The Everything ECE Podcast

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• #249: Letting Children Do the Heavy Lifting with Trevor Newton 17.07.2026 31мин

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with early childhood educator, keynote speaker, and coach Trevor Newton for a conversation that will challenge the way you think about play, relationships, and children's social development.Together, they explore why conflict isn't something to prevent, but something to teach through. Trevor shares simple, practical strategies that help educators support children's independence, strengthen communication, and build the social skills that last far beyond the early years.This episode is full of those "pause and write that down" moments, including one strategy Carla says she'll be using immediately.In this episode, you'll discover:Why conflict is one of the greatest learning opportunities in playHow to support children without rescuing themThe role relationships play in children's long-term successOne simple strategy that can transform the conversations you have with children tomorrowMr. Trevor T. Newton, M.A. ECSETrevor T. Newton is a passionate Title I ECSE Preschool Teacher, early childhood keynote speaker, and founder of Teach and Direct LLC, with over 15 years of experience empowering educators and strengthening leadership across educational settings. He has taught in diverse early childhood and elementary classrooms while mentoring educators into confident, effective teachers and leaders. Trevor specializes in practical, research-based strategies that support teacher leadership, Big Body Play and body-based behavior regulation, and renewed joy in the important work of early childhood education. Beyond the classroom and stage, he enjoys children’s literature, sharing laughter, and spending quality time with his wife and young son. LINKSWebsite: www.TrevorTNewton.com   Instagram: @TrevorTNewton.ECELinkedIn: Trevor T. NewtonSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week!CONNECT WITH CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #248: Curiosity Is a Professional Responsibility 10.07.2026 10мин

  What if one of the most important responsibilities we have as educators isn't just teaching children, but continuing to learn ourselves?In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla explores why curiosity is more than a personality trait. It's a professional responsibility.Drawing on more than 20 years in early childhood education, Carla reflects on what separates educators who continue to grow from those who become stuck in "the way we've always done it." She shares five ways educators can nurture their own curiosity, from learning alongside children and seeking perspectives that challenge their thinking to looking beyond early childhood for inspiration and remaining teachable throughout their careers.Because if we want children to become lifelong learners, shouldn't they see us modelling that every day?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 Entrepreneur ExperienceEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• 247: Understanding Schema Play with Heather Bernt-Santy 03.07.2026 25мин

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Heather Bernt-Santy, better known as That Early Childhood Nerd, to explore the fascinating world of schema play.Heather shares how recognizing schemas helps educators move beyond simply managing behaviour and instead see the learning, curiosity, and development taking place through play. From transporting and trajectory to enclosing and enveloping, these repeated patterns offer valuable insight into how children make sense of their world.Together, Carla and Heather discuss:• What schema play is and why it matters• How schemas help us understand behaviour differently• Why curiosity is one of an educator's greatest superpowers• Practical ways to support children's learning without limiting their exploration• How schemas strengthen conversations with families• Why free play deserves a central place in early childhood education.Whether you're just discovering schema play or have been exploring it for years, this conversation will leave you seeing children's play—and your role as an educator—in a whole new way.Heather is also the author of Using Schema Play Theory to Advocate for Free Play in Early Childhood, a must-read for educators looking to deepen their understanding of play.HEATHER BERNT- SANTYHeather Bernt-Santy, M.A. Ed., also known as That Early Childhood Nerd, has been working with children, their families, and their caregivers for over 30 years and has loved very-nearly-almost every minute. She is a believer in children's right to play and in the science that tells us play IS right. As That Early Childhood Nerd, she offers consulting and webinars, and hosts a podcast. LINKSWebsite: www.thatearlychildhoodnerd.com InstagramFacebookLinkedInPodcastYouTubeBook: (Canada) Using Schema Play Theory to Advocate for Free Play in Early Childhood(US) Using Schema Play Theory to Advocate for Free Play in Early ChildhoodSUBSCRIBE & 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 CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #246: Raising Thinkers: Building Critical Thinking in Early Years 26.06.2026 12мин

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla explores why critical thinking begins long before children enter elementary school and how everyday moments in our classrooms shape children's confidence as problem-solvers, question-askers, and curious learners.From open-ended play and educator language to productive struggle and reflective practice, this conversation will challenge you to look differently at the small interactions that happen every day. Because sometimes the most powerful thing we can do isn't give children the answer—it's give them the space to discover it themselves.Whether you're an early childhood educator, student, or leader, this episode will leave you reflecting on how we can create environments that nurture curiosity, resilience, and independent thinking from the very beginning.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 CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #245: Human Skills in an AI-powered World with Chris Danilo 19.06.2026 46мин

  In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with award-winning speaker and trainer Chris Danilo to explore the skills that technology can't replace.As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the workplace, many educators are asking the same question: What makes humans irreplaceable?Together, Carla and Chris dive into the human skills that will matter most in the years ahead, why emotional intelligence may become one of the most valuable professional assets we have, and what leaders and educators need to be focusing on right now.This conversation might challenge some assumptions, spark a few questions, and leave you thinking differently about the future of our profession.Because in an AI-powered world, being more human may be the advantage we need most.CHRIS DANILOChris is an award-winning speaker and trainer for the early childhood workforce. He trains ECE leaders and educators on Human Skills like compassionate detachment, self-management, and emotional intelligence that make a real difference in how teams work together.He uses high-energy, roll-up-your-sleeves, experiential workshops to make professional development turn into action.He's worked with organizations in Child Care Aware and Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) groups around the US.LINKSWebsite: chrisdanilo.com/newsletter InstagramLinkedInYouTubeSeed TrainingBooksEmotionally Charged: How to Lead in the New World of Work — Dina Denham Smith & Alicia A. Grandey Oxford University Press · Penn State announcement · Author site Co-written by Penn State psychology professor Alicia Grandey (one of the world's leading researchers on emotional labor) and executive coach Dina Denham Smith. Equips leaders with evidence-based tools for emotional skills at work: emotional labor, authenticity, stress and recovery, emotion regulation, self-compassion. Includes the authors' BRAVE technique (Breathe, Recognize, Accept, Verbalize, Engage) and frameworks like compassionate detachment drawn from caring professions. Especially relevant for ECE directors and center owners managing emotional load on their teams.Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ — Daniel Goleman Amazon ·The 1995 book that introduced the concept of emotional intelligence to a mass audience. Goleman argues that EQ matters as much as IQ for success in relationships, work, and well-being, and outlines five core skills — self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills — that can be taught and cultivated.Researchers & AuthorsDr. Alicia Grandey — Penn State Penn State faculty page · Workplace Emotional Labor and Diversity Lab Professor of Psychology at Penn State and one of the original architects of the modern research literature on emotional labor — the work of regulating your emotions on the job. 25+ years of peer-reviewed research, with multiple papers in the top 1% for citation impact. Co-author of Emotionally Charged. Essential reading for anyone trying to understand why caregiving work — including ECE — is so emotionally taxing.Dina Denham Smith — executive coach and leadership consultant DinaDSmith.com · Book site Founder and CEO with 20+ years coaching senior leaders at companies like Adobe, Netflix, and Stanford. Co-author of Emotionally Charged with Alicia Grandey, bridging the academic research on emotional labor into practical leadership tools.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
• #244: The 5 Types of Self-Care | Why Educators Can't Afford to Ignore Their Well-Being  12.06.2026 14мин

  Self-care is often reduced to bubble baths, spa days, and treating yourself, but true self-care goes much deeper than that.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward shares a personal story about how years of ignoring her own well-being led to a panic attack that landed her in the hospital. Through honest reflection and practical insights, she explores why self-care is not a luxury for educators. It's a necessity.Carla breaks down the five essential types of self-careWhether you're an early childhood educator, teacher, leader, or parent, this episode will help you identify which area of self-care may need your attention and offer simple ways to begin prioritizing yourself again.Topics Discussed:Why self-care is more than bubble bathsThe consequences of ignoring your own needsBoundaries and professional self-careEmotional wellness for educatorsBuilding sustainable self-care habitsHow self-care impacts children, families, and teamsSUBSCRIBE & 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 CARLAEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece
• #243: Why Movement Comes Before Mindfulness with Lisa Danahy 05.06.2026 30мин

  #243: Why Movement Comes Before Mindfulness with Lisa DanahyIn this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with educator, author, yoga therapist, and founder of Create Calm, Lisa Danahy, to explore the powerful connection between movement, emotional regulation, and learning.Together, they discuss why movement is often the pathway to mindfulness, how educators can support their own regulation before helping children, and why calm and compliant are not the same thing. Lisa shares practical strategies that can be implemented immediately in early childhood settings while challenging traditional ideas about behaviour management and mindfulness.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why movement fuels brain development and emotional regulation• The difference between mindfulness and mind control• How educator regulation impacts classroom dynamics• Why connection must come before correction• Practical strategies to support co-regulation and well-beingLISA DANAHYLisa Danahy (C-IAYT, YACEP, MS) is an educator, author, and leader in social-emotional learning focused on supporting emotional regulation, resilience, and well-being in early childhood and school communities. Through her nonprofit, Create Calm, she has helped facilitate meaningful cultural shifts in hundreds of schools nationwide, supporting students, educators, and families since 2016. With advanced training in yoga therapy, psychology, and over 30 years of experience in education and SEL curriculum development, she creates accessible, evidence-based practices that support whole-child development. Lisa specializes in working with neurodiverse, disabled, and underserved children and partners with educators and caregivers to bring sustainable self-care and regulation tools into early learning environments.  LINKSWebsite: createcalm.orgFacebookInstagramLinkedInBook: Creating Calm in Your ClassroomRadiant Child: www.childrensyoga.com Monday Mindfulness: www.MondayMindfulness.com INA Wellness: www.INAwellness.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
• #242: Who Raised You Musically? The Hidden Influence of Music on Childhood Development 29.05.2026 9мин

  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 36мин

  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 9мин

  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 50мин

  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 8мин

  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 28мин

  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 5мин

  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 31мин

  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 7мин

  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 20мин

  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 12мин

  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 30мин

  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 10мин

  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