In the final episode of her classroom environment series, Carla Ward dives into the concept of YES Spaces—learning environments intentionally designed to say yes to children’s curiosity, autonomy, and play. Drawing from experience and research, Carla explores how YES Spaces support independence, reduce behavioral challenges, and foster deeper engagement. This episode offers a mindset shift and practical steps for educators looking to create meaningful, child-centered environments in any program setting.Sign up for The Everything ECE Summit at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠elfoundations.com/ecesummit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

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Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/184

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores the surprising power of plants in early learning environments. From purifying air to boosting focus and promoting empathy, plants bring more than beauty—they bring connection. Carla shares research-backed insights, practical tips, and how educators can start their own “plant movement” without spending a dime. Whether in a centre, home child care, or school-age program, this episode will leave educators inspired to grow something meaningful.

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Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/183

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores a part of early learning environments that’s often overlooked—but deeply impactful. Lighting can influence everything from energy levels to emotional regulation for both children and educators. Whether you’re in a child care centre, home child care, or school-age program, this conversation will leave you rethinking the light in your space.

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Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/182

Colour is more than just decoration—it influences mood, focus, and the overall energy of a learning environment. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores the psychology of colour in early childhood settings, sharing research-backed insights on how different hues impact both children and educators. She offers creative, budget-friendly ways to introduce colour into child care programs without painting the walls. Plus, Carla shares a personal story about a bright red table that completely changed her perspective on classroom design. Tune in for practical strategies and inspiration to create a space that supports learning, play, and emotional well-being.

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Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/181

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Ishaa Vinod Chopra, an early childhood educator and performing artist, to explore how movement and dance can support mental health for Early Childhood Educators. They discuss the importance of emotional regulation for both educators and children, breaking the stigma around mental well-being, and how integrating dance into learning spaces can create a sense of belonging and self-expression.

Tune in to hear how dance can be a simple yet powerful tool to promote well-being in early childhood education.

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Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/180

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores the difference between consequences and punishment in early childhood education. She discusses why harsh discipline methods, including shame and unrelated punishments, are not effective in guiding children's behavior. Instead, Carla dives into natural and logical consequences that support learning, emotional regulation, and positive relationships. Tune in for actionable strategies, research-backed insights, and real-life examples to help educators rethink their approach to discipline.

Listen now and learn how to create a more respectful and supportive learning environment!

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Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/179

This week on The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward welcomes Emily Clark, a passionate PhD student in early childhood education with international teaching experience. Emily is dedicated to making educational research more accessible and emphasizes the importance of understanding each child’s unique needs. She challenges traditional standardized measures and instead advocates for quality interactions and play as liberation.

In this episode, Emily shares insights on supportive leadership, professional relationships, and the power of documentation in early childhood education. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about rethinking research, practice, and play in ECE!

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Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/178

After returning from a much-needed getaway to Mexico, Carla Ward explores why boundaries and breaks are essential for Early Childhood Educators. In this episode ofThe Everything ECE Podcast, she dives into the science behind why stepping away leads to better focus, patience, and overall well-being.

Listeners will learn:
✔️ How breaks improve brain function and emotional regulation
✔️ Why setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for longevity in ECE
✔️ Practical ways to create work-life balance without guilt

Carla also invites educators to join her on April 5th & 6th for The Everything ECE Summit, a free event featuring inspiring speakers and actionable strategies for thriving in the profession.

🎧 Tune in now to discover why prioritizing rest makes educators stronger, not weaker.

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Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/177

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward is joined by Sherri Phillips, a registered early childhood educator and postpartum doula, to explore the critical role of supporting families in the postpartum period. Sherri shares valuable insights into the emotional, physical, and practical support doulas provide, and why tummy time is more than just a developmental milestone. Whether you work with infants or simply want to learn more about early development, this conversation is packed with useful takeaways.
Tune in now and discover the importance of those early connections!

Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/176

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Did you think you were signing up to work just with children? Surprise! Families play a HUGE role in early childhood education, and building strong relationships with them makes a massive difference—not just for the children, but for you as an educator.

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, we explore:
✔️ Why family-educator relationships are so important
✔️ The impact on children’s success and development
✔️ How strong family connections make your job easier and more fulfilling
✔️ Actionable steps to build trust, collaboration, and better communication with families

When families trust and support you, everything becomes smoother—less stress, better teamwork, and a classroom full of children who feel safe and supported. Whether you’re struggling with family engagement or looking to deepen those connections, this episode has you covered!

Listen now and take the first step toward stronger educator-family partnerships!

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