The Everything ECE Podcast

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• #242: Who Raised You Musically? The Hidden Influence of Music on Childhood Development 29.05.2026 9分

  What if the music we grow up around shapes more than just our memories?In this reflective solo episode, Carla Ward explores the powerful role music plays in childhood development, emotional regulation, identity formation, and the environments we create for children. From Linda Ronstadt and Carole King to Cher, Madonna, and the Spice Girls, Carla reflects on the soundtrack of her own childhood and asks an important question:What are children absorbing from the music around them today?This episode dives into:music as part of the learning environmentemotional associations and memoryidentity and self-expressionnervous system regulationclassroom atmosphere and intentionalitywhy music is far more than background noiseWhether you are an educator, parent, or someone reflecting on your own childhood soundtrack, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about the songs shaping children’s worlds.RESEARCH & REFERENCESSaarikallio, S., & Erkkilä, J. — The Role of Music in Adolescents’ Mood Regulation https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0305735607068889 Effects of the Educational Use of Music on Children’s Emotional Development https://www.researchgate.net/publication/350545306_Effects_of_the_Educational_Use_of_Music_on_3-to_12-Year-Old_Children's_Emotional_Development_A_Systematic_Review North, A. C., Hargreaves, D. J. — Music and Adolescent Identity https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232523022_Musical_Preference_and_Taste_in_Childhood_and_Adolescence Janata, P. — The Neural Architecture of Music-Evoked Autobiographical Memories https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2758676/ Routledge, C. — Research on nostalgia and psychological connectedness https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/nostalgiaSUBSCRIBE & 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #241: The Basics We Cannot Afford to Lose in ECE with Laurent Li 22.05.2026 36分

  This week on The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Laurent Li, an educator working both on the frontline with children and in post-secondary education, preparing future ECEs entering the field.Together, they have an honest and reflective conversation about the growing gap between graduating and actually being classroom-ready, authentic inclusion culture, mentorship, onboarding, advocacy, and the basics we cannot afford to lose sight of in early childhood education.From headcounts and visual schedules to connection, belonging, and what true inclusion really looks like beyond performative practices, this episode explores the heart of what it means to support children, families, and educators well.This conversation is thoughtful, validating, and one every educator and leader should hear.LAURENT LILaurent Li is a professor in the Faculty of Early Childhood Education at Seneca Polytechnic and an advocate for inclusive cultures and the creation of environments that support children with disabilities in demonstrating their capabilities. He is also a proud girl dad to two young daughters, ages 3 and 5, and, as a result, a devoted caffeine lover.LINKSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ljmli/ 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #240: Using the 5 Ws and the H to Reflect and Respond 15.05.2026 9分

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward shares one of the most impactful reflective strategies she adopted in her career as an early childhood educator: using the 5 Ws and the H to better understand behaviour, play, emotions, environments, and classroom dynamics.Instead of immediately reacting to challenging moments, Carla explores how slowing down and asking reflective questions can help educators become more responsive, intentional, and supportive in their practice.This episode dives into:reflective practice in ECEunderstanding behaviour through curiositythe role of environment and timingschemas and observationsupporting dysregulationstudying what is working in the classroom, not just what is notWhether you are navigating challenging behaviours, trying to better understand classroom dynamics, or looking to deepen your reflective practice, this episode will leave you thinking differently about what is really happening beneath the surface.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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #239: Working with Wood in ECE with Pete Moorhouse 08.05.2026 50分

  Working with Wood in ECE with Pete MoorhouseWoodworking in early childhood can feel like a big leap – for educators and for programs.In this episode, I sit down with early years creative consultant, researcher, and author Pete Moorhouse to explore what woodworking can actually look like in practice – and why it matters.With over 25 years of experience, Pete shares how hands-on experiences with real tools support children’s creativity, problem solving, focus, and confidence in ways that go far beyond what we often see in traditional classroom materials.We dive into:Why woodworking is making a global comeback in early yearsHow to safely introduce tools to young childrenThe difference between risk and dangerThe role of the educator in open-ended, hands-on learningWhy children need more opportunities to work with their handsThis conversation is both practical and thought-provoking – especially if you’ve ever felt unsure about introducing something new into your classroom.PETE MOORHOUSEPete Moorhouse is an early years creative consultant, researcher, author and artist educator based in the UK.  He is an associate trainer for Early Education delivering training nationally and overseas and is also a Froebel Tutor for the Froebel Trust. His work in school is centred around nurturing children's creativity inspired by Froebelian principles and the approach in Reggio Emilia. Pete is a leading authority on woodwork in Early Years education and has written several books and journal articles, including ‘Learning Through Woodwork’ (Routledge) as well as books on outdoor learning. He is currently working his latest book – ‘Creativity in Practice: Nurturing creative and critical thinking in early childhood education’. He was awarded an honorary research fellowship from the University of Bristol and is currently researching creative progression in early education. Pete was also awarded a Churchill Fellowship to undertake international research into best woodworking practices in education. Pete won the national award (2019) from the Creative Learning Guild for his work promoting creativity in education and is Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts.LINKSPete’s Website: https://irresistible-learning.co.uk/Woodworking Course: https://irresistible-learning.co.uk/woodwork-cpd-online-course/ Woodworking Book: https://amzn.to/4d1vx0t (CANADA) https://store.northhouse.org/products/learning-through-woodwork-20acc (UK)https://www.amazon.com/Learning-Through-Woodwork-Introducing-Creative/dp/1138071102 (US)Books with positive roles of girls & women with tools: https://irresistible-learning.co.uk/resource/girl-power-tools-booklist/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IrresistibleLearningEYs LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-moorhouse-72b36214/ 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #238: Embracing Scissors and Letting Go of Fear 01.05.2026 8分

  Scissors.Such a simple tool… until it’s not.In this episode, we’re digging into the hesitation so many educators feel when it comes to offering scissors during free play. Is it about safety? Trust? Or something deeper?Because when scissors aren’t part of the environment, we might be holding children back in ways we don’t always see - from fine motor development to creativity and confidence.This episode isn’t about forcing one way of doing things. It’s about asking better questions, shifting our language, and rethinking how we support children in building real skills.If you’ve ever said “be careful” (we all have), this one’s for you.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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• 237: If Not You, Then Who? Taking Action in Education with Kisa Marx 24.04.2026 28分

  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 educationWhy “getting it right” might be doing more harm than goodHow the system shapes “worker bees” instead of thinkersThe power of small steps and shifting your mindsetWhat 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 MARXKisa 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. 
 LINKSGrab Kisa’s book here: RedLeaf (US)  or LoginWebsite: 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/ 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #236: 5 Ways to Find Your People in ECE 17.04.2026 5分

  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 educators5 practical ways to build your ECE communityA reminder that connection doesn’t just happen, sometimes you have to start itSUBSCRIBE & 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #235: Oral Storytelling in ECE with Danyah Miller 03.04.2026 31分

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Danyah Miller, an international award-winning storyteller and author of Seven Secrets of Spontaneous Storytelling, to explore the power of storytelling beyond the book.Together, they discuss:What oral storytelling is and how it differs from readingWhy storytelling supports language, connection, and imaginationHow educators can build confidence in storytellingSimple ways to start using storytelling in the classroomThis episode is perfect for early childhood educators looking to deepen their practice, build stronger connections with children, and bring more creativity into their programs.🎧 Listen now and discover how storytelling can transform your classroom.Danyah MillerDanyah Miller is an international, award-winning storyteller, trainer, and author of ‘Seven Secrets of Spontaneous Storytelling’. She shares stories and story training in a range of settings from Royal Opera House Covent Garden to local libraries, RHS Wisley to schools across the country. Danyah was a workshop leader at The International School of Storytelling for over 10 years and is a trustee for The Society for Storytelling.As Artistic Director of DMS Productions she co-produces, co-writes and performs in solo theatrical storytelling shows, including award-winning I Believe in Unicorns by Michael Morpurgo, which has toured extensively, including 3 West End summer seasons, and most recently The Mystery of…. Show, which won Best Family Arts Activity in the 2025 Fantastic for Families Awards.In 2025 Danyah took part in BBC Radio 4’s ‘The Great Influencer Experiment’ series, creating a YouTube channel for those working in EYFS. Danyah supports people to become more curious, creative and connected. Her work is imagination-rich and often life changing. LINKSWebsite: https://danyahmillerstoryteller.co.uk/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@danyahmillerthestoryteller Instagram: http://instagram.com/DanyahMillerTheStoryteller Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danyah.miller1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danyah-miller-4b33101b/ Book: 🍁Seven Secrets of Spontaneous Storytelling US- Seven Secrets of Spontaneous StorytellingUK- Seven Secrets of Spontaneous StorytellingSummit: The Everything ECE SummitSUBSCRIBE & 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #234: From ‘Why Them?’ to ‘What About Me?’: Reclaiming Curiosity as an Educator 27.03.2026 7分

  We often talk about curiosity in early childhood education. how we encourage it in children, how we observe it, and how we support it through play and learning.But what about educator curiosity?In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, we explore the shift from focusing solely on children’s curiosity to reconnecting with our own. Carla shares a personal story about following curiosity outside of early childhood education and how it transformed her perspective, practice, and professional growth.You’ll also walk away with simple, realistic ways to start leaning into your own curiosity as an educator, without adding more to your already full plate.If you’ve ever felt stuck, uninspired, or just going through the motions, this episode will invite you to think differently.Because the best educators aren’t the ones who know the most… they’re the ones who never stop wondering.LINKSSummit: The Everything ECE SummitSponsor: Ratio Staffing- https://ratiostaffing.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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #233: What Toddlers Know We’ve Forgotten with Dr. Hasan Merali 20.03.2026 20分

  We spend so much time thinking about how to guide, teach, and support young children…But what if we paused - and asked what they’re teaching us?In this episode, Carla sits down with Dr. Hasan Merali to explore a powerful shift in perspective: toddlers aren’t just developing humans… they might be doing a lot of things better than we are.From risk-taking and confidence, to kindness, play, and even sleep - this conversation will challenge the way you see early childhood.Without giving too much away, this episode will have you reflecting on:Why toddlers take risks without hesitation (and what that means for us)The kind of confidence we slowly lose over timeWhat genuine kindness actually looks like in practiceHow play shows up in everything they doAnd one simple routine that might completely change your eveningsThis is one of those episodes that doesn’t just stay in the classroom - it follows you into your everyday life.Dr. Hasan MeraliHasan Merali, MD, MPH, is an associate professor in the Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University and a pediatric emergency medicine physician at McMaster Children’s Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario. He received his medical degree from Harvard Medical School and Master of Public Health degree from Johns Hopkins University. He has published more than twenty-five peer-reviewed journal articles, and his work has been featured in The New York Times, BBC, CNN, NBC, and CBC. In 2024, he published his first book titled Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the Peas: Secrets from the Science of Toddlers for a Happier, More Successful Way of Life. LINKSSummit: The Everything ECE SummitWebsite: https://hasanmerali.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HasanMeraliMD/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hasan-merali X: https://twitter.com/Hasan_Merali Book: Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the PeasSUBSCRIBE & 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #232: The 10-Second Pause: A Powerful Strategy in the Classroom 13.03.2026 12分

  In early childhood education, it’s natural to want to step in right away to help children solve problems. But sometimes the most powerful thing an educator can do is pause.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores the idea of the 10-second pause - a simple practice that encourages educators to pause briefly before intervening in children’s play, conflicts, and problem-solving moments.Inspired by the concept of “le pause” discussed in the book Bringing Up Bébé, this episode reflects on how our culture of instant gratification influences the way adults respond to children. Carla shares how giving children a moment to work through challenges can support independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence.The episode also explores how practicing the pause can benefit educators by creating space to shift from reacting to responding with empathy and intention.If you’re an early childhood educator looking to support children’s learning while also creating a calmer classroom environment, this episode offers practical insights and reflection for your daily practice.LinksSummit: The Everything ECE SummitSponsor: Ratio Staffing- https://ratiostaffing.com/ Bringing Up Bébé- 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #231: What Children’s Behaviour Is Really Telling Us with Gretchen Camp 06.03.2026 30分

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with early childhood developmental educator Gretchen Camp to explore what might really be behind the rise in challenging behaviours among young children.They discuss the importance of foundational social-emotional skills, why play remains one of the most powerful learning tools, and how educators can support families in meaningful ways.Gretchen Camp, M.Ed., has over 25 years of experience working with young children and families and helps adults understand children’s actions through a developmental lens.Gretchen is also one of the speakers at The Everything ECE Summit happening April 10–12 — a free virtual summit featuring 30+ expert speakers sharing ideas and inspiration for early childhood educators.Grab your free ticket using the link in the show notes.Gretchen CampGretchen Camp, M.Ed., is an early childhood professional learning consultant with over 25 years of experience in classrooms and educator development. Her work focuses on making behavior science practical, bridging the gap between what we know about social-emotional development and how it’s applied in daily interactions between educators and families. She is the creator of the Park the Skill™ framework, a clear, skill-based approach that helps adults move beyond managing behavior to intentionally building the skills beneath it.LinksSummit: The Everything ECE SummitWebsite: http://gretchencamp.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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #230: 5 Reasons Food and Screen Time Don’t Mix (And Why We Need to Protect the Table) 27.02.2026 10分

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward dives into an important conversation about screen use during mealtimes in early childhood programs.While screens may make mealtime feel calmer or more compliant, research shows they may interfere with children’s ability to self-regulate, recognize hunger and fullness cues, build social skills, and develop healthy eating habits.Carla shares:What research says about eating during TV viewingWhy self-regulation starts at the tableHow screen-linked eating patterns can shape long-term habitsWhy mealtime is one of our most powerful social learning opportunitiesAnd why compliance should never replace developmentThis episode is not about judgment. It’s about reflection. Because lunch and snack time aren’t just about calories. They are opportunities for connection, conversation, and growth.If we want children who can sit across from someone, engage in meaningful dialogue, and listen to their bodies, it starts now.Let’s protect the table.RESEARCH SHARED IN THIS EPISODEEffect of Television Viewing at Mealtime on Food Intake After a Glucose Preload in Boyshttps://www.nature.com/articles/pr2007158Does Eating during Television Viewing Affect Preschool Children’s Intake?https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2596580/Screen Time Vs Meal Time: How Screens Are Shaping Your Child's Eating Habitshttps://www.ndtv.com/health/screen-time-vs-meal-time-how-screens-are-shaping-your-childs-eating-habits-9564525Examination of the Life Habits of Preschool Children Based on Their Screen Use Patternshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11276093/Television viewing and using screens while eating: associations with dietary intake in children and adolescentshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8671257/Mealtime TV Use Is Associated with Higher Discretionary Food Intakes in Young Australian Children: A Two-Year Prospective Studyhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9268203/Technological Devices and Their Effect on Preschool Children’s Eating Habits in Communities of Mixed Socioeconomic Status in Istanbul; a Pilot Cross-Sectional Studyhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8614987/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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #229: Introverts, Extroverts & Big Feelings: The Power of Story in the Classroom with Christine Devane 20.02.2026 21分

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with children’s author and former teacher Christine Devane to explore how storytelling can support introverted learners, build self-advocacy skills, and help children process grief.Christine shares the inspiration behind her book Elephant Beach, a story about stepping outside your comfort zone while honouring personality differences in the classroom. Together, Carla and Christine unpack the balance between supporting extroverted children without silencing them and intentionally creating space for quieter voices.In this episode, you’ll learn:The difference between introversion and shyness in childrenHow to support quiet children without calling them outWhy partner selection in classrooms mattersPractical ways to encourage self-advocacyHow books help children internalize social-emotional skillsWhy storytelling is one of the most powerful SEL tools in early childhood educationIf you’re an educator looking for meaningful ways to support social development through stories, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped.Christine Devane Christine Devane was a second-grade teacher for thirteen years and enjoyed reading with her students. She currently lives in Massachusetts with her husband John; three children Joey, Nick, and Adeline; and their dog Sophie. Christine loves going to the beach, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and collecting lucky elephants.LinksWebsite: www.christine-devane.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/stined13SUBSCRIBE & 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #228: Why It’s Ok to Let Children Struggle (And Why That Is Not the Same as Suffering) 13.02.2026 8分

  When we talk about letting children struggle, it often makes people uncomfortable. And for good reason. No one wants children to suffer.But struggle and suffering are not the same thing.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward unpacks what productive struggle actually looks like in early childhood and why those everyday moments—wrestling with a shoe, rebuilding a block tower, trying again after something doesn’t work—matter more than we think.Drawing on classroom experience, research on grit and perseverance, and over two decades in early childhood education, Carla explores how confidence is built through experience, not rescue.This episode invites educators to pause, observe, and rethink when to step in—and when stepping back is the most supportive thing we can do.Because letting children struggle isn’t about withholding support. It’s about trusting the learning process.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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #227: Classroom Environments That Support Independence, Regulation, and Learning with Jennifer Fernandez 06.02.2026 35分

  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 moneyThis conversation offers grounded, realistic ideas to help educators rethink their spaces with purpose and confidence.JENNIFER FERNANDEZJennifer 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.LINKSLinkedIn: https:/www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-fernandez-6a41a41a9/Website: https://www.schoolspecialty.ca/ 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #226: Breaking the Praise Loop 30.01.2026 9分

  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 & 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #225: How to Build a Community Classroom with Donna Skea 23.01.2026 37分

  How to Build a Community Classroom with Donna SkeaWhat 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 SKEADonna 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.LINKSThe 6 Key Decisions to ECE Podcasting Masterclass: https://carlatheece.com/ece-podcast-masterclass LinkedInInstagramFacebookFree Resource: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1OkDwvpRn_l2sgbVRKmV3r9eAjpfcobiH/view 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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #224: 3 Ways to Turn Family Communication Into Collaboration 16.01.2026 12分

  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.LINKSLearn the 6 Key Decisions to ECE Podcasting:https://carlatheece.com/ece-podcast-masterclass ---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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #223: Building H.E.A.R.T.-Centered ECE Teams with Monica Rollins 09.01.2026 38分

  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 ROLLINSMonica 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.LINKSThe ECE Wellbeing Playbook:  https://www.rootedwellnesscollective.org/playbook LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monica-kaye-rollins/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! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece