The Intentional ECE

In this episode, Ron Grady reflects on what it means to witness children’s lives with care and intention. The conversation explores the idea that children’s lives are not separate from schooling, and that educators - through their close, everyday proximity - are deeply embedded in the learning environment. Together, the episode examines observation and documentation as practices of curiosity rather than capture, reminding educators that their presence is not an interruption. Through manageable entry points and revisiting moments over time, documentation becomes a way to notice the richness already present in children’s everyday experiences.

To learn more about Ron’s work:

Childology.co
IG:  @childology.co

In this episode, Lisa Goddard invites a slowing down - a shift in how we look, listen, and make meaning with children. Together, the conversation explores how dominant narratives in early childhood education can limit our thinking, and how decentring humans opens new ways of understanding our place within the natural world and the implications for our work with children. Through attention to small gestures, intentional choices, and the practice of documentation and dialogue, this episode offers gentle provocations for becoming more comfortable with uncertainty and seeing relationships everywhere - with  light, surfaces, and more than human beings.

To learn more or connect with Lisa:

Playing in the Anthropocene:  Inquiry Group

In this episode’s conversation, early years leader and Playoneering creator Hayley Peacock sheds light on what it truly means to embed playful rigour into learning. Drawing inspiration from the Reggio Emilia Approach, Hayley shares how children’s competence, curiosity, and connectedness are honoured across her early years settings and future-focused school. Together, we talk about inquiry, designing for tomorrow, and the framework that shapes children’s lives, bringing meaningful learning and growth

To learn more or connect with Hayley:

LinkedIn

Hayley Peacock Education

This anniversary episode reflects on one year of podcasting and the power of educators coming together in dialogue. Through conversations with guests from around the world, shared themes of trust, care, agency, play, materials, and belonging emerged—deepening understanding and offering hope. A celebration of collective learning and the relationships that shape intentional practice.

The Intentional Educator

@theintentionaleducator_yvr

In this seasonal episode, Cathy explores the gift of slowing down through a gentle reading of Bear and Wolf by Daniel Salmieri. As the year shifts - into winter’s stillness for some and summer’s brightness for others - this episode invites educators to pause, notice the small wonders around them, and reconnect with curiosity and connection.

A quiet moment of calm and reflection for early childhood educators everywhere.

Bear and Wolf by Daniel Salmiere

In this episode, we explore what it means to re-member - to piece back together the connections that have been quieted by objectivity, efficiency, and the pressures of modern education. Drawing on the ideas of David Jardine, Shelley Brandon, and Robin Wall Kimmerer, we reflect on wholeheartedness, reciprocity, and our shared belonging with children and the world. A gentle invitation to return to relationship as the heart of our practice.

References:

To Dwell with a Boundless Heart by David Jardine

A Story of Autonomy by Suzanne Axelsson

Reimagining Heartbreak by Shelley Brandon

The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer

Free Book Study Workbook

n this episode, kindergarten educator Chaylene Clarke joins the conversation to share what it means to move beyond curriculum and teach through connection. Drawing from her work in Ontario’s full-day kindergarten program, Chaylene reflects on how slowing down, listening deeply, and nurturing relationships with children and families opens space for authentic, meaningful learning. Together, we explore the beauty and challenge of choosing connection - and , while not always easy, is profoundly rewarding.

To learn more, you can find Chaylene at:

IG ~ @theunhurriedclassroom

What does it mean to truly listen to children - not just with our ears, but with our eyes, presence, and curiosity? This episode explores how our capacity to listen supports children’s rights to play, participate, express, rest, and belong. We reflect on how educators can take intentional, actionable steps to uphold these rights in their practice.

Convention on the Rights of the Child

In this gentle and deeply reflective conversation, longtime Reggio-inspired educator Mary Bell invites us to slow down and notice the ordinary moments that shape our teaching and our lives.

Together, we explore how being present, building trust, and embracing imperfection help us see the beauty and meaning in everyday interactions with children. Mary reminds us that joy and connection aren’t found in grand gestures - they live in the small, authentic moments of relationship, curiosity, and care.

To learn more or contact Mary, find her at:I

Inspired by Children

IG:  @marybellinspiredbychildren

IG:  @theintentionaleducator_yvr

In this rich conversation with Dr. Misty Paterson, founder of Pop-Up Studio, we explore what it means to make care matter in teaching and learning. Misty invites us to move beyond transmission-based models toward inquiry, creativity, and awe - ways of engaging that honour the complexity of teaching and the wholeness of learners. Together, we reflect on how care, curiosity, and connection can shape curriculum, bridge theory and practice, and nurture both student and teacher well-becoming.

To learn more or to contact Misty, find her at:

Pop-Up Studio

IG:  @popupstudioed