Shows
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 50 | What Warm Authority Looks Like: Rethinking Discipline in the Early YearsWarm authority isn’t about controlling children - and it’s not about “letting them get away with things” either.In the final episode for Season 4, I dig into one of the most misunderstood aspects of behaviour support: what it means to hold your authority without slipping into power-over or permissiveness. This is the episode I wish every educator and assistant could hear before heading into a new year.You’ll hear:✨ The critical difference between discipline and punishment✨ Why high warmth and high expectations is the sweet spot for behaviour support...
2025-12-1529 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 49 | Belonging is More Than Inclusion: What Children Tell us Matters Most to ThemJust because a child is included doesn’t mean they feel they belong.In this powerful episode, I dig into what belonging actually looks and feels like for children - beyond the buzzword, the policies, and the Pinterest-perfect classroom. Drawing on compelling Australian research and real-world reflection, I unpack the difference between showing up and feeling held, and how our beliefs and biases shape belonging more than we realise.You’ll hear:🤝 How children define belonging - and what helps them feel like they belong🤝 The everyday language, routines and rituals that quiet...
2025-12-0830 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 48 | The Benefits of Music for Children’s Wellbeing and Social-Emotional DevelopmentWhat if the most powerful co-regulation tool in your room didn’t cost a cent?Music has always mattered - and in early learning, it’s more than fun; it’s nervous system work. It’s behaviour support. It’s belonging in action.In this episode, I unpack the neuroscience, research and real-world power of music in early childhood settings and why it's one of the most under-utilised wellbeing tools we have.You’ll hear:🎵 How music regulates the nervous system, even before words do🎵 What the research says about music and so...
2025-12-0124 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 47 | Using Rewards Without Wrecking Intrinsic Motivation: What Actually WorksStickers. Marble jars. Token systems. Oh my!They're everywhere in early childhood - and for good reason. Rewards often work - but what are they really teaching children? And what if we’re using them in ways that create more problems down the track?In this episode, I unpack the biggest myths about rewards and give you six practical, research-aligned ways to use them without crushing motivation, connection, or community.You’ll hear: 🪄The problem with how rewards are often studied (and what’s missing from the data).🪄Three myths about r...
2025-11-1728 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 46 | How to Bring Children’s Rights to Life When Supporting BehaviourDiscipline must always be consistent with a child’s dignity.This episode is all about culture and how we create spaces where rights aren’t just printed on a poster but felt in the moment - especially when behaviour gets tough.Building on part one, I explore how to translate rights-based values into real-world practice using the UNICEF Pathway framework.You'll hear:📣 Why discipline doesn’t mean punishment-and what it actually does mean📣 The four pathways of UNICEF's Child Rights Education framework and how they can show up in daily work
2025-11-1036 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 45 | What It Means to Support Behaviour Through a Rights-Affirming LensChildren’s rights don’t disappear when behaviour gets loud.Yet too often, what we say we believe - safety, dignity, belonging - quietly slips away when behaviour gets tricky. This episode unpacks the powerful, uncomfortable intersection between behaviour and rights and why the two must always go hand-in-hand.You’ll hear:⚖️ What children’s rights actually are⚖️ Why children’s rights are not conditional - and how “good behaviour” can’t be the price of belonging⚖️ How to shift from being a gatekeeper of behaviour to a gatekeeper of rights⚖️ Why tradi...
2025-11-0321 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 44 | The Social Side of Feelings: Why Empathy Isn’t Just ‘Being Nice’Empathy isn’t a “sorry” on cue.In the final part of the Big Feelings 101 series, we bring it all home with the skills that transform awareness into action. This episode unpacks how children build emotional resilience, connect through empathy, and develop that inner knowing: “I can handle this.”You’ll hear:🌱 The difference between affective and cognitive empathy (and why both matter)🌱 Why “how would you like it if…” often misses the mark in early childhood🌱 Practical ways to build empathy and perspective-taking through stories, play, and everyday repair🌱 How emotiona...
2025-10-2729 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 43 | How Children Learn to Name (and Share) Their Feelings"Use your words." But what if the words don’t exist yet?In Part 3 of my Big Feelings 101 series, I dive deep into emotional expression and vocabulary - how children move from raw feelings to regulated communication, and why the way we respond to their emotions matters more than we think.You’ll hear:💬 Why some children stop showing emotions (and what that really means)💬 How emotional language builds brain pathways for regulation💬 The difference between naming feelings and truly connecting them to experience💬 Four ways to build emotional...
2025-10-2027 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 42 | Supporting Emotional Regulation (It's More Than Just ‘Calming Down’)Regulated doesn’t always mean calm.If you’re guiding children through big feelings with nothing but deep breaths and “use your words,” this episode will change everything. In Part 2 of my Big Feelings 101 mini-series, we go deeper into what emotional regulation really is (and isn’t), the integral role of co-regulation, and the often-misunderstood difference between regulation and coping.You'll hear: 🧠 Why emotional regulation isn’t the same as being quiet or compliant 🧠 The distinction between emotional regulation and self-regulation (and why it matters) 🧠 Real-life strategies to support regulation through na...
2025-10-1326 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 41 | Recognising Emotions: The First Step to Building Emotional Competence in Early ChildhoodChildren can't regulate feelings they don't know how to feel.In part one of this three-part mini-series - that I'm affectionately calling Big Feelings 101 - I'm providing a compassionate, practical look at what emotional competence actually is (hint: it’s much more than just regulation), why it’s essential to how we understand and support children’s behaviour and the eight skills involved. I'll also provide a deep(ish) dive into the first two skills and how to bring them to life in your practice.You’ll hear:🐰 What emotional competence really means and why it’s...
2025-10-0619 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 41 | Recognising Emotions: The First Step to Building Emotional Competence in Early ChildhoodChildren can't regulate feelings they don't know how to feel. In part one of this three-part mini-series - that I'm affectionately calling Big Feelings 101 - I'm providing a compassionate, practical look at what emotional competence actually is (hint: it’s much more than just regulation), why it’s essential to how we understand and support children’s behaviour and the eight skills involved. I'll also provide a deep(ish) dive into the first two skills and how to bring them to life in your practice. You’ll hear: 🐰 What emotional competence really means and why it’s...
2025-10-0619 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 40 | The Role of Movement in Learning and Early Literacy Skills with Stefanie HohlWhat if movement was the missing piece in learning to read?For too long, we’ve asked young children to sit still and focus when their brains are wired for motion. In this powerful episode, I chat with Stefanie Hohl, creator of ABC See, Hear, Do, about how movement can transform early literacy, especially for children who’ve struggled with traditional methods.Stefanie Hohl is the creator of ABC See, Hear, Do - an innovative phonics program that helps children learn to read through movement and fun. As a literacy advocate, author, and educator, she has h...
2025-09-2932 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 40 | The Role of Movement in Learning and Early Literacy Skills with Stefanie HohlWhat if movement was the missing piece in learning to read? For too long, we’ve asked young children to sit still and focus when their brains are wired for motion. In this powerful episode, I chat with Stefanie Hohl, creator of ABC See, Hear, Do, about how movement can transform early literacy, especially for children who’ve struggled with traditional methods. Stefanie Hohl is the creator of ABC See, Hear, Do - an innovative phonics program that helps children learn to read through movement and fun. As a literacy advocate, author, and educator, she has h...
2025-09-2932 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 39 | Whole Body Listening, Masking, and Belonging: A Child’s Perspective with Sarah + Charlie MiddletonReal inclusion isn’t about ticking boxes.Phwoar. This conversation is a powerful one. I welcome Sarah Middleton and her 12-year-old son, Charlie (the first child on the show - yay!), to The Bloom Room for a critical conversation around why it’s time to move beyond Whole Body Listening towards inclusive listening practices. Charlie shares his lived experience of Whole Body Listening, reflecting on the consequences of this approach that were naked to the invisible eye. This year, Sarah and Charlie undertook their first grass roots advocacy campaign - the Force 4 Good campaign - which...
2025-09-221h 11
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 39 | Whole Body Listening, Masking, and Belonging: A Child’s Perspective with Sarah + Charlie MiddletonReal inclusion isn’t about ticking boxes. Phwoar. This conversation is a powerful one. I welcome Sarah Middleton and her 12-year-old son, Charlie (the first child on the show - yay!), to The Bloom Room for a critical conversation around why it’s time to move beyond Whole Body Listening towards inclusive listening practices. Charlie shares his lived experience of Whole Body Listening, reflecting on the consequences of this approach that were naked to the invisible eye. This year, Sarah and Charlie undertook their first grass roots advocacy campaign - the Force 4 Good campaign - which...
2025-09-221h 11
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 38 | Is Sharing Really Caring? Why I Teach Turn-Taking Instead Forced sharing is out. Scaffolded turn taking is in. Eeeep - we’ve all said it - "sharing is caring". Two children are locked in battle over a toy, voices rising and out comes the phrase we hope will fix it fast. But what if “sharing is caring” is doing more harm than good?In this episode, I unpack the very real consequences of forced sharing, why it doesn’t teach what we think it does, and what to do instead. Spoiler: it’s not about children giving up the goods, nor is it about permissivenes...
2025-09-1517 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 38 | Is Sharing Really Caring? Why I Teach Turn-Taking Instead Forced sharing is out. Scaffolded turn taking is in. Eeeep - we’ve all said it - "sharing is caring". Two children are locked in battle over a toy, voices rising and out comes the phrase we hope will fix it fast. But what if “sharing is caring” is doing more harm than good? In this episode, I unpack the very real consequences of forced sharing, why it doesn’t teach what we think it does, and what to do instead. Spoiler: it’s not about children giving up the goods, nor is it about permissivenes...
2025-09-1517 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 37 | Emotionally Intelligent Educators with Em GentleEmotional intelligence is the cornerstone of effective teaching.This chat with Em Gentle will be like a hug for the parts of you telling you that you're not doing enough. Em shares so much of her wisdom in this discussion centred on emotionally intelligen edicators - what emotional intelligence is, why it's important, how we live it, and why it's the crux of all we do in our work with children (or should be!).Em is former teacher and Assistant Principal turned Emotional Intelligence Coach driven by a mission to transform the way we teach...
2025-09-0854 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 37 | Emotionally Intelligent Educators with Em GentleEmotional intelligence is the cornerstone of effective teaching. This chat with Em Gentle will be like a hug for the parts of you telling you that you're not doing enough. Em shares so much of her wisdom in this discussion centred on emotionally intelligen edicators - what emotional intelligence is, why it's important, how we live it, and why it's the crux of all we do in our work with children (or should be!). Em is former teacher and Assistant Principal turned Emotional Intelligence Coach driven by a mission to transform the way we teach...
2025-09-0854 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 36 | The Missing Link Between Boundaries + BehaviourHolding a boundary is not about ‘being the boss.’ Boundaries are often thrown around as one of those behaviour support tools that’s the magic bullet for getting children to do what you want. Womp womp, friend - magic bullets for behaviour don’t exist. The good news? When done well, boundaries can be an excellent tool for behaviour guidance and for showing children where our line is.You’ll hear:🍎 What a boundary really is - and what happens when we confuse them with limits🍎 The three most common traps we fall into when...
2025-09-0119 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 36 | The Missing Link Between Boundaries + BehaviourHolding a boundary is not about ‘being the boss.’ Boundaries are often thrown around as one of those behaviour support tools that’s the magic bullet for getting children to do what you want. Womp womp, friend - magic bullets for behaviour don’t exist. The good news? When done well, boundaries can be an excellent tool for behaviour guidance and for showing children where our line is. You’ll hear: 🍎 What a boundary really is - and what happens when we confuse them with limits 🍎 The three most common traps we fall into when...
2025-09-0119 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 35 | Advocacy Through Everyday Practice: Choosing Courage Over Comfort with Anna SkatesChildren deserve to take up space.In this inspiring episode I speak with Anna Skates, a passionate advocate for children's rights, about the importance of truly seeing and listening to children. We unpack how adult discomfort, language, and societal structures can either uplift or silence children and how we make space for them.Anna Skates is a children’s advocate, entrepreneur, and creator on a mission to help the world take kids seriously - and treat them accordingly. Whether she's hosting kid book clubs, creating content, leading youth camps, or building experiences like The Story Bo...
2025-08-251h 11
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 35 | Advocacy Through Everyday Practice: Choosing Courage Over Comfort with Anna SkatesChildren deserve to take up space. In this inspiring episode I speak with Anna Skates, a passionate advocate for children's rights, about the importance of truly seeing and listening to children. We unpack how adult discomfort, language, and societal structures can either uplift or silence children and how we make space for them. Anna Skates is a children’s advocate, entrepreneur, and creator on a mission to help the world take kids seriously - and treat them accordingly. Whether she's hosting kid book clubs, creating content, leading youth camps, or building experiences like The Story Bo...
2025-08-251h 11
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 34 | Honouring Neurodivergent Play with Simon AireyPlay isn’t a warm-up to the real work. It is the work. In this energising chat with Simon Airey, we explore neurodivergent play through a radically affirming lens - one where movement, stimming, flow states, and autonomy aren’t side notes, but centre stage. If you’ve ever wondered how to support neurodivergent play without overriding it, this episode is for you. Simon is a neurodiversity and inclusion specialist with over 25 years of experience in education. Through his content, talks, and podcast, Simon shares practical strategies that support the diverse needs of neurodivergent children in rea...
2025-08-1853 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 34 | Honouring Neurodivergent Play with Simon AireyPlay isn’t a warm-up to the real work. It is the work.In this energising chat with Simon Airey, we explore neurodivergent play through a radically affirming lens - one where movement, stimming, flow states, and autonomy aren’t side notes, but centre stage. If you’ve ever wondered how to support neurodivergent play without overriding it, this episode is for you.Simon is a neurodiversity and inclusion specialist with over 25 years of experience in education. Through his content, talks, and podcast, Simon shares practical strategies that support the diverse needs of neurodivergent children in rea...
2025-08-1853 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 33 | Whose Voice Counts? Children’s Rights in Education with Lauren MittellChildren's rights are not an 'add-on' - they're the foundation. In this powerful conversation with Lauren Mittell - a mother, teacher and advocate for children who embeds social justice and children's rights into her parenting and pedagogy - we dive deep into what it really means to uphold children’s rights in our practice. Beyond posters and policies, this episode is about how we show up every day - in our language, our decisions, and the way we hold space for children’s voices. Lauren shares how her teaching philosophy is grounded in children’s rights...
2025-08-1157 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 33 | Whose Voice Counts? Children’s Rights in Education with Lauren MittellChildren's rights are not an 'add-on' - they're the foundation.In this powerful conversation with Lauren Mittell - a mother, teacher and advocate for children who embeds social justice and children's rights into her parenting and pedagogy - we dive deep into what it really means to uphold children’s rights in our practice. Beyond posters and policies, this episode is about how we show up every day - in our language, our decisions, and the way we hold space for children’s voices.Lauren shares how her teaching philosophy is grounded in children’s rights...
2025-08-1157 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 32 | Why ‘Low-Level Behaviours’ Aren’t Actually Low-LevelDeath by a thousand papercuts. If you’ve ever ended a school day feeling utterly drained by the tiny behaviours that chip away at your patience, this episode is for you. We're tackling low-level behaviours - the eye-rolls, the pencil taps, the incessant chattering - and unpacking why they're anything but low-impact. You’ll hear: 💫 Why I don’t actually like the term 'low-level behaviours' and what we should be calling them instead 💫 How small behaviours send big signals about disconnection, disengagement, or overwhelm 💫 Three common myths that stop educators from...
2025-08-0417 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 32 | Why ‘Low-Level Behaviours’ Aren’t Actually Low-LevelDeath by a thousand papercuts.If you’ve ever ended a school day feeling utterly drained by the tiny behaviours that chip away at your patience, this episode is for you. We're tackling low-level behaviours - the eye-rolls, the pencil taps, the incessant chattering - and unpacking why they're anything but low-impact.You’ll hear:💫 Why I don’t actually like the term 'low-level behaviours' and what we should be calling them instead💫 How small behaviours send big signals about disconnection, disengagement, or overwhelm💫 Three common myths that stop educators from...
2025-08-0417 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 31 | Is Your Calm Corner Just Time-Out in Disguise?A beanbag and a poster do not make a calm corner. If your calm space is feeling more like a soft time-out than a supportive sanctuary, this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew. I unpack why calm corners often miss the markand what to shift so they actually support emotional regulation. You’ll hear: 💫 Why many calm corners become time-out in disguise 💫 The role of co-regulation and adult presence in calm corners 💫 What calm corners truly need to be effective (hint: it's more than breathing posters) 💫 How to...
2025-07-2818 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 31 | Is Your Calm Corner Just Time-Out in Disguise?A beanbag and a poster do not make a calm corner.If your calm space is feeling more like a soft time-out than a supportive sanctuary, this episode will challenge everything you thought you knew. I unpack why calm corners often miss the markand what to shift so they actually support emotional regulation.You’ll hear: 💫 Why many calm corners become time-out in disguise 💫 The role of co-regulation and adult presence in calm corners 💫 What calm corners truly need to be effective (hint: it's more than breathing posters) 💫 How to...
2025-07-2818 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 30 | Supporting Behaviour Without Behaviour ChartsAaaaah, behaviour charts. Love them or hate them (I'm the latter), it feels like they're here to stay. I'm often met with exasperation - but HOW do we support behaviour without them? It feels impossible, but it isn't. I did it for most of my teaching career (bar one year). I cover:Why behaviour charts don’t actually teach behaviour and what they do instead.How children internalise their placement on behaviour charts, shaping their self-worth and peer relationships.The connection between behaviour charts and social bias, including their disproportionate impact on neurodivergent children and children of colour.Fo...
2025-02-0426 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 30 | Supporting Behaviour Without Behaviour ChartsAaaaah, behaviour charts. Love them or hate them (I'm the latter), it feels like they're here to stay. I'm often met with exasperation - but HOW do we support behaviour without them? It feels impossible, but it isn't. I did it for most of my teaching career (bar one year). I cover: Why behaviour charts don’t actually teach behaviour and what they do instead. How children internalise their placement on behaviour charts, shaping their self-worth and peer relationships. The connection between behaviour charts and social bias, including their disproportionate impact on neurodivergent children and children of colour. Fo...
2025-02-0426 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 29 | Overcoming Teacher Self-DoubtSelf-doubt creeps in when we least expect it. Whether it’s comparing yourself to other teachers, feeling like you’re not good enough, or questioning whether you really belong in this field - these thoughts can be exhausting. The thing is - you’re not alone. I'm convinced every teacher experiences self-doubt at some point. I cover:How social media, unrealistic expectations, and 'shoulds' impact teachers falling into the comparison trap.Looking at imposter syndrome and questioning where it might come from.How to challenge the thoughts that make you feel “not good enough” by reframing your limiting beliefs.Ho...
2025-01-3122 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 29 | Overcoming Teacher Self-DoubtSelf-doubt creeps in when we least expect it. Whether it’s comparing yourself to other teachers, feeling like you’re not good enough, or questioning whether you really belong in this field - these thoughts can be exhausting. The thing is - you’re not alone. I'm convinced every teacher experiences self-doubt at some point. I cover: How social media, unrealistic expectations, and 'shoulds' impact teachers falling into the comparison trap. Looking at imposter syndrome and questioning where it might come from. How to challenge the thoughts that make you feel “not good enough” by reframing your limiting beliefs. H...
2025-01-3122 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 28 | Building Relationships With FamiliesBuilding strong relationships with families at the start of the year is the foundation of a successful classroom. But let’s be real - it’s not always easy to navigate the nuances of communication, cultural differences, or setting boundaries. In this episode, I’m sharing the 'Ins' and 'Outs' of building meaningful connections with families. I’ll explore 8 things that are IN in order to foster trust, collaboration, and open dialogue, as well as 6 things that are OUT that can unintentionally act as roadblocks for your relationships. I cover: The importance of starting the year with str...
2025-01-2530 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 28 | Building Relationships With FamiliesBuilding strong relationships with families at the start of the year is the foundation of a successful classroom. But let’s be real - it’s not always easy to navigate the nuances of communication, cultural differences, or setting boundaries. In this episode, I’m sharing the 'Ins' and 'Outs' of building meaningful connections with families.I’ll explore 8 things that are IN in order to foster trust, collaboration, and open dialogue, as well as 6 things that are OUT that can unintentionally act as roadblocks for your relationships. I cover:The importance of starting the year with str...
2025-01-2530 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 27 | The Learning Environment Through Children’s EyesIn today’s episode, I explore classroom design. However, this isn’t just another guide to setting up your classroom - it's an exploration of an amazing research article I came across: 'Children’s voices: Inclusive early childhood placemaking with children.' I cover:The importance of inclusive environments.Amplifying children's sense of belonging.Children as placemakers.Why children should have a voice in shaping their learning spaces.The role of authenticity in learning spaces.If you've never considered the learning environment through children's eyes before, this episode is going to leave you with a lot to reflec...
2025-01-2119 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 27 | The Learning Environment Through Children’s EyesIn today’s episode, I explore classroom design. However, this isn’t just another guide to setting up your classroom - it's an exploration of an amazing research article I came across: 'Children’s voices: Inclusive early childhood placemaking with children.' I cover: The importance of inclusive environments. Amplifying children's sense of belonging. Children as placemakers. Why children should have a voice in shaping their learning spaces. The role of authenticity in learning spaces. If you've never considered the learning environment through children's eyes before, this episode is going to leave you with a lot to reflec...
2025-01-2119 min
Leading the Early Years for the Future PodcastDanica See: Doing Things ScaredWhat implicit messages might we be sending to children when we focus primarily on compliance rather than their emotional well-being?How can educators and caregivers balance guiding children’s behavior while also honoring their emotional needs and autonomy?Dr. Amie Fabry engages in a compelling conversation with Danica See, an education consultant and mentor celebrated for her expertise in early childhood education, guiding children’s emotional development, and fostering holistic approaches to learning and behavior. With over 16 years of experience, Danica shares insights on the guidance based approaches to behaviour management, honoring children as whole bein...
2025-01-2151 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 26 | Co-constructing a Classroom AgreementIn today’s episode, I unpack classroom agreements and how we can co-construct these with the children in our class. I cover: Why classroom agreements are much more than a list of rules. The importance of balancing expectations to be firm, fair, flexible, and developmentally appropriate for children. Debunking myths about classroom agreements. A rant about the idea that we shouldn't co-construct expectations with children 'because they get too silly.' Some ideas for exploring rights and responsibilities and creating classroom agreements. If you've never created a co-constructed classroom agreement before, let me tell you - these ar...
2025-01-1625 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 26 | Co-constructing a Classroom AgreementIn today’s episode, I unpack classroom agreements and how we can co-construct these with the children in our class. I cover:Why classroom agreements are much more than a list of rules.The importance of balancing expectations to be firm, fair, flexible, and developmentally appropriate for children.Debunking myths about classroom agreements.A rant about the idea that we shouldn't co-construct expectations with children 'because they get too silly.'Some ideas for exploring rights and responsibilities and creating classroom agreements.If you've never created a co-constructed classroom agreement before, let me tell you - these are po...
2025-01-1625 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 25 | Essential Tips for Day One of a New School YearIn today’s episode, we consider the elements needed for a calm and successful first day back. I cover:Planning for logistics and setup: How to organise booklist items.Delegating roles.Navigating tears when children separate from their caregivers.Structuring your first-day schedule.Ideas for simple relationship-building and name-learning activities.The importance of day one reflections.If day one feels mega daunting (so normal, btw), this episode will give you some solid pointers to turn that overwhelm into intention. Helpful links💫 6 books about starting school💫 Purchase my comprehensive transitions...
2025-01-1425 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 25 | Essential Tips for Day One of a New School YearIn today’s episode, we consider the elements needed for a calm and successful first day back. I cover: Planning for logistics and setup: How to organise booklist items. Delegating roles. Navigating tears when children separate from their caregivers. Structuring your first-day schedule. Ideas for simple relationship-building and name-learning activities. The importance of day one reflections. If day one feels mega daunting (so normal, btw), this episode will give you some solid pointers to turn that overwhelm into intention. 💫 6 books about starting school 💫 Purchase my comprehensive transitions roadmap for a smooth day one: Beyond th...
2025-01-1425 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 24 | Nailing Your Classroom Routines From Day OneIn today’s episode, I walk you through how to establish routines that will transform your classroom into a calm, predictable, and thriving environment. I cover: What routines are and why they’re essential for classroom success. How routines build a sense of safety and belonging for children. Five key reasons routines are the foundation of every effective classroom. A 5-step framework for teaching routines. Why investing time in routines early in the year saves you a heap of time, energy and frustration in the long run. If routines have ever felt like an afterthought, this episode will...
2025-01-0914 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 24 | Nailing Your Classroom Routines From Day OneIn today’s episode, I walk you through how to establish routines that will transform your classroom into a calm, predictable, and thriving environment. I cover:What routines are and why they’re essential for classroom success.How routines build a sense of safety and belonging for children.Five key reasons routines are the foundation of every effective classroom.A 5-step framework for teaching routines.Why investing time in routines early in the year saves you a heap of time, energy and frustration in the long run.If routines have ever felt like an afterthought, this episode will...
2025-01-0914 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 23 | Smooth Transitions: Welcoming Children + Families Into Your ClassroomIn today’s episode, I walk you through how to make transitions meaningful and effective with a well thought out plan for welcoming children and families into the classroom. I cover: What effective transitions are. Why transitions set the tone for a successful school year. Essential information to share with families to build trust and reduce anxiety. How to prepare children and families for day one. The importance of children's participation in the transition process. 💫 Download a *free* copy of my transitions checklist: Supporting Effective Transitions 💫 Purchase my comprehensive transitions roadmap: Beyond the Welcome Email 💫...
2025-01-0717 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 23 | Smooth Transitions: Welcoming Children + Families Into Your ClassroomIn today’s episode, I walk you through how to make transitions meaningful and effective with a well thought out plan for welcoming children and families into the classroom. I cover:What effective transitions are.Why transitions set the tone for a successful school year.Essential information to share with families to build trust and reduce anxiety.How to prepare children and families for day one.The importance of children's participation in the transition process.Helpful links💫 Download a *free* copy of my transitions checklist: Supporting Effective Transitions💫 Purchase my comprehens...
2025-01-0717 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 22 | Progressive Mealtimes: Yay or Nay?On today’s episode I speak with Elise Disher, early childhood consultant and advocate for thoughtful, child-centered practices. Elise dives into the concept of progressive mealtimes in early learning settings, breaking down how they work, why they matter, and how to implement them in ways that are both meaningful and practical. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to reimagine mealtime routines as opportunities for connection and learning. Elise and I speak about: 🌸 What progressive mealtimes are and how they differ from traditional group mealtimes. 🌸 How mealtimes can shift from being rushed ro...
2024-12-0253 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 22 | Progressive Mealtimes: Yay or Nay? with Elise DisherOn today’s episode I speak with Elise Disher, early childhood consultant and advocate for thoughtful, child-centered practices. Elise dives into the concept of progressive mealtimes in early learning settings, breaking down how they work, why they matter, and how to implement them in ways that are both meaningful and practical. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to reimagine mealtime routines as opportunities for connection and learning. Elise and I speak about:🌸 What progressive mealtimes are and how they differ from traditional group mealtimes. 🌸 How mealtimes can shift from being rus...
2024-12-0253 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 21 | Supporting Challenging Behaviour With a Trauma LensOn today’s episode I speak with Kathy Warwick, the Head of the TraCS Trauma Consultancy Program at the Alannah & Madeline Foundation. Kathy brings deep compassion and expertise to her work and, in our conversation, she shares powerful insights on viewing children’s behaviour through a trauma lens. This is a rich discussion for anyone supporting children in early childhood settings. Kathy and I discuss: 🌸 The importance of adopting a trauma lens when working with children. 🌸 Recognising that challenging behaviour often signals a child’s experience of fear or stress. 🌸 The crit...
2024-11-251h 01The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 21 | Supporting Challenging Behaviour With a Trauma Lens with Kathy WarwickOn today’s episode I speak with Kathy Warwick, the Head of the TraCS Trauma Consultancy Program at the Alannah & Madeline Foundation. Kathy brings deep compassion and expertise to her work and, in our conversation, she shares powerful insights on viewing children’s behaviour through a trauma lens. This is a rich discussion for anyone supporting children in early childhood settings. Kathy and I discuss:🌸 The importance of adopting a trauma lens when working with children.🌸 Recognising that challenging behaviour often signals a child’s experience of fear or stress.🌸 The criti...
2024-11-251h 01
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 20 | Fostering Children’s ResilienceOn today’s episode, I speak with Jess, founder of Raising Resilience. Jess brings a wealth of insight and compassion as we explore what resilience really means for young children. Together, we dive into how educators and parents can support children through adversity, build emotional strength, and foster a growth mindset. Jess’s expertise is a gift for anyone passionate about nurturing resilience in little ones. Jess and I discuss: 🌸What resilience truly means and how misconceptions about "toughening up" can harm children. 🌸The role of the window of tolerance in resilience. 🌸How...
2024-11-181h 12The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 20 | Fostering Children’s Resilience with Jess DemetriousOn today’s episode, I speak with Jess, founder of Raising Resilience. Jess brings a wealth of insight and compassion as we explore what resilience really means for young children. Together, we dive into how educators and parents can support children through adversity, build emotional strength, and foster a growth mindset. Jess’s expertise is a gift for anyone passionate about nurturing resilience in little ones. Jess and I discuss:🌸What resilience truly means and how misconceptions about "toughening up" can harm children. 🌸The role of the window of tolerance in resilience...
2024-11-1801 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 19 | Exploring the PDA ProfileOn today’s episode I speak with Claire Britton, a neuro-affirming occupational therapist and Director of Neuroinclusion. Claire brings incredible insight into PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) and how a neuro-affirming lens can help us support neurodivergent children better. She explains why PDA often requires a different approach to typical behaviour strategies and shares practical ways to help children feel safe and understood. Claire and I discuss: 🌸 What the PDA profile (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is. 🌸 The significance of understanding PDA through a neuro-affirming approach and why the term "Per...
2024-11-111h 17The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 19 | Exploring the PDA Profile with Claire BrittonOn today’s episode I speak with Claire Britton, a neuro-affirming occupational therapist and Director of Neuroinclusion. Claire brings incredible insight into PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance or Pervasive Drive for Autonomy) and how a neuro-affirming lens can help us support neurodivergent children better. She explains why PDA often requires a different approach to typical behaviour strategies and shares practical ways to help children feel safe and understood. Claire and I discuss:🌸 What the PDA profile (Pathological Demand Avoidance) is.🌸 The significance of understanding PDA through a neuro-affirming approach and why the term "Per...
2024-11-1101 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 18 | Honouring Children’s AgencyOn today’s episode I speak with Lisa Burman - an author, speaker, professional learning facilitator and every-day researcher of childhood and learning. Lisa has strong roots in true early childhood pedagogy whose work is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and guided by honouring children’s rights. This discussion is a deep exploration of early childhood values and principles. Lisa and I discuss: 🌸 What is meant by a ‘culture of agency.’ 🌸 Shared power and democratic classrooms. 🌸 Common misconceptions of agency (hint: it’s not something that we ‘give’ children and it extends...
2024-11-041h 04The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 18 | Honouring Children’s Agency with Lisa BurmanOn today’s episode I speak with Lisa Burman - an author, speaker, professional learning facilitator and every-day researcher of childhood and learning. Lisa has strong roots in true early childhood pedagogy whose work is inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy and guided by honouring children’s rights. This discussion is a deep exploration of early childhood values and principles. Lisa and I discuss:🌸 What is meant by a ‘culture of agency.’🌸 Shared power and democratic classrooms.🌸 Common misconceptions of agency (hint: it’s not something that we ‘give’ children and it extends...
2024-11-041h 04The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 17 | Rethinking Readiness in Early Childhood with Nathan WallisOn today’s episode I speak with Nathan Wallis, a neuroscience educator on a mission to share the value of brain development in early childhood to the masses. In this discussion, Nathan challenges the concept of "readiness" and advocates for focussing on the present moment rather than preparing them for future academic demands. Earlier and faster isn’t better. Nathan and I discuss:🌸Readiness and developmental needs.🌸Sequential brain development.🌸The impact of cultural norms on education.🌸The role of play in early childhood.🌸Dangers of early academic pr...
2024-10-2835 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 17 | Rethinking Readiness in Early ChildhoodOn today’s episode I speak with Nathan Wallis, a neuroscience educator on a mission to share the value of brain development in early childhood to the masses. In this discussion, Nathan challenges the concept of "readiness" and advocates for focussing on the present moment rather than preparing them for future academic demands. Earlier and faster isn’t better. Nathan and I discuss: 🌸Readiness and developmental needs. 🌸Sequential brain development. 🌸The impact of cultural norms on education. 🌸The role of play in early childhood. 🌸Dangers of early academic pr...
2024-10-2835 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 16 | Supporting Children With ADHD with Andy HayesOn today’s episode I speak with Andy Hayes - an accredited ADHD coach with an epic sense of humour. Andy is a dedicated Perth dad, teacher and educational leader with lived experience of ADHD who represents the ideal mentor for children and adults everywhere. Andy and I discuss:🌸 The four pillars of ADHD and their impact on learning and behaviour. 🌸 Executive functions and their role in daily life. 🌸 The role of dopamine. 🌸 How labels can act as roadblocks to true support. 🌸 Why emotional intelligence is critical. 🌸 Cognitive load a...
2024-10-2101 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 16 | Supporting Children With ADHDOn today’s episode I speak with Andy Hayes - an accredited ADHD coach with an epic sense of humour. Andy is a dedicated Perth dad, teacher and educational leader with lived experience of ADHD who represents the ideal mentor for children and adults everywhere. Andy and I discuss: 🌸 The four pillars of ADHD and their impact on learning and behaviour. 🌸 Executive functions and their role in daily life. 🌸 The role of dopamine. 🌸 How labels can act as roadblocks to true support. 🌸 Why emotional intelligence is critical. 🌸 Cognitive load...
2024-10-211h 17The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 15 | A New Lens for Challenging Behaviours with Dave JerebOn today’s episode I speak with Dave Jereb - an OT and co-founder of Move About Therapy Services. Dave is a gem - he’s relatable, funny, personable and compassionate. He’s got a knack for seeing the bigger picture of behaviour and walks us through how he does this in out chat. Dave and I discuss:🌸What we mean when we use the term ‘challenging behaviour.’🌸The fundamental need for connection when working with challenging behaviours.🌸Ideas on ways to connect and the importance of micro-moments.🌸Why we need to remain objec...
2024-10-1401 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 15 | A New Lens for Challenging BehavioursOn today’s episode I speak with Dave Jereb - an OT and co-founder of Move About Therapy Services. Dave is a gem - he’s relatable, funny, personable and compassionate. He’s got a knack for seeing the bigger picture of behaviour and walks us through how he does this in out chat. Dave and I discuss: 🌸What we mean when we use the term ‘challenging behaviour.’ 🌸The fundamental need for connection when working with challenging behaviours. 🌸Ideas on ways to connect and the importance of micro-moments. 🌸Why we need to remain objec...
2024-10-141h 13The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 14 | Coming Together to Support Children Experiencing Anxiety with Kathryn HackmanOn today’s episode I speak with Kathryn Hackman, founder of the Courageous Kids app. Kathryn is a doctor but, first and foremost, a mama to two children and knows firsthand the challenge in supporting children through anxiety. Her app, Courageous Kids, is a one-stop shop for both parents and educators alike to create individualised social stories - a proven method that supports children through those trickier times. Kathryn and I discuss:🌸 The prevalence of anxiety for young children.🌸 The distinction between anxiety + separation anxiety.🌸 How caregivers and educators can come toge...
2024-08-191h 00
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 14 | Coming Together to Support Children Experiencing AnxietyOn today’s episode I speak with Kathryn Hackman, founder of the Courageous Kids app. Kathryn is a doctor but, first and foremost, a mama to two children and knows firsthand the challenge in supporting children through anxiety. Her app, Courageous Kids, is a one-stop shop for both parents and educators alike to create individualised social stories - a proven method that supports children through those trickier times. Kathryn and I discuss: 🌸 The prevalence of anxiety for young children. 🌸 The distinction between anxiety + separation anxiety. 🌸 How caregivers and educators can come toge...
2024-08-191h 00The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 13 | Nature Play + Regulation in the Outdoors with Cath FitzhardingeOn today’s episode, I speak with Cath Fitzhardinge, an OT who is a strong advocate of nature play and children spending time outdoors so much so that she is currently completing a Masters of Philosophy (Arts & Sciences) at Notre Dame University Australia where she is researching play opportunities and the utilization of an intentionally designed nature play space in a primary school to support children’s health, wellbeing and learning. Cath and I discuss:🌸 What nature play, messy play and sensory mean for children's well-being.🌸 How nature play benefits sensory integration...
2024-08-121h 05
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 13 | Nature Play + Regulation in the OutdoorsOn today’s episode, I speak with Cath Fitzhardinge, an OT who is a strong advocate of nature play and children spending time outdoors so much so that she is currently completing a Masters of Philosophy (Arts & Sciences) at Notre Dame University Australia where she is researching play opportunities and the utilization of an intentionally designed nature play space in a primary school to support children’s health, wellbeing and learning. Cath and I discuss: 🌸 What nature play, messy play and sensory mean for children's well-being. 🌸 How nature play benefits sensory integration...
2024-08-121h 05The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 12 | Deconstructing Childhood Anger with Jacquie WardOn today’s episode I speak with Jacquie Ward, a psychologist and all round beautiful soul. Jacquie has such a gift in looking beneath the surface of big behaviours and moving beyond the discomfort that anger can bring to us in order to truly support children. Jacquie and I discuss:🌸Internalised + externalised anger and the fight + flight response.🌸Removing the stigma surrounding anger.🌸Anger as a secondary emotion.🌸When we join the child in their chaos.🌸Navigating aggressive behaviours.🌸When to seek specialist support.🌸When f...
2024-08-0554 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 12 | Deconstructing Childhood AngerOn today’s episode I speak with Jacquie Ward, a psychologist and all round beautiful soul. Jacquie has such a gift in looking beneath the surface of big behaviours and moving beyond the discomfort that anger can bring to us in order to truly support children. Jacquie and I discuss: 🌸Internalised + externalised anger and the fight + flight response. 🌸Removing the stigma surrounding anger. 🌸Anger as a secondary emotion. 🌸When we join the child in their chaos. 🌸Navigating aggressive behaviours. 🌸When to seek specialist support. 🌸When...
2024-08-0554 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 11 | Children’s Council + Honouring Children’s Voices with Renee Mitchell and Charmaine GreenwoodOn today’s episode I speak with Renee Mitchell (Director) and Charmaine Greenwood (Assistant Director) of Goodstart Early Learning in Red Hill, Queensland. I am in awe of Renee, Charmaine and their team as their dedication to honouring children’s rights in their practice is overwhelmingly inspiring. Renee, Charmaine and I discuss:🌸 Respecting + advocating for children’s rights.🌸 What is a children’s council and how have they brought it to life?🌸 The idea of slow pedagogy.🌸 Supporting transitions with a Children’s Handbook.🌸 Looking at a child’s complaints pro...
2024-07-2949 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 11 | Children’s Council + Honouring Children’s VoicesOn today’s episode I speak with Renee Mitchell (Director) and Charmaine Greenwood (Assistant Director) of Goodstart Early Learning in Red Hill, Queensland. I am in awe of Renee, Charmaine and their team as their dedication to honouring children’s rights in their practice is overwhelmingly inspiring. Renee, Charmaine and I discuss: 🌸 Respecting + advocating for children’s rights. 🌸 What is a children’s council and how have they brought it to life? 🌸 The idea of slow pedagogy. 🌸 Supporting transitions with a Children’s Handbook. 🌸 Looking at a child’s complaints pro...
2024-07-2949 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 10 | A Conversation on Rethinking Dominant Education PracticesOn today’s episode I speak with Simon Airey, who you may know from instagram as Simon Inclusion Teacher (formerly known as Sassy Supply). I was really drawn to Simon as his passion for inclusion and neuro-affirming practice comes through so loudly. Not always serious, though; Simon sprinkles humour into much of what he does and is sure to bring you a smile or two. In our conversation, we tackle many big questions when it comes to rethinking traditional practices in education. Simon and I discuss: 🌸 Reframing behaviour as something to manage...
2024-07-2257 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 10 | A Conversation on Rethinking Dominant Education Practices with Simon AireyOn today’s episode I speak with Simon Airey, who you may know from instagram as Simon Inclusion Teacher (formerly known as Sassy Supply). I was really drawn to Simon as his passion for inclusion and neuro-affirming practice comes through so loudly. Not always serious, though; Simon sprinkles humour into much of what he does and is sure to bring you a smile or two.In our conversation, we tackle many big questions when it comes to rethinking traditional practices in education. Simon and I discuss:🌸 Reframing behaviour as something to manage...
2024-07-2201 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 9 | Sensory Processing + the Sensory LensOn today’s episode, I speak with Michaelene Kearney from The Teachers OT about an incredibly powerful and transformational lens that we can adopt when it comes to supporting children’s behaviour - the sensory processing lens. Michaelene shares so much of her wisdom with us around not only what sensory processing is but the many ways that it can impact behaviour. Michaelene and I discuss: 🌸What is the role of an Occupational Therapist? 🌸The three step framework that is sensory processing. 🌸The difference between understanding versus judgement when it comes to beh...
2024-07-151h 00The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 9 | Sensory Processing + the Sensory Lens with Michaelene KearneyOn today’s episode, I speak with Michaelene Kearney from The Teachers OT about an incredibly powerful and transformational lens that we can adopt when it comes to supporting children’s behaviour - the sensory processing lens. Michaelene shares so much of her wisdom with us around not only what sensory processing is but the many ways that it can impact behaviour. Michaelene and I discuss:🌸What is the role of an Occupational Therapist?🌸The three step framework that is sensory processing.🌸The difference between understanding versus judgement when it comes to beh...
2024-07-151h 00
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 8 | Neuro-Affirming Practice + the Lived ExperienceOn today’s episode I speak with Annabel Tannenbaum from Thriving Minds Education about her advocacy of neuro-affirming practice in education. More than this, Annabel shares her lived experience of being late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD in her early 30s and how her experiences have shaped the powerful work that she does. Annabel and I discuss: 🌸The difference between the terms neurodiverse, neurodivergent and neurotype. 🌸The importance of listening to people with lived experience with neurodivergence. 🌸How some practices commonly used with neurodivergent children can be causing more harm than good.
2024-07-091h 02The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 8 | Neuro-Affirming Practice + the Lived Experience with Annabel TannenbaumOn today’s episode I speak with Annabel Tannenbaum from Thriving Minds Education about her advocacy of neuro-affirming practice in education. More than this, Annabel shares her lived experience of being late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD in her early 30s and how her experiences have shaped the powerful work that she does. Annabel and I discuss:🌸The difference between the terms neurodiverse, neurodivergent and neurotype.🌸The importance of listening to people with lived experience with neurodivergence.🌸How some practices commonly used with neurodivergent children can be causing more harm than good....
2024-07-0901 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 7 | Child Safety & Abuse Prevention EducationOn today’s episode, I speak with Kristi McVee, the founder of Child Abuse Prevention + Education Australia (CAPE), about child safety and abuse prevention education. Drawing from her experience working in the police force, as well as a child abuse detective, Kristi unpacks the importance of preventative measures in childhood abuse and the role that educators play in this. Kristi and I discuss: 🌸Myths around childhood abuse and the prevalence of abuse in Australia. 🌸The critical role of prevention. 🌸Grooming and signs to look out for. 🌸The importance of a...
2024-07-0255 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 7 | Child Safety & Abuse Prevention Education with Kristi McVeeOn today’s episode, I speak with Kristi McVee, the founder of Child Abuse Prevention + Education Australia (CAPE), about child safety and abuse prevention education. Drawing from her experience working in the police force, as well as a child abuse detective, Kristi unpacks the importance of preventative measures in childhood abuse and the role that educators play in this. Kristi and I discuss:🌸Myths around childhood abuse and the prevalence of abuse in Australia.🌸The critical role of prevention.🌸Grooming and signs to look out for.🌸The importance of a...
2024-07-0255 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 6 | Becoming Early Years Champions: Leadership in the Early YearsOn today’s episode I speak with Amie Fabry from The Learning Future about her work and advocacy in early years leadership. More than this, Amie goes deep into discussing how we can each become a champion in the early years. Amie and I discuss: 🌸What led Amie to her interest in early years leadership? 🌸What makes for an effective leader (hint: it’s more than a checklist!)? 🌸Amie’s advice for navigating unsupportive leadership as well as tips for aspiring early years champions. 🌸Feelings of disconnect, tension and dichotomy...
2024-06-251h 16The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 6 | Becoming Early Years Champions: Leadership in the Early Years with Amie FabryOn today’s episode I speak with Amie Fabry about her work and advocacy in early years leadership. More than this, Amie goes deep into discussing how we can each become a champion in the early years. Amie and I discuss:🌸What led Amie to her interest in early years leadership? 🌸What makes for an effective leader (hint: it’s more than a checklist!)?🌸Amie’s advice for navigating unsupportive leadership as well as tips for aspiring early years champions. 🌸Feelings of disconnect, tension and dichotomy - it’s not us vs. them.
2024-06-251h 16The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 5 | Do We Need a Behaviour Curriculum? with Em GentleOn today’s episode I speak with Em Gentle from The Grad Guide. Em and I joke that we’re the same person as we so often share the same views, values, beliefs and frustrations as one another. This conversation came about through our shared frustration in the way that the media has currently been sensationalising classroom behaviour with headlines targeted at placing blame on whoever they can (teachers, children, parents.. nobody is immune) as well as the hype they’ve created around what’s being called a behaviour curriculum, referring to it as old school discipline. Join...
2024-06-1851 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 5 | Do We Need a Behaviour Curriculum?On today’s episode I speak with Em Gentle from The Grad Guide. Em and I joke that we’re the same person as we so often share the same views, values, beliefs and frustrations as one another. This conversation came about through our shared frustration in the way that the media has currently been sensationalising classroom behaviour with headlines targeted at placing blame on whoever they can (teachers, children, parents.. nobody is immune) as well as the hype they’ve created around what’s being called a behaviour curriculum, referring to it as old school discipline. Joi...
2024-06-1851 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 4 | Attachment in the Early Years with Elise DisherOn today’s episode I speak with Elise Disher - an early childhood consultant and teacher with oodles of experience in supporting not only young children but the families and educators that support them. Today we’re delving into a concept that not only provides a critical lens through which we view and support behavior but also holds lifelong implications for children’s holistic wellbeing - attachment. Elise and I discuss:🌸 Which happy accident led to Elise falling into early childhood education? 🌸 What is attachment and why is it crucial for young children...
2024-06-1352 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 4 | Attachment in the Early YearsOn today’s episode I speak with Elise Disher - an early childhood consultant and teacher with oodles of experience in supporting not only young children but the families and educators that support them. Today we’re delving into a concept that not only provides a critical lens through which we view and support behavior but also holds lifelong implications for children’s holistic wellbeing - attachment. Elise and I discuss: 🌸 Which happy accident led to Elise falling into early childhood education? 🌸 What is attachment and why is it crucial for young children...
2024-06-1352 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 3 | Unpacking Separation Anxiety with Jess DemetriousOn today’s episode I speak with Jess Demetrious, the founder of Raising Resilience Mornington Peninsula. So often I’m asked about how we can best support young children experiencing separation anxiety, so I’ve taken the question to a child mental health advocate and expert! Jess and I discuss:🌸 What separation anxiety feels like for a child and what’s going on inside the brain of a child experiencing it🌸 Language we can use to support children that’s helpful (and unhelpful)🌸 Why it’s important to provide space for all emotions...
2024-06-1258 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEP 3 | Unpacking Separation AnxietyOn today’s episode I speak with Jess Demetrious, the founder of Raising Resilience Mornington Peninsula. So often I’m asked about how we can best support young children experiencing separation anxiety, so I’ve taken the question to a child mental health advocate and expert! Jess and I discuss: 🌸 What separation anxiety feels like for a child and what’s going on inside the brain of a child experiencing it. 🌸 Language we can use to support children that’s helpful (and unhelpful). 🌸 Why it’s important to provide space for all emotions...
2024-06-1258 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 2 | 9 ½ Pivotal Moments That Changed How I Support BehaviourIn this episode we’re going to get to know each other - very well! Prepare for vulnerability, warm fuzzies and challenging moments. I’ve broken this episode into two sections: the pathway that has led me to where I am now, and the pivotal moments that have truly defined who I am as an educator. You'll hear:🌸 What primary school was like for me (hint: not great).🌸 Why I left the classroom - and will I ever go back? 🌸 How I navigated working in a school that almost broke me, and how I found...
2024-06-1137 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 2 | 9 ½ Pivotal Moments That Changed How I Support BehaviourIn this episode we’re going to get to know each other - very well! Prepare for vulnerability, warm fuzzies and challenging moments. I’ve broken this episode into two sections: the pathway that has led me to where I am now, and the pivotal moments that have truly defined who I am as an educator. In discussing this pathway and the moments, I’ll touch on: 🌸 What primary school was like for me (hint: not great). 🌸 Why I left the classroom - and will I ever go back? 🌸 How I n...
2024-06-1137 minThe Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 1 | A Taste of Things to ComeWelcome to the Bloom Room. Join me, Danica See, an early childhood education mentor and consultant, as I delve into the wonderful world of early childhood education with heart, humour and community. In season one I’ll be delving right into: 🌸Why we need to put behaviour charts in the bin. 🌸How we can elevate the wonder that is early childhood education and care. 🌸Concerns about the current conversation on a behaviour curriculum. 🌸Supporting children experiencing separation an...
2024-05-2803 min
The Bloom Room: An Early Childhood PodcastEp 1 | A Taste of Things to ComeWelcome to the Bloom Room. Join me, Danica See, an early childhood education mentor and consultant, as I delve into the wonderful world of early childhood education with heart, humour and community. In season one I’ll be delving right into: 🌸Why we need to put behaviour charts in the bin. 🌸How we can elevate the wonder that is early childhood education and care. 🌸Concerns about the current conversation on a behaviour curriculum. 🌸Supporting children experiencing separation an...
2024-05-2803 min
EMpoweredDo We Need A Behaviour Curriculum? - with Danica SeeIn this episode, I’m speaking with my beautiful friend, Danica See from Little Bloom Consultancy. Danica and I unpack the recent buzz and share our opinions around the potential implementation of a ‘Behaviour Curriculum’. Here’s what we discuss: The media’s sensationalism of a behaviour curriculum and its potential harm to effective education. The implications of a behaviour curriculum and what it really means for teachers and students. The importance of holistic child development and proactive teaching methods The need for a shift towards relationship-based approaches in education that challenge punitive disciplinary measures S...
2024-05-1649 min
Brave New Bookshelf3 - The AI Tools We Use# Brave New Bookshelf - Episode 3
[00:00:00] Welcome to Brave New Bookshelf, a podcast that explores the fascinating intersection of AI and authorship. Join hosts, Steph Pajonas and Danica Favorite, as they dive into thought provoking discussions, debunk myths, and highlight the transformative role of AI in the publishing industry.
**Steph Pajonas:** Hi, everybody. Welcome to the Brave New Bookshelf. We're back again. This is Steph Pajonas. Once again, I am the COO and CTO of the Future Fiction Academy.
And I'm a Fantasy romance, science fiction romance, cozy mystery author with lots of books...
2024-05-0234 min
Brave New Bookshelf2 - AI as an Assistive TechnologyBrave New Bookshelf - Episode 2
[00:00:00] Welcome to Brave New Bookshelf, a podcast that explores the fascinating intersection of AI and authorship. Join hosts, Steph Pajonas and Danica Favorite, as they dive into thought provoking discussions, debunk myths, and highlight the transformative role of AI in the publishing industry.
**Steph Pajonas:** Okay. Hi, everybody. Welcome. So we're getting off into our episode number two of Brave New Bookshelf. I'm Steph Pajonas, space opera, romance, and cozy mystery author. I don't know. I do a lot of stuff now with my co host Danica.
**Danica F...
2024-04-2542 min
Brave New Bookshelf1 - A Dive into AI for AuthorsBrave New Bookshelf - Episode 1
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Steph Pajonas: [00:00:00] This is the first, first, first episode of our new podcast, Brave New Bookshelf. And I'm Steph Pajonas and I have Danica Favorite with me. Say hi, Danica.
Danica Favorite: Hello, good to see everyone.
Steph Pajonas: We're here, we're going to do a little bit of an introduction into who we are and why we started this podcast and why we are using AI as part of our process as authors.
And I'm sure that some of you won't even know who th...
2024-04-1644 min
Toddcast Teacher PodcastEpisode 44 – Danica See – Little Bloom ConsultancyEpisode 44 of the Toddcast the Teacher Podcast: (Danica See – Little Bloom Consultancy)
For the forty-fourth episode of the Toddcast the Teacher Podcast I had the wonderful opportunity of interviewing Danica See from Little Bloom Consultancy.
Danica is an early childhood educator, university lecturer, practicum supervisor and mother of one. She is also the owner of Little Bloom, a platform that shares a multitude of information about child development, social-emotional learning and, most significantly, supporting children’s behaviour for people supporting children aged 0-7 years.
After working in the early childhood space for over 15 years, Da...
2023-07-031h 07
THE AUDACIOUS ADVENTURE with Danica & AutumnVISIO DIVINA: God Speaks to YOU Through ART! A Spiritual Quick Tip with Danica!Has your attention ever been captured by an image, but you weren’t quite sure WHY on first viewing? Has a picture made you pause and ponder? Have you experienced a surge of emotion while watching a movie or a show? If you answered yes, then you’ve experienced VISIO DIVINA: SACRED SEEING. When you desire to gaze at an image, or when an emotion wells up in you as you encounter art, cinema, architecture, or even nature, you are experiencing God’s attempt to get your attention. God wants to “speak” to you through the visual image before y...
2023-06-2922 min
Danica Patrick Pretty Intense PodcastDanica Patrick 20 Lessons of 2020 - Pt 1As a racecar driver, Danica Patrick broke barriers and set records with her on-track performance. At 16 years old Danica moved to the UK to compete in the cutthroat world of European road racing. In 2005, Danica stunned the world by leading 19 laps and finishing fourth in her first Indianapolis 500. She became the first woman to lead laps and score a top-five finish in the historic race. In 2008, Danica made history again becoming the first woman to win a major-league open-wheel race in a North American series with her victory in the IndyCar Series Indy Japan 300 race. In 2013, as Danica transitioned t...
2020-12-2428 min
Second Impressions PodcastSIP Episode 42: CosmopolitanThe number one podcast you never knew you needed! Emma and Danica see what Cosmo magazine's been up to in this hot nut-filled episode. Hear about OG clickbait, blaming the stars, and the struggle of actually buying the magazine. We invent a new sex toy??? Email: secondimpressionspodcast@gmail.com Twitter: @impressionspod Instagram: @secondimpressionspodcast
2019-03-031h 10