Play isn’t just cute. It’s critical. In this episode, Carla sits down with Amanda Morgan, educator, author, and founder of Not Just Cute, to uncover the real power of play in early childhood education. Together, they explore how play supports mental health, brain development, and lifelong learning, and how educators can communicate its value to families and administrators.
Amanda shares research-backed insights from her new book, Not Just Cute: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood, and reminds us that when passion meets purpose, play becomes unstoppable.
Tune in to learn how to champion play with confidence, connect with children through curiosity, and keep joy at the center of learning.
Amanda Morgan
Amanda Morgan holds a BA in Elementary and Early Childhood Education and an MS in Child Development. She is deeply committed to supporting intentional, whole-child development through her blog Not Just Cute and its companion podcast, Not Just Cute: The Podcast. With a blend of scientific insight and compelling stories, Amanda demonstrates how everyday moments—like play, relationships, and conversations—are far more than just “cute”; they're powerful tools for growth and learning. For over 15 years, she has worked with early childhood groups across the U.S. and Canada, sharing her passion and expertise. Her first book, Not Just Cute: How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood, was released earlier this year. When she’s not traveling, speaking, or writing, Amanda enjoys home life with her husband and four boys a few miles from Puget Sound, where she's still holding out hope for a not-too-close encounter with an orca.
LINKS
Book: Amazon Link
Website: notjustcute.com
Instagram: @Amanda_NotJustCute
Facebook: @NotJustCute
Podcast: Not Just Cute the Podcast
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What if your documentation could do more than check a box?
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward shares 5 documentation strategies to bring ECE learning to life: practical, heart-centred ways to make documentation meaningful, authentic, and a natural part of your teaching practice.
You’ll discover how to: ✨ Capture the small, everyday moments that reveal big learning ✨ Empower children to take part in documenting their own stories ✨ Use multiple mediums like photos, voice notes, and displays to make learning visible ✨ Reflect with purpose before you write (and save yourself time!) ✨ Share documentation that builds stronger connections with families and your team
Whether you’re an early childhood educator, program lead, or supervisor, this episode will help you move from “doing documentation” to living it. Learn how to make learning visible, deepen reflection, and transform the way you see your practice.
🎙️ Tune in and discover how to reignite your love for documentation, because when we bring learning to life, we bring our teaching to life too.
LINKS
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Website: carlatheece.com
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Stress shows up in our work, but it doesn’t have to take over.
In this episode, Carla Ward sits down with Cameile Henry, award-winning author and CEO of Strengthen Hands Educational Resources Inc., to explore how reflection, awareness, and kindness help educators navigate stress before it leads to burnout.
This conversation reminds us that calm is a skill, kindness is a practice, and both are essential in early childhood education.
CAMEILE HENRY
Cameile Henry is an award-winning author of 12 empowering children’s books and the CEO and Co-Founder of Strengthen Hands Educational Resources Inc. With over 25 years of experience as a Registered Early Childhood Educator and 17 years as a Professor at Sheridan College, she is deeply committed to fostering resilience, affirmation, and self-compassion in children and families. Through books, workshops, and handmade crochet characters, she creates meaningful learning experiences that support children, parents, and educators alike. Recognized as one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch in 2024, continues to inspire communities across Canada and the United States.
Website: strengthenhands.com
Instagram: @strengthenhands
YouTube: @StrengthenHandsEDU
LINKS
The ECE Experience- Link
Strengthen Hands Book- 🍁Amazon
Strengthen Hands Book- 🇺🇸 Amazon
BOOKS MENTIONED IN THE EPISODE
Learn to Play: The Four Pillars Learning System by Susie Beghin
The Whole-Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson
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There are four little words that we, as educators, use far more often than we realize — and they might be quietly holding children back.
These words aren’t harsh or negative. In fact, they sound completely ordinary. But the truth is, they shape how we see children, how we interpret their behaviour, and how we respond in the moment.
In this episode, Carla dives deep into the power of language —how simple words can limit our perspective, close off possibilities, and unintentionally define a child’s potential. You’ll leave this conversation reflecting on your own practice, rethinking how you describe behaviour, and ready to see children in a whole new light.
🎙️ Listen now to uncover the four words that change everything.
LINKS
The ECE Experience- Link
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In this powerful episode, Carla welcomes Dawn Montecalvo, CEO of the Guadalupe Center in Immokalee, Florida, to discuss what it really means to go all in when early learning is on the line. From shifting the educator mindset from “job” to “career” to reducing turnover through professional development and support, Dawn shares how her team is creating real, lasting change in a community with tremendous needs.
We explore how strategic partnerships, intention in language, and reinforcing early childhood as a nonnegotiable investment are transforming outcomes—one child, one educator, one classroom at a time.
If you believe early learning is more than a program—it’s a movement—you won’t want to miss this conversation.
🎧 Dive in now and get inspired to go all in for early learning where you are.
DAWN MONTECALVO
For more than two decades, Dawn Montecalvo has dedicated her career to expanding educational opportunities for underserved children in Southwest Florida. As President & CEO of Guadalupe Center since 2016, she has led the organization’s growth to serve over 2,000 students annually, expanding campuses, adding CCPS satellite locations, and strengthening philanthropic partnerships. Previously, she served as Executive Director of the Naples Children & Education Foundation and founded Montecalvo & Associates, helping nonprofits with fundraising and strategic development. A compassionate and visionary leader, Dawn unites donors, volunteers, and educators around a shared mission to create life-changing opportunities for generations of students.
LINKS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST
Guadalupe Centre- www.guadalupecenter.org
Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/guadalupe_center
Youtube- https://www.youtube.com/@TheGuadalupeCenter
All in for Early Learning- https://www.allinforearlylearning.com/
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The ECE Experience- Link
Website: www.carlatheece.com
Instagram: @carlatheece
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Rebecca Parlakian, child development and parenting specialist at ZERO TO THREE, to shine a spotlight on the incredible world of infants and toddlers.
Together they unpack:
The key developmental milestones across social-emotional, cognitive, communication, and physical domains
Why everyday moments (like laundry, sunlight, or stirring with a spoon) are powerful learning opportunities
How infant programs can be more intentional in designing environments that truly support growth
The role of educators and parents as “detectives” decoding cries, cues, and needs
The advocacy work ZERO TO THREE is leading—bringing families and even policymakers into the conversation about babies
If you’ve ever wondered how to support our youngest learners- or needed a reminder of the magic in the everyday- this episode is for you.
REBECCA PARLAKIAN
Rebecca Parlakian is Senior Director of Programs at ZERO TO THREE, where she leads work on child development, parenting, and early education. With more than two decades of experience, she has co-authored five curricula, published widely on parenting and early learning, and is a regular contributor to NAEYC’s Young Children. A recognized voice in national media, Rebecca is dedicated to advancing the power of relationships in shaping children’s earliest years.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-parlakian/
ZERO TO THREE
LEARN Conference: https://www.zerotothree.org/learn-conference/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zero-to-three/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zerotothree
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ZEROTOTHREE/
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The ECE Experience- Link
Website: www.carlatheece.com
Instagram: @carlatheece
In this engaging conversation, Debbie shares her journey as an early childhood educator and how her experiences have shaped her understanding of the profession. She discusses the natural coaching abilities of educators, the importance of reflective inquiry, and the transformative power of vision boards and manifestation in both personal and professional contexts. Debbie emphasizes the significance of a positive mindset, the impact of a single word on organizational culture, and practical strategies for managing classroom chaos while fostering child development through play-based learning. The discussion culminates in a call to action for educators to embrace intentionality in their teaching practices and create engaging learning environments for children.
TAKEAWAYS
Debbie has over 30 years of experience in early childhood education.
Early childhood educators possess natural coaching skills.
Reflective inquiry is a key skill for educators and coaches.
Vision boards can serve as powerful tools for manifestation.
A single word can transform organizational culture.
Positive mindset influences the environment and outcomes.
Classroom chaos can be managed with intentional strategies.
Understanding child development is crucial for effective teaching.
Intentionality in teaching enhances student engagement.
Creating an engaging learning environment is essential for child development.
DEBBI SLUYS
Debbi Sluys is a Christian, mom of four, wife and grandma. Debbi is founder of Dare to Declare™, a coach, trainer, author and speaker who specializes in helping people expand their brain’s potential to see what is possible for their future with Vision boards.
As a former Child Care Director, Debbi has studied personal development for over 30 years and has facilitated and witnessed science at work by guiding thousands of clients to identify and declare their Vision both online and in-person at workshops and retreats.
Her mission and life purpose is to support individuals to declare their truth and create the life of their dreams.
Debbi hosts The Dare to Declare Podcast, where giant manifestors come to share how they've turned their visions and goals into reality!
Website: https://debbisluys.com/
Instagram: @debbisluys
Facebook: Debbi Sluys
LinkedIn: Debbi Sluys
Conference: Link
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The ECE Experience- Link
Website: elfoundations.com
Instagram: @elfoundations
The words we choose with children matter more than we realize. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores The Language of Encouragement and how it shapes a child’s self-esteem, resilience, and inner voice.
Discover:
✔ The difference between praise and encouragement
✔ Why connection before correction preserves dignity
✔ How adding the word yet builds growth mindset
✔ Practical phrases you can start using in your classroom right away
Your language has lasting impact. Learn how to shift from empty praise to authentic encouragement that empowers children for life.
🎟️ Don’t miss Carla’s live event in Mississauga, ON — The ECE Experience on November 8th. Tickets: https://elfoundations.thrivecart.com/the-ece-experience-2025/
LINKS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST
The ECE Experience- Link
The Third Teacher Book- Link
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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!
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Website: elfoundations.com
Instagram: @elfoundations
What does it look like to truly humanize early learning? In this rich conversation with Kisa Marx. We unpack why adaptability is now a core competency for educators and families. We explore how belonging builds real resilience, why “good job” falls short, the power of the pause, and how to hold safety, advocacy, and kindness at the same time.
You’ll hear:
Humanizing practice defined—and how adult-centred habits get in the way
Belonging before resilience: sanctuary, safety, and why “toughness by suffering” is a myth
Language shifts that matter: encouragement over praise, “the pause,” and listening fully
Adapting after 2020: grieving what was, keeping what works, and teaching for the world we’re in
Boundaries and advocacy: speaking up while staying safe in your context
Perfect for ECEs, leaders, and families rebuilding culture through play, nature, and authentic connection.
KISA MARX
Kisa is a child advocate, practitioner, and founder of The Play Lab Foundation a nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide access to high-quality, self-affirming care for every child regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic status, ability or neurotype.
Website: https://playlaboakpark.org/
Instagram: @theplaylabfoundation
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The ECE Experience- Link
Website: elfoundations.com
Instagram: @elfoundations
Your classroom is always teaching, even when you’re not speaking. In this episode, Carla Ward explores the concept of the “hidden curriculum” through the Reggio Emilia idea of the classroom as the third teacher. From lighting and plants to blocks, visual schedules, and representation, discover how the environment silently shapes children’s learning and belonging.
Carla also shares a personal story of transforming a windowless classroom with fairy lights and practical strategies you can use to align your hidden curriculum with your values as an educator.
🎟️ Don’t miss Carla’s live event in Mississauga, ON — The ECE Experience on November 8th. Tickets: https://elfoundations.thrivecart.com/the-ece-experience-2025/
LINKS MENTIONED IN THE PODCAST
The ECE Experience- Link
The Third Teacher Book- Link
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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!
CONNECT WITH CARLA
Email Newsletter: Click Here
Website: elfoundations.com
Instagram: @elfoundations
Children don’t need to be “fixed”- they need to be seen.
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Kisa Marx, educator and advocate for equity, to unpack what it really means to humanize children and why adaptability is a non-negotiable skill for both educators and the little ones we guide.
Together, they explore:
What “humanizing practices” look like in early childhood settings
▶️ Why language matters (and how phrases like good job and be careful fall short)
▶️ How kindness and belonging form the foundation of true resilience
▶️ Why adaptability- not perfection- is the skill educators and children both need now
▶️ The role of grief, growth, and letting go in moving forward as educators
This is an episode about shifting perspectives, protecting children’s humanity, and embracing the messy, adaptive reality of teaching in today’s world.
MARTA SKRZYPCZAK
Marta is an early childhood educator and a children's rights expert. Her mission is to support adults in creating possibilities for children to participate in decisions that concerns them and directly providing possibilities to exercise their agency. She has written scientific papers and has been a guest on some other podcasts. She is a digital creator and participation coach. She also supports participation structures in one of Berlin's districts.
Website: www.participation-coach.com
Instagram: @participation_coach
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Website: elfoundations.com
Instagram: @elfoundations
Back-to-school means new faces, new energy, and new opportunities to set the tone. But are we over-focusing on the schedule and missing the real magic of routines?
In this episode, I dive into the difference between schedules and routines, why routines matter so deeply for children’s safety, belonging, and learning, and how transitions can be powerful moments for connection. We’ll also talk about using visual schedules to support independence and calm, and why educators need their own arrival and departure rituals to thrive.
If you’ve ever stressed about being “off schedule,” this one’s for you. Spoiler: the only people who can tell time in your classroom are the adults!
Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/2024
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Why does social emotional learning need to start with us as educators? In this thought-provoking conversation with Prerna Richards of Together We Grow, we explore how our own regulation, mindset, and choices impact everything from classroom dynamics to the way children learn and grow. This episode blends insight, real-life reflection, and practical ideas you can start using right away.Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/203
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Learn how to plan in early childhood education with calm, connection, and intention. In this episode, Carla Ward shares ECE planning tips for merging curriculum expectations with play-based learning, improving classroom flow, and making documentation purposeful.
Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/202
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In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Meeghan Carter, a bilingual educator with over 25 years of experience, to explore how early exposure to a second language can boost empathy, cultural awareness, and cognitive development. Meeghan shares her journey building Spanish language programs for young children and offers simple, accessible ways for educators to bring foreign language into their classroom, even if they only speak English themselves.
Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/201
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It’s the 200th episode of The Everything ECE Podcast! To celebrate, I’m bringing you a roundup of powerful insights from 10 incredible expert guests whose voices continue to shape and elevate the early learning profession.
From equity and neurodiversity to art, literacy, and documentation, this episode is filled with the kind of reflections that remind us why we do this work—and how we can keep doing it better.
Whether you’re a new educator or a seasoned leader, these quotes will leave you thinking, “Yes. This is exactly what I needed to hear.”
Featured guests: Emily Clark, Dr. Jasmine Moses, Cathy Belgrave, Beck Goodman, Ron Grady, Laura Shea, Angelica Celinska, Laura Hansen, Robyn Papworth, and Monica Maddison.
Bonus: We’ve got a fresh new podcast cover! Take a peek when you hit play.Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/200Join the ECE Latte Lounge FREE for the month of August: www.elfoundations.com/200latte
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Have you ever wondered if we’re identifying literacy challenges early enough in young children? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward is joined by Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift to talk about the importance of early detection, the key signs to look for, and practical strategies educators can use to support children who are struggling with reading.
Whether you're in a preschool classroom or supporting early learners at home, this conversation will give you the tools and confidence to make a difference.
Show Notes: elfoundations.com/199
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In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla explores the power and potential of intergenerational teams in early childhood education. With multiple generations working side by side in many ECE programs, there is an opportunity to create stronger, more dynamic teams when we learn to lean into our differences with curiosity and respect. Carla shares real stories, practical tools, and reflection prompts that will help you embrace diverse perspectives and build bridges between experience and innovation. Whether you're new to the profession or a seasoned educator, this episode will leave you feeling inspired, valued, and ready to co-create meaningful change with your team.
Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/198Email Newsletter: Click Here
In this heart-opening conversation, Carla Ward sits down with Cathy Belgrave, host of The Intentional ECE Podcast, to explore the powerful role of art in early learning—not just as an activity, but as a mindset. Together, they unpack what it means for educators to develop an art mindset, how to move beyond crafts and into intentional creativity, and why art is essential for connection, communication, and discovery.
From tackling admin and parent expectations to shifting your own thinking, this episode will leave you inspired to reimagine what’s possible through art.
🎨 Topics we cover:
What an “art mindset” really means in early learning
The evolution from product-based art to meaningful creative expression
Why art is communication (and how to see it that way)
Planning through concepts, wonderings, and play
How art fosters relationships, development, and identity
Using art to meet curriculum expectations—without worksheets
🖌️ Plus: Cathy shares how her own relationship with art has evolved, and practical ways educators and administrators can build a culture that values creative exploration.
🎧 Don’t miss this one—especially if you’ve ever said, “I’m not artsy.”
It’s time to shift the mindset and discover what’s possible.
Show Notes: elfoundations.com/197Email Newsletter: Click Here
Is your circle time built for compliance or connection? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward invites educators to rethink traditional circle time practices and shift the focus from managing behaviour to building meaningful engagement. We explore why not every child needs to join the group to be involved, how rigid expectations like “criss-cross applesauce” can harm inclusion, and why proximity doesn’t always equal participation. Whether you’re struggling with group time or ready to refresh your routine, this conversation will help you transform circle time into a moment of authentic connection.
Show Notes: elfoundations.com/195
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