Dr Kathy Weston is the founder of Tooled Up Education, a renowned speaker, author, and academic whose work bridges the worlds of psychology, education, and parenting. With a background in social science research and a doctorate in education, Kathy has spent her career equipping families and schools with the tools they need to help children thrive. Through her consultancy and digital platform, Tooled Up, she curates and translates the latest research into practical resources that support mental health, resilience, and emotional development. Kathy is a passionate advocate for early intervention and empowering parents and teachers alike to create environments where children can flourish—not just academically, but emotionally and socially.
In this episode, Simon and Kathy talk about the essential role of early education in shaping children’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. They discuss the importance of high-quality early years provision, the influence of school culture, and the role of play in fostering emotional literacy and self-efficacy. The conversation also touches on post-pandemic challenges, parental anxiety, and the need to prepare children for a digital world without compromising their wellbeing. Together, they advocate for a balanced, holistic approach—one that nurtures curiosity, confidence, and strong partnerships between schools and families.
Credits:
Produced, edited and mixed by Yusuf Johnson
