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 ...
Jun 27, 2025•10 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward sits down with Angela Odusanya - Registered Early Childhood Educator, Ontario Certified Teacher, and children’s book author - to explore how loose parts play transformed her classroom practice and perspective on children's creativity. Angela shares her personal "aha moment," the calming magic of loose parts, and how educators can start small without feeling overwhelmed. We also dive into how her book Amelia’s Loose Part Art introduces lo...
Jun 20, 2025•27 min
What if the behaviours we label as acting out were actually sensory cries for help? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward pulls back the curtain on the sensory side of behaviour. From spinning in circles to hiding under tables and chewing hoodie strings-these aren't just disruptions; they're messages. Backed by research from Dr. Lucy Jane Miller, Dr. Mona Delahooke, and more, Carla explores how sensory processing impacts children's regulation and what educators might be missi...
Jun 13, 2025•11 min
How do we foster a love of literacy in young children without drilling flashcards or forcing reading before they’re ready? In this inspiring episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , literacy expert Melissa McCall of Moving Little Minds joins Carla to explore the power of play-based early literacy and how to build strong literacy foundations in early childhood education. We discuss: ✅ Why toddlers don't need to read—but what they do need ✅ The science of reading and what preschool educators can do...
Jun 06, 2025•23 min
In this episode, Carla Ward explores how reflective practice isn’t just a tool—it’s a transformative mindset that allows early childhood educators to grow, connect, and thrive. Through powerful stories and practical strategies, Carla shows how small daily reflections can lead to deeper connections with children, stronger professional relationships, and a renewed sense of purpose. Learn how a simple name-listing activity can change the way you show up in your classroom. Reflection Guide: www.elfo...
May 30, 2025•10 min
Katherine Hamilton from Ensemble Learning joins Carla to talk about successful classroom walkthroughs that build trust, support educators, and impact student outcomes. Learn how walkthroughs, when done with intention and focus, can transform school culture, close achievement gaps, and empower educators—without adding stress. Perfect for ECE supervisors, program leaders, and educators ready to grow. 💡 Get inspired to start small and build a culture of feedback, connection, and continuous improve...
May 23, 2025•33 min
What if storytime didn’t end when you closed the book? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward invites you to reimagine how literacy lives in your early childhood classroom by taking stories beyond the book . Discover why the most powerful literacy experiences happen after the last page is turned, and how you can weave books into play, conversation, and connection throughout your learning environment. Carla shares 3 practical, classroom-tested strategies to help educators exte...
May 16, 2025•8 min
Join Carla and Dr. Margaret Quinn as they explore how children under six make meaning through writing. This episode breaks down Margaret’s fascinating research on transcription, connection, and discourse—three essential components of early writing—and gives practical strategies for supporting young children’s literacy through intentional, play-based learning. Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/189 Sign Up for our Newsletter: Click Here...
May 09, 2025•26 min
Discover how to view your childcare program through a sensory lens. In this episode, Carla Ward guides you through a sensorial audit—what it is, why it matters, and how to start making small changes that lead to big impacts on children’s regulation, focus, and well-being. Packed with actionable tips for every educatorSensorial Audit Checklist: www.elfoundations.com/sensorialaudit Show Notes: www.elfoundations.com/188 Sign Up for our Newsletter: Click Here...
May 02, 2025•13 min
In this powerful and heartfelt episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward is joined by the one and only Sally Haughey, founder of Fairy Dust Teaching (now Wunderled) and a beloved leader in the world of play-based early childhood education. Together, they dive deep into what it really means to build a culture of belonging in early childhood classrooms. Sally shares her personal story, the origin of Fairy Dust Teaching, and how her own struggles as an educator inspired the work she does t...
Apr 25, 2025•35 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , host Carla Ward answers real questions submitted by early childhood educators. From burnout and leadership struggles to career pivots and unforgettable placement moments, Carla shares personal stories and honest reflections from her 20 years in the profession. You'll hear: What made her cry at work (and it wasn’t the child) How leadership can make or break your ECE experience Why she stepped out of the classroom to create greater impact Tips for su...
Apr 18, 2025•16 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , host Carla Ward is joined by early childhood education expert Amy Reyes-Hauff to explore the powerful connection between outdoor learning and self-regulation in young children. With over 25 years of experience—from Head Start Director to Montessori Kindergarten Teacher to her current role at the Wyoming Department of Education—Amy brings a wealth of knowledge and real-world insight. As the founder of Get Wild Wyoming , an outdoor learning initiativ...
Apr 11, 2025•23 min
In the final episode of her classroom environment series, Carla Ward dives into the concept of YES Spaces—learning environments intentionally designed to say yes to children’s curiosity, autonomy, and play. Drawing from experience and research, Carla explores how YES Spaces support independence, reduce behavioral challenges, and foster deeper engagement. This episode offers a mindset shift and practical steps for educators looking to create meaningful, child-centered environments in any program ...
Apr 04, 2025•12 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward explores the surprising power of plants in early learning environments. From purifying air to boosting focus and promoting empathy, plants bring more than beauty—they bring connection. Carla shares research-backed insights, practical tips, and how educators can start their own “plant movement” without spending a dime. Whether in a centre, home child care, or school-age program, this episode will leave educators inspired to grow something...
Mar 28, 2025•10 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward explores a part of early learning environments that’s often overlooked—but deeply impactful. Lighting can influence everything from energy levels to emotional regulation for both children and educators. Whether you’re in a child care centre, home child care, or school-age program, this conversation will leave you rethinking the light in your space. Sign up for The Everything ECE Summit at elfoundations.com/ecesummit . Sign Up for...
Mar 21, 2025•9 min
Colour is more than just decoration—it influences mood, focus, and the overall energy of a learning environment. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward explores the psychology of colour in early childhood settings, sharing research-backed insights on how different hues impact both children and educators. She offers creative, budget-friendly ways to introduce colour into child care programs without painting the walls. Plus, Carla shares a personal story about a bright red tabl...
Mar 14, 2025•8 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla sits down with Ishaa Vinod Chopra, an early childhood educator and performing artist, to explore how movement and dance can support mental health for Early Childhood Educators. They discuss the importance of emotional regulation for both educators and children, breaking the stigma around mental well-being, and how integrating dance into learning spaces can create a sense of belonging and self-expression. Tune in to hear how dance can be a sim...
Mar 07, 2025•23 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward explores the difference between consequences and punishment in early childhood education. She discusses why harsh discipline methods, including shame and unrelated punishments, are not effective in guiding children's behavior. Instead, Carla dives into natural and logical consequences that support learning, emotional regulation, and positive relationships. Tune in for actionable strategies, research-backed insights, and real-life example...
Feb 28, 2025•10 min
This week on The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward welcomes Emily Clark, a passionate PhD student in early childhood education with international teaching experience. Emily is dedicated to making educational research more accessible and emphasizes the importance of understanding each child’s unique needs. She challenges traditional standardized measures and instead advocates for quality interactions and play as liberation. In this episode, Emily shares insights on supportive leadership, profes...
Feb 21, 2025•26 min
After returning from a much-needed getaway to Mexico, Carla Ward explores why boundaries and breaks are essential for Early Childhood Educators. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , she dives into the science behind why stepping away leads to better focus, patience, and overall well-being. Listeners will learn: ✔️ How breaks improve brain function and emotional regulation ✔️ Why setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for longevity in ECE ✔️ Practical ways to create work-life ...
Feb 14, 2025•9 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward is joined by Sherri Phillips, a registered early childhood educator and postpartum doula, to explore the critical role of supporting families in the postpartum period. Sherri shares valuable insights into the emotional, physical, and practical support doulas provide, and why tummy time is more than just a developmental milestone. Whether you work with infants or simply want to learn more about early development, this conversation is packe...
Feb 07, 2025•38 min
Did you think you were signing up to work just with children? Surprise! Families play a HUGE role in early childhood education, and building strong relationships with them makes a massive difference —not just for the children, but for you as an educator. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , we explore: ✔️ Why family-educator relationships are so important ✔️ The impact on children’s success and development ✔️ How strong family connections make your job easier and more fulfilling ✔️ Ac...
Jan 31, 2025•10 min
Math doesn’t have to be scary—it can be fun, engaging, and a natural part of everyday life! In this episode, Carla Ward chats with Dr. Sara Delano Moore, a math enthusiast, educator and the VP of Content & Research at ORIGO Education, about how to make math approachable for young learners. Discover why early math foundations are crucial for future success, how play and everyday activities can teach math concepts, and strategies to overcome math anxiety for both children and adults. Whether y...
Jan 24, 2025•31 min
Self-care isn’t just bubble baths and candles—it’s about real, intentional practices that help you thrive, not just survive. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward gets real about the impact of stress on your health and relationships, sharing personal stories and actionable strategies to make self-care a non-negotiable part of your life. From setting boundaries to celebrating small wins, this episode is packed with insights to help you prioritize your well-being. Don’t miss th...
Jan 17, 2025•8 min
Carla welcomes Hina Khan, a former psychotherapist turned peak performance mindset coach, to discuss the power of manifestation and personal growth. Hina shares her journey and insights on recognizing abundance, the importance of community, and the undervaluation of early childhood educators. They explore concepts like the financial thermostat and goal setting, emphasizing that women's wealth can uplift communities. Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/172 Hina's Book: https://amzn.to/4fNMI...
Jan 10, 2025•36 min
Carla is joined by Kerry Drake to discuss the vital role of mentorship in early childhood education, highlighting its impact on educators' growth. Kerry, a seasoned educator and founder of KD Talks, shares her positive experiences and emphasizes the need for structured placements and mentor preparation. The conversation covers the importance of building relationships, collective responsibility in mentorship, and the necessity of incentives to support mentors. Show Notes: https://www.elfoundation...
Jan 03, 2025•31 min
Choosing a word for the year can be a powerful way to set your intentions and stay grounded throughout 2025. In this reflective episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , host Carla Ward guides early childhood educators on a meaningful journey to discover their word for the year. Through moments of reflection, thoughtful prompts, and actionable tips, you’ll learn how to choose a word that inspires you both personally and professionally. Whether it’s balance , connection , or growth , this episode w...
Dec 27, 2024•6 min
How has the pandemic shaped the literacy and motor skills of today’s preschoolers? Join Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift as she explores the startling decline in kindergarten readiness and its ripple effects. Dr. Swift dives into how social-emotional development, phonological awareness, and play-based learning hold the keys to recovery. This episode offers strategies for educators and parents alike—but what’s the one surprising factor that could make all the difference? Tune in to uncover it. Show Notes: ...
Dec 20, 2024•39 min
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , Carla Ward shares five practical strategies to help children start their day on the right foot. Whether you’re in home child care or a center-based program, these tips will empower you to create a welcoming and supportive environment from the moment children arrive. Tune in to discover how small, intentional actions can set the tone for a positive day. Show Notes: https://www.elfoundations.com/168 Work with Carla: https://www.elfoundations.com/prof...
Dec 13, 2024•8 min•Ep. 168
What happens when a hurricane or wildfire interrupts a child's early education? For over 500,000 children enrolled in Head Start programs—40% of which are in federally declared disaster areas—the consequences are profound. In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast , host Carla Ward speaks with Todd Grindall, Co-Director at SRI Education, to uncover the critical challenges that extreme weather poses to early childhood education. Inspired by the devastation caused by Hurricane Michael, Todd sh...
Dec 06, 2024•25 min•Ep. 167
