Reimagine Childhood (Early Childhood Christian Network)

As a Licensed Professional Counselor, co-author of two books: Loved and Cherished and Make Up Your Mind, and host of the podcast called “Raising Mentally Healthy Kids”, Michelle Nietert has a passion for sparking conversations about mental health in the childhood years. 

During our conversation today, Michelle discusses practical ways that early childhood educators can help children be emotionally, mentally, and physically healthy. She shares about the role of movement and physical activity in mental health, and gives advice for approaching BIG emotions with little children. While her focus is on children’s mental health, her wisdom is applicable for all ages (seriously, I took a page of notes while listening). 

P.S. Michelle is releasing a preschool book series about bringing BIG emotions to a BIGGER God! The first book is titled God, I Feel Sad: Bringing Big Emotions to a Bigger God and it releases next week - April 4th! Pre-order now on Amazon HERE or anywhere books are sold! The audiobook also includes some guided calming strategies and affirmations!

Visit Michelle’s website HERE for more information about the impactful work she does.

Check out our course Navigating the Emotional World of Children with David Thomas, LMSW for practical tips on approaching emotions with young children. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for classroom tips and tricks!

Diane Goyette, is a Child Development Specialist with over 30 years of early education experience, teaching children in public school, university laboratories, faith-based preschools, and child care programs.  She has taught adults as an adjunct professor and as the owner of Early Childhood Specialties, she develops and presents training and provides consulting for early childhood professionals.   She holds a master’s degree in Child Development and a Lifetime Texas Educator Certificate for Pre-K and Kindergarten.  Diane is especially passionate about the important role of relationships, fostering children’s social and emotional development, and helping teachers work with children who exhibit challenging behavior.

 We’ve got a great conversation ahead for you on helping children build self-regulation skills.  In this episode, Diane discusses her four Cs framework for emotional support in children. The framework is based on the work of several experts and focuses on providing children with the support they need when they are upset or distressed. The first C is Connection, emphasizing the importance of building a caring relationship with children. The second C is Calming, which involves helping children find strategies to calm down when they are upset. The third C is Compassion, which involves showing empathy and a desire to help relieve the child's discomfort. The fourth C in her framework is Capacity, which is the building of self-regulation and resilience. Together, we will discuss the need for adults to provide support and nurture for all children, especially those exhibiting challenging behavior.

Diane has done so much research around this topic of helping children when they are exhibiting BIG emotions. I hope you’ll use this framework as another tool in your toolbelt this school year. 

Diane's company - Early Childhood Specialties - https://www.earlychildhoodspecialties.com/

Early Childhood Specialties Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/earlychildhoodspecialties/

The EEPWorm website - http://www.eepworm.com/

EEPworm instagram - https://www.instagram.com/eepworm/

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Our guest today, Evelyn Knight, is driven by a mission to ensure every child receives the love they deserve. As an experienced childcare center owner with over 25 years in preschool education, she provides coaching and mentoring to ECE directors and owners. She currently stands as the visionary CEO of Child Care Business Professionals and hosts The Childcare Business Coach Podcast. Inspired by 1 John 4:7-9, Evelyn dedicates herself to nurturing a brighter future for children everywhere.

During today’s episode, Evelyn tackles the all-too-familiar struggle of time management. She discusses how many leaders, especially in early childhood education, grapple with time management and delegation, often believing they lack the time necessary to accomplish their tasks. Evelyn challenges this mindset, emphasizing that it's not about having insufficient time but rather about managing it effectively, and she shares practical strategies for effective time management, empowering leaders to make the most of every moment and reclaim hours previously lost to unproductive habits. 

You can connect with Evelyn on Instagram HERE and listen to her podcast HERE.

If you think you need to do a time audit, download THIS TIME TRACKER and take the first step to taking control of your time.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Our guest today, Julie Hamilton, is an educator with a diverse background. She has served as an elementary physical education teacher, church preschool teacher, Mother’s Day Out program director, Head Start teacher, and the list goes on! Currently, she consults with churches and private programs, assisting them with program analysis and facility design. She is passionate about learning through outdoor classrooms, and she’s happiest when she and her students are covered in mud, goo, and water! 

During today’s episode, Julie shares how to create sensory rich, engaging spaces and experiences without breaking the bank. She discusses the value in stepping back and letting children lead their play, and encourages us to consider how less may actually be more!

Julie Hamilton is joining us at several of our conferences this year! For more information, click HERE.

She also has several courses featured in our Learning Library, including “Nursery Rhymes Matter” and “Learning Math Through Play”.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

 Today, I get to have a conversation with Sharon Burnett.  Sharon is a publisher and co-founder of two early childhood companies, most currently – CELEBRATE Successful Early Learning. The company creates supplemental big books, little books, music, and digital e-Stories based on a foundation of FUN and SUCCESS for our youngest learners. You might recognize the “Sing and Read” books like “Apple Annie”, “Benjamin Bunny” from years past! Sharon works with educators in the areas of Infant, Toddler, Threes, Pre-K, and Kindergarten within school districts, Head Start agencies, and Child Care organizations both nationally and internationally. Her knowledge and expertise in early childhood provide a cornerstone in the foundational years to enhance best practices for our youngest children.

In this podcast episode, Sharon Burnett discusses the current state of early learning classrooms, highlighting the stress, anxiety, and extreme behaviors that both children and adults are experiencing. She attributes these issues to the changing world and society, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Burnett emphasizes the importance of reconnecting, communicating, and creating enjoyable learning environments. She also discusses the significance of music in early learning, citing research that shows its positive effects on reducing anxiety, increasing vocabulary, and promoting fluency and language development. She goes on to encourage educators to incorporate more music into their classrooms and to recognize the value of fun and joy in early childhood education. 

Where are you using music to make your day more FUN? I really hope it’s not just relegated to your music class, but that you are using fun songs – either recorded or just made up on your own to bring joy, laughter, and connection to your classroom. SO much research tells us that music is good for the brain and for the soul. If you read our newsletter or follow us on social media, you’ll often here me saying that it’s time to add in another “dance party” to your day!  Truly, music, movement and laughter change the atmosphere of every environment. Don’t skimp on it!  See you next time! 

You can find Sharon’s website HERE and follow Celebrate Successful Early Learning on social media HERE 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

I’d love to introduce you to my guest today – Jennifer Pickett. Jennifer is a seasoned Dietitian with a Master’s in Human Nutrition and over 26 years of experience. Transitioning into Functional Medicine, she now specializes in women’s hormones as a Certified Midlife Specialist and Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach. Jennifer coaches women virtually, helping them reclaim their spark and revitalize their bodies.  As the creator of The Hormone Huddle and host of the Healthy Harmony podcast, she brings humor and real-life insight to her empowering work with women 40+. She is bringing some super practical ideas to help us start 2025 off on the right foot.  She’s anti-shame and guilt and definitely PRO-realistic goals and habits. 

Today she is going to share with us how we can tend to our overall well-being with FREE and practical steps, like stepping outside into natural sunlight first thing in the morning or waiting to have coffee until after you’ve eaten some protein. Jennifer will also talk us through things that impact our overall health including spiritual and mental health–not just the typical things when we think about weight loss.  She has so much wisdom to share and we can’t wait for you to hear her heart on this topic.

Additional Resources: 

Jennifer's website - https://www.inspirehealthyharmony.com/ and her midlife health course info https://thehormonehuddle.com/

Jennifer's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/inspirehealthyharmony/

Jennifer's Facebook Group for women's health - https://www.facebook.com/groups/748795618938682

ECCN Habit Tracker - https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Habit-Tracker.pdf

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook 

Our guest today, Stephanie Chase, has worn many hats over the past 25 years. She has served as a teacher, director, writer, trainer, and national speaker–all in the education space! Currently, she serves as the Global Kids Minister at Champion Forest Baptist Church in Houston, TX. She’s fun! She’s feisty! And if you know her, you love her!

During today’s episode, Stephanie shares practical tips for teaching the Bible to preschoolers in ways that stick. She also discusses how to stay the course in ministry–even when the road is bumpy! 

Learn more about Stephanie HERE. Connect with Stephanie on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

For over 30 years, Kathy's passion has been early childhood education. She has an education degree from Texas Tech University and taught for Coppell ISD and Hurst Euless Bedford ISD right here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area before starting her true love of teaching and directing weekday early childhood programs. She led a faith-based school in Fort Worth for several years and recently shifted her day-to-day life to provide consulting, training, and mentoring.

In this podcast episode, Kathy discusses the importance of building a school family and the impact it has on early childhood development. She defines a school family as a place where children feel loved, cared for, and safe, emphasizing the role of relationships in brain development and learning. Kathy suggests creating a safe and loving environment in the classroom, where children have important roles and responsibilities. She also highlights the significance of routines and intentional connections in fostering a sense of safety and community. With this, she shares practical strategies such as job assignments, recognition of acts of kindness, and a calm corner for children to regulate their emotions. Overall, she emphasizes the importance of creating a positive and nurturing environment that supports the social, emotional, and cognitive development of young children. 

If this concept is new to you, it may seem a bit overwhelming. Let me encourage you…you don’t have to change everything you’re doing in your classroom today. Pick one thing – maybe you want to try adding a personalized greeting to your day.  Or maybe you just want to add some classroom jobs so every child helps your classroom function every day.  Or maybe you just want to start using the “family” terminology as you talk to your students to help yourself and them shift your mindset into a community mindset.  God has created us for community.  He is the ultimate family-builder as He invites us to be a part of His family!

Kathy’s email is kathy@wymers.com

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Our guest today, Kristen Landry, is passionate about turning ordinary days into extraordinary experiences. As a seasoned educator and current teacher of a cooking and science class at a preschool in San Antonio, Kristen’s mission is to create memorable experiences that extend learning beyond the classroom. 

During today’s episode, Kristen describes easy ways to turn ordinary moments into rich learning opportunities–from car washes to superhero days. She emphasizes the benefits of adding a little extra WOW! to the classroom, and shares how extraordinary moments not only engage and excite children, but also foster team building and collaboration among staff. 

Find more great ideas from Kristen in our course library:

Out of the Mouths of Babes: Language Activities for Little Learners
https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/courses/out-of-the-mouths-of-babes-kristen-landry/

Little Hands Can Do Big Work: Fine Motor Activities for 18-36 mos
https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/courses/little-hands-can-do-big-work-2/

For more practical ways to turn ordinary moments into extraordinary days, follow us on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

I’m chatting with another of our summer keynote presenters today – Shaneil Yarbrough, affectionately known as “PJ” in her circles! You are going to love her.  PJ has a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education with a minor in early childhood education from Southern Arkansas University. Her professional career spans over twenty years within the education field, with children at the heart of her work. She is intentional about striving for effectiveness, empathy, and equality for all children and her colleagues.  She is currently a training advisor with the University of Arkansas Early Care and Education Projects (ECEP).  She’s a pastor’s wife and women’s ministry leader as well!  AND she’s written three books.  Y’all, she is well qualified and she has such a sweet heart for the Lord.  

In this podcast episode, PJ and I discuss the various roles and responsibilities of early childhood educators. She shares the many hats childhood educators wear, including (but not limited to) teacher, nurse, coach, safety supervisor, creator of the environment, promoter of diversity, facilitator of learning, and enjoyer of children. Together, we emphasize the importance of valuing childhood and nurturing the development of young children's brains, relationships, and spirituality. We also hone in on the value of finding balance and relying on God's help in wearing each hat.

One of the biggest takeaways from this conversation for me is that it’s so important for us to really LOVE being with children – to laugh at their silly antics, to marvel at their unique perspective as they discover their world, to join in on the pretend adventures!  Which hat is the most difficult for you to balance?  For me, it’s probably either the Creator of Environments or the Promoter of Diversity.  I can definitely have a good attitude most days, but it’s harder for me to create an inviting physical environment that is organized but still fun.  And, if I’m really honest, promoting diversity – really learning about the culture and traditions of others requires more intentionality than I wish it did.  It’s pretty easy for me to be comfortable with myself.  It’s harder to step outside of that comfort zone and be intentional about celebrating differences and incorporating new traditions.  What about you?  Which of these hats is almost always on – it just comes naturally to you?  And which one do you have to really be intentional about putting on?  We’d love to hear about it.  Send us an email at hello@earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com or connect with us on social media!  We’d love to hear from you.

You can find PJ on her website at https://www.shaneilpjyarbrough.com/ 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Today, our guest on Reimagine Childhood is Tiffany Crow, a Behavior Analyst. Tiffany's expertise also extends to providing behavioral training and consultations across various domains, including school districts, religious organizations, and nonprofit entities. As the Clinical Supervisor of an ABA Clinic, she offers essential behavior strategies to both staff and families through Telehealth services. She holds a Master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis and is passionate about empowering educators to help their students be successful.

In this podcast episode, Monica and Tiffany discuss behavior management strategies for challenging behaviors in the classroom. They introduce the concept of a "behavior suitcase" as a mental image for selecting and implementing strategies. The importance of building strong relationships with students and trying basic strategies before moving on to more advanced ones is emphasized and they continue by discussing strategies to address behaviors related to attention-seeking, escaping tasks, seeking access to tangible items, and sensory needs. Monica and Tiffany provide great examples of antecedent and consequence strategies for each behavior type and offer tips for avoiding common pitfalls. They also stress the importance of consistency and patience when implementing behavior management strategies. Monica and Tiffany conclude by reminding listeners that teaching children appropriate social behaviors is a game-changer that will benefit them throughout their lives.

Sometimes you just have to stay stuck in the stink and do better next time and also…consistency is key. We’re praying for you as you love and care for these children and help them to learn socially appropriate ways to have their needs met.  

Let us know how we can help you!

Tiffany’s email address is tiffanycrow.bcba@gmail.com and the downloadable PDF with charts of strategies for antecedent and consequence adjustments is located HERE.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Today, there is no special guest, all you have is me, Monica Healer, your host. Today, we’re discussing the importance of play for adults by prioritizing activities that bring joy. I know the realities of stress and burnout that many early childhood leaders and teachers experience are real. This is why engaging in activities that stimulate creativity and improve brain functionality is so important. In this episode, we’ll discuss activities that we can do to alleviate stress, such as reading for pleasure, playing games, practicing a musical instrument, or spending quality time with family. We will also talk about the negative impact of social media and how it impacts our joy. But of course, the Bible points us to where true joy comes from–the Lord. 

A resource on this topic can be found in our Course Library, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”! You can access the link for it HERE.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Our guest, Kelly Martin is a Registered Play Therapist and Licensed Professional Counselor at her private practice The Playroom Lubbock. Kelly and her team at The Playroom Lubbock are dedicated to nurturing development, creativity, self-direction, responsibility, self-control, and emotional well-being in children and adolescents, while also strengthening parent/child relationships. 

During our conversation today, Kelly discusses strategies for helping children regulate their emotions and reminds us of the importance of trusting relationships in children’s emotional well-being. She also equips us with tools to regulate our own emotional states so that we can teach children how to do the same.

Learn more about the work Kelly and her team does at The Playroom Lubbock HERE. 

Connect with The Playroom Lubbock on Instagram HERE and Facebook HERE.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for classroom tips and tricks!

It’s our 50th episode of the Reimagine Childhood podcast! Thanks for making it this far with us. We hope it’s been beneficial to you and those you are tending to. Today, I am going solo and diving into a topic that I am very passionate about–the importance of building strong partnerships between church weekday ministries and the overall church community. 

More than likely, your weekday program is serving both church members and non-church members, which means you have a prime opportunity to reach families who may not regularly attend church. I have found that many young families today prioritize activities, hobbies, and community outside of traditional church attendance and I firmly believe weekday ministries can be a vital link to connect these families with the church. Today we will discuss the importance of weekday ministries being deeply integrated into the mission and work of the church, rather than feeling like separate, disconnected programs. We will talk through not only why this is important, but also how you can go about creating a unified culture with your weekday and weekend ministries. I can’t wait for you to tune in.

HERE is a link to a list of ideas for connecting the families in your weekday ministry with your church family.

Need more resources? Check out the Resources Page on our website!

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Beth Cannon is a nationally-recognized speaker, trainer, and coach whose expertise is helping early childhood leaders transform their staff into high-performing, collaborative teams. As both an educator and entrepreneur, Beth offers a unique perspective on Early Childhood leadership and equips her audience with practical ways to efficiently and effectively run their programs. 

During this conversation, Beth discusses how the most successful leaders combat burnout (it has a lot more to do mindset than you might think), and how implementing effective systems can help you reduce stress and overwhelm. She also reminds us of the powerful impact that leaders who show up with excellence have, and how professional development opportunities should inspire connection and understanding, not just learning. 

Beth has an incredible resource called Manuals to Modules where she teaches you how to turn your paper employee manual into online modules to reduce training time and regain your sanity! Learn more about it HERE. 

Connect with Beth on Instagram HERE and visit her website HERE. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for classroom tips and tricks!

Our guest today, Kadie Seweryn, is a young wife and mother. Currently serving as the Program Support Specialist for FBC Kyle’s Mother’s Day Out and Christian Preschool, Kadie brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role. With a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences, a Master’s degree in Child Development, and a passion to help children build social-emotional skills through brain-based learning, Kadie is a powerful advocate for whole-child development. Her favorite topics include curriculum development, family discipleship, social-emotional skill building, Biblical discipline, and brain-based learning. 

During this episode, Kadie delves into the concept of brain-based learning and shares practical ways to incorporate it into your classroom. She highlights the significance of anchoring our teaching practices in God’s word, emphasizing the vital role it plays in guiding our approach as educators, discusses what brain-based learning is and how you can easily apply it to your classroom. Kadie’s insights serve as a powerful reminder of the profound impact we have on the lives of our students and the responsibility we hold in nurturing their growth and development.  

Kadie mentions the book Brain-Based Learning: Teaching the Way Students Really Learn by Eric Jensen and Liesl McConchie as a great resource to learn more about brain-based teaching. 

The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson is another great resource for learning about whole-child approaches.

Learn more about Brain Based Learning from Kadie via our Course Library. 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Our guest today, Jerri Thompson, is an unstoppable force with 35+ years of early childhood expertise! She currently serves as an administrator at a NAEYC accredited program in Austin and as President of the Austin Chapter for the Texas Association for Young Children. Jerri's passion lies in teaching adults, advocacy, and crafting top-notch curriculum and assessment tools. Jerri is a Master Registered Trainer, Child Care Health Consultant, and founder of ECEToday.com.

During today’s episode, Jerri explores the essential tool that every early childhood educator needs: scope and sequence. She shares how scope and sequence empowers teachers to navigate the developmental milestones of young children with ease, and how it provides a roadmap for clear classroom observation and assessment. 

You can learn more from Jerri Thompson in the Active Supervision course in our Learning Library.

You can also explore ECCN’s Assessment Tools which include Thompson’s Scope and Sequence HERE.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

My guest on today’s episode is Debbie Jones.  Debbie is the lead trainer and owner of Confident Director, a company that provides coaching, consulting, training, networking, and online courses.  She enjoys guiding directors and teachers to reach their unique potential in their professional roles.  She has over 20 years of experience in early childhood education working with faith-based and secular programs. Debbie received her Bachelor of Arts from Howard Payne University and she holds a Texas director certificate. 

In this episode, Debbie discusses the concept of risky play and its importance in childhood development. Risky play refers to allowing children to engage in activities that involve some level of risk, such as climbing, exploring, and problem-solving. She emphasizes the need to trust children and their abilities, allowing them to make decisions and learn from their experiences. She also highlights the benefits of risky play, including increased self-confidence, problem-solving skills, and awareness of their surroundings. Debbie suggests that educators should create a "yes environment" that promotes risky play and encourages children to take appropriate risks. She also advises teachers to observe and notice children's interests and abilities, and to provide opportunities for them to engage in risky play in a safe and supervised manner. Overall, Debbie emphasizes the importance of trusting children and allowing them to take risks to foster their development and build their confidence and problem-solving skills.

Are there a couple of traditional rules in your classroom that you’re willing to step away from for a few days?  I want to encourage you to remember that young children rarely take risks beyond what they are capable of if we trust them!  The next time a child takes a risk that makes you gasp….stop yourself to adjust for a split second before yelling STOPPPP or “BE CAREFUL” and take a breath.  Be ready to support them but don’t stop them. See what happens. My guess is that you’ll be celebrating their success at doing something that required bravery and courage!

You can access Debbie’s website HERE.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Our guest today, Jessica Jabali, is an Early Childhood and Special Education professional and advocate. With a Bachelors of Science in Communication Sciences and Disorders and Deaf Education, Jessica has spent the past 15 years working alongside children with hearing loss and Autism Spectrum Disorders. Jessica’s passion for empowering communication skills and learning through play in nature shines through her current role as the Lead Outdoor Classroom Teacher at First Baptist Georgetown Weekday Education. 

During our conversation, Jessica discusses how outdoor classroom spaces foster development across domains and shares her list of essentials for creating a great (not just good) outdoor learning space. She also talks about why risky play is beneficial for building children’s autonomy, and reveals three essential rules for ensuring outdoor learning occurs in a safe environment. 

Want to learn more about outdoor learning spaces? Check out The 1000 Hours Outside Podcast—a great resource for all things outdoor learning. Jessica recommends Episode 119: We Cannot Learn Sitting Still and Being Quiet with Dr. Carla Hannaford. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for classroom tips and tricks!

In this episode of 'Reimagine Childhood' by Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer welcomes Bobette Gore, a veteran educator with nearly four decades of experience in early childhood and special education. The discussion centers around addressing behavioral challenges in early childhood classrooms, particularly post-pandemic. Bobette emphasizes the importance of using visual supports, maintaining routines, and fostering a communication-rich environment to meet the diverse needs of all children. Visual aids like first-then boards, choice boards, picture schedules, social stories, and visual timers are highlighted as effective tools for facilitating smooth transitions, reducing anxiety, and enhancing classroom engagement. Bobette shares personal anecdotes and practical tips, underscoring the significance of consistency and individualized communication strategies. The episode encourages educators and caregivers to adopt these practices, benefiting both children with and without diagnosed special needs.

Additional Resources: 

Remember that social stories aren’t just for children with special needs or learning differences.  They can benefit ALL children!

Carol Gray and Social Stories - https://carolgraysocialstories.com/

Autism Little Learners https://autismlittlelearners.com/social-stories-for-school/ 

How to write social stories - https://www.autismparentingmagazine.com/social-stories-for-autistic-children/ 

Connect with Bobette - https://www.facebook.com/bobette.gore 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook 

Our guest, Amanda Morgan, is a nationally-recognized speaker, author of the blog Not Just Cute, and mom of four incredible boys. As a firm believer that the children we teach deserve so much more than just cute, Amanda has made it her mission to bridge the looming gap between researchers and educators by sharing current research in practical, digestible ways. 

In our conversation today, Amanda discusses the powerful impact of intentional teaching and shares simple yet transformative ways to practice it in your classroom. She also challenges you to slow down and recognize that childhood is meant to take time, and that there is purpose to be found in the process. 

Amanda has graciously given ECCN exclusive pricing on her Why We Play letters—a printable collection of letters that explain the why behind play for parents, administrators, and community members. Click HERE for more information. 

Check out Amanda’s website HERE and connect with her on Instagram HERE. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for classroom tips and tricks!

Today on Reimagine Childhood, I have the privilege of chatting with Dr. Pam Rinn.  Pam is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in private practice with Acorn Counseling Education Services.  She has over 25 years of experience helping families with young children and adolescents navigate their life course.  Dr. Rinn spent almost two decades as the Program Director of Camp Fire First Texas, providing leadership and support to early education programs and other youth programs.  She has a BS in Child Development, an MS in Human Development and Family Studies, and a PhD in Family Therapy.  She is passionate about helping children and those who love them to reach their full potential.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Pam discusses brain states and the impact they have on emotions and actions. She explains Dr. Dan Siegel's research on brain states and introduces the hand model of the brain. The brain is divided into three parts: the thinking part (frontal lobe), the limbic system (emotional memories), and the brainstem (fight or flight response). Dr. Pam emphasizes the importance of regulating brain states and offers strategies for calming the brain, such as deep breathing, sensory activities, and self-soothing techniques. She also discusses the polyvagal system, which regulates organ systems and plays a role in the brain-gut connection. She highlights the significance of co-regulation and attachment in supporting a healthy polyvagal system. She goes on to encourage adults to be observers, noticers, acknowledgers, and empowerers to create a positive and supportive environment for children.

Some overall highlights: we’ve got to dig deep to look for the underlying reason for behavior – I loved her HALT acronym – is a child HUNGRY, ANGRY, LONELY, or TIRED? Once those questions are answered and needs met, THEN we can dig into other behavior! That goes for me and you – the adults – as well! I know I don’t always act right when I’m HUNGRY OR TIRED for sure!! Another is how interconnected our bodies are with our brains. An elevated heart rate or shallow breathing in our bodies can signal to our brains that we need to fight or freeze, putting us in a red or blue zone where we cannot learn. Learning those signs in the children in our classrooms could be a game-changer!

You can find Dr. Pam in her private practice at Acorn Counseling Education Services.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Today, we’re bringing you a BONUS episode featuring a conversation between two of our friends: Melissa Dutton and Melissa Townsend! 

Melissa Dutton currently serves as the Associate Pastor of Preschool Ministries at University Baptist Church in Houston, TX. Having previously served as a director of a weekday education program and as an assistant principal, Melissa brings an abundance of expertise and wisdom to her position. 

After receiving her Masters of Education from the University of Houston-Clear Lake, Melissa Townsend quickly began working for Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) in Galveston County. She is passionate about helping parents and educators recognize developmental milestones, identify potential concerns, and initiate conversations about effective intervention strategies.

During this BONUS episode, Melissa Dutton and Melissa Townsend talk about developmental milestones, how to identify potential red flags, and effective strategies for building family trust and communication. 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

I’m looking forward to introducing you to our podcast guest today.  Julie Hammer is a Christ-follower, wife, mom, and minister to preschoolers and kids - in that order! She serves as Children’s Minister and Interim Preschool Minister at First Baptist Church Lewisville, Texas, where she oversees weekday ministry. Julie also leads conferences for Texas Baptists and serves as a part of the Texas Baptist Conclave Next Gen Planning Team.

In today’s episode, we are discussing the challenges and importance of sharing classroom space between weekday preschool programs and weekend church programs! We dive into just how important it is for both sides to see themselves as one ministry working together for the same goal of ministering to families and children. Julie shares with us her thoughts on the importance of clear communication, cooperation, and organization in shared spaces (and the need for a well-organized resource room). We also shed light on the importance of teamwork, prayer, and assuming the best of each other in order to create a harmonious and effective shared space. We finish our conversion reminding listeners of the ultimate goal of showing love and unity to families and children as representatives of Christ.

Listen, sharing classroom spaces, office spaces, and hallways can be really challenging.  However, I really think if we can shift our mindset to remembering that we’re all in this together for the benefit of children and their families, we can do this a lot better than we have been.  Some of y’all are rockstars and you have an amazing partnership with your children’s ministry team.  And some of y’all are struggling in this area.  I want to challenge you today…if your weekday program feels really separated from your weekend church preschool ministry, YOU be the one to take the first step to build a relationship. Sharing space is hard.  But there are some practical things you can do to make it easier – whether you’re the teacher in a classroom or whether you’re the director of the weekday program or the children's ministry leader.  Evaluate your attitude.  Pray.  Then take a step toward building relationships.  We can do this!

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Building Strong Relationships in Early Childhood Education

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, host Monica Healer interviews Dan St. Romain, an experienced educational consultant specializing in early childhood and behavior support. The discussion focuses on the changing societal norms and their impact on children's behavior, emphasizing the need to shift the mindset from punishment to discipline based on strong relationships. Dan shares practical strategies for managing classroom behavior, stressing the importance of developmental understanding and giving children the support they need. The conversation also highlights the significance of empathy, grace, and assuming positive intent in interactions with children and their parents.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:42 Meet Dan St. Romain: Educational Consultant

02:21 Current Challenges in Early Childhood Behavior

03:09 The Problem with Strategy vs. Mindset

05:40 Discipline vs. Punishment: A Mindset Shift

10:20 Impact of Societal Changes on Children's Behavior

20:01 Building Strong Relationships and Providing Clarity

25:05 Understanding Children's Natural Reactions

26:52 Assuming Positive Intent

28:20 Empathy in Discipline

36:15 The Impact of the Pandemic on Development

41:43 Patience and Grace in Early Childhood Education

45:33 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Dan has written several books for educators. You can find them on his website: https://danstromain.com/dans-store/. Monica's favorite is Lessons From LaRoux, which compares puppy training to shaping behavior in developing brains!

Dan also has several social resources available at the same link including songs and read-aloud for your classroom.

Dan offers an online course with monthly Zoom coaching sessions where you can bring your "real-life" challenges and problem-solve together. You can find more information on that course at this link - https://danstromain.com/online-course/

Our guest today, Jessica Hendrickson, is the kids pastor at City Church in Melissa, TX and mom of three wonderful girls. As a former church weekday education director and author of the blog Kid Min Mama, Jessica is passionate about teaching the gospel to children and having a lot of fun while doing it!

During this conversation, Jessica shares practical ways to intentionally share the truth and life of the gospel with children in order to build spiritual foundations necessary for lasting relationships with God. 

Jessica has TWO courses available in our Course Library: The Wonder of His Word (FREE for ECCN members in 2023) and Using the Bible with Preschoolers. 

Visit her website HERE for tons of high-quality resources and simple ways to share the gospel with children. 

Lifeway’s Levels of Biblical Learning is another great resource to help you share the gospel in a developmentally appropriate way.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for classroom tips and tricks!

Our guest today, Kristin Mathis, is a Pediatric Occupational Therapist with expertise in sensory, learning, behavior, and attachment issues in children. With a background as a weekday teacher and former Weekday Director at FBC Carrollton, TX, Kristin holds degrees in Family and Child Development from Oklahoma Baptist University and a Master of Occupational Therapy from Texas Woman’s University. Currently pursuing a PhD in Child Development and Early Education at TWU, Kristin’s research focuses on self-regulation, play, attachment, and the development of prosocial skills. Her passion is connecting recent studies and theory with practical solutions. 

During today’s episode, Kristin dives into the often overlooked but crucial topic of conflict resolution in early childhood classrooms. She talks about the skills children learn as they engage in appropriate conflict resolution, and discusses why conflict shouldn’t be seen as an interruption, but rather a critical part of teaching. Discover valuable lessons children (and teachers!) learn through conflict resolution in this episode. 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

I have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Beverly Alford on today’s episode of Reimagine Childhood.  Beverly is a staunch advocate for meaningful play. An Associate Professor of Early Childhood, her focus is on children, ages birth through age seven years. She is particularly fascinated by how young children develop in play-based, non-traditional education settings, as well as the effects of standardized learning practices on young children. Her background in early childhood is varied and extensive, rich in experiences within both the public and private sectors.  

In this podcast episode, Beverly and I discuss the importance of noise in the classroom and the need for children to have opportunities to be loud and expressive. We emphasize the value of play and the negative effects of stifling children's natural exuberance. Beverly goes on to suggest creating a balance between quiet and noisy activities in the classroom and encourages teachers to observe and listen to children's play. We also discuss the societal pressure on parents to keep their children quiet and well-behaved in public places. Beverly and I make a point to encourage a shift in mindset to support childhood and make an effort to understand children's individual needs. We suggest that the adults should model appropriate behavior and create a rhythm of noise levels in the classroom to help the students understand and follow when a noise-level transition needs to be made. Beverly concluded by reminding us all to prioritize play and outdoor time and to recognize the individuality and pace of children's learning. 

I was reminded today that children learn best through meaningful play and play is often noisy! There are definitely times that require a bit of restraint but I wonder sometimes if we could back off a little bit and allow children to fully experience their environment – even in their noise level!  Have you ever just stopped…actually paused everything to LISTEN to your classroom?  I’m going to challenge you to do that this week – stop, stand still, and just listen to your classroom – do you hear life-giving laughter, conversation, and FUN?  What conversations did you overhear?  What arguments or conflicts did you hear?  Did you hear singing or humming?  Did you hear laughter and giggles, or crying and sniffling?  I hope that the next time you feel like your classroom is SO LOUD…that you’ll pause for a moment and just listen.  Most likely, that pause will cause the noise level in your classroom to naturally decrease as the children wonder why you’re so still!  

You can connect with Beverly through her website, Curating Play, and her Instagram

You might also like this short article on the value of noise in the classroom.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Today I’m chatting with Dr. Mimi Larson, Executive Director of the Center for Faith and Children and Assistant Professor at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School. Mimi, a scholar-practitioner and advocate for children's spirituality, brings over 25 years of experience in ministry and curriculum development. She focuses on children's faith formation, in particular, how young children make meaning of their faith. Most recently, she has been exploring children's engagement in sacred play in worship environments. She holds advanced degrees from Wheaton Graduate School, Covenant Theological Seminary, and Concordia University. What I really love about Mimi is her desire to equip everyone who spends time with young children – whether a parent, a Sunday morning volunteer or an early educator - she wants everyone to understand and value the importance of bringing the spiritual into our everyday.

In this episode, we discuss how physical spaces impact learning and spiritual development in young children. Mimi gives us a wonderful insight into the importance of both the physical environment, such as furniture and toys, and the overall atmosphere and relationships within the space. We explore what it looks like for educators to create a welcoming and safe environment that is child-centered and conducive to learning and the importance of integrating spiritual elements into the classroom, such as prayers, blessings, and discussions about God's creation. Together, we offer advice for schools that share space with Sunday school and emphasize the importance of teamwork and communication. Children are valuable in society and we need to prioritize and value them in our actions, not just in our words!

I just love listening to Dr. Larson’s calming and peaceful voice. She has such a heart for children and forming faith within them.  I especially loved her practical tips for being intentional in considering a child’s perspective when we’re setting up classroom spaces. Sit on the floor and look around; get on your knees and look around. This is what children see. Is it helpful for their learning? Is it inviting and welcoming? Is it appropriate? In case you sped through the promo, I want you to know that Mimi will be one of our keynote speakers this summer at our state conference in Austin and Dallas. I really hope you’ll join us at one of those locations as she talks about the 8 ways we can nurture young children’s faith. 

When was the last time you sat down on the floor in your classroom?  What did you see? Send us an email at hello@earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Our guest today, Mary Ann Bradberry, has a rich background in early childhood education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. As the former Executive Director of Texas Baptist Church Weekday Education Association, Editor in Chief in the Childhood Publishing department at LifeWay, and adjunct professor at Dallas Baptist University, Mary Ann brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to early childhood classrooms.

Mary Ann Bradberry has spent hundreds of hours in nature with her granddaughter and has witnessed the depth of learning that occurs outside. After introducing a basket of sticks and leaves to a chaotic Sunday School classroom and witnessing the transformative impact it had on the children’s learning, Mary Ann Bradberry quickly recognized nature’s crucial role in every early childhood classroom. 

During today’s episode, Mary Ann discusses nature and its undeniable benefits for children. She shares simple ways to introduce natural elements into your classroom, and she explains how incorporating natural elements into your classroom can transform your children’s learning. 

We are so lucky to have Mary Ann Bradberry join ECCN as a keynote speaker at our state conferences this summer. For more information, visit our website HERE. 

Mary Ann mentioned several books in this episode. Here are links to a couple of them:

Big Book of Bugs

 Can You Hear The Trees Talking 

Environmental design books by Sandra Duncan

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

Our guest today, Dr. Charlene Woodham Brickman, is an early childhood consultant and recess and play researcher. With a PhD in Early Childhood Education from Auburn University and a passion for children, advocacy, play, and developmentally appropriate practice, Charlene is recognized as a thought leader in her field. She is a firm believer in the positive power of play and her research focuses on exploring the benefits of play and recess in educational settings. 

During today’s episode, Charlene discusses how we can effectively nurture and teach children as they navigate life post COVID-19. She urges us to consider the potential reality that children born during the pandemic might have never encountered fluorescent lights (that are now found in almost every classroom) or set foot in a grocery store, and the implications this has on a child’s ability to integrate sensory stimuli. Charlene offers actionable insights on how to create classroom environments that minimize sensory overload, emphasizing the significance of granting children autonomy and choice in the process. 

Connect with Dr. Charlene Woodham Brickman on Instagram HERE or visit her website HERE. 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

“The more active we are, the healthier we are.”

This quote from our guest today, Renee Terry, perfectly portrays her passion for fitness and physical well-being—inside and outside of the classroom. As the owner of Stretch-N-Grow West Texas, an organization that provides children with exciting exercise opportunities including dance, fitness, gymnastics, music, soccer, sports, and yoga, Renee’s mission is to empower children to engage in daily physical activities that they truly enjoy. Renee’s background as a special educator provides her with a unique perspective on physical activity and its benefits for whole-child development. 

During this episode, Renee discusses the importance of physical movement throughout the day and provides practical ways to incorporate active exercises into the classroom. 

To learn more about Stretch-N-Grow, visit their website HERE. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for more classroom tips and tricks! 

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, host Monica Healer introduces Dr. Cynthia Jackson Small, Executive Director and Founder of Family Dimensions. Dr. Small, a renowned expert in early childhood education and family engagement, discusses the importance of professionalism in early childhood settings. She emphasizes the significance of the NACI Code of Ethical Conduct and shares practical strategies for educators. Dr. Small also presents her 'STAR' model for problem-solving and highlights the need for self-care among educators. Additionally, listeners get a sneak peek into Dr. Small's book, 'Meet the Teacher with Class,' which provides insights from a child's perspective. The episode concludes with encouragement and goal-setting tips for educators to ensure they bring their best selves to their classrooms.

00:00 Welcome to Reimagine Childhood

00:40 Meet Dr. Cynthia Jackson Small

01:46 Welcome Dr. Small

02:48 Professionalism in Early Childhood Education

09:19 The STAR Formula and Ethical Conduct

13:29 Summer Conference Promo

15:24 Meet the Teacher with Class

28:59 Wrapping up with Dr. Cynthia Small

30:39 Closing

You can learn more about Dr. Small's work with families at www.familydimensions.org

·        HERE is a link to Dr. Small's book - Meet the Teacher with Class

·        HERE is a ink to Dr. Small's ABCs of Professionalism

Take a few minutes and celebrate the ways you've been a Pro this year! And then choose 2-3 items that will be your focus for growth over the next few months and share with us! We'd love to hear from you — send an email to podcast@earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com or comment on our social media posts this week.

Our guest today, Dr. Melissa Ewing, is an inspiring force in child development. With a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of North Texas, and as a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice, Dr. Ewing is passionate about promoting and providing optimal strategies for the growth of both children and families. She currently serves as an adjunct professor of Psychology at Dallas Baptist University. 

During this episode, Dr. Ewing talks about how to help children recognize, and express emotions in healthy ways. She shares valuable strategies for equipping children with the vocabulary and skills they need to recognize, identify and express emotions. She describes the power of breathing in self regulation, and talks about the importance of the caregiver’s ability to regulate their own emotions. 

Dr. Ewing has several courses featured in our Learning Library, including “All the Feels” and “Managing Stress So It Doesn’t Manage You”. 

You can also connect with Melissa on Facebook HERE. 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Our guest today is Samantha Phillips, aka, That Sparkly Insurance Chic! She’s spent over a decade coaching childcare leaders about risk management and empowering them to make wise business protection choices.  She is nationally recognized as an advocate for early childhood, breaking ground by educating educators in an often overlooked area. She’s not just an insurance expert (although she definitely is that), she is a valuable resource and a beacon in the early childhood community adding a sparkly touch to the vital task of protecting what matters most! She’s also the VBS coordinator at her church and teaches a Kindergarten Sunday School class. She’s passionate about doing what’s best for children in early childhood so I’m excited to bring you this conversation with Samantha Phillips.

Today, she is going to share her insights on Insurance companies that are dropping childcare centers, leading to concerns about insurability. Samantha will also discuss with us why classroom teachers need to understand the impact of insurance on their job security and what can be done to increase insurability (like thorough documentation of procedures and compliance, property maintenance, and proactive measures). Samantha is going to share her heart with us on why Insurance is critical for early childhood programs, and following procedures and policies is essential!

I know insurance is not something most of us think about regularly, but have you ever thought about the fact that your school has to carry a pretty substantial insurance policy just to be in business at all?  With so many things having the potential of becoming a lawsuit these days, we’ve got to take some things more seriously.  So, your part in all of this is to be intentional in asking yourself, am I doing my very best to be sure that there is the least amount of risk possible to me and the children in my care? Maybe even take a moment and see if there’s something YOU see that your director might not have thought of yet that would make a difference in the safety and security of your children. Take compliance with licensing standards seriously – even the ones that you think are ridiculous. Every school must have insurance and If compliance is low, insurance opportunities will disappear.  

Links from today’s episode:

Samantha has provided a free narrative template for you as you help your church prepare for Insurance renewal - View it HERE

Email Samantha at samantha.phillips@comployhr.com

Find her on Facebook

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook 

Our guest on this episode is Chad Oliver, an elementary school PE coach in McKinney, Texas. This is his 26th year in education. Chad and Monica serve together in student ministry at their home church of First McKinney.  Chad is passionate about children’s health and learning and he shares Jesus however he can.  He currently teaches in a Title I elementary school where many parents are absent – some by choice due to addiction, incarceration, etc and some by necessity as they work multiple jobs just to make ends meet.  He shares some unique insights into what he is experiencing with kindergarteners as they enter school for the first time.  

Chad notes that many kindergartners lack basic social skills and struggle to interact with both adults and peers. He attributes this to excessive screen time and a lack of parental guidance in teaching children how to share, respect others, and follow instructions. Chad emphasizes the importance of minimizing screen time and encouraging outdoor play to develop social skills. He also mentions the positive impact of faith-based education in teaching children about Jesus and promoting kindness and respect. 

Listen in to this conversation on the importance of our work in early childhood in preparing students to enter elementary school.  The work that you’re doing is noticeable and so necessary.  As we do our jobs really well in early childhood by facilitating experiences for children to practice problem-solving and social interactions, we’re actually setting them up for success in life!  We know that the most powerful learning happens when children are allowed to play in healthy, fun, age-appropriate environments with educators who are willing to engage in with children as much as possible.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

We’re having a conversation with a longtime friend and advocate for faith-based early education, Peggy Osborne today. Peggy has journeyed alongside her husband, Chris Osborne, in pastoral ministry for over 40 years. Having served faithfully at Central Church in College Station, Texas for over three decades, she now finds herself in Fort Worth, supporting her husband's teaching role at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary as a mentor for pastor's wives and female seminary students. Peggy has a broad knowledge and experience base as a classroom teacher and administrator in the Early Childhood Department of the College Station Independent School District. Since December 2010, she has collaborated with her daughter, Lauren, providing consultancy services to Faith-Based Schools, childcare centers, school districts, and Head Starts across the nation.

Today we are going to talk all about character development and why teaching virtues like kindness, love, joy, patience, etc. are important in early childhood. We’re laying a foundation of faith for young children years before they make a decision to follow Jesus. Peggy will give us insight into how to use concrete, visual examples, and repetition to help young children understand abstract virtues. Things like, Intentionally "spotlighting" and praising specific acts of virtue in children, rather than just general praise, and connecting virtuous behavior to biblical stories and principles, are incredibly impactful in building their internal sense of character. She will share just how creating a classroom culture that prioritizes and celebrates biblical virtues can positively shift the overall environment.

She cares so deeply about teaching the next generation in the ways of God. Finding ways to intentionally teach children these virtues (the fruit of the spirit) will repay big dividends. Just as you will learn from her in this episode, you’re building the culture of your classroom! We know that the Holy Spirit’s power is what makes those “morals” or “virtues” significant but just think…YOU are introducing many of these families to the Truth of God by intentionally teaching their children to walk in Jesus’ ways. 

Additional Resources: 

Instagram: @deuteronomy14.2

Website: https://youaremytreasure.com/product/the-fruit-project/

Facebook group: Treasured (You Are My Treasure)

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook 

“Children can’t play without learning and can’t learn without playing."

This quote from our guest today, Stacy Benge, perfectly illustrates her passion for encouraging classroom practices that foster developmentally appropriate learning through play. As an early childhood speaker and author, Stacey’s mission is to shift early childhood educators' approach to curriculum from teacher-driven to child-led. 

In our conversation, Stacy discusses child-lead curriculum and shares practical tips for implementing it in your classroom. She also highlights the connections between physical development and literacy and reveals practical classroom practices that will help you foster early literacy (without constantly reciting the alphabet). 

Connect with Stacy on Instagram HERE and visit her website HERE.

Click HERE to watch the video Does Crawling Matter? referenced in this conversation. 

P.S. Did you know that ECCN offers on-demand, high-quality training courses? Head over to our course library and check out Stacy Benge’s course on Child-Centered Learning HERE. 

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @earlychildhoodchristiannet for classroom tips and tricks!

Our guest today is Lauren Osborne. Lauren has a bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University as well as a Master’s of Education from the University of Texas at Arlington. She was a teacher for eight years, both in the public and private sector, and has been a Christian Independent Consultant/Speaker for over fifteen years. She deeply desires to encourage and refresh women to live in the freedom that comes with believing and obeying God fully. 

 Today, Lauren and I will be talking about separation anxiety in young children. Lauren will walk us through how separation anxiety can manifest in a multitude of ways, such as crying or withdrawing, and it stems from the fear of being separated from their primary caregiver. She will emphasize the importance of understanding what is happening in the child's brain and body during this time. Creating a safe and nurturing environment is imperative to help children calm down and soothe their separation anxiety. Together, we will discuss the role of parents and teachers in supporting children through this process, including providing practical tools like social stories and involving parents in the classroom strategies. We will also discuss the significance of consistent attachment figures and the importance of pointing children toward God as their ultimate attachment figure. Lauren will finish our time by sharing her perspective on reimagining childhood, highlighting the benefits of spending time outdoors for children's mental health and overall well-being.

 Young children are attached to the person who meets their survival needs and they are connected to the people who bring fun and joy. We want both for the children in our care.  These young children coming into your classroom for the first time are terrified that their mommy might never come back or that someone or something will get them in your classroom. They’re not just being brats! Give them some time, some consistency in routine, and a little bit of novelty every day and you’ll be enjoying so much joy and learning and discovery in no time.  You’re building patterns of resilience in each child who struggles through the hard and into the wonderful! Don’t forget it. We are praying for stamina during these few weeks of school. Keep taking steps forward. The Lord will sustain you and you’ll be laughing and playing in no time!  

Additional Resources:

Get more helpful resources from Lauren at https://youaremytreasure.com/

Find her on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/deuteronomy14.2/

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Today’s episode will be valuable to all of you at this time of year.  I’m looking forward to introducing you to Claire Turner.  As an educator with two decades of experience, Claire provides a unique perspective on positive behavior interventions, collaborative communication, and other valuable team-building topics. Claire is a Kindergarten teacher and serves as the Director of Programs and Lead Educator for W.I.L.D., a ministry of SUMMIT focused on equipping women to root, bloom, and flourish while disciplining others along their journey of leadership development. Claire strives to inspire personal and professional growth in leaders and educators through interactive training courses, including everything from conferences to camping trips. 

 Claire and I are talking about the motivation behind behavior in young children today.  This episode is a little bit longer than usual, but I think you’ll be glad you listened in. We’ll focus on attention-seeking behaviors as well as control-seeking behaviors and what you can do in your classroom to reinforce specific positive behaviors. We will also spend some time on the four main motivations of behavior: escape, sensory input, attention, and esteem. 

 I think what we will really learn is there are underlying motivations in all of our behaviors – adults included. This time of year with more candy, more celebrations, more everything (except sleep!) children can be a little extra challenging…and we have a little patience for their behavior.  I hope this episode gives you a few new tools to use as you help these little ones learn healthy behavior patterns to meet their needs.

Additional Resources: 

Find Claire online at SummitLead.org and on Instagram

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook 

My guest today is Melissa Leach, the owner, and president, of Leach Literacy Training (LLT), Melissa is a sought-after literacy change leader for her knowledge of literacy and her ability to make success in every component feel achievable. Melissa has been a dynamic classroom teacher, a state-level Literacy Specialist, a Professional Learning Designer for the District of Columbia Public Schools, and a K-12 ELAR and SLAR Specialist. She currently works full-time alongside her team of literacy staff developers to run Leach Literacy Training from her home state of Texas. It is Melissa’s life work to make an impact on student achievement. Leach Literacy blends the research and knowledge of best practices and hands-on application to real-life classroom settings. Melissa’s excitement about early childhood and the joys of learning with young children shines through in this episode.

Today we are discussing "sharing the pen" with young children in early childhood classrooms. It involves co-constructing messages and writing experiences with students, allowing them to contribute letters and words to build confidence and joy in the writing process. We will journey through key factors in this process like providing a consistent, permanent space (e.g. name chart) where children can find and interact with letters and words; Using tools like "booboo tape" sparingly to fix mistakes, focusing more on the process than perfection; Engaging the whole class in the writing experience through multisensory activities and verbal prompts; Tailoring support for more reluctant writers by providing visual aids and sharing the pen responsibilities; and Emphasizing the "pre" in preschool by reimagining early childhood experiences as joyful, developmentally-appropriate learning rather than narrow preparation for school.

There are many great nuggets of information in this episode with Melissa and I can’t wait for you to dive in and grab for yourself.  

Visit Melissa’s website or connect with Melissa on Instagram and Facebook

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Dr. Sharon R. Jackson is a life-long early childhood advocate and a seasoned professional with experience in local, state, and national presentations throughout her career. She is an encourager by nature…From a background that includes public schools, military childcare centers, faith-based organizations, and for-profit settings, her experience is not only wide-ranging but also deeply grounded in appropriate practice and respect for young children. Dr. Jackson has held positions of leadership in her community and in the organizations in which she has been employed. She earned her PhD from Texas A&M University and is currently a professor of early childhood education at Blinn College in College Station.

Today, we’re talking about the importance of the environment as the third teacher – the philosophy that spaces can significantly influence development and learning. Sharon will emphasize just how important the environment is–It’s not just physical objects like books and toys; it also includes the emotional well-being of the children. While we discuss the third teacher that originated from the Reggio philosophy, we will also talk about the role of parents as the child's first teacher. We’re also going to chat about the adult in the classroom as the second teacher. Second teachers have the important job of giving comfort, consistency, and connection in creating a supportive social-emotional environment for young children. Together, we’ll discuss the benefits of a well-laid-out environment, such as promoting learning, language development, and creativity, as well as building children's confidence! We will address the challenges of creating an appropriate environment, including the pressure to focus on academics and parental expectations.

Recognizing the needed respect for children in the stage that they are in, being who they are, rather than pushing and rushing them toward some other agenda is so valuable. What a difference that mindset shift could make in creating environments for the children in our care. I hope this episode makes you pause for a moment and think about your classroom environment a little differently. And I hope you’ll “get on your knees at the door” and consider the children’s perspective and also…God’s perspective on this adventure in early childhood. 

Dr. Jackson's article on Environments

Curating Play - https://curatingplay.com/

Early Essentials - https://earlyessentials.org/

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Patty Shukla is an award winning American singer, songwriter, musician, author, and keynote speaker.  She specializes in music tailored to early childhood curriculum. Her expertise stems from her pioneering work in educational and interactive music videos on YouTube since 2009, captivating millions worldwide on her youtube channel. Patty is part of the worship team at her church and spent years leading children’s choirs!

When she's not performing or composing, Patty travels extensively, sharing insights as a keynote speaker at educational workshops, both nationally and internationally. 

We think you’ll hear her excitement for integrating learning into every song she produces. Monica even got to participate LIVE in a song called “Wiggle It”.  

Patty shares her personal story of how music helped her non-verbal son develop language skills and excel academically. She emphasizes the importance of incorporating movement into music to engage children and enhance learning. Patty also discusses the benefits of using music in special needs classrooms and the value of parent engagement through music resources. She encourages teachers to create playlists of educational songs on platforms like YouTube to share with parents. The episode concludes with a discussion on the power of traditional childhood games and the importance of reintroducing them in early childhood classrooms.

Patty is passionate about using the power of music and movement to help young children learn skills across all learning domains. We loved that she reminded us about using music to build an inclusive environment with the children who might have some different abilities.  We know music is a powerful tool in our classrooms.  We hope this episode challenged you to be a little bit more intentional in which music you choose.  

Patty has LOTS of resources on her website including CDs and DVDs, she has a Youtube channel with TONS of built in playlists and it’s all easily searchable.  She even has an App if you’re looking for a totally ad-free way to access her content on an apple device.  We’ve linked everything in the show notes for you.  And you might want to check out our newsletter and our blog this week as Monica shares even more information about the benefits of music in your classroom. Find all of our recent blog articles at  Earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/blog/ 

Patty’s Resources:

Website - https://pattysprimarysongs.com/

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@pattyshukla

CDs/DVDs - https://pattysprimarysongs.com/shop/

App (Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and Apple App Store) - https://pattysprimarysongs.com/apps/

In today’s episode, I had a great conversation with Jennifer McCarville, founder of Marvelously Made - The School for Young Children just outside of San Antonio, TX.  Jennifer has spent three decades studying early childhood education and child development. She is a steadfast and unapologetic advocate for children and their right to a play-filled and developmentally appropriate education. Her work training teachers and educating parents is equipping others to understand how children learn and what they need to thrive. Known for her genuine respect for young children and her trust in the God-designed process of growing and learning, Jennifer is changing the conversation around early education and the importance of saving childhood.

Today Jennifer is going to discuss the importance of creating beautiful spaces for children and the role of process art in early education. She will share with us her heart for children to get to experience nurturing and visually appealing environments that help stimulate their creativity and learning–as well as her discernment on the difference between process art, which focuses on the child's experience and exploration, and product-based art, which is more about the end result. We are going to talk about the potential concerns of choosing to not implement process art and what can be done to help introduce it in the classroom. Together we will share our thoughts on how teachers can shift their mindset from being instructors to being observers of children's learning and to embrace the process of learning and growth.

After listening to today’s episode, we would love to hear your thoughts…What would your next step be in your classroom in trying out some process art?  How would you communicate to a parent what their child learned?  I hope you will be challenged to step back and evaluate your own classroom and activity plans.  Let us know how you do art in your classroom!

Links from the episode: 

Marvelously Made - The School for Young Children - https://marvelouslymadeschool.com/

Save Childhood - https://www.savechildhood.org/

Root & Twig - The Marvelously Made Store - https://rootandtwigstore.com/

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Today’s guest is Erin Brady – she serves as a College Associate Minister at The Way - a ministry to college students at Indiana Ave Baptist Church in Lubbock, TX. She holds a business degree from Lubbock Christian University. She would describe herself as happily belonging to Jesus Christ and she gets fired up about people knowing Jesus and allowing Him to change their lives.

In this podcast episode, Monica and Erin discuss the importance of having intentional spiritual conversations with parents in church-based preschools. They highlight the fact that not all parents who enroll their children in Christian preschools are Christians themselves, and emphasize the responsibility and privilege of building connections with these families. They suggest using the "SALT" method, which stands for Start a conversation, Ask questions, Listen, and Tell the story. Both Monica and Erin encourage teachers to ask open-ended questions, actively listen to parents' responses, and share their own personal stories of faith when appropriate. They also emphasize the power of a simple smile and the importance of being obedient to God's leading in engaging with parents. They continue by reminding teachers that they are planting seeds and that the growth and response are ultimately in God's hands. God has intentionally placed them in their current roles and He is always with them as they seek to make disciples and share the love of Christ.

As they close, they discuss the importance of being content in the uncomfortable to break out of our shells to share the gospel. You have an opportunity to interact with exactly who you’re supposed to interact with.  Who knows if God hasn’t already cultivated the soil, so to speak, of some of the parents in your class?

If you’d like to connect with Erin, you can find her HERE! If you’re interested in The Way, a ministry to college students in Lubbock, TX, you can connect HERE.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

Today, we have Michelle Pinkston, Global Director of the Prestonwood Christian Learning Center, discussing a special event called "The Journey to Bethlehem," aimed at teaching young children about the birth of Jesus. She has a passion for teaching young children the truth of the Gospel in age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate ways.

In this podcast episode, Michelle talks with Monica about a special program called "The Journey to Bethlehem" that she implements in her Christian preschool. The program aims to bring the story of Jesus' birth to life for young children and help them understand the true meaning of Christmas. Michelle describes how the program is structured, with children dressing up in costumes, going on a journey to Bethlehem, interacting with different characters like shepherds and a tax collector, and ultimately arriving at the nativity scene. She also explains how teachers can adapt the program for their own classrooms, even if they don't have the resources for a large-scale production. Michelle emphasizes the importance of making the story experiential and engaging for children, as well as providing tangible take-home items like ornaments and devotionals for them to share with their families. Monica and Michelle discuss the impact of the program on children and their families and the potential long-term effects of introducing young children to the story of Jesus' birth.

Monica ends the episode by discussing the generational impact of sending kids home with excitement for the story of Jesus’ birth. How will you make the bible come alive this Christmas season? Do something a little extra special and watch the wonder and awe of young children reignite your own faith as well.

We have several Journey to Bethlehem resources available for you HERE including the devotional Michelle talked about in the episode.  

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

In this episode of 'Reimagined Childhood' brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer and guest Stephanie Rogers explore practical strategies for making early childhood education engaging and effective. They discuss seven foundational ways children learn: through satisfaction, curiosity, relationships, sensory engagement, play, imitation, and repetition. The conversation underscores the challenges teachers face, including the impact of screen time on attention spans, and offers creative solutions such as introducing novel items like record players and encouraging sensory play. Stephanie also emphasizes the importance of slowing down and focusing on developmental appropriateness to build a strong foundation for lifelong learning. This episode aims to rejuvenate educators who feel stuck in a rut, providing innovative ideas for banishing boredom and enhancing classroom engagement.

00:00 Introduction

00:40 Guest Introduction

01:32 Welcome, Stephanie Rogers

12:24 Summer Conference

14:44 Continuing with Stephanie Rogers

29:41 Conversation Wrap-Up

30:56 Conclusion

Our guest today, Dr. Shelly Melia, is the Associate Dean of the Graduate School of Ministry and Program Director for Children and Family at Dallas Baptist University. She holds a Master of Arts in Religious Education and Marriage and Family Counseling from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and a PhD in Childhood Education from B.H. Carroll Theological Institute. As a Licensed Professional Counselor, she specializes in parental bereavement and fostering resilience in children.

During this episode, Shelly takes a deep dive into the newest generation on the block: Generation Alpha. She discusses distinctive qualities that set them apart, and explores practical strategies for providing optimal care. She emphasizes the importance of building solid relationships with children and their parents, and she shares how collaborative environments are more conducive for learning than competitive environments. Gain valuable insights into fostering well-being and growth of Generation Alpha in this informative conversation! 

You can connect with Shelly on Facebook HERE and on Instagram HERE. 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

My guest today is Faith Rivera. Faith has worked with a variety of programs supporting children, youth, and young adults through nonprofits, faith-based organizations, universities, and health care over the last decade. Faith is passionate about ensuring families have access to the resources and services they need to raise their children well and for service providers to have the support to offer families the best quality services. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Sciences with a concentration in Family and Community and a Masters of Education in Higher Education with a concentration in Student Affairs Administration – both from the University of North Texas. She is also the founder of Alo Civitas Consulting, a company committed to improving maternal and child health.

In this podcast episode, Monica and Faith discuss the importance of early childhood mental health. They explain that early childhood mental health refers to children's ability to regulate and express their emotions, form relationships, and understand their place in the world. In this conversation, Faith emphasizes the significance of building a strong attachment between children and their caregivers from day one, as this helps children feel loved and secure. They also discuss the role of infant and toddler teachers in supporting infant mental health and emphasize the importance of meeting children's basic needs and providing a nurturing environment. Faith goes on to suggest practical strategies for educators and parents, such as making parents feel valued and involved, creating opportunities for children to regulate their emotions, and incorporating outdoor play and sensory experiences. The conversation highlights the impact of technology on children's mental health and emphasizes the importance of face-to-face interactions and emotional connections. The episode concludes with a reminder to appreciate and enjoy the small moments in early childhood.

It’s amazing to think that we have so much influence over the healthy development of the children in our care.  How you show up consistently in your classroom really does impact the mental and emotional health of your students! Don’t be overwhelmed though. None of us are perfect. None of us show up as our best selves every single day. God has a way of working through our shortcomings and filling in gaps in ways we could never even imagine. But I hope this episode reminds you of the importance of those small daily interactions with your students.  Spending a few extra moments when you’re changing a diaper to tell a child that he is precious to you and precious to God builds strong neural connections that aid them in future relationships!  It’s not just about getting their little bottoms clean and moving on to the next thing. Taking a deep breath and calming yourself when a child pushes your buttons models self-regulation for a child! That’s a skill we want all children to learn.

You can access Faith’s website HERE.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Today on the podcast, my guest is Shela Mobarak. Shela is passionate about high-quality early learning for everyone. She has a wide array of experiences, from corporate HR to faith-based weekday leadership, and she is the founder of Be The Seed of Change, a consulting and professional development organization based in Plano, Texas. She is known for her passion for the early childhood profession and collaborates with a variety of teams at all levels. Shela has a Masters degree in Conflict Analysis and Resolution and is working on a PhD in Early Childhood Leadership and Advocacy. She is well-researched in infant/toddler development and believes that high-quality care in the early years is paramount for a healthier, more well-rounded society as a whole!

Our topic today is the importance of intentional and developmentally appropriate support for the physical development of infants and toddlers. We know educators play a crucial role in fostering the development of infants and toddlers in their classes, and we hope this episode will help you feel well-equipped to make the most impact in these critical years. We will talk through how you can encourage physical development that encompasses gross motor, fine motor, and health/well-being skills that align with research-based developmental milestones. Together we will share how environments for infants and toddlers should encourage exploration, movement, and sensory experiences and how you can partner with families to support the whole child. 

Overall, Infant and Toddler teachers, we want you to know your work MATTERS! After this episode, we hope you learn or are reminded that the ways you interact with young children, the care and nurture you show, and the intentionality you use in planning and creating experiences for these tiny disciples, are the foundation of all other learning.  It’s a huge responsibility and also the best privilege! 

Additional Resources: 

Instagram: @BeSeedChange

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeSeedChange/

Links we mentioned in the conversation:

The link to the Texas Infant-Toddler Specialist Network is Texas ITSN – Texas Infant-Toddler Specialist Network

Links to brain-building activities for young children - https://developingchild.harvard.edu/resources/brainbuildingthroughplay/

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook 

Today’s guest is Sarah Scrivens. Sarah has over 15 years of diverse experience in the education field. She has served as an early childhood consultant, preschool director, and classroom teacher. For the past several years, Sarah has provided educators across the nation with professional development and instructional coaching through Building Brains. Sarah is passionate about spreading the importance of early childhood education.  She’s also mommy to 2 littles – ages 1 and 3 - so she is in the trenches with young children on the daily!

In this episode, we discuss the many benefits and uses of play-dough in early childhood education! Playdough is a versatile tool that can be used for various age groups and across different subjects. Sarah shares with us the importance of oral language development and how playdough can be used to encourage conversation and build brain connections. We also provide ideas on playdough for fine motor skill development, social-emotional skills, math, literacy, and science. Today Sarah provides tips and ideas for incorporating playdough into different activities and themes, as well as the importance of environmental print and labeling in the classroom. Together, we find just how important it is for educators and parents to engage with children through the creativity of playdough.

Sarah mentions several resources that we have linked below for you, and we’ve created a fun one-page PDF with the playdough recipe and lots of ideas for add-ins or tools to use in your classroom! How many ways can you think of to use playdough to reinforce a story you’re reading to your class this week? I hope you’re inspired to try something new!

Connect with Sarah via her website or social media! 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE, and on Facebook HERE.

Episode Resources: 

Playdough Recipes and tools download

Plastic Cutting Mats

30 Million Words: Building a Child's Brain

CLI Infant-Toddler Classroom Environment Checklist

Texas PreK Guidelines

David Rische has served in public education for 28 years as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. He retired as the principal of a public school Early Learning Center in the summer of 2024.  He has presented at a wide variety of educational conferences throughout the state. David has had multiple educational articles published in professional journals and he has self-published 3 books. He holds a Masters of Education Administration. David also loves performing magic shows for children and families alongside an encouraging message of faith. 

Today, we are having an important conversation about the health and well-being of early childhood educators. We recognize early childhood educators are facing increased stress, anxiety, and burnout, which is contributing to a decline in the number of people entering the profession. While acknowledging the very real stressors, David is going to share with us 4 practical tips to combat anxiety that will help us have a holistic view and approach toward it. 

Our hope for you in hearing this message is that you will leave feeling better equipped to show up in your classroom well and have the capacity to set a healthy example for the children under your care.

Additional Resources: 

ECCN Habit Tracker - https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Habit-Tracker.pdf

David's website - https://davidrische.com/

David’s Instagram - @davidrische

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook 

Today’s guest is Prerna Richards, a conference attendee favorite!  Prerna is an international speaker, coach, and consultant who has been in the early childhood field for almost four decades. She founded Together We Grow a few years ago as a coaching and education provider for early childhood educators and parents. She believes every child is born capable and intelligent and deserves the best start in life and this starts with the teachers being trained in the latest research on child growth and development. Her educational philosophy is grounded in a play-based approach along with a strong social-emotional foundation. Prerna is on a mission to transform learning from stressful to joyful, one classroom at a time.  You will love hearing some simple techniques that will get your classroom off to a great start this school year. 

In this podcast episode, we discuss strategies for reducing stress and creating a joyful classroom environment at the start of a new school year. Prerna shares with us the importance of understanding the impact of stress on the brain and how it affects decision-making and learning and suggests practical strategies. Things like cheers to create a positive and collaborative classroom atmosphere, incorporating playful and fun activities during circle time, using cognitive transitions to engage the brain during transitions, and using positive and playful language to create a more enjoyable learning experience. Together we highlight the importance of mindset and the role of the teacher in creating a joyful learning environment. Overall, Prerna shares her heart on the importance of bringing joy and playfulness into the classroom to enhance learning and reduce stress.

I always learn so much from Prerna.  She makes some profound statements in this episode!  I LOVE it when she says the joy should bubble up, gurgle out, and overflow into your daily life.  Wouldn’t you rather be in a classroom where the joy is bubbling, gurgling, and overflowing than one where the stress is heavy? Even though this podcast included so many very practical ways to bring joy and fun back into your classroom, we know the only true source of Joy is found in a relationship with Jesus. I hope that as you prepare for your classroom this fall, you’ll spend some intentional time cultivating your relationship with Jesus even before you meet your sweet students! Then, once you have the Joy, Joy, Joy, Joy down in your heart….you’ll be ready to let it bubble up, gurgle out, and overflow onto your students and coworkers as well.  

Our team at Early Childhood Christian Network is here to support you in your journey with young children. We are praying for you and for the impact you’ll make this year! We’d love to interact with you on our social media channels (Instagram & Facebook) or via email at hello@earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com. 

Additional links:

Prerna's website- https://togetherwegrow.online/

Dr. Jean's cheers - https://www.drjean.org/html/activityPg.html#gsc.tab=0

Some call-response ideas - https://www.teachstarter.com/us/blog/call-and-response-classroom-ideas/

In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, host Monica Healer chats with Emily Flaherty, children's and family minister at Cliff Temple Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. Emily shares her unique and practical strategies for integrating faith-based teachings into the daily lives of young children and their families at her Child Development Center (CDC). She emphasizes the importance of building community and relationships among children, parents, and staff. Emily discusses initiatives like storytelling classes, parent support groups, and community dinners, and shares insights on how these efforts bridge the gap between the church and local families. This episode offers inspiration and actionable ideas for early childhood educators and church leaders looking to make a lasting impact.

00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood

00:41 Meet Emily Flaherty

02:10 Cliff Temple Baptist Church and CDC Overview

05:38 Building Relationships with Children

12:20 Supporting and Discipling Teachers

16:29 Engaging and Building Community with Parents

29:48 Impact and Reflections

35:48 Conclusion and Call to Action

Stacy Benge is an ECCN favorite.  She is a frequent presenter at our events and we enjoy having her on the podcast from time to time.  She’s the author of “The Whole Child Alphabet: How Children Actually Develop Literacy” – linked in the show notes.  She is passionate about whole-child development and shares her knowledge readily with practical, engaging, and fun content.  Stacy has a master of science degree in Human Development, over a decade of experience in the classroom, and another twenty years of consulting, training, and research in early childhood spaces.  

Our conversation today focuses on physical development as a foundation for literacy development! Stacy is going to share with us just how important it is to allow children to engage in free movement and play to develop the necessary physical skills for literacy. We will touch on topics such as the long-term consequences of restricting physical movement in early childhood and the need for early childhood educators to understand and communicate the value of physical development to parents and administrators. Through the conversation today, we will learn that trusting children's intuitive need for movement is key to supporting their overall development.

Stacy’s focus on whole child development just makes sense when you think about how God designed little bodies to grow. In our quest to help children reach their full potential, we sometimes skip to the things that we can control, right?  Stacy always reminds me that the simple things matter – sometimes they matter the most! Crawling, climbing, spinning, running, leaning, reaching, grasping…all of these simple things that happen when children are playing are actually the foundation of literacy skills. When we curate environments that allow and encourage movement in children, we’re actually helping them become better readers and writers in the future.

Additional Resources: 

The Whole Child Alphabet 

Stacy's website, Instagram, and Facebook 

Child-Centered Learning: A Discussion of Emergent Curriculum (a course on our website!)

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

What if we told you your work with young children is changing lives and having a lasting impact on our next generation? 

Welcome to Reimagine Childhood brought to you by Early Childhood Christian Network—where we equip you with the tools you need so you can confidently care for and teach young children. 

We know early childhood is prime time for all development and, yet, we often overlook our critical role in providing optimal learning experiences. In every episode, you’ll find seasoned experts sharing their passion and expertise in a way that is easily applied to everyday experiences in the classroom and anywhere else you’re involved with young children. We want to protect and celebrate early childhood in all its wonder and imagination, rather than rushing through it to get “prepared” for the next stage.

The Reimagine Childhood podcast is here to remind you that the work you have been called to is instrumental in building this next generation of children into Jesus-loving, well-adjusted, well-rounded, joy-filled humans who will change the world for the better! YOU are a part of that by what you do each day. 

So….how will you reimagine your approach to early childhood? We’d love to invite you on this journey with us!

To learn more about what we do at Early Childhood Christian Network, visit our website here: https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/.

Connect with us on Instagram here and on Facebook here.

My guest today is Melissa McKenzie.  Melissa holds a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Stephen F. Austin University and is one of our favorite presenters at live conferences every year. She is an Early Childhood Professional who is committed to making learning a joyful journey. She has written faith-based and movement curricula and taught in a large Early Childhood Center, she was the FCS Childhood Guidance/Human Resource Practicum Teacher, and Preschool Director for Cypress Ranch Preschool for the last seven years. Today, she is a new grandmother and takes care of her grandson while his parents are at work.

In this podcast episode, I get to ask Melissa about her passion for teaching young children about God's word. She is going to emphasize the importance of making the Bible concrete and relatable for children, rather than just telling them stories, and share with us her conviction that children rely on adults to teach them about God and it is an important task we shouldn’t take lightly. Melissa shares practical examples of how she teaches the Bible to babies and toddlers, using object lessons and active participation. She also will discuss the importance of praying with young children and making it a personal and meaningful experience for them. She will give us insight into how repetition and reinforcement of lessons through various methods, such as weekly notes home and monthly activities for families can help as a tool. Overall, Melissa emphasizes the need for adults to approach teaching children about God with creativity, passion, and a deep understanding of the impact it can have on their lives.

It’s easy to tell that Melissa is passionate about teaching young children the truth of God’s word at their level. I hope you will be inspired (maybe even a little bit convicted) to do better as you teach these little souls who God is.  Weave spiritual truth into your everyday interactions as much as you can and also be intentional about what you’re teaching.  Melissa is a wonderful resource and you can find her on her website (linked below).  We’d love to hear how YOU make God more real to the young children in your care!  Let us know your best ideas via email or our social media channels.  We’d love to connect.

Melissa’s website: https://mosaicconceptions.com/

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook

Macy Dickson, a registered nurse who is now a stay-at-home mom, joins Monica on this episode.  Macy has a heart for the Lord and really wants to see moms and, women, in general, glorify the Lord in all they do.  She serves as part of the women’s ministry team at her home church in Lubbock, Texas - Indiana Ave Baptist Church where she helps lead a Mom-to-Mom ministry.  

In this podcast episode, Macy and Monica discuss the pressure and stress that women often feel during the holiday season. They talk about the desire to create a perfect and magical Christmas for their families, but how this can lead to overwhelm and stress. Macy shares her own experience as a new mom and how she realized that she couldn't do it all and that it was okay. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and focusing on what is most important during the holiday season, which is remembering and teaching about Christ. Monica and Macy also discuss practical ways to simplify and take the stress out of holiday planning, such as saying no to certain events, starting small with traditions, and shopping and wrapping gifts early. They also share their own family traditions, including service projects, reading the Christmas story, and participating in Advent. The interview ends with a discussion on reimagining Christmas for young children by focusing on the love, hope, and joy found in Jesus.

Monica ends the episode with some ideas for implementing these same principles in the classroom.  Would you be willing to give up some of your “We’ve always done this” activities to shift the focus of your classroom more toward Jesus?  

If you need some really practical ideas for keeping Christ in Christmas in your school, HERE is a downloadable PDF from our website.

HERE is the link to Operation Christmas Child in case you want to explore that opportunity for next year.

Macy is also a co-host on the Adorned podcast.  You can listen HERE if you’re looking for some Christian encouragement for women.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.

Our guest today, Paula Miller, is a seasoned Weekday Education Director with almost three decades of experience. As an energetic motivator, Paula offers visionary leadership grounded in faith, inspiring and empowering others to create a positive impact on the lives of young children and their families. Paula is also a certified Outdoor Training Specialist through the Outdoor Classroom Project. She is passionate about fostering environments that nurture children's growth and development by utilizing the power of play and nature to enhance their learning journey.

During today’s episode, Paula reveals the possibilities of outdoor learning by demonstrating how anything that can be done indoors can also thrive outside. She shares valuable insights on crafting cost-effective yet highly functional outdoor learning spaces, and she discusses the benefits of child-led, outdoor play. Gain valuable knowledge on empowering children to explore, learn, and thrive in the natural world while embracing the limitless potential of the great outdoors.

Learn more about the work Paula is doing at First Baptist Georgetown HERE.

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE. 

Our guest today is Stacy Benge.  If you’ve attended any of our summer conferences over the last few years, you’ve probably heard from Stacy! She is an early childhood speaker who approaches learning in the early years with practicality and common sense. Standing firm on the truth that children learn best through simple, authentic experiences, Stacy advocates for child-led play to build solid foundations for child development. In addition to a Master of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies, Stacy spent a decade teaching children ages birth to five and has spent the last two decades sharing her passion for child development with fellow early learning professionals with enlightening and informative presentations, and is the author of "The Whole Child Alphabet." We dive deep into the topic of school readiness versus child development.

Stacy and I start the conversation by discussing the importance of prioritizing child development and child-led play over school readiness and academic instruction. Stacy shares an emphasis on the need to focus on the foundations of literacy and other developmental skills before introducing formal instruction. She also shares with us her thoughts on the myth of pre-packaged curriculums and the importance of designing curricula around the interests and needs of individual children. Together, we highlight the significance of respecting and valuing children's play as a crucial aspect of their learning and development.

I just love Stacy’s passion and advocacy for whole-child-development. She really wants what’s best for children to be the top priority in our decision-making and in our daily practice in the classroom. I’m so excited for y’all to meet her in person at our summer state conferences this year.  She’ll be one of our Thursday keynote speakers! Stacy regularly shares helpful information about child development and best practices for the whole child. What I love about today’s conversation with Stacy is the regular reminder that children are learning All. The. Time.  Not just when they’re being “instructed.”  It’s wild to think about that – every single experience a child has is forming them into who they will eventually be. Trying to force them to learn to read or write before they are developmentally ready will actually slow down their academic progress later on and could lead to lifelong frustration with literacy. It’s mind-blowing to think about all the development that needs to happen before a child can successfully read and write.  My challenge to you is that you take a moment and just slow down…what are the children learning in your classroom right now?  How does that link to literacy?  I BET you can name 10 ways after today’s conversation!  

You can connect with Stacy via her Instagram or her website

Stacy also has a course in our Learning Library! 

As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram and on Facebook