What if the change we keep waiting for… is actually us?

In this powerful and honest conversation, I’m joined again by the incredible Kisa Marx to talk about her new book We Are Who We’re Waiting For and the deeper truths behind it.

Together, we explore what’s really holding education back, why neutrality might be our biggest barrier, and how systems can be working exactly as designed… even when they’re not serving children.

We also get into:

• The hidden impact of perfectionism in education

• Why “getting it right” might be doing more harm than good

• How the system shapes “worker bees” instead of thinkers

• The power of small steps and shifting your mindset

• What it really means to advocate for children (even when it feels uncomfortable)

This episode is a mix of real talk, reflection, and a reminder that meaningful change doesn’t come from waiting… it comes from us.

If you’ve ever felt like something in education is off but couldn’t quite name it, this conversation will meet you right where you are.

KISA MARX

Kisa Marx is an author, anti-racist curriculum developer, and founder of The Play Lab Foundation, a nonprofit offering play- and nature-based childcare to families who face barriers to access in Oak Park, Illinois. With over 20 years in the field, Kisa is anchored in the belief that childhood is sacred, nature is restorative, and play is revolutionary. Her newest book just came out, called We Are Who We're Waiting For. When not advocating for equitable early learning or supporting her “crew” of young learners, she spends time with her partner of 26 years, tending to their garden of adult children, pets, and plants. Kisa has also included a pre-workshop reflection for you to do prior to starting her session today that you can find just below the video. SO go ahead and fill that out and then come back to join Kisa in her session. 
 

LINKS

Grab Kisa’s book here: RedLeaf (US)  or Login

Website: https://theplaylabnfpoakpark.org/

Substack: https://kisamarx.substack.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iam_still_learning/  and https://www.instagram.com/theplaylabfoundation/ 

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

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If 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! shape their early years.

CONNECT WITH CARLA

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Email Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ 

Website: carlatheece.com

Instagram: @carlatheece

Feeling alone in your role as an early childhood educator… even when you’re surrounded by others?

In this short episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward reflects on a powerful takeaway from The Everything ECE Summit: so many educators are craving connection with people who truly get it.

If you’ve ever felt unsupported, unseen, or like no one fully understands the work you do, this episode is your reminder that you are not alone, and that finding your people in ECE is possible.

Carla shares 5 simple, real-life ways to build meaningful connections beyond your workplace, from online communities to social media conversations to in-person events.

This is a quick listen with a big message: you deserve support in this profession.

In this episode:

• Why so many educators are feeling alone (even in busy environments)

• The importance of finding like-minded educators

• 5 practical ways to build your ECE community

• A reminder that connection doesn’t just happen, sometimes you have to start it

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

If 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! shape their early years.

CONNECT WITH CARLA

The ECE Latte Lounge

Email Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠

Website: carlatheece.com

Instagram: @carlatheece

How does your classroom environment shape children’s behaviour, independence, and learning?

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Jennifer Fernandez, School Specialty’s Early Childhood Education Strategist for the U.S. and Canada, to explore why classroom environments matter far beyond aesthetics.

Jennifer shares insights from her 30+ years in education as a teacher, professional learning specialist, and early childhood strategist, along with practical ideas educators can use to create spaces that support independence, regulation, curiosity, and emotional safety.

You’ll hear about: • Why the environment is often called “the third teacher” • Common classroom setup mistakes and simple shifts to try • The power of blocks, books, and open-ended materials • How environments connect to behaviour, engagement, and belonging • Ways to design intentionally without spending your own money

This conversation offers grounded, realistic ideas to help educators rethink their spaces with purpose and confidence.

JENNIFER FERNANDEZ

Jennifer Fernandez is School Specialty’s Early Childhood Education Strategist for the U.S. and Canada. She brings more than 30 years of experience in education as a teacher & professional learning specialist. She holds a BA in Elementary Education & Spanish and MA in Bilingual/Bicultural Studies along with teaching certificates in Elementary, Early Childhood, & Bilingual/ESL.

LINKS

LinkedIn: https:/www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-fernandez-6a41a41a9/

Website: https://www.schoolspecialty.ca/ 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

If 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! shape their early years.

CONNECT WITH CARLA

The ECE Latte Lounge

Email Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠

Website: carlatheece.com

Instagram: @carlatheece

Jamee Herbert joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to talk tech and putting systems in place to lighten the burden on Early Childhood Education. Jamee walks us through the Bridgecare system and how it supports administrative duties in child care and the parents in those programs. 

Show notes: elfoundations.com/137

How to Work with Carla

Dive into the chilling connection between childhood experiences and serial killers in our latest podcast episode! From early trauma to criminal behaviour, we uncover the importance of early childhood education in rewriting the script for future generations. Tune in to unlock the secrets of the mind and learn how nurturing environments can be a powerful antidote to the allure of violence.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/136

How to Work with Carla

Heather Jackson, owner of The Sunflower School, joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to discuss verbs as projects. As a Reggio-inspired educator, Heather has spent many years researching, reflecting and discussing Early Childhood Education and how to take a child’s interest using verbs and play schemas to begin a project without falling into the “theme” trap. By using verbs and play schemas, educators can gain a more complex perspective on projects.  Join Heather and Carla for this fascinating conversation and learn how to take your teaching to new heights.
Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/135

⁠How to Work with Carla⁠

Ashley Jefferson joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to discuss why bringing puppetry arts into the classroom can change the teaching game.  Puppets can bring so much value to your program. Ashley dives into the importance of being present, not overthinking how to use the puppets and the learning possibilities that come with puppets!

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/134

How to Work with Carla

In a recent podcast episode, Cara Caudle engages in a discussion with host Carla Ward, delving into the nuances of trauma and trauma-informed practices. Cara emphasizes the importance of adopting a holistic approach to development, particularly in early childhood, where she highlights the significance of focusing on social-emotional domains. She underscores how trauma-informed practices compel us to broaden our perspectives, emphasizing the impact of emotional environments, including the influence of a teacher's mood. Instead of passing judgment, Cara advocates for understanding our own practices, prompting listeners to reflect on their own childhood experiences and key memories. Through her insightful commentary, Cara sheds light on the profound effects of COVID-19 on children and families, implicitly acknowledging the necessity of nurturing supportive environments during challenging times. Show Notes: www/elfoundations.com/133

How to Work with Carla

It was almost 4 years ago when our worlds were flipped upside down. We went from living our lives unmasked and in close proximity to others to, almost overnight, keeping our distance and being masked up. Even though it was another life ago, we are still working through the consequences of COVID-19, especially for our youngest learners. Socio-emotionally, children are not where they would have been if life had not derailed them.

Sarah Scrivens joins me on The Everything ECE Podcast to dive into children's socio-emotional development and support them through connections. Sarah shares great tips to help close the gaps brought on by COVID.

We discuss looking at the learning environment and how a child feels when they walk into our programs. Sarah shares the brain development when we sing with children because the brain loves rhythm and rhyme. Everything we do should be centred around socio-emotional development, building connections with them and centering ourselves around developing the brain, building those brain connections.

Sarah shares many actionable steps we can take back to our programs today. Join us on The Everything ECE Podcast for some great tips!

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/132

How to Work with Carla

Angelica Celinska from The Voice of Early Childhood joins Carla Ward to talk about advocacy for Early Childhood. It doesn't have to be big, grand and scary, but we can still step outside our comfort zone and make a big impact. Angelica shares actionable ways that we can make a difference.

Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/131

How to Work with Carla

Beck Goodman joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to talk about how to build early literacy skills in a play-based, child-led environment. This podcast is a must listen as educators have the ability to bring a love of literacy into the lives of children, if done correctly. Beck shares tons of examples, tips and tricks that educators can implement immediately in their programs.  Show Notes: elfoundations.com/130

How to Work with Carla

Candi Vajana joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to discuss her career as a nanny and how she combatted the stigma as a babysitter, a struggle for nannies and Early Childhood Educators alike.

She shares her experience as a nanny working with high-net-worth families and how her consultancy and specialized training, The Experienced Nanny, equips families and nannies with all the childcare tools and know-how they need to help their children blossom into well-rounded individuals.

Show Notes: https://elfoundations.com/129

How to Work with Carla

Lisa Lalonde joins podcast host, Carla Ward, to engage in a comprehensive exploration of Early Childhood Education (ECE), offering a full 360-degree view of the profession. They address the prevalent issue of ECEs deserving higher pay but go beyond that, delving into the various push and pull factors influencing whether individuals in this profession choose to stay or leave. This conversation covers all areas of education and what they would do with their magic wand if they had one. 

Show Notes: https://elfoundations.com/128

⁠How to Work with Carla

Praise is so normalized in early childhood education that we rarely stop to question it. It feels supportive, encouraging, and positive. But over time, it can quietly teach children to look outside themselves for approval.

In this episode, Carla Ward explores the difference between praise and encouragement, the impact of extrinsic versus intrinsic motivation, and why common phrases like “good job” don’t actually support reflection or self-awareness. She also unpacks what’s really happening when children become frustrated after being asked to evaluate their own work instead of receiving immediate validation.

This episode is an invitation to slow down, notice language patterns, and consider how small shifts can support confidence, autonomy, and a stronger sense of self.

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

If 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! shape their early years.

CONNECT WITH CARLA

The ECE Latte Lounge

Email Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠

Website: carlatheece.com

Instagram: @carlatheece

In this episode, we sit down with Kisa Marx, an extraordinary educator and childcare owner whose journey in 2023 took an unexpected turn when she began to heed the whispers of the universe.

Join us as Kisa shares her remarkable story of discovery, from her initial steps as an educator to the pivotal moment when she realized there was something more waiting for her. Through listening to the universe's cues, she unlocked a path leading to her true calling.

Through engaging anecdotes and heartfelt insights, Kisa unveils the challenges, triumphs, and revelations she encountered while navigating the world of education and childcare. Her journey encapsulates the essence of following one's intuition and aligning passions with purpose.

Tune in as Kisa Marx inspires us with her wisdom, resilience, and the profound impact of tuning into the universe to uncover one's authentic path. Whether you're an educator, childcare provider, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode promises a compelling narrative of self-discovery and finding purpose.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Kisa Marx on The Everything ECE Podcast!

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/127

⁠How to Work with Carla

Carla Ward, host of The Everything ECE Podcast, explores the vital role early childhood educators play in understanding and nurturing children's emotional development. Beginning with a discussion on emotional milestones and the impact of the pandemic, Carla emphasizes the neurological foundations of emotional regulation, involving key areas like the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. Drawing from personal experiences with children facing brain injuries, she highlights the complexity of behavior and the brain's role in decision-making. Practical strategies for supporting healthy neural pathways are shared, emphasizing dynamic learning spaces, positive interactions, resilience-building, and emotional regulation techniques. Carla encourages educators to become "emotion detectives" through observation and introduces tools that educators can use in their programs. Stressing the importance of consistent support, she underscores the long-term benefits of fostering emotional regulation in children. The episode calls for educators to adopt a brain-centered perspective.

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/126

⁠How to Work with Carla

Carla Ward is joined by Instructional Designer and Enneagram coach, Alyssa Sanford to talk about the different Enneagram types and the personalities that they each represent. Alyssa dives into how knowing one's enneagram and that of their team members can really amplify and improve team dynamics.  Show Notes: elfoundations.com/125

How to Work with Carla

Author and Early Childhood speaker, Stacy Benge, joins Carla Ward on the podcast this week to talk about her new book, The Whole Child Alphabet, and how educators can bring the alphabet to play and WHY it's so important. The tips she shares are perfect for when parents ask how their child is learning their alphabet in a play-based program.

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/124

⁠How to Work with Carla

In this episode, Carla Ward interviews 3 members of the Educare team to discuss the importance of research in Early Childhood Education and a Research Agenda that they have developed in order to address the opportunity gap and truly advance racial equity.

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/123

How to Work with Carla

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Adva Hanan joins Carla Ward to discuss the need for ECE Coaching. Adva dives into how an ECE coach can help teachers level up and find work-life balance. She shares her experiences as an educator and breaks down the qualities to look for in a coach. Tune in to gain insights on the benefits of coaching and how it can transform your teaching career. Show Notes

How to Work with Carla

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, we attempt to bust myths and raise awareness about head lice infestations — a common yet stigmatized issue. We are joined by Ilene Steinberg, also known as the Lice Queen, whose expertise in lice treatment spans over 20 years. Together, we delve into topics varying from the reasons behind itching, detection methods, to effective treatment strategies. More importantly, we discuss the social implications, emphasizing that getting lice is neither the child's fault nor a sign of uncleanliness. This episode aims to equip childhood educators, parents, and others with accurate information to calmly and effectively handle lice situations. Tune in for some essential insights and practical advice. Show Notes: elfoundations.com/121

⁠How to Work with Carla⁠

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Nonie Lesaux, co-founder of the Saul Zaentz Early Education Initiative, joins the podcast. Nonie shares the incredible work they are doing to revolutionize early education, from groundbreaking studies on early learning and development to a professional learning academy for leaders in the field. Nonie and their team are making waves in the world of early education. Join us as we dive into the importance of early education and the challenges we face, but also celebrate the progress that has been made in stabilizing the system. It's an episode you won't want to miss!

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/120

How to Work with Carla

Join Carla Ward and guest, Allyx Schiavone, as they dive feet-first into the crisis in education and the urgent need for change. Without action, the situation will only worsen.

They discuss being mission-driven and Allyx shares an innovative strategy they are doing in New Haven, Connecticut, to increase ECE wages without charging parents more. Listening will definitely get your wheels turning on how to bring this strategy to your district.

Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/119

How to Work with Carla

In this episode, Carla Ward is joined by special guest Klavdija Svet. Together, they discuss the fascinating world of kindergarten education, discussing the similarities and differences they've observed across the globe. Klavdija shares the mission of Kindergartens International, which aims to globally empower early childhood educators through learning opportunities and professional development. Join Carla and Klavdija as they explore the importance of teachers as role models, the value of play-based learning, and the transformative power of exposing children to nature. Don't miss out on gaining valuable insights from this enlightening discussion. Tune in and discover the wonders of kindergarten education on a global scale!

Kindergartens International Website

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/118 How to Work with Carla

How to Build a Community Classroom with Donna Skea

What makes children feel safe, connected, and ready to learn in early childhood programs? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Donna Skea (The Infinite Educator) to talk about building a community classroom where every child feels like they belong.

You’ll hear practical, relationship-based strategies for early childhood educators, including why routine creates safety, how to shift from schedule-driven to child-centered days, and how classroom rules, lunchtime, and circle time can strengthen social-emotional development.

If you’re looking for real strategies to reduce stress in the classroom and build stronger connection with children, this conversation will leave you inspired and supported.

DONNA SKEA

Donna is a full-time faculty member in an Early childhood education department. She has spent the last 22 years teaching, supervising and supporting, students on their journey to becoming educators. Donna also runs a childcare consulting firm that provides workshops for the English School boards and childcare facilities in Quebec. She has given workshops for LEARN QUEBEC, QAPPD conference, Sir Wilfred Laurier school board as well as many daycare facilities throughout Montreal.

LINKS

The 6 Key Decisions to ECE Podcasting Masterclass: https://carlatheece.com/ece-podcast-masterclass 

LinkedIn

Instagram

Facebook

Free Resource: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OkDwvpRn_l2sgbVRKmV3r9eAjpfcobiH/view 

SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

If 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! shape their early years.

CONNECT WITH CARLA

The ECE Latte Lounge

Email Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠

Website: carlatheece.com

Instagram: @carlatheece

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla delves into the importance of documentation in early childhood education with guest, Ron Grady. They discuss the value of systematic recording and documentation to observe the evolution of children's practices within a community. They emphasize the need for reflection and mental health in educators' work.  Carla and Ron share practical tips for organizing documentation and highlight the significance of capturing and representing the unique voices and journeys of all children, using words, pictures, and stories. Through documentation, educators can better understand and support children's growth and development. Join Carla and Ron as they explore the power of documentation in early childhood education in this engaging episode.

Childology - Website

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/117

How to Work with Carla

In this episode, Carla interviews Elena Loson from Nube Lab in Chile. Nube Lab is a trailblazing organization that seamlessly blends the arts with education. Elena shares their remarkable journey, from intuitive beginnings to holistic community engagement. Nube Lab offers extracurricular programs, teacher training, and creative curriculum units that integrate soft skills, empowering students with 21st-century skills. Explore how they're reshaping education through creativity, providing resources and fostering collaboration among educators. Join them in their mission to revolutionize learning through the arts.

Show Notes: https://elfoundations.com/116

How to Work with Carla

In this episode, Carla welcomes Diane Kashin, a prominent figure in the world of early childhood education in Ontario, Canada, and a retired ECE professor. Diane highlights the importance of professional friendships in the ECE community and shares her experiences as a blogger in the field, where she explores various aspects of early childhood education.

Carla and Diane delve into the significance of early childhood friendships for children and educators. They emphasize the role of educators in modelling positive friendships for children and helping them develop essential social skills. Diane also introduces her upcoming book, "Cultivating Professional Friendships in Early Childhood Education," which explores the value of professional friendships, the challenges they may face, and the deep reflections that come from such relationships. She underscores the importance of self-awareness in fostering healthy professional friendships and shares stories of her own friendships in the field.

The podcast includes a powerful message of gratitude and the idea that understanding one's identity is crucial in building and maintaining successful personal and professional friendships.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/115

How to Work with Carla

Join host Carla Ward as she discusses an important topic that usually takes a back seat in Early Childhood Education - securing our children's financial future. Emily Naddaf from Wealthsimple Foundation shares insights on why early financial education and savings matter.

Discover government programs like the Canada Learning Bond and Canada Education Savings Grant, which offer up to $2,000 and 20% matching for education savings.

Learn how easy it is to open a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) and the importance of understanding fees and withdrawal rules. Start early, maximize opportunities, and empower the next generation.

For more information, check out the provided link to Wealthsimple's CLB program.

Join Carla and Emily in this eye-opening conversation about shaping a brighter future for our children through financial literacy and strategic savings.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/114

How to Work with Carla

Online marketing expert author and top-ranked podcast host, Amy Porterfield, joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to discuss digital courses and why Early Childhood Educators need to join the world of generating passive income. Amy’s action-by-action approach proves that even the newest online entrepreneurs can bypass the overwhelm, and instead generate exciting momentum as they build a business they love.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/113

How to Work with Carla

In this week's episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward is joined by Renee August from the Montana Association of Education of Young Children. The focus of this episode revolves around the pressing topic of the child care crisis. This widespread concern stretches across North America, and its impact likely extends to other corners of the globe. The conversation underscores the urgency for individuals beyond the profession to acknowledge and appreciate the vital role played by early childhood educators. The podcast delves into the crucial efforts undertaken by these educators during a child's formative years, highlighting the gravity of the situation. Tune in to gain valuable insights from this dynamic conversation between Carla and Renee.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/112

How to Work with Carla

Believing in magic and fairies is not just for children. There is something beautiful about believing, and this week on The Everything ECE Podcast, Suzanne Axellson joins Carla Ward to talk about a very magical day coming up on the September Equinox: International Fairy Tea Party Day. Suzanne and Carla discuss what it is, how we can celebrate across the globe and why we should be participating. International Fairy Tea Party Day is an invitation to remember that believing is the key to the doorways of the extraordinary. Early Childhood Educators know how to bring the magic. Join Carla and Suzanne to see how you can bring this magical learning experience to your students. 

Warning: Not to be listened to near little believers.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/111

One of the key elements to helping children learn and love math is providing holistic experiences. Gillian Berard joins The Everything ECE Podcast this week to help deepen our understanding of holistic math and inquiry-based learning. Gillian is a Holistic Numeracy Architect, and when you hear her speak, you can feel her passion and knowledge shine through.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/110

How to Work with Carla

Having a tool that not only saves you time but also enhances communication with parents and families while children are in your care cultivates stronger relationships that support our youngest learners. In this episode, Kris Szajner from Seesaw Learning discusses the importance of bridging the gap between child care and home and why transparency is so important. He also delves into how using technology productively as learners rather than consumers helps shape children's futures.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com

How to Work with Carla

Just when you think you’ve figured out all the possible career paths for an Early Childhood Educator, along comes Pretend City. It is literally a mini city intentionally designed to support children and their families in play. In this episode, the education managers of Pretend City talk all about their organization, the programs they run and how they support the children and their families. Check out the episode and by the end you will probably be looking for spaces in your area to build your own Pretend City. The concept is amazing and the support that Pretend City offers is next level! You will be so inspired!

Pretend City – Website

Families aren’t our opposition; they’re our partners. In this episode, Carla Ward explores three actionable ways educators can turn everyday communication into true collaboration with families.

From proactive communication loops to intentional language and making partnership visible, you’ll walk away with practical strategies you can implement right away with no extra workload required.

✨ Ready-to-use ideas for stronger family connections💬 Learn language shifts that build trust🌿 Create environments that reflect partnership

🎧 Listen now and start building the bridges that make your days lighter, calmer, and more connected.

LINKS

Learn the 6 Key Decisions to ECE Podcasting:https://carlatheece.com/ece-podcast-masterclass 

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SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW

If 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! shape their early years.

CONNECT WITH CARLA

The ECE Latte Lounge

Email Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠

Website: carlatheece.com

Instagram: @carlatheece

Adele, Lionel Richie, Lady Gaga and The Beatles all have this one thing in common; a song about Hello. Saying hello is an incredibly powerful word that we can say as human beings to other human beings. When we say hello we are acknowledging another person's existence. In this episode Carla Ward dives into the power behind saying hello and why we should be teaching children to say it and it's not just to be polite.  Show Notes: elfoundations.com/107

How to Work with Carla

One of the most cherished and impactful moments within the profession of Early Childhood Education is the art of storytelling. It serves as a powerful tool to connect children with the world beyond their immediate surroundings and fosters self-discovery.
On this week's episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, guest Laura Shea, the founder of Little Stories That Stick brings a fresh perspective to storytelling, particularly through her advocacy for multisensory techniques. Prepare to be amazed as she shares practical insights that you can easily incorporate into your own program. You may be surprised to discover that you're already implementing some of these techniques without even realizing it!
Join host, Carla Ward, and Laura for an enlightening conversation as Laura unravels the impact and benefits of storytelling in Early Childhood Education. Show Notes: elfoundations.com/106

How to Work with Carla

In this week's podcast episode, we dive into the world of Early Childhood Education and explore the often overlooked role of nannies in shaping young minds. While educators in child care centers, home child care, and parent drop-in programs are commonly acknowledged, the significance of in-home nannies can sometimes slip our minds.

Join us as we have a fascinating conversation with Danny Rosenthal, the president of United Nanny, who sheds light on the vital work of nannies and emphasizes the similarities between their roles and traditional educators. Discover how building connections with parents plays a crucial part in their journey of nurturing children to reach their full potential.

Don't miss out on this eye-opening episode! Tune in now to gain insightful perspectives on the world of nannying.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/105

How to Work with Carla

This episode delves into the importance of shifting from a defensive stance to playing offense and becoming advocates for play. It emphasizes that play isn't just child's play—it plays a vital role in children's cognitive growth, creativity, and overall development. It's time to spread this valuable information far and wide! Show Notes: elfoundations.com/104

How to Work with Carla

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, host Carla Ward engages in an enlightening discussion with Stephanie Danso, a seasoned social worker on the topic of supporting emotional development.  Together, they explore the vital role of emotional development in early childhood education and offer valuable insights for early childhood educators.

Stephanie brings her expertise to the forefront as she shares strategies for nurturing emotional development in young children. Stephanie provides examples from her own life and upbringing when she could have benefitted from the support of adults to develop her emotions further.

Join The Everything ECE Podcast to gain essential knowledge and inspiration for supporting emotional development in early childhood education.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/103

How to Work with Carla

Rae Pica joins The Everything ECE Podcast this week to discuss the critical topic of Early Childhood Educators discovering their voices. Rae, a renowned author, educator, consultant, speaker, and strong supporter of Early Childhood Educators shares her invaluable insights as to what early childhood educators can do to raise their voices. Tune in to The Everything ECE Podcast and embark on this enlightening journey. Show Notes: elfoundations.com/102

How to Work with Carla

Trauma-informed care is essential in early childhood education to support children who have experienced trauma. In this podcast we speak with Ana Valle Rivera who will help us understand the impact of trauma on children's development, behavior, and learning. By recognizing trauma and its effects, educators can provide appropriate support and create safe, nurturing environments. 

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/101

How to Work with Carla

You are invited to celebrate the 100th episode of The Everything ECE Podcast. Thank you so much for being part of this journey and for your continued support. Over the last 100 episodes, Carla has explored amazing topics, had incredible guest speakers, and connected with fantastic organizations in the ECE world.

In this episode, as a thank you, Carla is excited to offer two bonuses, the chance to win one of her favorite books, and an incredible opportunity to start your own podcast. You can check out the podcast to find out how you can get in on the action.

This episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, titled "The Power of Connections," focuses on an essential component of early childhood education. Carla highlights how connections are a decisive element in creating a positive climate that impacts everyone's daily mood and relationships. She encourages you to join her in exploring the important role of meaningful adult-child connections in fostering social and emotional development.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/100

How to Work with Carla

In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Ashleigh Davies joins Carla Ward and shares her insights on the various obstacles that early childhood education is facing in the public and private college sectors. She discusses the lack of recognition and respect for early childhood educators and the low wages that they receive despite the critical role they play in shaping the lives of young children.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the early childhood education profession or concerned about the quality of care and education that young children receive. Join Carla and Ashleigh as they navigate the obstacles within the ECE profession.

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/99

How to Work with Carla

Calendar time is always a hot topic in early childhood education. Come along with Carla Ward and guest, Samuel Broaden of Honoring Childhood, as they navigate why calendar time does not serve the children and their developmental journey. 

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/98

How to Work with Carla

Wellbeing consultant Monica Rollins, founder of Rooted Wellness Collective, joins Carla to explore what it really takes to move beyond burnout in Early Childhood Education. Together, they unpack the systemic roots of educator exhaustion and how to create H.E.A.R.T.-centered programs where teachers feel supported and children flourish.

Monica shares her personal journey through burnout, the lessons she’s learned about leadership and wellbeing, and practical ways educators and administrators can reconnect with purpose, presence, and joy.

Listen in for a conversation filled with honesty, hope, and real strategies to help you nurture both yourself and your team.

MONICA ROLLINS

Monica Rollins is a wellbeing consultant dedicated to transforming the early childhood profession, where she has spent nearly two decades as a teacher, leader, and strategist. After walking through her own season of burnout and loss in 2024, she realized that exhaustion in ECE isn’t just an individual struggle—it’s a systemic story the profession has carried for far too long. Now, she is on a mission to help schools rewrite their burnout stories and build H.E.A.R.T.-centered communities where teachers thrive, teams feel supported, and children flourish.

LINKS

The ECE Wellbeing Playbook:  https://www.rootedwellnesscollective.org/playbook 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-kaye-rollins/

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Asher Cloran of Life Rocks joins Carla Ward on The Everything ECE Podcast to talk about connecting children with nature, the benefits and the 7 fundamental foundations needed for growth. It was a very eye opening interview and one that all early childhood educators, parents and nature lovers should tune in for. Asher shares some wonderful insights on why children and adults need to spend time in nature. Show Notes: elfoundations.com/97

How to Work with Carla

As an advocate for Early Childhood Education, it can be challenging to see progress at the pace one desires. However, a recent guest on The Everything ECE Podcast, Kimberly Goll, President and Chief Executive Officer of First 5 Orange County in the United States, is playing the long game and seeing positive results. In the episode, Goll discusses the various systems they have implemented to support children's first five years, emphasizing that it extends beyond just the child care profession. The conversation is insightful and offers new ideas for advocacy efforts. Listeners are sure to find it fascinating and inspiring. Check out the episode today!

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/96

How to Work with Carla

In the latest episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward introduces the topic of "3 Ways AI can Support Early Childhood Educators". Educators often struggle, trying to be everything for everyone, and AI can provide much-needed assistance. The episode explains how embracing this technology can make life easier for Early Childhood Educators. Even if the idea of AI is daunting, this episode will help listeners get a little taste of its benefits. Give the episode a listen and discover how AI can support Early Childhood Educators. 

Show Notes: elfoundations.com/95

How to Work with Carla