Reimagine Childhood

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, Monica Healer, the host, offers a heartfelt discussion aimed at early childhood educators, focusing on how personal growth in wisdom, physical well-being, and faith can impact their teaching and caregiving roles. Drawing from Luke 2:52, Monica emphasizes the continuous journey of learning, the importance of physical care, and the necessity of deepening one's relationship with God. She shares practical strategies for daily reflection, self-care, and spiritual development, encouraging educators to seek God's guidance, nourish their bodies, and strengthen their faith. Ending with a reminder of the eternal impact educators have on children and their communities, Monica provides actionable steps to grow in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man in the coming year.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

01:01 A Different Kind of Episode

01:41 Growing in Wisdom

04:39 Taking Care of Your Physical Body

10:26 Nurturing Your Relationship with God

16:50 Growing in Favor with Man

20:39 Final Encouragement and Farewell

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, host Monica Healer welcomes Renee Blaine, associate preschool minister at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee. With over three decades of early childhood experience, Renee shares her passion for building biblical foundations in young children in age-appropriate ways. They discuss how to integrate biblical literacy into the classroom, drawing parallels to teaching emerging literacy. Key strategies include building oral language, introducing repetitive truths, and creating a love for God's Word. The episode highlights the importance of partnering with parents and provides practical tips for incorporating faith-based messages into everyday learning. 00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:48 Meet Renee Blaine: A Journey in Early Childhood Education 02:22 The Importance of Biblical Literacy in Early Childhood 07:18 Practical Strategies for Teaching Biblical Literacy 18:47 Regional Conference Promotion 21:03 The Importance of Music in Early Childhood 21:56 Laying a Solid Foundation of Faith 25:41 Teaching God's Word Effectively 29:53 Equipping Parents and Educators Download the Gospel cube Renee talked about in the episode - https://elevatechurchconference.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8.5x11_GospelCubeImages-1-1.pdf Renee's cube is adapted from this resource (which has TONS of other resources for teaching the Bible)! https://sundayschoolzone.com/bible-story/gods-unfolding-story/ Renee wrote a blog article with great tips for sharing the gospel in an age-appropriate manner with young children, including instructions for using the cube above: https://elevatechurchconference.com/preschool-ministry-sharing-the-gospel/

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, hosted by Monica Healer and brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, Monica sits down with Ashley Myers, founder of The Abiding Family and a children's minister in Texas. Ashley shares her personal journey of raising a son with Down syndrome and how it has shaped her passion for creating inclusive classrooms. They discuss the importance of inclusion from a theological perspective, practical strategies for accommodating children with various needs, and the significant impact that inclusive teaching can have on a child's development and faith formation. This episode is packed with actionable insights and resources for educators seeking to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:42 Meet Ashley Myers: A Journey with Special Needs

01:29 The Importance of Inclusion in Classrooms

10:17 Practical Strategies for Inclusive Education

20:24 Primetime Promo

22:01 Creating an Inclusive Classroom Environment

24:38 The Power of Visual Supports and Calm Down Spaces

28:46 Effective Communication Strategies for Children with Special Needs

32:42 The Call to Inclusion and Overcoming Barriers

40:04 In Conclusion

Find Ashley on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089046874497

Instagram @abiding.family_ashley.myers

and TikTok https://tiktok.com/@the.abiding.family

You might also want to work through our three-part Special Needs training series provided by Sandra Peoples. HERE is the link to check that out!

Help Me Grow - https://helpmegrownational.org/ — Check for a local affiliate who can help you support families in getting resources.

Milestones Info - https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/families/milestones-matter.html

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jennifer Howington, associate director and childhood ministry specialist in the Texas Baptist Discipleship and Next Gen Ministries group. They delve into the impact of screen time on child development, exploring concepts like 'digital natives' versus 'digital immigrants,' the rise in childhood anxiety and depression, and the role of media in shaping young minds. The conversation covers practical strategies for managing screen time, fostering play and creativity, and reinforcing strong developmental foundations. Jennifer emphasizes the need for balancing technology use with real-world interactions and community building. The episode also highlights the importance of allowing children to experience and overcome challenges to develop resilience and independence. Join Monica and Jennifer as they offer valuable insights for parents, educators, and ministry leaders to help children thrive in a digital age.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:42 Meet Our Guest: Jennifer Howington

01:40 Generational Differences in Technology Use

03:59 The Impact of Screen Time on Child Development

07:07 Navigating Technology in Parenting

16:17 Regional Conference Promotion

17:37 Safety & the Anxious Generation

28:52 Conclusion and Call to Action

Enjoy a new course "Counteracting the Effects of Screentime in the Classroom" in our Course Library - https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/course-catalog/

Books mentioned in this episode:

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt - https://a.co/d/6G6CcVd

The Pandemic Population - https://a.co/d/bIZO2qU

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer chats with Darlene Abbott, an expert in children's music and curriculum, about the significance of music and worship in early childhood development. Darlene shares her extensive experience and provides practical strategies for integrating music into teaching. The conversation delves into the emotional and social benefits of music, the innate ability of children to respond to music, and the power of incorporating scripture into songs. The episode emphasizes the importance of creating worship moments, being intentional in teaching, and the lasting impact of scripture memory on children's lives. Tune in to explore how these practices not only benefit children's spiritual growth but also support their overall development.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:42 Guest Introduction: Darlene Abbott

01:33 The Benefits of Music in Early Childhood

06:30 Incorporating Scripture into Music

21:21 Primetime Promotion

22:53 Engaging Families Through Scripture and Music

23:58 Creative Programs to Unite Families

26:31 Intentional Worship in Early Childhood

29:09 Understanding the Basics

31:40 The Lasting Impact of Teaching Scripture

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer sits down with Christa Ratcliffe, chapel and music teacher at Little Lights Preschool, to discuss spiritual formation in young children. Christa, a dedicated educator with a background in theological studies, emphasizes the importance of building relationships, modeling Jesus' love, and incorporating Bible teachings into everyday interactions with infants and toddlers. The conversation covers practical strategies for integrating faith-based activities into daily classroom routines, the significance of early brain development, and the role of caregivers in shaping a child's spiritual foundation. The episode also recommends resources like the Hug a Bible and music playlists to enhance teaching and engagement. Tune in to explore how intentional teaching and interactions can create lasting spiritual impact from an early age.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:41 Meet Christa Ratcliffe: Educator and Musician

01:20 Spiritual Formation in Young Children

03:43 Brain Development and Early Learning

08:19 Practical Activities for Infants and Toddlers

12:16 Regional Conference Promo

14:04 Incorporating Faith in Daily Routines

22:32 Resources and Final Thoughts

Download the complete list in one doc HERE or pick and choose what's interesting/useful for you below:

Basic Chapel Supplies for Infants - 24 months.

Easy Grip Jingle Bells-https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/products/music/musical-instruments/easy-grip-jingle-bells-set-of-8/p/DB952/

HugaBible-https://a.co/d/06qvEIct

Scarves-https://a.co/d/8kQvKJ8

Wrist Ribbons-https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/products/active-play/balance-coordination/lakeshore-wrist-ribbons-set-of-12/p/DD127/

Velcro Dots (to attach Bible Story clip art and pictures to the Flannel Board)-https://a.co/d/5hhBgFl

Flannel/Felt Board-https://a.co/d/09o9rwSV

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, hosted by Monica Healer of Early Childhood Christian Network, special guest Katie Severn discusses the challenges and strategies for addressing sensory processing and emotional regulation in the classroom. Katie, a first-grade teacher and mother of a child with sensory needs, shares her insights on practical tools and approaches for educators. The episode explores the increasing sensory needs of children, the impact of modern lifestyle changes, and the importance of understanding and addressing these needs in early education. Katie emphasizes techniques such as the LEAP method—Listen, Empathize, Affirm, Problem Solve—to build relationships and effectively support children facing sensory challenges. She also highlights the significance of adult self-regulation and consistent routines in creating a safe and supportive learning environment.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:41 Meet Katie Severn: Passionate Educator and Mom

01:15 Understanding Sensory Processing in Children

05:04 Addressing Sensory Needs in the Classroom

23:06 Understanding Pre-K Expectations

23:58 Creating a Welcoming Classroom Environment

25:08 Primetime Promo

26:42 Addressing Specific Behavioral Needs

39:11 Building Relationships and Reflecting on Teaching Practices

To find out more about L.E.A.P. — check out Dr. Phil Boucher on Instagram - @philbouchermd

You might enjoy my conversation with Kadie about Brain-based Learning in episode 11 of the podcast.

We also have two courses in our Course Catalog that were developed by Kadie:

Development 101

Brain-Based Learning

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer discusses how to effectively engage young children using puppets with guest Michon Henneger. Michon, a seasoned educator and brain coach, shares insights on the historical success of puppets in educational settings and explains how modern classrooms can benefit from their use to enhance engagement, retention, and emotional development. They cover practical ideas for implementing puppetry, even on a budget, and highlight the significance of reviving classic teaching tools. The episode emphasizes the joy and impact of puppetry in early childhood education and offers actionable strategies for educators to incorporate puppets into their teaching methods.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:41 Meet Michon Henneger: Brain Coach Extraordinaire

01:10 The Power of Puppets in Early Childhood Education

04:11 Practical Puppet Strategies for the Classroom

09:11 Puppets on a Budget: Creative and Affordable Ideas

11:49 Regional Conference Promo

13:18 Encouraging Teachers to Use Puppets

21:11 What can we implement this week?

25:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Connect with Michon at

https://www.prekplayday.com/ for early childhood curriculum

https://www.mybraincoach.com/

https://www.dashupward.com/

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, hosted by Monica Healer and brought to you by Early Childhood Christian Network, children's author Valerie Ellis joins the conversation to discuss the impactful role of stories and story time in early childhood education. With extensive experience in teaching and children's ministry, Valerie explains how stories uniquely connect with children and help in teaching both academic and non-academic skills such as emotional literacy and social behavior. She provides practical strategies for making story time effective in classrooms and at home, including her point, pause, and ponder method. Valerie also shares book recommendations and introduces her new book, 'Let's Go Bible Adventures,' which uses transport themes to make Bible stories engaging for young children. This episode is filled with insights for educators and parents on leveraging the power of stories for childhood development. Additional resources and book links are available in the show notes.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:42 Meet Valerie Ellis: Author and Educator

01:13 The Power of Stories in Early Childhood Education

03:13 Engaging Children with Stories: Techniques and Tips

09:59 Book Recommendations for Various Learning Domains

16:41 PrimeTime 2025

17:29 Let's Go Bible Adventures: A Unique Bible Storybook

32:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

https://oureverydayparables.com/books/ - 75+ book recommendations for kids ages 0 to 12 in five categories, perfect for families and classrooms pursuing faith, compassion, and fun.

We talked about an activity pack for The Mixed-Up Chameleon. Here is the link to that free download: https://oureverydayparables.com/teach-kids-about-god-with-popular-picture-books/

Valerie's books can be found at https://valerieellis.com/books/

Valerie also does in-person and virtual classroom visits! You can connect with her on Instagram

@iamvelerieellis https://instagram.com/iamvalerieellis

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, hosted by Monica Healer and powered by Early Childhood Christian Network, educators are guided on how to create impactful early childhood experiences for both children and their parents. Special guest Nichole Sims, a seasoned children's minister and current children's pastor, lends her insights on equipping educators to flourish. The discussion underscores the significance of meaningful community within early childhood centers. Drawing inspiration from Colossians 2, the conversation delves into the importance of building deep, flourishing roots through worship, scriptural engagement, and community support. Through the analogy of trees and a reflection on the Psalms and Acts 2, the episode illustrates how interconnectedness and unity among educators can lead to a thriving educational environment. The episode closes with practical applications and a heartfelt prayer for early childhood educators as they prepare for a fruitful school year.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:43 Meet Nichole Sims: A Passionate Leader

01:46 The Importance of Flourishing and Community

03:02 Biblical Insights and Practical Applications

25:58 Building a Community Beyond Work

26:57 Bearing Fruit in Every Season

32:12 The Power of Vulnerability and Connection

39:11 Strengthening Faith and Flourishing Together