12/10/24-Introduction to Social Emotional Learning in ECE 1: In this episode of “Quest for Quality,” Elizabeth Marcello and Teresa Wilson, technical assistance coaches, discuss the crucial role of social and emotional skills in early childhood education. They emphasize the importance of positive relationships and secure connections with adults as the foundation for future learning. The episode focuses on the significance of emotional safety, the transfer of positive energy, and the power of noticing in fostering a supportive learning environment. They also address how adult triggers can impact connections and the importance of understanding brain state models in emotional development. The discussion includes the importance of building relationships between caregivers and children, the role of secure attachments in developing trust and resilience, and the relevance of understanding brain states to support children’s emotional development.
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11/26/24-Diving Deeper into Outdoor Learning Practices-Ep 2: In part 2 of this outdoor learning series, we are doing a deeper dive into what outdoor play really looks like, including some additional areas you can set up, how to easily connect outdoor play to learning standards, and our role as the adult in this type of play-based, child-led exploration.
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11/12/24-The Benefits of Outdoor Learning and How to Start Small: Research shows that children thrive outdoors and have opportunities for learning, development and self-regulation that cannot be achieved indoors. In this podcast, we discuss how nature play supports the health and well-being of children and adults alike, the features of an Outdoor Learning Environment compared to a playground, the barriers that may limit how much time children spend outdoors, and small-step solutions anyone can take to get started. 
Click here for The Benefits of Outdoor Learning and How to Start Small Resources.

10/29/24- Fatherhood Inclusion: This episode is packed with valuable information and resources to help you create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for fathers in ECE programs. Tune in to learn how you can champion fatherhood engagement and make a lasting difference in the lives of young children. 
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10/15/24 – Staff Meetings: In this episode, we dive into the art of crafting effective staff meetings. We’ll explore the importance of setting clear intentions and share a variety of topic ideas to keep your meetings engaging and relevant. Discover strategies for scheduling that respect everyone’s time and learn how to empower your staff by making meetings more inclusive and motivating. We’ll also provide tips on creating a welcoming atmosphere and enhancing your organizational skills to ensure that every meeting runs smoothly and productively. Join us as we transform routine meetings into opportunities for growth and connection.
Click here for a Staff Meeting Agenda Template.

10/1/24 – Social Stories: Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to the concept of social stories, this episode will provide you with valuable insights and actionable ideas to enhance your teaching toolkit. Tune in and learn how to harness the power of social stories to create a supportive and understanding classroom environment.
Click here for Social Stories Resources.

9/17/24 – Process Art: In this episode, we delve into the enriching world of process art in early childhood education, emphasizing the journey of creation over the final product. Discover how focusing on the creative process fosters critical brain development in young children, nurturing growth.  We’ll discuss practical insights for educators on setting up engaging invitations for creative processes, offering strategies to support and enhance children’s learning through art. Join us as we uncover the profound impact of process art on young minds and how we can cultivate an environment that celebrates exploration and creativity.
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9/3/24 – Nurturing Mealtimes in ECE: Mealtimes are more than just moments to satisfy hunger, they are opportunities for learning, socialization, and growth.  In this episode we will explore the benefits of family-style eating and how to make every meal a meaningful experience for young learners.
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8/20/24 – Discovering your Play Personality and Using it in Your Classroom: Description: In order to value children’s play and allow learning to take place through play in the classroom, we need to understand the importance of play, and be playful ourselves. As an adult, it can be difficult to know how to be playful when we have a job, bills, laundry, and many other responsibilities on our plates. It can often feel overwhelming. Play researcher Dr. Fraser Brown has identified 8 “play personalities” through interviews and observations. Each of us has a primary play personality, so tune in to hear a description of each so you can figure out yours!
Click here for Play Personality Types

8/6/24 – Understanding Children’s Behavior with Play Schemas: Have you ever wondered why some children love to dump toys, throw food, or hide themselves? Then this episode is for you! Find out how you can use play schemas to engage your children’s interest in the classroom and meet their cognitive, social emotional, and physical needs.  
Click here for Play Schemas resources.

7/23/24 – Rapid Response: Rapid Response may not be a new term to you, but how the support service is implemented has recently changed. Check out our conversation with rapid response coordinator Kim Alloway and learn the history of rapid response, the importance of such a program, and the process steps for utilizing the support program. See additional documents here:
RR Expectations – Programs – Bilingual
Updated Flow Chart & Contacts – 5.6.24

7/9/24 – Showing Up: The work you do is invaluable, but without solid, foundational practices, it is nearly impossible to show up for yourself and others on a daily basis. Check out these tips and reminders to ensure you can keep showing up for yourself, the children in your care, and your program.

6/25/24 – Trailer: Listen along for bite-sized insights surrounding quality program practices. Led by the dedicated STARS Coaches from Community Connections for Children, serving ELRC Regions 8, 9, & 10, this podcast is your go-to source for early learning and child development information and resources.