In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Erica Saccoccio, the owner of a multi-location child care center, about play-based learning. Erica explains that play-based learning should be fun and engaging while also having a learning goal in mind. She emphasizes the importance of intentional materials and guiding children in their learning. Erica also discusses the use of observation-based learning and the importance of teacher engagement and enjoyment in the learning process. The conversation covers topics such as the role of routines in play-based learning, the importance of autonomy for children, and how to communicate the benefits of play-based learning to parents. Play-based learning is more than just unstructured free play. It requires intent and purpose. Susie Beghin shares five key principles of play: following the child's lead, engaging in meaningful conversation, asking open-ended questions, playing at the child's physical level, and engaging in both free play and intentional play. These principles create a safe space for children to learn, explore, and express themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:34 Defining Play-Based Learning 03:35 How to Encourage Educators to Play 7:28 How to make Routines Playful and Child-Directed 9:25 Fostering Autonomy and Belonging in the Classroom 12:35 Communicating the Benefits of Play-Based Learning to Parents 20:02 Susie’s Reflection on Creating Engaging and Intentional Play Experiences using the 5 Key Principles of Play About Our Guest Erica is a motivational speaker with 23+ years of experience as an entrepreneur. Erica is the owner of a multi-location child care centre called “Family Tree” in Rhode Island, USA. Erica is a passionate leader in the early childhood education industry and hosts a podcast called, The Child Care Director’s Chair. www.stellarbusinessconcepts.com https://www.instagram.com/ccdcpodcast https://www.youtube.com/@childcaredirectorschair690 Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA
In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Carla Ward, an early childhood educator and host of The Everything ECE Podcast, about creating an inviting classroom environment with plants. They discuss the importance of the environment in early childhood education, the benefits of incorporating nature into the classroom, and strategies for introducing and caring for plants. Carla emphasizes the role of the environment in creating a sense of belonging for children and highlights the calming and nurturing effects of plants. She also provides practical tips for selecting and caring for plants in the classroom. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:39 Environment as the Third Teacher 04:58 Safety and Toxicity of Plants 07:28 Plants Bring Out Children’s Nurturing Side 09:57 Getting Started with Plants in the Classroom 13:10 Choosing the Location for Plants 15:38 Plants Create a Calm Environment 18:14 Experimenting with Plants Can Be Fun 20:30 Plants Provide Learning Opportunities Carla is an experienced Early Childhood Educator and the visionary founder of Early Learning Foundations, a business dedicated to promoting education and elevating the profession of Early Childhood Education. Carla is dedicated to the Early Childhood Education profession in many ways, including hosting The Everything ECE Podcast, offering professional development workshops and ECE consulting. @Elfoundations on Instagram www.elfoundations.com Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA
The first episode focuses on the most important thing about early childhood education, and that is the educators. We want to give a special shout out to all the Early Childhood Educators and this episode is dedicated to all ECEs. In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Anisha Angella, an early childhood education coach and trainer, about educator engagement. They discuss the struggles that early childhood educators face, such as burnout and lack of creativity, especially in the context of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Anisha provides strategies for educators to improve engagement, including reconnecting with their why, creating a supportive team dynamic, and finding joy in the small moments. They also touch on the importance of leaders and parents supporting educators and the need for work-life harmony. In the second segment, Susie reflects on educator engagement and provides tips and strategies on how to deal with feelings of dysregulation or stress. She discusses her self-regulation techniques using the acronym: F-A-C-E, which has helped her to feel grounded and to really experience joy. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:04 Welcome Special Guest: Anisha Angela 03:06 Struggles of Educators: Burnout, Lack of Creativity, Impact of COVID-19 07:55 Strategies for Educator Engagement: Embracing a New Norm after COVID-19, Create a Culture of Appreciation 11:35 Reconnecting with Your Why, Find your Spark, Leaving a Legacy 14:34 Team Dynamic, Workplace Harmony 17:15 Leaders Support Educators, Working with Parents as a Team 20:20 Finding Joy in Small Moments 22:59 Self-Regulation and Stress Management Techniques for Educators Special Guest: Anisha Angella is an Early Childhood Education (ECE) coach and expert who has been in the industry for over 14+ years. She is the CEO and Founder of her business, "The Early Childhood Coach + Co" — a powerhouse for all things childcare consulting, coaching, and training. Instagram: @anishaangella.coFacebook: @AnishaAngella.coYoutube: @Anisha Angella - YouTube Website: www.anishaangellabooks.ca General Email: info@anishaangellabooks.ca Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA
In this trailer episode, Susie talks about what to expect from the ECE classroom podcast. Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b License code: STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA