The Everything ECE Podcast

In this episode, Carla sits down with Paul Buckley, former preschool teacher and founder of Ratio Staffing, to explore what’s really happening behind staffing challenges in early childhood education.Paul shares how burnout, outdated systems, and unnecessary barriers are affecting educators and programs and how a more human-centred, child-centred approach can change everything.This conversation is filled with insight, compassion, and practical ideas for supervisors, directors, and educators who want to strengthen retention, improve support systems, and create healthier environments for staff and children.PAUL BUCKLEYPaul Buckley is the Founder and Managing Owner of Ratio Staffing, a groundbreaking platform reshaping how preschools connect with substitute teachers, enrichment educators, and speech pathologists. A former preschool teacher with nearly 20 years of hands-on experience, Paul’s mission is deeply personal: to help children thrive by supporting the educators who shape their early years.LINKSWebsite: https://ratiostaffing.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ratiostaffing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ratiostaffing LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ratio-staffing/ SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

In this episode, Carla explores what meaningful progress truly looks like in early childhood education: the subtle, powerful shifts that happen long before skills show up on the surface. From greeting a child at the door to acknowledging feelings with empathy, she breaks down how these small moments strengthen neural pathways, support emotional regulation, and build genuine belonging. You’ll learn how to notice your impact, stay grounded in the long game of child development, and end your day feeling more connected to your work. Perfect for early childhood educators, RECEs, preschool teachers, and anyone who needs a reminder that their work truly matters.SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

AI isn’t here to replace educators; it’s here to support us. In this episode, Carla sits down with Thomas Thompson, co-founder and CEO of Eduaide.Ai, to explore how AI can help teachers and early childhood educators work smarter, not harder.From lesson planning and accommodations to game-based learning and productivity, Thomas breaks down how AI tools can save time, reduce burnout, and help educators focus on what truly matters: building connections and supporting children’s learning.Whether you’re tech-curious or tech-cautious, this conversation will reframe how you think about AI in education.Thomas  ThompsonThomas is a​ co-founder​ and the CEO of Eduaide.Ai, where he studies how people learn and how teachers make instructional decisions. His work draws on cognitive science, instructional design, and the history and philosophy of education to develop tools that translate research into practical applications.​ A former classroom teacher and non-profit director, his focus has remained the same​ across roles: building practical systems that support effective teaching and reflect the complexities of how people think, learn, and develop over time.LINKS  Website: www.eduaide.ai/SubStack: learningstack.substack.com/SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

Transitions get a bad reputation: rushed, chaotic, stressful. But they don’t have to be. In this episode, Carla explores a powerful mindset shift: transitions aren’t the thing before the next thing. They are learning.Carla breaks down how slowing down, pausing before stepping in, and leading with empathy can transform the way children experience transitions. She talks about why a bit of struggle is healthy, how to support children before they become dysregulated, how subtle language shifts build independence, and where flexibility (and the occasional “yes”) can make all the difference.If transitions feel difficult in your day, this episode will help you see them with fresh eyes — and bring a lot more calm, connection, and understanding into your classroom.SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

Think websites are just for business owners? Think again.In this episode, Carla chats with Chelsea Denny, founder of Early Childhood Creative, about why every educator (from classroom teachers to program owners) can benefit from having a professional online presence.You’ll learn: ✨ How your website can work for you 24/7 💡 Why automation saves you hours every week 🌐 The difference between owning your website and relying on social media 💰 How a great site can help you fill spaces, attract the right families, or land new opportunitiesChelsea also shares practical, approachable steps to get started, even if tech feels overwhelming, and how your website can truly become your best employee.LINKS  Website: earlychildhoodcreative.comFree five page Squarespace website templateLinkedIn: @chelsea-dennySUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

Conflict doesn’t have to be scary or negative. In this short and powerful episode, Carla explores how reframing conflict can transform classroom challenges into opportunities for connection and growth.From cloakroom chaos to tidy-up time, she shares practical language shifts that help educators move from correcting and directing to connecting. Learn how your tone, words, and mindset can turn moments of tension into teachable moments that strengthen relationships with children.SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

Play isn’t just cute. It’s critical. In this episode, Carla sits down with Amanda Morgan, educator, author, and founder of Not Just Cute, to uncover the real power of play in early childhood education. Together, they explore how play supports mental health, brain development, and lifelong learning, and how educators can communicate its value to families and administrators.Amanda shares research-backed insights from her new book, Not Just Cute: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood, and reminds us that when passion meets purpose, play becomes unstoppable. Tune in to learn how to champion play with confidence, connect with children through curiosity, and keep joy at the center of learning.Amanda MorganAmanda Morgan holds a BA in Elementary and Early Childhood Education and an MS in Child Development. She is deeply committed to supporting intentional, whole-child development through her blog Not Just Cute and its companion podcast, Not Just Cute: The Podcast. With a blend of scientific insight and compelling stories, Amanda demonstrates how everyday moments—like play, relationships, and conversations—are far more than just “cute”; they're powerful tools for growth and learning. For over 15 years, she has worked with early childhood groups across the U.S. and Canada, sharing her passion and expertise. Her first book, Not Just Cute: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood, was released earlier this year. When she’s not traveling, speaking, or writing, Amanda enjoys home life with her husband and four boys a few miles from Puget Sound, where she's still holding out hope for a not-too-close encounter with an orca.LINKS  Book: Amazon LinkWebsite: notjustcute.comInstagram: @Amanda_NotJustCuteFacebook: @NotJustCutePodcast: Not Just Cute the PodcastSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

What if your documentation could do more than check a box?In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward shares 5 documentation strategies to bring ECE learning to life: practical, heart-centred ways to make documentation meaningful, authentic, and a natural part of your teaching practice.You’ll discover how to: ✨ Capture the small, everyday moments that reveal big learning ✨ Empower children to take part in documenting their own stories ✨ Use multiple mediums like photos, voice notes, and displays to make learning visible ✨ Reflect with purpose before you write (and save yourself time!) ✨ Share documentation that builds stronger connections with families and your teamWhether you’re an early childhood educator, program lead, or supervisor, this episode will help you move from “doing documentation” to living it. Learn how to make learning visible, deepen reflection, and transform the way you see your practice.🎙️ Tune in and discover how to reignite your love for documentation, because when we bring learning to life, we bring our teaching to life too.LINKS The ECE Latte LoungeSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

Stress shows up in our work, but it doesn’t have to take over.In this episode, Carla Ward sits down with Cameile Henry, award-winning author and CEO of Strengthen Hands Educational Resources Inc., to explore how reflection, awareness, and kindness help educators navigate stress before it leads to burnout.This conversation reminds us that calm is a skill, kindness is a practice, and both are essential in early childhood education.CAMEILE HENRYCameile Henry is an award-winning author of 12 empowering children’s books and the CEO and Co-Founder of Strengthen Hands Educational Resources Inc. With over 25 years of experience as a Registered Early Childhood Educator and 17 years as a Professor at Sheridan College, she is deeply committed to fostering resilience, affirmation, and self-compassion in children and families. Through books, workshops, and handmade crochet characters, she creates meaningful learning experiences that support children, parents, and educators alike. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch in 2024, continues to inspire communities across Canada and the United States.Website: strengthenhands.comInstagram: @strengthenhandsYouTube: @StrengthenHandsEDULINKS The ECE Experience- LinkStrengthen Hands Book- 🍁AmazonStrengthen Hands Book- 🇺🇸 AmazonBOOKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODEEat Mangos Naked⁠Learn to Play: The Four Pillars Learning System⁠ by Susie BeghinThe Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne BrysonBruce Perry BooksRaising a Secure ChildSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

There are four little words that we, as educators, use far more often than we realize — and they might be quietly holding children back.These words aren’t harsh or negative. In fact, they sound completely ordinary. But the truth is, they shape how we see children, how we interpret their behaviour, and how we respond in the moment.In this episode, Carla dives deep into the power of language —how simple words can limit our perspective, close off possibilities, and unintentionally define a child’s potential. You’ll leave this conversation reflecting on your own practice, rethinking how you describe behaviour, and ready to see children in a whole new light.🎙️ Listen now to uncover the four words that change everything.LINKS The ECE Experience- LinkSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

In this powerful episode, Carla welcomes Dawn Montecalvo, CEO of the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee, Florida, to discuss what it really means to go all in when early learning is on the line. From shifting the educator mindset from “job” to “career” to reducing turnover through professional development and support, Dawn shares how her team is creating real, lasting change in a community with tremendous needs.We explore how strategic partnerships, intention in language, and reinforcing early childhood as a nonnegotiable investment are transforming outcomes—one child, one educator, one classroom at a time.If you believe early learning is more than a program—it’s a movement—you won’t want to miss this conversation.🎧 Dive in now and get inspired to go all in for early learning where you are.DAWN MONTECALVOFor more than two decades, Dawn Montecalvo has dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunities for underserved children in Southwest Florida. As President & CEO of Guadalupe Center since 2016, she has led the organization’s growth to serve over 2,000 students annually, expanding campuses, adding CCPS satellite locations, and strengthening philanthropic partnerships. Previously, she served as Executive Director of the Naples Children & Education Foundation and founded Montecalvo & Associates, helping nonprofits with fundraising and strategic development. A compassionate and visionary leader, Dawn unites donors, volunteers, and educators around a shared mission to create life-changing opportunities for generations of students.LINKS MENTIONED IN THE PODCASTGuadalupe Centre- www.guadalupecenter.org Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/guadalupe_center Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/@TheGuadalupeCenter All in for Early Learning- https://www.allinforearlylearning.com/ SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠The ECE Experience- LinkWebsite: www.carlatheece.comInstagram:  @carlatheece

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Rebecca Parlakian, child development and parenting specialist at ZERO TO THREE, to shine a spotlight on the incredible world of infants and toddlers.Together they unpack:The key developmental milestones across social-emotional, cognitive, communication, and physical domainsWhy everyday moments (like laundry, sunlight, or stirring with a spoon) are powerful learning opportunitiesHow infant programs can be more intentional in designing environments that truly support growthThe role of educators and parents as “detectives” decoding cries, cues, and needsThe advocacy work ZERO TO THREE is leading—bringing families and even policymakers into the conversation about babiesIf you’ve ever wondered how to support our youngest learners- or needed a reminder of the magic in the everyday- this episode is for you.REBECCA PARLAKIANRebecca Parlakian is Senior Director of Programs at ZERO TO THREE, where she leads work on child development, parenting, and early education. With more than two decades of experience, she has co-authored five curricula, published widely on parenting and early learning, and is a regular contributor to NAEYC’s Young Children. A recognized voice in national media, Rebecca is dedicated to advancing the power of relationships in shaping children’s earliest years.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-parlakian/ZERO TO THREELEARN Conference: https://www.zerotothree.org/learn-conference/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zero-to-three/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zerotothree Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZEROTOTHREE/ SUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠The ECE Experience- LinkWebsite: www.carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

In this engaging conversation, Debbie shares her journey as an early childhood educator and how her experiences have shaped her understanding of the profession. She discusses the natural coaching abilities of educators, the importance of reflective inquiry, and the transformative power of vision boards and manifestation in both personal and professional contexts. Debbie emphasizes the significance of a positive mindset, the impact of a single word on organizational culture, and practical strategies for managing classroom chaos while fostering child development through play-based learning. The discussion culminates in a call to action for educators to embrace intentionality in their teaching practices and create engaging learning environments for children.TAKEAWAYSDebbie has over 30 years of experience in early childhood education.Early childhood educators possess natural coaching skills.Reflective inquiry is a key skill for educators and coaches.Vision boards can serve as powerful tools for manifestation.A single word can transform organizational culture.Positive mindset influences the environment and outcomes.Classroom chaos can be managed with intentional strategies.Understanding child development is crucial for effective teaching.Intentionality in teaching enhances student engagement.Creating an engaging learning environment is essential for child development.DEBBI SLUYSDebbi Sluys is a Christian, mom of four, wife and grandma. Debbi is founder of Dare to Declare™, a coach, trainer, author and speaker who specializes in helping people expand their brain’s potential to see what is possible for their future with Vision boards.As a former Child Care Director, Debbi has studied personal development for over 30 years and has facilitated and witnessed science at work by guiding thousands of clients to identify and declare their Vision both online and in-person at workshops and retreats. Her mission and life purpose is to support individuals to declare their truth and create the life of their dreams.Debbi hosts The Dare to Declare Podcast, where giant manifestors come to share how they've turned their visions and goals into reality!Website: https://debbisluys.com/ Instagram: @debbisluysFacebook: Debbi SluysLinkedIn: Debbi SluysConference: LinkSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠The ECE Experience- LinkWebsite: elfoundations.comInstagram: @elfoundations

The words we choose with children matter more than we realize. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores The Language of Encouragement and how it shapes a child’s self-esteem, resilience, and inner voice.Discover:✔ The difference between praise and encouragement✔ Why connection before correction preserves dignity✔ How adding the word yet builds growth mindset✔ Practical phrases you can start using in your classroom right awayYour language has lasting impact. Learn how to shift from empty praise to authentic encouragement that empowers children for life.🎟️ Don’t miss Carla’s live event in Mississauga, ON — The ECE Experience on November 8th. Tickets: https://elfoundations.thrivecart.com/the-ece-experience-2025/ LINKS MENTIONED IN THE PODCASTThe ECE Experience- LinkThe Third Teacher Book- LinkSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: elfoundations.comInstagram: @elfoundations

What does it look like to truly humanize early learning? In this rich conversation with Kisa Marx. We unpack why adaptability is now a core competency for educators and families. We explore how belonging builds real resilience, why “good job” falls short, the power of the pause, and how to hold safety, advocacy, and kindness at the same time.You’ll hear:Humanizing practice defined—and how adult-centred habits get in the wayBelonging before resilience: sanctuary, safety, and why “toughness by suffering” is a mythLanguage shifts that matter: encouragement over praise, “the pause,” and listening fullyAdapting after 2020: grieving what was, keeping what works, and teaching for the world we’re inBoundaries and advocacy: speaking up while staying safe in your contextPerfect for ECEs, leaders, and families rebuilding culture through play, nature, and authentic connection.KISA MARXKisa is a child advocate, practitioner, and founder of The Play Lab Foundation a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide access to high-quality, self-affirming care for every child regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, ability or neurotype.Website: https://playlaboakpark.org/Instagram: @theplaylabfoundationSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠The ECE Experience- LinkWebsite: elfoundations.comInstagram: @elfoundations

Your classroom is always teaching, even when you’re not speaking. In this episode, Carla Ward explores the concept of the “hidden curriculum” through the Reggio Emilia idea of the classroom as the third teacher. From lighting and plants to blocks, visual schedules, and representation, discover how the environment silently shapes children’s learning and belonging.Carla also shares a personal story of transforming a windowless classroom with fairy lights and practical strategies you can use to align your hidden curriculum with your values as an educator.🎟️ Don’t miss Carla’s live event in Mississauga, ON — The ECE Experience on November 8th. Tickets: https://elfoundations.thrivecart.com/the-ece-experience-2025/ LINKS MENTIONED IN THE PODCASTThe ECE Experience- LinkThe Third Teacher Book- LinkSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: elfoundations.comInstagram: @elfoundations

Children aren’t the future- they’re people of today.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Marta Skrzypczak, educator and children’s rights advocate, to explore why children’s participation is a fundamental right, not a privilege.We cover:- What Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child means for educators- The difference between autonomy and agency—and how to respect both- Practical ways to include children in daily decision-making (from food to classroom routines)- How participation builds resilience, confidence, and lifelong skills- Why respecting participation rights reduces educator stress and strengthens classroom communitiesIf you’ve ever wondered how to balance guidance with giving children a voice, this episode will give you clarity and inspiration.MARTA SKRZYPCZAKMarta is an early childhood educator and a children's rights expert. Her mission is to support adults in creating possibilities for children to participate in decisions that concerns them and directly providing possibilities to exercise their agency. She has written scientific papers and has been a guest on some other podcasts. She is a digital creator and participation coach. She also supports participation structures in one of Berlin's districts.Website: www.participation-coach.comInstagram: @participation_coachSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: elfoundations.comInstagram: @elfoundations

Back-to-school means new faces, new energy, and new opportunities to set the tone. But are we over-focusing on the schedule and missing the real magic of routines?In this episode, I dive into the difference between schedules and routines, why routines matter so deeply for children’s safety, belonging, and learning, and how transitions can be powerful moments for connection. We’ll also talk about using visual schedules to support independence and calm, and why educators need their own arrival and departure rituals to thrive.If you’ve ever stressed about being “off schedule,” this one’s for you. Spoiler: the only people who can tell time in your classroom are the adults!Show Notes: ⁠⁠www.elfoundations.com/2024Email Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠

Why does social emotional learning need to start with us as educators? In this thought-provoking conversation with Prerna Richards of Together We Grow, we explore how our own regulation, mindset, and choices impact everything from classroom dynamics to the way children learn and grow. This episode blends insight, real-life reflection, and practical ideas you can start using right away.Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/203Email Newsletter: Click Here

Learn how to plan in early childhood education with calm, connection, and intention. In this episode, Carla Ward shares ECE planning tips for merging curriculum expectations with play-based learning, improving classroom flow, and making documentation purposeful.Show Notes: ⁠www.elfoundations.com/202Email Newsletter: ⁠Click Here⁠