Willow Kids Podcast

Host: Erin Harrigan - Early Childhood and Elementary Education Specialist.

Credentials: Master’s Degree Education, Best Practices National University B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development, A.A. in Liberal Studies, A.A. in Behavioral Studies, PCM Certified Trainer (Process Communication Model).

Guest: Danyel Kilgore - Educational Consultant

Credentials: Master’s Degree Organizational Leadership and Change Pacific Oaks College, 200 Hour Yoga Certification; Social Emotional Learning Facilitator Certificate; IB PYP Certification

Bullying in childhood is not a normal rite of passage — it is a global public health problem that affects one in three children worldwide and leaves measurable marks on their physical, mental, and social health well into adulthood.

Research from Armitage (2021), published in BMJ Paediatrics Open, shows that bullying involves three roles — the victim, the bully, and the bully–victim — and that all three suffer real consequences. Children perceived as 'different' in any way are at greater risk, with physical appearance being the most frequent trigger.

The study also reveals something many parents do not realize: bullying often begins at home through sibling bullying, which dramatically increases the risk of being bullied at school. And cyberbullying, while real and serious, rarely creates new victims — it is another tool used against children who are already being bullied offline.

This does not mean bullying is hopeless. The encouraging news: whole-school cooperative learning programs show the strongest evidence for prevention, and parental support is one of the most powerful protective factors for any child, regardless of where they live.

For parents, this episode is about understanding the warning signs, knowing what really helps, and learning what to do — and what not to do — when your child is hurting.

What bullying actually is, and the three roles children play in it

Why bullying starts — at home, at school, and online

The short- and long-term effects on victims, bullies, and bully–victims

Cyberbullying and how digital bullying is different

What parents can do to protect, support, and heal their children

What the science says about prevention that actually works

Host: Danyel Kilgore - Educational Consultant
Credentials:
Pacific Oaks College M.A., Organizational Leadership and Change

Pitzer CollegeB.A., Psychology/Child Development
UCLA Extension

Extended Learning, Child Development Coursework

Guest: Cedric Jones - Former Educator & Workforce Development Professional

The Willow Kids podcast introduces the launch of a tutoring pilot program and delves into the topic of hidden gaps between high school and college. The discussion covers challenges and surprises for college freshmen, differences between public and private schools, the importance of executive functioning skills, and the struggles in preparing students for these skills in K-12 education. The conversation covers the shift in educational standards, the importance of parent education and support, preparing children for the present context, skills beyond standardized tests, redesigning middle and high school, habits for college preparation, mistakes to avoid, and the single biggest predictor of freshmen success.

Takeaways

• Importance of executive functioning skills for college success
• Challenges in preparing students for executive functioning skills Parent education is crucial for understanding the shift in educational standards.
• Preparing children for the present context involves educating families on the evolving nature of education.
• Failure and struggle are key to navigating life independently and are important factors in determining success.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Willow Kids Podcast
• 05:31 Surprises and Struggles of College Freshmen
• 10:59 Differences Between Public and Private Schools
• 22:55 Importance of Executive Functioning Skills
• 29:01 Teaching Executive Functioning Skills in K-12 Education
• 37:13 Struggles in Preparing Students for Executive Functioning Skills
• 42:47 The Shift in Standards
• 48:16 Preparing Children for the Present Context
• 58:55 Habits for College Preparation
• 01:06:43 Mistakes to Avoid
• 01:16:50 Predictor of Freshmen Success

Host: Katelynn Brown - Developmental Specialist:

Master of Science, Child & Adolescent Development, Northcentral University — La Jolla, CA 2024

Bachelor of Arts, Psychology California State University Channel Islands — Camarillo, CA 2022

Guest: Sarah James - Early Childhood Education Specialist:
American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — Special

Education Credential 2025

American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — M.Ed Early

Childhood Education 2024

Indiana University, Bloomington IN — BA Religious Studies with honors, Minor in Jewish studies 2023

The conversation explores the importance of a whole child approach to education, emphasizing the impact of social and emotional skills, self-concept, and resilience on academic success. It also delves into the role of friendships, group projects, and nurturing curiosity in fostering a positive learning environment for children. The conversation covers topics related to child development, education, and parenting. It emphasizes the importance of understanding children as individuals and supporting their holistic growth. The discussion delves into the role of play, hobbies, and social activities in a child's development, as well as the significance of parental involvement and teacher observations.

Takeaways

• Whole child approach
• Importance of social and emotional skills Supporting children isn't just about grades, it's about helping their mind, heart, and social skills grow together.
• Celebrating effort and resilience is crucial in supporting a child's development.

Chapters

• 00:00 Emotional Side of Learning
• 44:20 Final Advice for Parents

Host: Sarah James - Early Childhood Education Specialist:
American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — Special

Education Credential

American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — M.Ed Early

Childhood Education

Indiana University, Bloomington IN — BA Religious Studies with honors, Minor in Jewish studies

Guest: Vivien Firta - Early Childhood Education Specialist and Parent Educator:

Master of Arts — Organizational Leadership, Woodbury University

Bachelor of Arts — Liberal Studies, California State University, Northridge

The Willow Kids podcast introduces the concept of nurturing curiosity and joyful learning. The discussion delves into the hidden network of learning, recognizing learning challenges, differentiating normal learning challenges from those needing extra support, skills that support a child's learning in school, the role of cognitive skills in learning, and the interconnected development of thinking and school skills. The conversation delves into the importance of foundational skills in building confidence and readiness for learning, emphasizing the value of hands-on learning and play-based education. It explores the understanding of learning difficulties and avoidance, the diverse causes of learning struggles, and simple ways parents can support and strengthen a child's learning system.

Takeaways

• Learning challenges may manifest as emotional distress
• Learning difficulties may require extra support if persistence and guidance do not yield results
• Learning is a web of interconnected skills, not a linear ladder
• Cognitive and academic skills strengthen each other over time Foundational skills build confidence
• Hands-on learning fosters a love of learning

Chapters

• 00:00 The Interconnected Development of Thinking and School Skills
• 30:42 Foundational Skills and Confidence Building
• 38:34 Hands-On Learning and Play-Based Education
• 43:46 Understanding Learning Difficulties and Avoidance
• 51:36 Diverse Causes of Learning Struggles
• 59:26 Supporting and Strengthening a Child's Learning System

Host: Katelynn Brown - Developmental Specialist
Guest: Erin Harrigan - Early Childhood and Elementary Education Specialist.

The conversation explores the impact of ADHD on academic achievement and the challenges children with ADHD face in the classroom. It delves into the importance of finding the right school environment, the responsibility of schools and educators, and the support needed for parents of children with ADHD. Additionally, it discusses how early school support shapes a child's self-perception and inner voice. The conversation delves into the importance of early intervention for children with ADHD, the need for support in time management and study habits, the celebration of effort over outcome, and the creation of environments where children with ADHD can thrive. It also explores the strengths and creativity of children with ADHD and the changes observed over time with the right support. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of parental support and collaboration in the academic success of children with ADHD.

Takeaways

• ADHD symptoms impact academic achievement
• School environment and structure play a significant role in supporting children with ADHD Early intervention is crucial
• Supporting children with ADHD in time management and study habits
• Celebrating effort over outcome
• Building environments where children with ADHD can thrive

Chapters

• 00:00 Understanding ADHD and Its Impact
• 06:26 Finding the Right School Environment
• 21:40 Supporting Parents of Children with ADHD
• 27:13 Shaping a Child's Self-Perception
• 33:24 Strengths and Creativity of Children with ADHD
• 46:25 Parental Support and Collaboration

Host: Danyel Kilgore - Educational Consultant
Guest: Sarah James - Early Childhood Education Specialist

The Willow Kids podcast explores the topic of homeschooling, discussing the reasons why families consider homeschooling, the impact of homeschooling on family life, and the experiences of children with special educational needs. The conversation also delves into the shift in education due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing landscape of homeschooling. The conversation explores the evolution of homeschooling, the challenges and benefits of homeschooling, and the long-term effects of homeschooling on children. It also delves into the societal shift towards understanding the world as a learning environment and the need for a restructuring of the education system to accommodate different learning styles and needs.

Takeaways

• Homeschooling is a popular educational choice for families dissatisfied with the traditional school environment.
• The decision to homeschool is influenced by factors such as religious/moral instruction, academic concerns, child safety, and the desire to strengthen family bonds. Learning is everywhere
• Homeschooling requires thoughtful consideration and a family decision

Chapters

• 00:00 Transition to Homeschooling and Daily Life Changes
• 40:34 Challenges and Benefits of Homeschooling
• 53:12 Honest Questions Before Choosing Homeschooling
• 59:20 Long-Term Effects of Homeschooling
• 01:08:20 Societal Shift and Restructuring of Education

The conversation delves into the challenges of recognizing and nurturing giftedness in children, highlighting the limitations of traditional academic performance and standardized thinking. It explores the impact of the rush through nature of the education system, social anxiety, and peer pressure on the recognition of advanced potential. Additionally, it discusses the narrow definition of giftedness and the significance of intrinsic motivation as powerful signs of authentic potential early on, beyond grades and test scores. The conversation delves into the nurturing of gifted children, their cognitive abilities, neuroscience, assessments, and the importance of nurturing potential in a healthy way. It also highlights the significance of parental support, emotional wellbeing, and the journey of discovery and growth in a child's development.

Takeaways

• Giftedness is often misunderstood and overlooked due to traditional academic performance and standardized thinking.
• Traditional school systems struggle to recognize advanced potential beyond grades and rule following.
• The rush through nature of the education system and standardized testing can lead to the oversight of highly intelligent children.
• Social anxiety, peer pressure, and lack of resources can hinder the recognition and nurturing of giftedness in children.
• Intrinsic curiosity and self-driven learning are powerful signs of authentic potential early on, beyond grades and test scores. Gifted children show differences in brain function and cognitive abilities.
• Nurturing a child's potential involves providing opportunities and support without creating pressure or unrealistic expectations.

Chapters

• 00:00 Understanding Giftedness
• 07:32 Challenges in Recognition
• 18:53 Narrow Definition of Giftedness
• 29:42 Intrinsic Motivation
• 37:09 Nurturing Gifted Children
• 44:35 Assessments and Evaluations
• 56:43 Parental Support and Emotional Wellbeing
• 01:05:41 Journey of Discovery and Growth

Host: Erin Harrigan - Early Childhood and Elementary Education Specialist.
Guest Speaker: Jennie Egan - M.S.Ed. and DIRFloortime® Practitioner.

The Willow Kids podcast introduces the tutoring pilot program and explores the impact of screen engagement on children's learning, emotional experiences, and behavior. It delves into the value of face-to-face interaction, signs of screen time replacing connection, and the challenges and compassion for parents. The discussion also highlights healthy and developmentally supportive screen use in everyday family life. The conversation explores the impact of screens on parenting, the importance of shared time, creating supportive screen boundaries, intentional screen time, protecting moments of real connection, responding early to behavioral changes, metacognition and self-reflection, real connection and shared experiences, and concludes with encouragement for nurturing curiosity and lifelong learning.

Takeaways

• Screen engagement impacts emotional understanding
• Face-to-face interaction is essential for children's growth and development Intentional use of screen time is crucial for modeling behavior and promoting learning.
• Creating supportive screen boundaries and protecting moments of real connection are essential for healthy screen use.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Willow Kids Podcast
• 06:32 The Influence of Screens on Emotional and Developmental Experiences
• 14:55 The Value of Face-to-Face Interaction and Emotional Understanding
• 24:36 Healthy and Developmentally Supportive Screen Use
• 30:50 Impact of Screens on Parenting
• 39:09 Creating Supportive Screen Boundaries
• 45:00 Guidelines and Intentional Screen Time
• 51:03 Responding Early to Behavioral Changes
• 58:10 Metacognition and Self-Reflection

Host: Kayla Porter, Music Inquiry & Behavior Specialist
Guest Speaker: Danyel Kilgore, Educational Consultant
The conversation explores the value of guided play and free play in early childhood education, emphasizing the importance of building a strong social-emotional foundation for successful learning. It also delves into the role of educators in facilitating guided play, the impact of social-emotional skills on learning, and the challenges and opportunities for educators in incorporating these approaches into the classroom. The conversation delves into the significance of guided play in early childhood education, highlighting its impact on children's development and the challenges of learning without structure and guidance. It also explores the integration of structured and playful learning in the classroom, the concept of guided play, and the importance of a multi-tiered, multi-sensory approach to teaching and learning. The conversation delves into the importance of intentional teaching and the impact of educator intentionality on student learning. It also explores the influence of home learning, the balance between structured teaching and freedom, and the role of parents in early childhood education. Additionally, it discusses guiding children's attention and confidence building, as well as the concept of guided play and the parental role in education.

Takeaways

• Guided play and free play are both valuable approaches to learning
• Building a strong social-emotional foundation is essential for successful learning Guided play vs. free play
• The role of structure and guidance in learning Importance of intentional teaching
• The role of parents in early childhood education

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to WillowKids Podcast
• 11:53 The Role of Educators in Guided Play
• 21:13 Guided Play vs. Free Play
• 29:22 The Impact of Social-Emotional Skills on Learning
• 36:19 Challenges and Opportunities for Educators
• 43:41 The Frustration of Learning Without Guidance
• 52:30 Structured and Playful Learning
• 01:00:29 Understanding Guided Play
• 01:07:29 Multi-Tiered Learning Approach

Host: Mily Sharko, Educational Therapist & Early Childhood Educator
Guest Speaker: Katelynn Brown, Developmental Specialist
The conversation explores the impact of tutoring on early childhood education, highlighting the challenges children face in traditional classroom settings and the benefits of personalized support. It delves into the importance of early intervention, the impact of tutoring on reading skills, and the challenges faced by students in regular classrooms. The conversation explores the impact of tutoring and intervention on children's learning and development, emphasizing the importance of early support and the role of educators in providing personalized, engaging, and effective interventions. It also delves into the significance of nurturing a positive attitude towards learning and the social and emotional aspects of a child's growth.

Takeaways

• Early intervention and personalized tutoring can significantly benefit children in their early years of education.
• Traditional classroom settings often struggle to provide individualized attention and support to students, leading to gaps in learning and skill development. Early intervention and personalized tutoring can significantly impact a child's academic outcomes and confidence.
• Educators play a crucial role in providing tailored, engaging, and supportive interventions for children's learning and development.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Willow Kids Podcast
• 05:37 Impact of Tutoring on Pre-K-12 Learning
• 13:18 Reading Challenges in Kindergarten vs. Second and Third Grade
• 28:31 The Importance of Play-Based Intervention
• 34:09 The Role of Educators in Personalized Interventions
• 53:29 The Social and Emotional Aspects of Child Growth