Get Inspired with Dr. Barb – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode of Get Inspired with Dr. Barb, Marjorie Borreda shares her insights on animal-assisted intervention through her nonprofit organization, Le Petit Ranch. The conversation explores the innovative activities offered at the ranch, the intergenerational connections fostered between children and seniors, and the transformative moments that arise from animal interactions. Marjorie emphasizes the importance of collaboration, creativity, and the unexpected outcomes that come from working with animals in therapeutic settings. The episode highlights the diverse range of animals at the ranch and the educational benefits they provide to the community.

Takeaways:

-Marjorie Borreda emphasizes the importance of community engagement in animal-assisted interventions.

-Le Petit Ranch offers personalized activities based on the needs of the community.

-Intergenerational connections between children and seniors are fostered through animal interactions.

-Overcoming fear of animals can lead to transformative changes in individuals' lives.

-Outdoor therapy with animals provides a different learning environment for children.

-Creative learning activities can be developed around animal interactions.

-Diverse animal companions enhance the therapeutic experience at Le Petit Ranch.

-Collaboration with educators and therapists is crucial for successful animal-assisted programs.

-Unexpected outcomes often arise from animal-assisted interventions, enriching lives in unforeseen ways.

-The power of the herd is significant in the context of therapy with miniature horses.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Animal Assisted Intervention

02:43 Innovative Activities at Le Petit Ranch

05:32 Intergenerational Connections: Kids and Seniors

08:22 Transformative Moments in Animal Interaction

11:18 The Role of Different Animals in Therapy

14:08 Creative Approaches in Animal-Assisted Learning

16:51 Practical Activities for Educators

19:46 Diverse Animal Partners at Le Petit Ranch

22:41 Collaboration and Community Engagement

25:29 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

30:54 Introduction to the Get Inspired Show

30:56 The Importance of Mindfulness in Daily Life

Please connect with Marjorie:

Website: https://www.lepetitranch.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/le.petit.ranch?igsh=MWpkMHhpMmdvejEzMg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/14bEvaK4o3/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at https://barbaravokatis.com, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out bout what is possible in education! Thank you for being here!

In this episode of Get Inspired with Dr. Barb, special education teacher Ariel Farkash shares her journey into the field of special education, discussing effective teaching strategies, the importance of collaboration between educators, and innovative approaches like social stories to support students with special needs. Ariel emphasizes the need for flexibility and personalization in teaching, highlighting the role of special education teachers in fostering independence and confidence in their students.

Takeaways:

-Special education teachers play a crucial role in education.

-Flexibility is key in special education teaching.

-Visual schedules can enhance student independence.

-Collaboration between general and special education teachers is essential.

-Building relationships with colleagues fosters a supportive environment.

-Social stories can help manage behavioral issues.

-Personalized strategies are vital for student success.

-Open communication is necessary for effective teamwork.

-Teachers should approach each classroom with adaptability.

-Creating a positive atmosphere from the start is important.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Special Education Teaching

03:03 Effective Strategies in Special Education

07:19 Collaboration in Special Education

10:15 Creating a Collaborative Environment

16:03 Innovative Strategies: Social Stories

23:56 Introduction to the Get Inspired Show

23:58The Importance of Mindfulness in Daily Life

Please connect with Ariel and see also her special needs son's Jacob accounts where he shares about his amazing book he published:

Ariel's contact information:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arielfarkash/

Faceboook: https://www.facebook.com/ariel.farkash.90

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariel-farkash-0193b1314/

Jacob's contact information:

Website: https://www.jacobscreativejourney.com/

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jacobfarkash/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobscreativejourney/?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@jacobfarkash?si=lSg_o8GrAnMtvxNv

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571810859396

Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at https://barbaravokatis.com, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out! Thank you for being here!

In this episode of the Get Inspired Barb show, Barbara Vokatis interviews Nancy Gillette, a relationship development intervention consultant, who shares her insights on supporting neurodivergent children, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Nancy discusses her journey in the field, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in educational settings, and the importance of shifting perspectives from deficit-focused approaches to strength-based strategies. She emphasizes the significance of building authentic relationships and offers practical strategies for educators and parents to enhance the quality of life for neurodivergent children. The conversation also highlights valuable resources for parents seeking support and information.

Takeaways:

-Nancy has been in the field for 20 years, focusing on autism.

-The importance of understanding the value of relationships over behavior modification.

-Parents can significantly impact their child's success with the right tools.

-Quality of life for neurodivergent children is paramount.

-Shifting from crisis management to proactive strategies is essential.

-Experiential learning is crucial for children on the spectrum.

-Visual supports should be modeled by teachers and parents alike.

-Building authentic relationships is key to effective support.

-Resources for parents are abundant but can be overwhelming.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Autism and Relationship Development

04:43 Challenges in Education and Society for Neurodivergent Individuals

09:47 Shifting Perspectives: From Deficits to Strengths

14:24 Memorable Moments and Effective Strategies

24:37 Resources for Parents and Final Thoughts

33:28 The Importance of Mindfulness in Daily Life

Please connect with Nancy and check out resources she shares in the links:

Website: ⁠

Additional resources: https://www.nancygilette.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nancygilettecoaching/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071633396949

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-gilette-595873115/

Please connect with the host , Dr. Barb, at https://barbaravokatis.com , follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out! Thank you for being here!

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', host Barbara Vokatis interviews Ligia Chacón Hernández, an English teacher and global ambassador for educational initiatives. They discuss the importance of mental health in education, memorable teaching experiences, and the power of authentic connections with students. Ligia shares her insights on innovative educational platforms like Upschool, emphasizing the role of parents in the learning process, valuable resources, and the need for a global impact in education. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of education when aligned with purpose and compassion.

Takeaways:

-Teaching combines love for learning and making a difference.

-Mental health is crucial in children's education.

-Authentic connections with students foster trust and engagement.

-Empathy and kindness are essential skills in education.

-Innovative platforms can transform global education.

-Parents play a vital role in their children's learning.

-Education should address real-world challenges.

-Building confidence in students is key to their success.

-Teachers can adapt resources to fit their classrooms.

-Creating a supportive environment helps students thrive.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Ligia Chacón Hernández

01:51 Inspiration and Memorable Teaching Experiences

07:07 The Power of Connection in Teaching

11:04 Innovative Educational Platforms: Upschool

18:24 Engaging Parents and Teachers in Education

27:04 Introduction to the Get Inspired Show

27:06 The Importance of Mindfulness in Daily Life

Please connect with incredible Ligia and see the platform - Upschool for educational resources:

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ligia-chacón-hernández-87715611b

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ligiachacon29?igsh=MWt5aDNrcGVydGY2cg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550689325340&mibextid=LQQJ4d

Upschool website: https://upschool.co

Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at https://barbaravokatis.com , follow the show, and share the episode to get the word out! Thank you for being here!

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', AJ Cullen Langell discusses the transformative power of animal-assisted interventions in educational settings, particularly for children with emotional and behavioral challenges. AJ shares her experiences as a licensed clinical social worker and certified animal-assisted intervention professional, highlighting how therapy animals can facilitate communication, emotional expression, and learning. The conversation emphasizes the importance of tailoring interventions to meet individual needs and provides practical activity ideas for educators. AJ also discusses her advocacy work for autism support and the role of therapy animals in enhancing educational experiences.

Takeaways:

-Animal-assisted interventions can significantly improve emotional expression in children.

-Tailoring interventions to individual needs is crucial for effectiveness.

-Writing to therapy animals can help children communicate feelings.

-Engaging activities with therapy animals enhance learning experiences.

-Therapy dogs can break down barriers in communication and social interaction.

-Education should empower all children, regardless of their differences.

-Social media is a valuable resource for sharing ideas in education.

-Therapy animals can help children with autism develop social awareness.

-Consultation and support for families navigating autism services is essential.

-The bond between children and therapy animals can be transformative.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Animal Assisted Therapy

04:36 Innovative Approaches in Therapy

09:58 Tailoring Interventions for Individual Needs

16:41 The Transformative Power of Therapy Animals

21:24 Advocacy and Education for Autism

Please connect with amazing AJ:

Website: https://www.autismbarks.us

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/autismbarks/

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

IG: https://www.instagram.com/autismbarks/

Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb at https://barbaravokatis.com and follow and share the episode to get the word out! Thank you for being here!

In this episode, Dr. Barb discusses the innovative inclusion of therapy animals in schools to enhance children's social and emotional skills. She emphasizes the importance of kindness and community building through interactions with therapy dogs, sharing various activities that can be implemented in classrooms. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of therapy animals on children's learning experiences and encourages educators and parents to advocate for such programs.Takeaways:-Kindness is a crucial social-emotional skill that can be taught through therapy dogs.-Activities involving therapy dogs can engage even reluctant learners. -Therapy dogs can serve as role models for kindness and friendship.-Innovative activities with therapy dogs can be tailored to different age groups.-Advocating for therapy animal programs can lead to life-changing opportunities for children.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Therapy Animals in Education02:27 Building Social and Emotional Skills through Kindness04:58 Engaging Activities with Therapy Dogs08:11 Innovative Approaches and Community Involvement

Please follow and share the episode to get the word out! Thank you for being here!

Please connect with Dr. Barb:

https://barbaravokatis.com⁠

https://www.instagram.com/dr.barb.educator/⁠

https://www.facebook.com/barbara.vokatis⁠

https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-vokatis-ph-d-530649a/⁠

https://x.com/dr_barbvokatis⁠

Dr. Barb's books on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=barbara+vokatis&crid=2NBA9YQONLTLR&sprefix=vokatis%2Caps%2C113&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_7⁠

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', Barbara Vokatis interviews Teri Holamon, a pioneer in Animal Assisted Play Therapy. They discuss the profound impact of therapy animals in educational settings, particularly how they help children develop emotional and social skills. Teri shares heartwarming stories of her therapy dog, Gibbs, the transformative experiences of children who interacted with him, and some activities. The conversation also explores the differences between traditional therapy dogs and those included in play therapy, the role of horses in therapeutic settings, and the importance of professional development for educators and therapists in this field.

Takeaways:

-Animal Assisted Play Therapy is a growing field in education.

-Therapy animals can significantly impact children's emotional development.

-Gibbs, Teri's therapy dog, played a crucial role in many children's lives.

-Empathy can be fostered in children through interactions with therapy animals.

-The presence of therapy animals can help reduce anxiety in children.

-Horses can also be used in therapeutic settings, offering unique benefits.

-Understanding animal behavior is essential for effective therapy.

-Professional development is crucial for those working with therapy animals.

-Children learn valuable social skills through play with therapy animals.

-The relationship between children and therapy animals can last a lifetime.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Animal Assisted Therapy in Education

04:10 The Impact of Therapy Animals on Children

12:06 Exploring the Role of Horses in Therapy

14:18 Understanding Animal Assisted Play Therapy

23:04 Agency and Choice in Animal Interactions

29:02 Training and Certification in Animal Assisted Therapy

35:47 Exploring Personal Growth and Development

Please connect with Teri and check the important websites:

Teri's contact information: https://iiaapt.org/certified-professional/teri-holamon-lpc-s-rpt-s-caapt-s-chst-caebs/

Teri's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teriholamoncaapt/

Teri's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063716732869

School-Based AAPT Interest Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1471963423613348

International Institute for Animal Assisted Play Therapy website: https://iiaapt.org/

Certification in Animal Assisted Play Therapy: https://aaptcertboard.org

How to become a member of International Association for Animal Assisted Play Therapy: https://iaaapt.org

Gibbs' YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@gibbstheradoodletm1889

Resources for play therapy: https://www.a4pt.org/default.aspx

Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at https://barbaravokatis.com, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

In this episode, Dr. Barb interviews Johanna Järvinen-Taubert, a pedagogical director at LearningScoop, discussing the Finnish education system, its innovative approaches, and the importance of nature in learning. They explore the role of cultural exchange in education, the significance of breaks for students and teachers, and the introduction of the Lesson App designed to enhance lesson planning. The conversation emphasizes the need for teacher empowerment and the potential for educational reform through simple, effective strategies.

Takeaways:

-Finnish education is built on collaboration and learning from others.

-Nature plays a crucial role in Finnish education, promoting well-being and learning.

-Regular breaks in the school day enhance student focus and learning outcomes.

-Experiential learning, especially in nature, fosters collaboration among students.

-The Lesson App simplifies lesson planning for teachers, providing effective teaching methods.

-Teachers can learn from international visitors, enriching their own practices.

-Cultural exchange in education is vital for mutual growth and understanding.

-Empowering teachers is essential for driving change in the education system.

-Research supports the benefits of outdoor learning and breaks for students.

-Finnish education emphasizes quality over quantity in teaching methods.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Finnish Education and Johanna's Background

02:43 The Global Impact of Finnish Education

05:26 Learning from Nature: The Finnish Approach

08:04 The Importance of Breaks in Education

10:44 The Role of Nature in Learning

13:26 Practical Strategies for Teachers

15:59 The Lesson App: Enhancing Teacher Planning

18:43 Conclusion and Future Connections

Please connect with Johanna and check the websites/resources:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johanna-jarvinen-taubert/

LessonApp website: https://lessonapp.fi

Learning Scoop website: https://learningscoop.fi

LessonApp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lessonapp-oy/posts/?feedView=all

LessonApp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lesson_app/

LessonApp Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LessonAppFI/

Learning Scoop LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/learning-scoop/posts/?feedView=all

Learning Scoop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learningscoop/

Learning Scoop Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/learningscoop/

Please connect with the host, Dr. Barb, at https://barbaravokatis.com, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,

In this solo episode, I discuss the critical role of self-efficacy in education and how innovative approaches, particularly involving therapy dogs, can significantly enhance children's belief in their ability to learn. I emphasize the importance of language and engagement in boosting self-efficacy, especially for children in remedial education. Through creative activities, children can develop a positive attitude towards learning, leading to improved motivation and success.

Please connect with me at⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!

Dear Valued Listener/Viewer,

In this episode, I engage with Josh Mirsky, the creator of the Neurodiversity Strength Flag, discussing the importance of neurodiversity awareness and advocacy. We explore the origins of the flag, its significance in challenging societal stigmas, and the need for greater acceptance of neurodivergent individuals. Josh shares personal experiences and offers advice for neurodivergent youth, emphasizing resilience. The conversation highlights the ongoing efforts to promote the flag and its message, aiming to create a more inclusive society for all.

Please connect with Josh:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p47dthunderbolt?igsh=MWNuc2VyZnBlMzA0Mg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/neurodiversity_strength_flag/profilecard/?igsh=MW92Z2NibXE0dW5mNA==⁠

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joshmirsky?_t=ZP-8xAxfnh7ZIU&_r=1

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-mirsky-bb32b3290

You can purchase the Neurodiversity Strength Flags and Pins by contacting Josh on social media.

Please connect with me at ⁠⁠⁠https://barbaravokatis.com⁠⁠⁠, follow the show, and share this episode to get the word out about what is possible in education. Thank you for being here!