Explore practical strategies and insights for creating an inclusive learning environment for left-handed learners in early childhood education on The Everything ECE Podcast. Join host Carla Ward as she shares valuable tips to support the unique needs of left-handed children in the classroom.

In this episode, Carla Ward is joined by Katie-Lynn Parkinson of ECCDC to dive into the crucial topic of risk and challenge in early learning programs. Together, they explore why educators should lean into potential risks rather than shy away from them.

Katie-Lynn breaks down the distinction between risk and challenge versus hazards or dangers, offering clarity on how embracing the former fosters growth and development in young learners. Through engaging conversation, they discuss the importance of risk and challenge in early childhood education and where some of our fears surrounding them stem from.

As educators, they discuss our role in creating environments that encourage healthy risk-taking and provide opportunities for children to explore and learn. Katie-Lynn shares valuable insights on how to navigate conversations with others who may be more risk-averse, empowering educators to advocate for enriching learning experiences.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of why embracing risk and challenge is essential for the growth and development of young minds, and how we can cultivate environments that support this philosophy in early learning programs.

Dive into the world of rhyme and colossal words for kids with host Carla Ward and special guest Colette Hiller on The Everything ECE Podcast!

Join Carla as she sits down with Colette, a writer, arts producer, and author of the critically acclaimed poetry book "The B on Your Thumb." With a background in acting on the London stage and appearances in iconic films like "Aliens," Colette brings a unique perspective to the importance of language in early childhood education.

Discover how Colette's children's rhymes, featured on BBC Words and Pictures, and her album "Applehead" have captivated young minds worldwide, selling over 50,000 copies. As a former producer at BBC Education, she shares her passion for introducing big words to little learners and the joy of wordplay.

Tune in as Colette shares excerpts from her latest book, "Colossal Words for Kids," and explores the transformative power of language in shaping young minds. Whether you're a parent, educator, or language enthusiast, this episode is a must-listen!

This week on The Everything ECE Podcast, host Carla Ward is joined by special guest Faigie Kobre, a seasoned early childhood educator passionate about fostering creativity in the classroom. In the episode titled "Ditching the Copycat Crafts Mindset," Faigie shares her expertise gained from years as an early childhood teacher and director and leading professional development workshops. Learn about her innovative approach to elementary school art using the choice-based method called TAB and discover her recent online program, "Beyond Copycat Crafts." Don't miss this inspiring conversation!

This week, Susie Beghin joins Carla Ward on the podcast to explore the exciting realm of STEAM in Early Childhood Education. As they chat, you can almost feel the energy as they discuss the wonders of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, all within the context of early learning. There's a particular moment where Carla is illuminated by the realization of just how seamlessly play and STEAM intertwine in the development of young minds. Tune in to hear about the magic that happens when curiosity meets creativity, and how STEAM is not just a curriculum, but a way of fostering exploration, problem-solving, and innovation from the earliest stages of education.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/138

Jamee Herbert joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to talk tech and putting systems in place to lighten the burden on Early Childhood Education. Jamee walks us through the Bridgecare system and how it supports administrative duties in child care and the parents in those programs. 

Show notes: elfoundations.com/137

Dive into the chilling connection between childhood experiences and serial killers in our latest podcast episode! From early trauma to criminal behaviour, we uncover the importance of early childhood education in rewriting the script for future generations. Tune in to unlock the secrets of the mind and learn how nurturing environments can be a powerful antidote to the allure of violence.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/136

How to Work with Carla

Heather Jackson, owner of The Sunflower School, joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to discuss verbs as projects. As a Reggio-inspired educator, Heather has spent many years researching, reflecting and discussing Early Childhood Education and how to take a child’s interest using verbs and play schemas to begin a project without falling into the “theme” trap. By using verbs and play schemas, educators can gain a more complex perspective on projects.  Join Heather and Carla for this fascinating conversation and learn how to take your teaching to new heights.

Ashley Jefferson joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to discuss why bringing puppetry arts into the classroom can change the teaching game.  Puppets can bring so much value to your program. Ashley dives into the importance of being present, not overthinking how to use the puppets and the learning possibilities that come with puppets!

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/134

How to Work with Carla

In a recent podcast episode, Cara Caudle engages in a discussion with host Carla Ward, delving into the nuances of trauma and trauma-informed practices. Cara emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to development, particularly in early childhood, where she highlights the significance of focusing on social-emotional domains. She underscores how trauma-informed practices compel us to broaden our perspectives, emphasizing the impact of emotional environments, including the influence of a teacher's mood. Instead of passing judgment, Cara advocates for understanding our own practices, prompting listeners to reflect on their own childhood experiences and key memories. Through her insightful commentary, Cara sheds light on the profound effects of COVID-19 on children and families, implicitly acknowledging the necessity of nurturing supportive environments during challenging times.

How to Work with Carla