What if picture books were less about teaching and more about connecting? In this episode of The Intentional ECE Podcast, we explore how stories can open spaces for laughter, wonder, and empathy — helping children make sense of their worlds and build relationships with others. Join Cathy as she reflects on how educators can use picture books as invitations for connection, curiosity, and shared meaning.

Blanket by Ruth Ohi

Ella Who? by Linday Ashman

It Came in the Mail by Ben Clanton

Outside My Window by Linda Ashman

In this episode, Megan Graham from Around the Birch Tree joins the conversation to share how play creates space for families to slow down, connect, and rediscover play together. From these family moments, we move to the larger circle of community - exploring how strong connections among families nurture parents, enrich children’s lives, and support collective wellbeing. It’s an invitation to reflect on play, presence, and the ways connection shapes both family life and community.

To learn more and connect with Megan:

Around the Birch Tree

IG:  aroundthebirchtree

In this episode, we’re joined by Susan Harris MacKay and Matt Karlsen from the Center for Playful Inquiry to reflect on what true growth for educators can look like. Moving beyond traditional notions of professional development, we explore how transformation emerges when educators engage in dialogue and lean into community. Together, we consider how playful inquiry can sustain us, challenge our assumptions, and help us imagine new possibilities for ourselves as educators and the children in our care.

Learn more at Center for Playful Inquiry

In this episode, we explore connection as the heartbeat of pedagogy with Bree Jackson of The Humble Educator. Together, we reflect on how authentic relationships with children and families create the foundation for meaningful learning. Bree shares insights from her 15 years in education and her role as a pedagogical leader, reminding us that when we truly see and honor each child’s world, we open pathways for growth, trust, and deep learning.

To learn more and connect with Bree:

https://thehumbleeducator.com

Instagram - @the.humble.educator 

Facebook - The Humble Educator 

What if education was less about outcomes and more about learning how to live well together? In this episode of The Intentional ECE Podcast, we explore the deeper purpose of education—beyond curriculum and standards—through play, relationship, trust, and community. Join Cathy as she reflects on how educators can create spaces where children experience belonging, agency, and the joy of learning as fully human beings.

From Thinking to Teaching by Ann Pelo & Margie Carter

The Hungry Mind:  The Origins of Curiosity with Susan Engel

The Intentional Educator

theintentionaleducator_yvr

What if classrooms were seen not as static places, but as living, breathing organisms that grow and adapt with children? In this episode, guest Alona Yildirim shares her 25 years of experience as an early childhood educator, leader, and co-founder of Documentation Studio Türkiye. Together, we explore how learning environments act as co-teachers—shaping curiosity, inspiring creativity, and making learning visible for both children and educators.

To Learn more and/or connect with Alona:

documentationstudioturkiye.org

IG:  @little.people.learn 

LinkedIn:  Alona Yildirim

Resources:

The Third Teacher: 79 ways you can use design to transform teaching and learning

Reggio Children Children, spaces, relations

Deb Curtis Designs for Living and learning

Ingrid Crowther Creating Effective Learning Environments 

Sandra Duncan Inspiring Spaces for Young children,  Rethinking the Classroom Landscape Through A child’s Eyes 

The Space: A guide for educators

The Space: A guide for leaders

Yi Fu Tuan Spaces and Places: The Perspective of Experience

Jim Freeman Caring Spaces, Learning Places

Jure Kotnik Designing Spaces for Early Childhood Development: Sparking Learning & Creativity

Architect Faith Swickard Spatial Conditions of Emotion

In this episode, Cathy sits down with artist-educator and consultant Jesús Oviedo to explore how materials act as a language of inquiry in early childhood education. Jesús shares how encounters with “intelligent materials” open pathways for children’s thinking, expression, and collaboration — and how educators, by paying attention to this dialogue, can deepen their own practice. Together, they reflect on the role of materials in shaping ideas, sparking curiosity, support inquiry and how educators can look at children’s artwork to understand the meaningful learning that’s in process.

To learn more and/or connect with Jesús:

https://www.materialearning.com/

In this episode, we explore the power of outdoor learning with April Zajko. From noticing the wonders of nature to creating spaces where children feel a deep sense of curiosity and belonging, April reminds us that the outdoors is more than a backdrop - it’s a teacher in its own right. Together, we reflect on how embracing nature can nurture belonging, resilience, creativity, and joy for both children and educators.

To learn more and connect with April:

Nature Inspired Teacher!

IG: @natureinspiredteacher

FB:  Nature Inspired Teacher

In this episode, Shirley Rempel—family child care provider, play advocate, and early learning leader—talks with us about the depth and value of home-based care. Shirley shares her experiences running a day home for over 16 years, her commitment to child-led, play-based learning, and the importance of advocacy for early childhood education in Alberta and beyond.

To learn more about Shirley’s work you can find her at:

https://toplayistolearndayhome.weebly.com/

IG:  @toplayistolearndayhomedayhome

FB:  To Play Is To Learn Day Home

Email:  [email protected]

FB:  Alberta (and Beyond) Early Learning and Child Care Network

What does it truly mean for children to have agency in early childhood settings? In this thought-provoking episode, Marta Skrzypczak invites us to consider how autonomy, democratic practices, and systems like children’s councils can support meaningful participation. Drawing inspiration from Janusz Korczak’s legacy, Marta shares insights into moving beyond small choices to real, empowered action.

Learn more about Marta’s work at ⁠Participation Coach

⁠Instagram:  ⁠@participation_coach