Academy of Pediatrics):

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or caregiver, this episode provides  accessible guidance to help keep our communities healthy.  

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Unlock the secrets to stretching your groceries, reducing food waste, and creating delicious meals with what you already have! In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Caroline from We Don’t Waste to explore simple strategies for getting more life — and more meals — out of your pantry, fridge, and freezer.

Discover practical food‑storage tips, creative “ends and stems” recipes, and clever ways to use what’s on hand before making another store run. Whether you're feeding a family on a budget, trying to waste less, or just love learning new kitchen hacks, this episode is packed with ideas to help you cook smarter, save money, and reduce waste at home.

Resources: 

www.wedontwaste.org

Endsandstems.com

Supercook.com

 

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March 1st was Baby Sleep day which highlights the importance of healthy sleep for infants and their families, preceding World Sleep Day.  In honor of Baby Sleep day we are replaying this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by Robin Levy, a Pyramid Model Coordinator, and Morgan, a mom to 14-month-old Javi, who’s navigating the ups and downs of toddler sleep. 

Together, they explore how the Pyramid Model—a framework for promoting young children’s social-emotional development—can help families create consistent, nurturing bedtime routines. Morgan shares her real-life experiences, and Robin offers practical strategies and insights that any parent can use to support better sleep habits. 

👶 Whether you're dealing with bedtime battles or just looking to improve your child’s sleep routine, this episode is full of helpful tips and encouragement. 

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Who has not been overwhelmed at certain times in life? It is a normal human feeling. The important thing is recognizing the feelings of being overwhelmed and how to address those feelings. Julie will share some ideas and strategies to help you manage your feelings of being overwhelmed.  

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ELV Monthly Newsletter - Early Learning Ventures