Podcast: Inclusion Matters

In this second episode of this two-part series on outdoor play and extending the classroom outside, Brenda Lowe and Dana Ellingson take a deeper dive into the benefits of outdoor play. They discuss the Early Childhood Educator's role in playing outside and also more intentional opportunities utilizing common outdoor and classroom materials that can extend the learning experience that engage children and ignite their natural curiosity.

In this first episode of this two-part series on extending the Early Childhood classroom outdoors, Brenda Lowe and Dana Ellingson discuss the importance of outdoor play and some health and safety concerns to consider. They discuss using practical and creative ways to expand the classroom learning to the great outdoors and also how that in itself can present many rewards and challenges.  In addition to health and safety concerns for children, topics of cultural responsiveness and respecting parental concerns are addressed when thinking about supporting outdoor play. 

How do we welcome babies and their families into our childcare programs? Join Beth Menninga, RBPD Manager at CICC, as she talks with Sheryl Warner, Family Child Care Provider, as Sheryl describes her walk with parents and babies who are coming to her childcare program for the first time. Attending to parenting approaches; ongoing conversation and coordination; helping children adapt to new routines; self-awareness and tenderness are all discussed as a part of establishing the relationship with families as a key element to welcoming babies.

Joey Schoen from Dodge Nature Preschool continues our discussion of outdoor learning and shares about ways to set up for success.  Communication and planning are essential components. Listen and learn ways you can use items that you may have in inventory that will enhance the play outdoors!

Children and adults both benefit from time outdoors!  We can use our outdoor space in a way that encourages amazing learning for the children in our care. Listen as our guest, Joey Schoen, from Dodge Nature Preschool, shares ways to set up your outdoor space to maximize the learning and fun potential for children. 

 In part two of the conversation with our guest Dr. Molly Harney we discuss ways that we as caregivers can provide a buffer for young children experiencing stress levels higher than what is healthy for them.  Listen as Dr. Harney helps us understand tools and ways to nurture and support to build resilience.