The Everything ECE Podcast
The Everything ECE Podcast is for early childhood educators, preschool teachers, and childcare professionals who want to grow intentionally and take meaningful action. Host Carla Ward shares real-life insights, expert interviews, and practical strategies to support your work in childcare centres, preschools, and kindergartens. From play-based learning to leadership, each episode helps you stay inspired, confident, and connected to your purpose.
Episodes
#258: How to Have a Great Circle Time with Saira Remtulla
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Saira Remtulla, Ontario Certified Teacher and founder of Connected Start, for a conversation about rethinking circle time in early learning.Circle time can be one of the most powerful opportunities for connection in an early learning program, but only when we’re clear about why we’re gathering in the first place.Carla and Sai
#257: Should We Still Use Food in Sensory Play? | Dear Carla
After 34 years in the field, one educator has seen a lot of trends come and go, including the shift away from using food like rice, beans and pasta in sensory play.But with a growing understanding of sensory needs and regulation, is it time to reconsider? Or are there bigger questions about food, resources and respect that should still guide practice?In this Dear Carla episode, Carla responds to “
#256: Say NO Less: Let the Environment Do the Work
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores what happens when “no,” “stop,” “don’t,” and “put that back” become the soundtrack of the day. Rather than immediately looking at the child when something isn’t working, she challenges educators to get curious about the environment, the expectations within it, and the rules they may be enforcing without ever stopping to ask why.Car
#255: Playoneering: The Future of Education with Hayley Peacock
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward is joined by Hayley Peacock, creator of Playoneering®️, for a conversation about play, curiosity and what the future of education could look like.Together, Carla and Hayley explore what happens when play doesn't end with the early years and education is built from children's natural curiosity, creativity and capacity to learn.They d
#254: Building a Legacy with Heather Jackson
Heather Jackson has spent years in early childhood education asking questions, following curiosity, researching practice, and deeply respecting the thinking of children.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Heather, founder of The Sunflower School and host of the Actions of Play podcast, to talk about the experiences that have shaped her work and the legacy she has bu
#253: Beyond the Diploma with Megan Wuerfel
In this episode, Carla sits down with Megan Wuerfel, founder of The ECE Exchange, to explore the many ways educators can use their experience beyond the classroom. They discuss how to recognize your unique ECE “superpower,” why classroom experience matters when stepping into coaching or professional learning, and the importance of documenting your journey long before you think you’ll need it.Megan
#252: Building Connection Through Language with Cara Tyrrell
Children begin communicating from the moment they are born. Long before they have spoken words, they are using facial expressions, movements, gestures, sounds and behaviour to tell us what they need, what they understand and how they are experiencing the world around them.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla speaks with early language expert, educator and linguist Cara Tyrrell, M.E
#251: Understanding Process Art with Victoria Armstrong
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla is joined by Victoria Armstrong, owner of Side By Side Consulting Services, for a thoughtful conversation about rethinking art in early learning.Victoria brings almost 20 years of experience as a classroom educator, pedagogical leader, college professor, coordinator and early learning consultant. She also spent a significant part of her career p
#250: The Conversations We Keep Avoiding with Jaime Mann
Working closely with other people is an unavoidable part of early childhood education—but navigating differences, feedback, and workplace tension does not always come naturally.Leadership speaker and facilitator Jaime Mann joins Carla Ward for an honest conversation about the discussions people often label as “difficult.” Jaime offers a different way to think about these moments and explains how c
#249: Letting Children Do the Heavy Lifting with Trevor Newton
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with early childhood educator, keynote speaker, and coach Trevor Newton for a conversation that will challenge the way you think about play, relationships, and children's social development.Together, they explore why conflict isn't something to prevent, but something to teach through. Trevor shares simple, practical strategies that hel
#248: Curiosity Is a Professional Responsibility
What if one of the most important responsibilities we have as educators isn't just teaching children, but continuing to learn ourselves?In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla explores why curiosity is more than a personality trait. It's a professional responsibility.Drawing on more than 20 years in early childhood education, Carla reflects on what separates educators who cont
247: Understanding Schema Play with Heather Bernt-Santy
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Heather Bernt-Santy, better known as That Early Childhood Nerd, to explore the fascinating world of schema play.Heather shares how recognizing schemas helps educators move beyond simply managing behaviour and instead see the learning, curiosity, and development taking place through play. From transporting and trajectory to en
#246: Raising Thinkers: Building Critical Thinking in Early Years
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla explores why critical thinking begins long before children enter elementary school and how everyday moments in our classrooms shape children's confidence as problem-solvers, question-askers, and curious learners.From open-ended play and educator language to productive struggle and reflective practice, this conversation will challenge you to
#245: Human Skills in an AI-powered World with Chris Danilo
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with award-winning speaker and trainer Chris Danilo to explore the skills that technology can't replace.As artificial intelligence continues to reshape the workplace, many educators are asking the same question: What makes humans irreplaceable?Together, Carla and Chris dive into the human skills that will matter most in the ye
#244: The 5 Types of Self-Care | Why Educators Can't Afford to Ignore Their Well-Being
Self-care is often reduced to bubble baths, spa days, and treating yourself, but true self-care goes much deeper than that.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward shares a personal story about how years of ignoring her own well-being led to a panic attack that landed her in the hospital. Through honest reflection and practical insights, she explores why self-care is not a luxury
#243: Why Movement Comes Before Mindfulness with Lisa Danahy
#243: Why Movement Comes Before Mindfulness with Lisa DanahyIn this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with educator, author, yoga therapist, and founder of Create Calm, Lisa Danahy, to explore the powerful connection between movement, emotional regulation, and learning.Together, they discuss why movement is often the pathway to mindfulness, how educators can support their
#242: Who Raised You Musically? The Hidden Influence of Music on Childhood Development
What if the music we grow up around shapes more than just our memories?In this reflective solo episode, Carla Ward explores the powerful role music plays in childhood development, emotional regulation, identity formation, and the environments we create for children. From Linda Ronstadt and Carole King to Cher, Madonna, and the Spice Girls, Carla reflects on the soundtrack of her own childhood and
#241: The Basics We Cannot Afford to Lose in ECE with Laurent Li
This week on The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Laurent Li, an educator working both on the frontline with children and in post-secondary education, preparing future ECEs entering the field.Together, they have an honest and reflective conversation about the growing gap between graduating and actually being classroom-ready, authentic inclusion culture, mentorship, onboarding, advocacy
#240: Using the 5 Ws and the H to Reflect and Respond
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward shares one of the most impactful reflective strategies she adopted in her career as an early childhood educator: using the 5 Ws and the H to better understand behaviour, play, emotions, environments, and classroom dynamics.Instead of immediately reacting to challenging moments, Carla explores how slowing down and asking reflective questions
#239: Working with Wood in ECE with Pete Moorhouse
Working with Wood in ECE with Pete MoorhouseWoodworking in early childhood can feel like a big leap – for educators and for programs.In this episode, I sit down with early years creative consultant, researcher, and author Pete Moorhouse to explore what woodworking can actually look like in practice – and why it matters.With over 25 years of experience, Pete shares how hands-on experiences with rea
#238: Embracing Scissors and Letting Go of Fear
Scissors.Such a simple tool… until it’s not.In this episode, we’re digging into the hesitation so many educators feel when it comes to offering scissors during free play. Is it about safety? Trust? Or something deeper?Because when scissors aren’t part of the environment, we might be holding children back in ways we don’t always see - from fine motor development to creativity and confidence.This ep
237: If Not You, Then Who? Taking Action in Education with Kisa Marx
What if the change we keep waiting for… is actually us?In this powerful and honest conversation, I’m joined again by the incredible Kisa Marx to talk about her new book We Are Who We’re Waiting For and the deeper truths behind it.Together, we explore what’s really holding education back, why neutrality might be our biggest barrier, and how systems can be working exactly as designed… even when they
#236: 5 Ways to Find Your People in ECE
Feeling alone in your role as an early childhood educator… even when you’re surrounded by others?In this short episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward reflects on a powerful takeaway from The Everything ECE Summit: so many educators are craving connection with people who truly get it.If you’ve ever felt unsupported, unseen, or like no one fully understands the work you do, this episode i
#235: Oral Storytelling in ECE with Danyah Miller
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Danyah Miller, an international award-winning storyteller and author of Seven Secrets of Spontaneous Storytelling, to explore the power of storytelling beyond the book.Together, they discuss:What oral storytelling is and how it differs from readingWhy storytelling supports language, connection, and imaginationHow educators can bui
#234: From ‘Why Them?’ to ‘What About Me?’: Reclaiming Curiosity as an Educator
We often talk about curiosity in early childhood education. how we encourage it in children, how we observe it, and how we support it through play and learning.But what about educator curiosity?In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, we explore the shift from focusing solely on children’s curiosity to reconnecting with our own. Carla shares a personal story about following curiosity outside
#233: What Toddlers Know We’ve Forgotten with Dr. Hasan Merali
We spend so much time thinking about how to guide, teach, and support young children…But what if we paused - and asked what they’re teaching us?In this episode, Carla sits down with Dr. Hasan Merali to explore a powerful shift in perspective: toddlers aren’t just developing humans… they might be doing a lot of things better than we are.From risk-taking and confidence, to kindness, play, and even s
#232: The 10-Second Pause: A Powerful Strategy in the Classroom
In early childhood education, it’s natural to want to step in right away to help children solve problems. But sometimes the most powerful thing an educator can do is pause.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores the idea of the 10-second pause - a simple practice that encourages educators to pause briefly before intervening in children’s play, conflicts, and problem-solv
#231: What Children’s Behaviour Is Really Telling Us with Gretchen Camp
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with early childhood developmental educator Gretchen Camp to explore what might really be behind the rise in challenging behaviours among young children.They discuss the importance of foundational social-emotional skills, why play remains one of the most powerful learning tools, and how educators can support families in meaningful
#230: 5 Reasons Food and Screen Time Don’t Mix (And Why We Need to Protect the Table)
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward dives into an important conversation about screen use during mealtimes in early childhood programs.While screens may make mealtime feel calmer or more compliant, research shows they may interfere with children’s ability to self-regulate, recognize hunger and fullness cues, build social skills, and develop healthy eating habits.Carla shares:
#229: Introverts, Extroverts & Big Feelings: The Power of Story in the Classroom with Christine Devane
In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with children’s author and former teacher Christine Devane to explore how storytelling can support introverted learners, build self-advocacy skills, and help children process grief.Christine shares the inspiration behind her book Elephant Beach, a story about stepping outside your comfort zone while honouring personality differences in
#228: Why It’s Ok to Let Children Struggle (And Why That Is Not the Same as Suffering)
When we talk about letting children struggle, it often makes people uncomfortable. And for good reason. No one wants children to suffer.But struggle and suffering are not the same thing.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward unpacks what productive struggle actually looks like in early childhood and why those everyday moments—wrestling with a shoe, rebuilding a block tower, tryi
#227: Classroom Environments That Support Independence, Regulation, and Learning with Jennifer Fernandez
How does your classroom environment shape children’s behaviour, independence, and learning?In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Jennifer Fernandez, School Specialty’s Early Childhood Education Strategist for the U.S. and Canada, to explore why classroom environments matter far beyond aesthetics.Jennifer shares insights from her 30+ years in education as a teacher, pr
#226: Breaking the Praise Loop
Praise is so normalized in early childhood education that we rarely stop to question it. It feels supportive, encouraging, and positive. But over time, it can quietly teach children to look outside themselves for approval.In this episode, Carla Ward explores the difference between praise and encouragement, the impact of extrinsic versus intrinsic motivation, and why common phrases like “good job”
#225: How to Build a Community Classroom with Donna Skea
How to Build a Community Classroom with Donna SkeaWhat makes children feel safe, connected, and ready to learn in early childhood programs? In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla sits down with Donna Skea (The Infinite Educator) to talk about building a community classroom where every child feels like they belong.You’ll hear practical, relationship-based strategies for early childhoo
#224: 3 Ways to Turn Family Communication Into Collaboration
Families aren’t our opposition; they’re our partners. In this episode, Carla Ward explores three actionable ways educators can turn everyday communication into true collaboration with families.From proactive communication loops to intentional language and making partnership visible, you’ll walk away with practical strategies you can implement right away with no extra workload required.✨ Ready-to-u
#223: Building H.E.A.R.T.-Centered ECE Teams with Monica Rollins
Wellbeing consultant Monica Rollins, founder of Rooted Wellness Collective, joins Carla to explore what it really takes to move beyond burnout in Early Childhood Education. Together, they unpack the systemic roots of educator exhaustion and how to create H.E.A.R.T.-centered programs where teachers feel supported and children flourish.Monica shares her personal journey through burnout, the lessons
#222: Declaring Your Abundance in 2026
What does abundance really mean, and how can you call more of it into your life this year? In this inspiring episode, Carla explores how educators and entrepreneurs can shift from scarcity to abundance: in mindset, time, love, creativity, and yes, even money.You’ll learn practical ways to develop an abundance mindset, reframe scarcity thinking, and create space for joy, opportunity, and alignment
#221# Addressing the Staffing Crisis in ECE with Paul Buckley
In this episode, Carla sits down with Paul Buckley, former preschool teacher and founder of Ratio Staffing, to explore what’s really happening behind staffing challenges in early childhood education.Paul shares how burnout, outdated systems, and unnecessary barriers are affecting educators and programs and how a more human-centred, child-centred approach can change everything.This conversation is
#220 Celebrating Small Wins in ECE
In this episode, Carla explores what meaningful progress truly looks like in early childhood education: the subtle, powerful shifts that happen long before skills show up on the surface. From greeting a child at the door to acknowledging feelings with empathy, she breaks down how these small moments strengthen neural pathways, support emotional regulation, and build genuine belonging. You’ll learn
#219: AI in Education with Thomas Thompson
AI isn’t here to replace educators; it’s here to support us. In this episode, Carla sits down with Thomas Thompson, co-founder and CEO of Eduaide.Ai, to explore how AI can help teachers and early childhood educators work smarter, not harder.From lesson planning and accommodations to game-based learning and productivity, Thomas breaks down how AI tools can save time, reduce burnout, and help educat
#218: The Art of Transitions
Transitions get a bad reputation: rushed, chaotic, stressful. But they don’t have to be. In this episode, Carla explores a powerful mindset shift: transitions aren’t the thing before the next thing. They are learning.Carla breaks down how slowing down, pausing before stepping in, and leading with empathy can transform the way children experience transitions. She talks about why a bit of struggle i
#217: Why Every Educator Needs a Website (Even If You’re Not a Business Owner) with Chelsea Denny
Think websites are just for business owners? Think again.In this episode, Carla chats with Chelsea Denny, founder of Early Childhood Creative, about why every educator (from classroom teachers to program owners) can benefit from having a professional online presence.You’ll learn: ✨ How your website can work for you 24/7 💡 Why automation saves you hours every week 🌐 The difference between owning yo
#216: Reframing Conflict
Conflict doesn’t have to be scary or negative. In this short and powerful episode, Carla explores how reframing conflict can transform classroom challenges into opportunities for connection and growth.From cloakroom chaos to tidy-up time, she shares practical language shifts that help educators move from correcting and directing to connecting. Learn how your tone, words, and mindset can turn momen
#215: Not Just Cute: Why Play is Powerful, Not Just Pretty with Amanda Morgan
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-ba
#214: 5 Documentation Strategies to Bring ECE Learning to Life
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 ch
#213: Navigating Stress in Early Childhood Education with Cameile Henry
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 essent
#212: The 4 Words Holding Children Back
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 si
#211: All In for Early Learning with Dawn Montecalvo
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 tremend
#210: The Magic of Zero to Three with Rebecca Parlakian from Zero to Three
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 domainsWhy everyday moments (like laundry, sunlight, or stirring
#209: The Power of Educators as Coaches with Debbi Sluys
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
#208: Language of Encouragement
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 ph
#207: Adaptability in Early Childhood: Humanizing Practice, Real Resilience, and Kindness with Kisa Marx
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-ce
#206: The Hidden Curriculum in Early Childhood
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
#205: Children’s Rights in Action: Why Participation Matters with Marta Skrzypczak
Children aren’t the future- they’re people of today.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward sits down with Marta Skrzypczak, educator and children’s rights advocate, to explore why children’s participation is a fundamental right, not a privilege.We cover:- What Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child means for educators- The difference between autonomy and agen
#204: Routines vs. Schedules: Why Rhythm Matters More Than the Clock
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 u
#203: Social Emotional Learning Starts with Us with Prerna Richards
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:
#202: Purposeful Planning
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/202Email Newsletter: Click Here
#201: Early Language Learning in ECE with Meeghan Carter
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 forei
#200: 200th Episode Celebration: 10 Expert Voices Shaping the Future of ECE
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 doi
#199: Identifying Literacy Challenges in Early Childhood
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 class
#198: How Intergenerational Teams Elevate Early Childhood Education
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 reflec
197: Developing an Art Mindset with Cathy Belgrave
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, communicati
#196: Rethinking Circle Time: Connection Over Control
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,
#195: Loose Parts in Early Childhood wih Angela Odusanya
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
#194: The Sensory Side of Behaviour
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
#193: Bringing Parents into Literacy Strategies with Melissa McCall
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&
#192: Reflective Practice: The Superpower of a Great Educator
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 simpl
#191: Key Practices for a Successful Classroom Walkthrough with Katherine Hamilton
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.
#190: The Art of Storytelling
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 le
#189: The Power of Composition in Early Childhood with Margaret Quinn
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
#188: How to Conduct a Sensorial Audit in Your Program
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/sensorialauditShow Notes: www.e
#187: Reimagining Belonging in ECE with Sally Haughey
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 or
#186: Your ECE Questions Answered
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
#185: Regulation Through Nature with Amy-Reyes-Hauff
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 k
#184: Designing YES Spaces
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 pra
#183: Rooted in Wonder: The Power of Plants in Early Learning Spaces
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, h
#182: Bright Ideas : How Lighting Transforms Learning Spaces
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 you
#181: Hue Matters: The Role of Colour in Early Learning Environments
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 ca
#180: Supporting Mental Health Through Dance with Ishaa Vinod Chopra
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
#179: Rethinking Consequences
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 positiv
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