In this episode of Early Years Explorers, host Afaf Zaidan unpacks what assessment really means in early childhood — beyond checklists and clipboards. From observing children’s play and curiosity to capturing learning through stories, Afaf explores how assessment can be authentic, joyful, and deeply meaningful.

Discover how everyday moments — a block tower that just won’t stand, a paint mix gone delightfully wrong, or a child’s proud retelling of their own story — reveal powerful insights about learning and growth.

Join us as we rethink assessment not as a test, but as a way of seeing the whole child: their strengths, emotions, creativity, and voice.

Reflective. Practical. Heartfelt. This episode reminds us that even the glitter explosions count… kind of.

Get ready to tap your toes and move your hearts! In this episode of Early Years Explorers, Afaf Zaidan dives into the rhythm and wonder of music and movement in early childhood. From spontaneous dance parties to the magic of a well-timed cleanup song, discover how rhythm, repetition, and joy become powerful tools for learning.

We’ll explore what research says about how music supports brain development, emotional regulation, and language growth — and of course, share a few real classroom moments (yes, including the one where the freeze dance went hilariously wrong).

Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or anyone who’s ever hummed “Baby Shark” on repeat, this episode reminds us that music isn’t just an activity — it’s a language children use to connect, express, and thrive.

In this episode, we dive into one of the most important aspects of early childhood education — social-emotional development. From building friendships and learning to share, to managing big feelings and developing empathy, these early years lay the foundation for children’s well-being and future success.

Join me as I explore practical strategies, classroom stories, and research-based insights that highlight how educators and families can support children in becoming confident, resilient, and compassionate learners.

The first six weeks of preschool are a whirlwind — for teachers, parents, and especially for our tiny learners. In this episode of Early Years Explorers, Afaf Zaidan dives into the ups, downs, and unexpected moments that make this “settling-in” period so important. From snack times that turn into mini buffets to parents staking out the classroom window, Afaf shares the humor and heart of those early days. You’ll also hear tried-and-true strategies for easing the transition, building trust, and setting the tone for a successful school year. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or early years enthusiast, this episode will make you laugh, nod in recognition, and maybe even jot down a few tips for your own settling-in journey.

In this playful and thought-provoking episode, we dive into the magical world of manipulatives and loose parts in early childhood education. How do simple materials like buttons, pebbles, lids, or fabric scraps spark complex thinking and creativity in young learners?

Join us as we explore how open-ended, hands-on play with manipulatives encourages problem-solving, language development, fine motor skills, and imaginative thinking. We discuss how educators can thoughtfully curate loose parts and create rich environments that inspire curiosity and exploration.

Whether it’s sorting, building, storytelling, or representing mathematical thinking, manipulatives are more than just play — they’re powerful tools for learning!

Tune in and discover why bright minds truly start with loose parts.

In this episode of Early Years Explorers, we delve into a key question many educators and parents face: Should young children be playing, practicing—or both?

Join me as we unpack the importance of balancing free play with intentional practice in early childhood settings. We’ll explore how child-led exploration nurtures creativity and social-emotional skills, while guided practice helps develop foundational concepts and routines.

Through real classroom examples and reflective insights, this episode highlights how educators can thoughtfully blend both approaches to support holistic learning in the early years.

Whether you lean more toward play-based learning or structured skill-building, this episode will give you practical strategies and food for thought as you navigate this important balance.

Dive into Episode 7 of Early Years Explorers with me, Afaf Zaidan—“Little Listeners, Big Feelings.” We’re unpacking all those preschool moments that leave us equal parts “aww” and “argh”: banana-breakdown meltdowns, mini-dinosaur stomps, and the ever-handy battle cry of “ay carumba!” as a catch-all for shock, surprise, or sheer frustration.

I’ll share the real-life classroom wins (and giggles) that come from co-regulation over “Calm down!”, breathing games that feel more like play, and cozy calm-down corners that actually work. Plus, we’ll talk about teaming up with families—because nothing sticks unless kids hear the same feeling words both at school and at home.

Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or someone who’s ever been serenaded by a preschoolers dramatic “NOOO!”, join us for strategies, stories, and a good dose of humor. Grab your tea—or your playdough—and let’s turn those huge emotions into powerful learning moments!

Pack your (imaginary) bags and grab your glitter glue, because in this episode of Early Years Explorers, we’re traveling the world—without ever leaving the classroom!
Join host Afaf Zaidan as we dive into how preschoolers, snack crumbs and all, can begin their journey as global citizens. From dot-painting didgeridoos in Australia to dancing dabkeh in Lebanon (and discovering that Scotland’s national animal is a unicorn—obviously), we’ll explore how stories, art, music, and simple curiosity plant the seeds of international-mindedness in the tiniest of learners.
Spoiler alert: It’s not about memorizing flags or finding Kazakhstan on a map (they can’t even find their left shoe half the time)—it’s about growing empathy, wonder, and connection, one sticky, magical moment at a time.

If you love laughing, learning, and believing in the power of little people to make a big difference, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Early Years Explores, I’m diving into a question I get asked a lot: what is early literacy really all about?

Spoiler alert—it’s not just about knowing the alphabet or being able to trace letters on a worksheet. Early literacy begins long before a child picks up a pencil. It’s built on connection, language, imagination, and play. I’ll be sharing how those silly voices you use during storytime, those chats in the car, and even those spontaneous puppet shows are actually laying the groundwork for strong literacy skills.

I’ll also unpack some recent research, share practical, low-stress ways to weave literacy into your day, and hopefully make you laugh along the way. No Pinterest-perfect setups required—just real talk, real ideas, and a whole lot of heart for our little learners.

So, grab your (probably cold) coffee and join me as we go beyond the ABCs and explore what really helps children fall in love with language.

In this episode of Early Years Explores, I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the most powerful forces in early childhood education: play.

I dive into the research, the classroom magic, and the lived reality of what children are really doing when they’re “just playing.” From building cognitive skills in the block corner to developing emotional resilience during dramatic play, I’ll show you how play supports deep, authentic learning across every developmental domain.

I’ll also bust a few myths (yes, I’m looking at you, “They’re only playing”), share real-life classroom stories, and unpack why play is not a break from learning.

So if you’re an educator, a parent, or someone who’s ever wondered what’s really going on behind the loud ruckus— this episode is for you.

Ever feel like circle time is part magic, part mayhem? In this episode of Early Years Explorers, we pull back the curtain on what really goes down during those precious morning moments. From whispered puppet secrets to snack-time negotiations, I’m sharing my go-to tips, honest laughs, and tried-and-true strategies for making circle time meaningful—even when attention spans are bouncing off the rug. Whether you're a new educator or a seasoned pro, join me for real talk on keeping those 20 wiggly humans engaged, connected, and coming back for more.

Listening to What Children Really Tell Us – Letting Go to Let Learning Happen

In this episode, we explore what happens when educators pause, observe, and truly listen to the voices—spoken and unspoken—of young children. From playful moments in the home corner to discoveries with magnifying glasses, we reflect on how letting go of control creates space for magical, meaningful learning. Join us as we dive into the beauty of child-led exploration, the power of being present, and the lessons children are already teaching us—if we’re willing to slow down and hear them. Expect insights, inspiration, and a little humor along the way!

Welcome to the very first episode of Early Years Explorers — the podcast where messy play meets meaningful learning! I'm Afaf Zaidan , a preschool lead teacher with nearly two decades in education (and a permanent dusting of glitter to prove it).

In this episode, we dive into why the early years — from birth to age 7 — are so much more than finger painting and snack time. From brain development to building social-emotional foundations, this is where the real magic begins. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or someone curious about those tiny humans with big personalities, this one’s for you.

Expect real talk, real laughs, and a whole lot of love for the littlest learners.