If the phrase “kindergarten readiness” sends you into a spiral of flashcards and phonics drills, this one’s for you.

In this follow-up episode, I chat with Susie Allison (@busytoddler), former kindergarten teacher and mom of three, to reframe how we think about school prep. Spoiler: it’s not about who can write their name in cursive or recite the alphabet backwards.

We talk about:

Why academic checklists miss the bigger picture

The real skills that help kids thrive in school (like asking for help and taking turns)

Why earlier isn’t always better when it comes to reading

How to raise kind, confident kids without burning yourself out trying to be their full-time teacher

Whether your child is starting kindergarten soon or you’re just feeling the pressure to “keep up,” this episode is your permission slip to focus on what actually matters.

🎧 Download, follow, and share this episode with a friend who needs the reminder.

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