In this episode of the ABCs of Preschool, host Ms. Amber, an experienced mom and early childhood expert, opens up about her personal journey with postpartum depression. She discusses the importance of addressing this often-stigmatized topic and encourages women to seek help without shame. Ms. Amber explains what postpartum depression is, how it differs from the baby blues, and shares her own experiences with panic attacks and treatment. The episode calls for a more open dialogue about mental health in motherhood, aiming to empower and support mothers experiencing postpartum depression.

Key Highlights:

Postpartum Depression - Personal Journey (1:14 - 3:05)

·        Ms. Amber shares personal experience with postpartum depression.

Importance of Mental Health Conversation (3:05 - 4:11)

·        The need for open conversations, urging women not to carry shame and to seek help.

Understanding Postpartum Depression (4:32 - 7:03)

·        Postpartum depression and it symptoms

·        How it differs from the typical "baby blues”

Statistics and Normalization (10:50 - 11:14)

·        Startling statistic that 1 in 7 mothers experience postpartum depression

·        He need to normalize the conversation and support affected women.

Hormonal Changes and Their Impact (11:14 - 12:00)

·        How hormonal changes after childbirth contribute to postpartum depression

·        The significant impact these changes can have on a mother's mental health.

If you liked this episode of The ABCs of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool and the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!              

Tweetable Quotes:

“We are not a bad person because we are suffering and we feel like we have darkness in us.” -Ms. Amber

“As women were supposed to be nurturers and caretakers and we’re supposed to be super women all the freaking time.”  -Ms. Amber

“It’s so fascinating. 1 out of 7 moms, 14% experience PPD.  That is crazy.” – Ms. Amber

In this episode of The ABC's A Preschool Podcast, Miss Amber delves into the complexities of having tough conversations with staff, particularly when it involves demotions. She shares her insights on the unique challenges women face in leadership roles and the importance of addressing underperformance to enhance team dynamics and business success. Drawing from her 24 years of experience, Amber provides practical advice on preparing for and conducting these conversations, while maintaining kindness and professionalism.

Key Highlights:

Introduction to Navigating Tough Conversations: [00:00]

• Overview of the episode’s focus on managing tough conversations, especially demotions.

Challenges Women Face in Leadership: [00:16]

• Discussing the specific obstacles women encounter in leadership roles.

Identifying Performance Issues: [01:26]

• Recognizing signs of underperformance and its impact on the team.

Addressing Team Dynamics: [02:32]

• The importance of understanding and managing team dynamics in difficult conversations.

Preparing for Difficult Conversations: [06:45]

• Steps for gathering evidence, assessing personal biases, and planning the conversation.

Conducting the Conversation: [09:52]

• Best practices for holding the conversation, including setting a private setting and maintaining clarity.

Post-Conversation Steps: [14:34]

• How to follow up, set clear expectations, and communicate changes to the team.

Encouraging Open Communication: [16:45]

• Fostering a culture of open communication and feedback within the team.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts: [17:08]

• Recap and final thoughts on managing tough conversations and ensuring team cohesion.

If you liked this episode of The ABCs of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com 

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool and the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

"Navigating tough conversations in childcare is never easy, but it’s necessary for the success of your team." – Ms. Amber

"As women, we often shy away from tough conversations, but honesty delivered with kindness can lead to powerful outcomes." – Ms. Amber

"Transparency, respect, and kindness are key when having tough conversations with your team." – Ms. Amber

In this episode, Ms. Amber dives into the complex and evolving topic of sharing our children’s lives on social media. With over 25 years of experience in early childhood education and as a mom of five, Amber brings a thoughtful perspective on the ethical implications and impacts of documenting and broadcasting our kids' lives online. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply curious about this issue, this episode offers valuable insights into the pros and cons of social media exposure for children.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 03:12] Personal Reflections on Social Media

• Amber reflects on her journey with social media, from early days on Facebook to modern vlogging.

• The evolution of documenting children’s lives and how past practices compare with today’s digital landscape.

[03:13 - 08:45] Ethical Considerations

• The ethical dilemma of filming and sharing every aspect of a child’s life.

• Insights from the Ruby Frank case, exploring the consequences of extreme public exposure and the impact on children’s privacy and safety.

[08:46 - 12:54] Impact on Mental Health

• Discussion on the potential mental health effects of being constantly on display and the pressure to be "camera-ready."

• The psychological implications of having a digital record of every moment of childhood.

[12:55 - 16:20] Exposure to Public Scrutiny

• How public scrutiny and online trolls can affect children.

• The risks of negative comments, exploitation, and the potential for future scrutiny.

[16:21 - 18:30] Parental Responsibility and Boundaries

• The importance of setting boundaries to protect children’s privacy.

• Amber’s perspective on balancing the desire to document family life with respecting children’s autonomy and ensuring their well-being.

If you liked this episode of The ABCs of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com 

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool and the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“We need to set healthy boundaries with our kids and social media in the sense of what we put online.” - Ms. Amber

 “A lot of social media out there is rainbows and butterflies. And that's not life. Life is hard.” - Ms. Amber

“Life is freaking hard. It's like the yin and yang.” - Ms. Amber

In this episode of "The ABCs of Preschool," Ms. Amber brings the excitement of the back-to-school season, focusing on the joy and rejuvenation that comes with a new academic year. With over 25 years of experience in early childhood education, Ms. Amber shares her insights and encouragement to help educators start the year with enthusiasm and positivity. Whether you're a preschool teacher, an elementary educator, or involved in any level of education, this episode is a motivational boost to kick off the new school year.

Key Highlights:

[00:00 - 01:00] Introduction

• • Welcome to the ABCs of Preschool, the podcast for parents, educators, and anyone curious about early childhood education.
  • Ms. Amber, a mom of five and early childhood expert, introduces the episode focused on back-to-school joy for educators.

[01:01 - 02:00] The Excitement of a New School Year

• • The unique excitement of back-to-school time for educators.
  • The joy of welcoming new students and meeting new colleagues.

[02:01 - 03:00] Preparing for the New Year

• • The anticipation and preparation that come with setting up classrooms and buying new supplies.
  • The magic of the first day of school with students and their little backpacks.

[03:01 - 04:00] Reflecting and Setting Goals

• • Encouragement to set personal and professional goals for the new school year.
  • The importance of focusing on personal health and well-being alongside career goals.

[04:01 - 05:00] Ms. Amber's Personal Health Journey

• • Ms. Amber shares her own health journey, overcoming challenges and setting health goals.
  • The impact of changing her story and focusing on personal wellness.

[05:01 - 06:00] Encouraging Self-Care for Educators

• • The importance of nurturing oneself to be a better educator.
  • Encouragement to find joy, love, peace, and excitement within oneself.

[06:01 - 07:00] Classroom Setup Tips

• • Tips for setting up and organizing classrooms to create a welcoming environment.
  • The significance of a well-organized, visually appealing, and pleasant-smelling classroom.

[07:01 - 08:00] Structuring the School Day

• • The importance of evolving teaching methods and classroom structures to meet students' needs.
  • Ideas for incorporating new activities like music, sensory projects, and more to enhance learning.

[08:01 - 09:00] Personal Growth and Development

• • Encouragement to look inward and set personal growth goals for the new school year.
  • The benefits of making small changes to improve overall well-being.

[09:01 - 10:00] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

• • A heartfelt thank you to educators for their dedication and passion.
  • Ms. Amber's hope for educators to have a joyful, loving, peaceful, and harmonious school year.

If you liked this episode of The ABC’s Of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe! 

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com 

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool and the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“When we're more joyful within, we can become a better person and then you'll be a better educator.” - Ms. Amber

“As educators, we give so much of everything to everybody else.” - Ms. Amber

“You deserve your best life. You deserve a life that you love.” -  Ms. Amber

In this episode of The ABCs of Preschool, Ms. Amber delves into the critical topic of "Setting Goals" for preschool and childcare settings. Whether you’re a preschool owner, daycare provider, director, or even an entrepreneur in another field, this episode is packed with valuable insights on setting and achieving goals to help you thrive in your business. Drawing from her 25+ years of experience, Ms. Amber shares practical advice on how to turn your vision into reality and maintain a clear direction for your business. Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 04:00] Introduction and Background

• Ms. Amber introduces the topic of the episode.
• Sharing her journey of writing the book "The ABCs of Preschool."
• The importance of setting goals in any business.

[04:01 - 08:00] The Significance of Setting Goals

• Quote by Tony Robbins: "Setting goals is the first step in turning the invisible into the visible."
• The role of goals in preventing overwhelm and providing direction.
• Ms. Amber's personal experience with goal setting in her preschool business.

[08:01 - 12:30] Overcoming Challenges as a Business Owner

• Acknowledging and taking ownership of business problems.
• Real-life examples of navigating challenges and failures.
• The importance of continuous goal setting and evaluation.

[12:31 - 16:30] Creating a Culture of Goal Setting

• Encouraging team members to set goals.
• The impact of goal-oriented culture on employee motivation and business success.
• Examples of short-term and long-term goals for business growth.

[16:31 - 20:30] Personal Goals and Work-Life Balance

• The importance of setting personal goals for mental well-being.
• Strategies for achieving work-life balance.
• Examples of integrating personal goals with business objectives.

[20:31 - 24:00] Practical Steps for Goal Setting

• Tips for writing and tracking goals.
• The significance of revisiting and adjusting goals regularly.
• Encouraging listeners to take immediate action by setting their own goals.

If you liked this episode of The ABC’s Of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe! You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com 

Instagram: thelovingstartway Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool and the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in! Tweetable Quotes:

“Create a culture that people come to work and they wake up in the morning loving to go to work.” - Ms. Amber

“We have to choose the direction of our life. We have to lead our team to the direction that we're heading with our business.” - Ms. Amber

“Set goals in your business and your personal life and then bring those goals back up to the surface every few weeks to keep you on track.” - Ms. Amber

In this episode, Ms. Amber explores the essentials of planning a hands-on curriculum for preschool and homeschool settings. She discusses the importance of engaging, age-appropriate activities that cater to different learning styles. Learn how to set clear learning objectives, choose suitable materials, and create effective lesson plans. Discover the benefits of the Curriculum Community, a resource designed to simplify planning with ready-made materials and monthly themes. 

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 05:51] Understanding Hands-On Learning

Definition and importance of hands-on learning in early childhood education.

Each child is unique and learns differently.

Set clear learning objectives to guide curriculum planning and theme-based learning.

[05:52 - 09:35] Planning and Designing a Comprehensive Curriculum

Set learning objectives for theme-based projects.

Incorporate diverse subjects to meet student needs.

Choose age-appropriate activities and materials.

Design detailed lesson plans with clear objectives.

[09:36 - 16:36] The Curriculum Community

Curriculum Community offers ready-made resources to ease planning.

Subscription: $8.99/month, free for the first month.

Encourage a love for learning with diverse activities like music and outdoor time.

Create magical learning experiences and support educators' efforts.

If you liked this episode of The ABC’s Of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers.

www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!    

Tweetable Quotes:

“My personal philosophy is that every child is different and every child is unique.”  - Ms. Amber

“Lesson plans is huge because if you're just flying into your classroom with nothing planned, then I'm sorry, you're a babysitter.”  - Ms. Amber

“It's so important to provide our kids with a well-rounded curriculum that they can shine in because you are acknowledging and learning the way they learn.” - Ms. Amber

In this episode, Ms. Amber shares her experiences and insights on keeping the love alive while raising young kids. She discusses the importance of prioritizing your relationship, scheduling quality time, and being present with your partner. Ms. Amber also offers practical tips for maintaining intimacy, getting support, and teaching your children the value of a healthy, loving relationship.

Tune in to discover how to nurture your partnership amidst the chaos of parenting.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 11:23] Prioritizing Time Together

Recognizing the need to prioritize time with your partner.

Scheduling weekly date nights and intentional quality time.

Avoiding distractions like social media to focus on each other.

Rekindle your relationship by focusing on activities you both enjoy.

[11:24 - 12:57] Quality Time Ideas

Go for walks and play the gratitude game.

Cook dinner together or make a charcuterie board.

Exercising together, such as trying CrossFit.

Find creative ways to connect and spend time together.

[12:59 - 15:52] Getting Support

Hiring a babysitter or asking family to watch kids for date nights.

Alternate planning dates to keep things exciting.

Utilizing teachers or trusted adults for childcare.

Realize the benefits for children when parents take time together.

[15:53 - 22:49] Being Present and Active Listening

Discover and understand each other's love languages.

Put away phones and minimize distractions.

Make the relationship a priority for a happy, healthy partnership.

Emphasize the importance of intimacy and connection in the relationship.

If you liked this episode of The ABC’s Of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com 

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!    

Tweetable Quotes:

“If you do not spend time with your partner, if you do not have that quality time, you will become strangers and you will have resentment.” - Ms. Amber

“You have to be intentional in your marriage and you have to make it a priority.” - Ms. Amber

“It's so easy to look at someone else's life and think the grass is greener over there. But let me tell you it's not, the grass is greener where you water it and you have to make it a priority.” - Ms. Amber

“You may think, well, I'm taking your time away from my kids, that time away that you're giving to your partner is going to benefit your children a hundred times over.” - Ms. Amber

In this episode, Ms. Amber dives into the crucial topic of "Finding Your Dream Team" for preschool and childcare settings. Whether you’re a preschool owner, daycare provider, director, or parent exploring homeschooling options, this episode is packed with valuable insights on attracting and retaining amazing educators. From prioritizing your team to leveraging referrals, Ms. Amber shares practical tips from her 24 years of experience to help you build a dedicated and passionate team that will make your childcare center thrive.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 04:36] Prioritizing Your Team

Emphasize the importance of putting your staff first before clients.

The analogy of "Happy wife, happy life" applied to teachers and school success.

Real-life examples of team-first philosophy leading to long-term thriving childcare centers.

The impact of a unified and dedicated team on the program's overall success.

[04:37 - 07:35] Leveraging Referrals

Asking parents for referrals to find passionate educators.

Offer tuition discounts as incentives for successful referrals.

Success stories of clients turning into amazing teachers.

The value of tapping into nannies, babysitters, and other childcare professionals.

[07:36 - 12:21] Competitive Pay and Benefits

The challenge of salary caps in early childhood education.

 Offer substantial vacation time as a compensation strategy.

Adapt school schedules to match local district calendars for additional paid time off.

The significance of flexible work arrangements to accommodate staff needs.

[12:22 - 13:11] Creating a Positive Work Environment

The role of social events and team-building activities in enhancing team cohesion.

The importance of staff meetings and dinners for building a strong team culture. 

Treat staff as the top priority to ensure long-term success.

If you liked this episode of The ABC’s Of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“I believe the reality is, you do not have an amazing program, right? Until  you have your amazing teachers.” - Ms. Amber

“Finding your dream team is realizing that your priority should be staff first, then clients.”  - Ms. Amber

“So when you pay your team, you want to make sure you're paying competitively.” - Ms. Amber

In this episode, Ms. Amber dives into the benefits of fostering independence in young children. Drawing from her extensive experience in early childhood education and personal anecdotes, she shares three key advantages of encouraging independence. Listen in to discover how simple tasks can significantly boost your child's confidence, school skills, and problem-solving abilities. Get ready to learn practical tips on nurturing self-sufficient, confident, and curious children.

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 07:11] Introduction to Independence

Ms. Amber’s observations on different parenting styles.

The contrast between overly dependent children and naturally independent ones.

The importance of raising confident and self-sufficient individuals.

[07:12 - 10:30] Ms. Amber's Personal Parenting Experience

Ms. Amber reflects on her parenting journey and the independence of her children.

The role of chores and tasks in building independence.

Personal anecdotes about her children's early responsibilities.

The impact of independence on her adult children’s success.

[10:31 - 14:25] Benefits of Independence

Benefit 1: Improving school skills through household tasks.

How chores translate to better performance in school settings.

Benefit 2: Boosting self-esteem and confidence.

Celebrating accomplishments and the role of parental encouragement.

[14:26 - 16:32] Encouraging Curiosity and Problem-Solving

Benefit 3: Developing curiosity and problem-solving skills.

Teaching children to embrace failure as a learning opportunity.

Examples of tasks that promote creativity and exploration.

Research findings on the long-term benefits of early independence.

[16:33 - 18:45] Personal Reflections and Encouragement

Ms. Amber's pride in her children’s independence.

The role of parents as cheerleaders for their kids.

The long-term benefits of fostering independence.

If you liked this episode of The ABC’s Of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“We want our kids to not be scared to fail.” - Ms. Amber

“Our job is to raise wonderful human beings that are go confidently into the world.”  - Ms. Amber

“Giving our kids chores or tasks, knowing that they're not gonna be done good, they're not gonna be done great, but it makes them, our children feel good.”  - Ms. Amber

“We want to raise our kids that they, too, can be their own cheerleader.”  - Ms. Amber

In this episode, Ms. Amber shares essential tips on how to get your little one ready for preschool. As we gear up for the new school year, many of you are preparing to send your little ones off to preschool for the first time. This episode is about making that transition smooth and exciting for you and your child. Join me as Ms. Amber discusses fostering excitement, offering practical shopping advice, and emphasizing the importance of practice drop-offs.

Tune in for a treasure trove of insights to ensure a confident and happy start to your child's preschool journey!

Key Highlights:

[00:01 - 07:28] Building Excitement and Positivity

Importance of showing excitement and positivity about preschool.

How children's emotions mirror their parents'.

Encouraging independence and confidence in your child.

The impact of positive talk on your child's mindset about preschool.

[07:29 - 09:36] The Power of Involvement Through Shopping

Involving your child in shopping for preschool supplies.

Tips on budget-friendly shopping for preschool clothes.

Encouraging ownership by letting your child choose their backpack and lunchbox.

Building excitement through the shopping experience.

[09:37 - 10:31]  Using Books to Prepare

The benefits of reading books about preschool.

How books help children understand what to expect.

Recommendations for preschool-themed books.

The role of visual aids in easing the transition.

[10:32 - 15:00] Practicing Drop-offs

The importance of practice drop-offs before preschool starts.

Suggestions for practicing with family and friends.

Gradually increasing the time spent away to build trust.

How practice can lead to a smoother transition on the first day.

If you liked this episode of The ABC’s Of Preschool, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, share, and subscribe!

You can CONNECT with Ms. Amber:

Website: www.thelovingstartway.com

Instagram: thelovingstartway

Ms. Amber is the author of the ABC's of Preschool the founder of Loving Start Learning Centers. www.lovingstartlearningcenter.com and founder of the Loving Start Way Academy.

Thank you for tuning in!

Tweetable Quotes:

“If you are nervous, if you're scared, and if you have anxiety about sending your little one to preschool, they're going to have anxiety as well.” - Ms. Amber

“We want our children to be confident. We want them to go into a classroom feeling good, feeling excited, feeling like they forget that you even have to go because We're instilling them an independence and a confidence.” - Ms. Amber

“The quicker the drop-off, the better.” - Ms. Amber