Shows
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS2 Ep 4: Circle Time Magic: Bringing Stories, Music and Movement to Life!In this episode, we’re diving into the heart of every early childhood classroom and learning space—circle time! Susie talks to Jacky Sheppard, Early Years Consultant, about how to turn this daily routine into a powerful moment of connection, learning, and joy through creative music and movement activities and imaginative storytelling.As an educator, you'll walk away with fresh, playful ideasto keep little ones engaged and excited to participate. From fingerplays and movement songs that boost coordination to storytelling that sparks curiosity and language development, you’ll learn how to transform circle time into a magi...2025-04-1531 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS2 Ep. 3 - Rethinking Challenging Behaviour: A Person-Centered Approach to Early Childhood EducationIn this episode of the ECE Classroom podcast, host SusieBeghin welcomes behaviour specialist Andy Baker to discuss effective strategies for managing challenging behaviors in early childhood education classrooms. Andy emphasizes the importance of understanding the underlying reasons for behaviors. He introduces his Six-Stage Target Model for behavior management, which focuses on proactive strategies and building trust with children. The conversation highlights the significance of a person-centered approach in education, recognizing that each child's needs and responses are unique. Andy shares practical advice for educators on fostering trust and connection with young children, especially those experiencing...2025-03-1534 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS2 Ep 2 - The Science of Happiness in Early ChildhoodIn this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie Beghin interviews ECE Professor, Christine Zupo, about the Science of Happiness and its relevance to early childhood education.Christine explains the principles of positive psychology, the sustainable happiness model, and how educators can influence children's emotional well-being. The conversation delves into intentional strategies for fostering happiness, the distinction between joy and happiness, and the physical effects of positive emotions.Christine emphasizes the importance of intentionality in creating positive experiences and the significant role educators play in shaping children's baseline of happiness.Chapters2025-02-1527 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS02 Ep 1: The Power of Storytelling in Early EducationIn this conversation, Susie Beghin discusses the
significance of storytelling for young children with guests Daniela and Dina from Little Light Books. They explore the inspiration behind their children's books, the key messages they aim to convey, and the developmental benefits of
storytelling. The discussion highlights the importance of creating a safe and engaging environment for children through interactive storytelling techniques. Daniela and Dina share their experiences as educators and authors, emphasizing the impact their stories have on children's learning and emotional development.
Susie Beghin reflects on the need for interactive
storytelling techniques to engage children and...2025-01-1628 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS1 Ep 10 - Bonus Episode - The ECE Power HourIn this bonus episode, The ECE Power Hour gathered leading early childhood education podcasters for a dynamic roundtable discussion on the future of the field. Susie Beghin joined the conversation to explore impactful topics, including the significance of play, the value of mentorship, and innovative strategies to elevate early childhood education.
This bonus episode is a collaboration between:
The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast (moderator)
The Everything ECE Podcast
ECE Honestly Podcast
Child Care Conversations Podcast
The Forgotten ECE Podcast
Pre-K Spot...2024-12-201h 23
The Inspiring Early Childhood EducatorRound Table Fueling Educators: Advocacy, Mentorship, and the Power of Play Part 3In this episode, I’m sharing an unforgettable experience from a recent roundtable discussion where I had the honor of sitting alongside some of the most inspiring educators in the early childhood field. This was a conversation that we, as educators, don’t always get the chance to have—one that focuses on us.
We talked about the real challenges we face every day and the powerful ways we can support ourselves and each other. From self-care strategies to leadership tips, the importance of mentorship, and the magic of play (not just for the kids but for us, to...2024-12-1920 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 Ep 9: ECE Questions Answered: Challenging Behavior, Parent Communication, Program and Team DynamicsIn this holiday episode of the ECE Classroom, host Susie
Beghin addresses pressing questions from early childhood educators about managing challenging behaviors in the classroom, effective parent communication, classroom strategies and team dynamics.
The episode covers challenging behavior topics such as aggressive behavior, tantrums, biting, speech difficulties and handling conflict between children.
Susie discusses effective communication with parents while emphasizing the importance of empathy, understanding child development, and building trust with both children and parents to create a supportive learning environment and great relationships with parents.
In this episode, Susie Beghin addresses key...2024-12-1542 minThe Inspiring Early Childhood EducatorRound Table Fueling Educators: Advocacy, Mentorship, and the Power of Play Part 2In this episode, I’m sharing an unforgettable experience from a recent roundtable discussion where I had the honor of sitting alongside some of the most inspiring educators in the early childhood field. This was a conversation that we, as educators, don’t always get the chance to have—one that focuses on us.
We talked about the real challenges we face every day and the powerful ways we can support ourselves and each other. From self-care strategies to leadership tips, the importance of mentorship, and the magic of play (not just for the kids but for us, to...2024-12-1229 min
The Forgotten ECEECE Podcasters Reveal Their Secrets on Mentorship and More!Join Jamie as she speaks with nine incredible podcasting educators in this roundtable discussion to explore the vital themes of mentorship, self-care, and advocacy. The conversation emphasizes the importance of play in maintaining creativity and passion in teaching while offering practical self-care tips and leadership insights. The podcasters share their experiences and highlight the need for proactive mentorship to bridge the gap between educational preparation and real classroom challenges. The podcast advocates for valuing early childhood educators and encourages collaboration to elevate the profession.ECEs included in this incredible episode:Erica Saccoccio...2024-12-081h 23The Inspiring Early Childhood EducatorRound Table Fueling Educators: Advocacy, Mentorship, and the Power of Play Part 1In this episode, I’m sharing an unforgettable experience from a recent roundtable discussion where I had the honor of sitting alongside some of the most inspiring educators in the early childhood field. This was a conversation that we, as educators, don’t always get the chance to have—one that focuses on us.
We talked about the real challenges we face every day and the powerful ways we can support ourselves and each other. From self-care strategies to leadership tips, the importance of mentorship, and the magic of play (not just for the kids but for us, to...2024-12-0526 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 Ep 8: Creating Compassionate Learning EnvironmentsIn this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie
Beghin speaks with Cameile Henry, co-founder of Strengthen Hands and author of several children's books focused on emotional regulation.
They discuss the importance of understanding children's emotions, recognizing signs of emotional struggles, and the role of books in helping children express their feelings.
Cameile shares insights from her workshops for parents and educators, emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in supporting children's emotional development. The conversation highlights the significance of community and resources in fostering emotional literacy and well-being in children.
Chapters
00:00...2024-11-1530 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 Ep 7: Navigating Speech Delays in Early Childhood EducationIn this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie Beghin speaks with Mary Plain, a speech and language pathologist from Hello Speech. They discuss the importance of early identification of speech delays in
children, strategies for educators to support language development, and how to approach parents about potential concerns. Mary emphasizes the distinction
between speech and language, the significance of early intervention, and the resources available for educators and parents to enhance communication skills in children.
Susie further explores the differences between speech and language and emphasizes the importance of language development in early childhood education...2024-10-1525 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 Ep 6: Parents are the First EducatorsIn this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Amanda DaCosta, a supervisor at Alpha's Discovery Kids Preschool and Daycare, about how to educate parents on the importance of play and how to engage with their children. They discuss the need for educators to empathize with parents and understand that they may not have the same knowledge or tools. They also emphasize the role of parents as the first and best educators for their children. The conversation covers the use of everyday household items for play and learning, the four pillars of learning (language and literacy, STEAM, physical activity and nutrition, and...2024-09-1526 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 Ep 5: Incorporating Nature into Outdoor Play SpacesIn this episode of the ECE Classroom Podcast, host Susie
Beghin interviews Rusty Keeler, a natural playscape designer and advocate for nature play. They discuss the importance of nature play for children's development and how to incorporate nature into outdoor play spaces.
Rusty emphasizes the need for small steps, such as adding planter boxes or loose parts, to create a more natural environment. They also touch on the concept of
risky play and the benefits it offers. But before you acquire materials to transform your outdoor space, Rusty suggests the most important thing to do is to...2024-08-1531 min
The Child Care Directors Chair Podcast161 - Playful Insights: A Special Guest Spot on the ECE Classroom PodcastSend us a textIn this special episode of the Childcare Director's Chair Podcast, we’re thrilled to share a fantastic conversation I had as a guest on the ECE Classroom Podcast with Susie! Dive into our engaging discussion on the profound impact of play in early childhood education. This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips that you won’t want to miss.We’re excited to feature this crossover as part of our new initiative to bring you guest spots from other excellent ECE podcasts. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just...2024-08-0226 minThe Child Care Directors Chair Podcast156 - The Power of Play in Early Childhood EducationSend us a textSummaryIn this conversation, Erica Saccoccio and Susie Beghin discuss the importance of play in early childhood education. They talk about the benefits of play for children's overall development, including creativity, problem-solving skills, and cognitive abilities. They also emphasize the role of imagination in fostering cognitive abilities and emotional intelligence. The conversation highlights the need for a balance between structured activities and unstructured playtime for children. They provide tips for creating environments that encourage meaningful play and suggest incorporating loose parts into play-based programs. The conversation concludes with a...2024-07-2632 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 Ep 4: Professional Development and Lifelong Learning in Early Childhood EducationIn this episode, host Susie Beghin interviews Ana Valle
Rivera, a public speaker and workshop facilitator, about the importance of lifelong learning and professional development for early childhood educators. They discuss the impact of professional development on educators' well-being and its positive effect on children's learning. They also explore different ways of learning, including in-person workshops, virtual learning, and communities of practice. Ana emphasizes the importance of having a growth mindset and being open to new learning opportunities. They also discuss strategies for implementing new knowledge into practice and encouraging educators to become lifelong learners.
2024-07-1524 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01: Ep 3 - Play-based Learning: Fostering Autonomy and Belonging in the ClassroomIn this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Erica Saccoccio,
the owner of a multi-location child care center, about play-based learning. Erica explains that play-based learning should be fun and engaging while also having a learning goal in mind. She emphasizes the importance of intentional materials and guiding children in their learning. Erica also discusses the use of observation-based learning and the importance of teacher engagement and enjoyment in the learning process. The conversation covers topics such as the role of routines in play-based learning, the importance of autonomy for children, and how to communicate the benefits of play-based learning to...2024-06-1526 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 Ep 2: Creating an Inviting Classroom Environment with PlantsIn this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Carla Ward, an early childhood educator and host of The Everything ECE Podcast, about creating an inviting classroom environment with plants. They discuss the importance of the environment in early childhood education, the benefits of incorporating nature into the classroom, and strategies for introducing and caring for plants. Carla emphasizes the role of the environment in creating a sense of belonging for children and highlights the calming and nurturing effects of plants. She also provides practical tips for selecting and caring for plants in the classroom.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and B...2024-05-1523 min
The Everything ECE Podcast#138: The STEAM of PLAY with Susie BeghinThis week, Susie Beghin joins Carla Ward on the podcast to explore the exciting realm of STEAM in Early Childhood Education. As they chat, you can almost feel the energy as they discuss the wonders of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, all within the context of early learning. There's a particular moment where Carla is illuminated by the realization of just how seamlessly play and STEAM intertwine in the development of young minds. Tune in to hear about the magic that happens when curiosity meets creativity, and how STEAM is not just a curriculum, but a way of...2024-04-2627 min
The ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinS01 - Ep. 1: Educator Empowerment and EngagementThe first episode focuses on the most important thing about early childhood education, and that is the educators. We want to give a special shout out to all the Early Childhood Educators and this episode is dedicated to all ECEs.
In this episode, Susie Beghin interviews Anisha Angella, an
early childhood education coach and trainer, about educator engagement. They discuss the struggles that early childhood educators face, such as burnout and
lack of creativity, especially in the context of the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Anisha provides strategies for educators to improve engagement,
including reconnecting with their...2024-04-1427 minThe ECE Classroom with Susie BeghinIntroduction to ECE Classroom - TrailerIn this trailer episode, Susie talks about what to expect from the ECE classroom podcast.
Music from #Uppbeat
(free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/fortune-cookie/golden-summer-lenny-b
License code:
STFPDU3XL7ZR4CHA
2024-04-0302 min
The Evolution of Parenting PodcastS2: The Evolution of Parenting with Susan Beghin - "Learn It or Lose It!"Join Yarona and Susan as they start to unpack the extremely convoluted topic of how we "educate" our children and hear how you can use inquiry and exploration as a solid basis for raising a literate child who loves to learn.
Susie Beghin is an author, speaker and founder of Alpha’s Discovery Kids, a daycare and preschool dedicated to providing quality education and a positive learning environment. As an Early Childhood Educator, Susie shares the celebrated inquiry-based curriculum in her new book, “Learn to Play: The Four Pillars Learning System.” The teaching method is available...2024-02-2847 min
AMPLIFY: The RevolutionHER Podcastwith Susie BeghinIn this episode titled "Engaging In Play With Children", adoptive mom, entrepreneur and author Susie Beghin shares why it's important for adults to tap into their inner child and not be afraid to act silly or follow their imagination. Susie offers tips on managing a busy life, as well as the challenges of writing a book and advice for choosing a career working with children.
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Susie Beghin wants to give children the best start in life. It’s why she founded Alpha’s Discovery Kids in 2012, a daycare and preschool dedicated to providing quality educati...2023-03-2941 min
Mom HaloExpert Spotlight: Susie Beghin, Childcare and Play ExpertSusie Beghin is a mom and the owner of Alpha’s Discovery Kids Preschool and Daycare, with locations in Mississauga and Oakville, Ontario. She is also the author of a new book, Learn to Play: The Four Pillars Learning System.
Topics discussed:
The biggest thing on parents’ minds right now in the childcare space
$10-a-day daycare in Ontario
How Susie came to write a book
How Learn to Play is teaching adults how to play with their kids to get the most learning out of them
How a parent can tap into their inner child
A...2023-02-0130 min
Mom ChatsLearn To Play: An interview with Susie on her new book and how to educate young childrenMom Chats is back! After a little break, Karen and Susie are back to talk about their life experiences as moms.
In this episode, Karen interviews Susie about her first published book called "Learn to Play: The Four Pillars Learning System". Susie provides some insight into what the book is about and the important role that parents, grandparents and educators have in the education of their children. Karen and Susie discuss some of the topics and insights uncovered through the book such as the importance of play and how to play with children.
The book i...2022-10-1138 min
Mom ChatsLessons learned from 2021: Reflections on LoveIt is often said that life is the best teacher.
In this first episode of the season, Karen and Susie reflect on the year 2021 and talk about the lessons they learned about love. This is not romantic love, but rather, love that seeks the good of others. such as a parental love. A spiritual kind of love. Get ready to go deep as Karen and Susie delve into their life learnings about spirituality, parenting and love. ,
Susie is a mom and an educator/daycare owner working with young children and Karen is a mom and s...2022-02-1434 minMom ChatsWork Life Balance - How to achieve itIs work-life balance achievable or is it a lofty goal?
In this episode, Karen and Susie talk about their own tips and strategies for achieving work-life balance as moms and as entrepreneurs. They discuss the importance of finding your passion in life and living a life that is aligned with who you are, which makes work-life balance easier.
Susie is a mom and an educator/daycare owner working with young children and Karen is a mom and spiritual life coach working with teens and adults.
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Di...2021-11-1634 minMom ChatsTransitions - How to Manage ChangeIt has been said that change is the only constant! In our ever changing world, how do we manage change to avoid stress and anxiety?
In this episode, we talk about transitions from the perspective of children, adolescents and adults. We constantly manage transitions in our daily lives when dealing with kids going back to school or living in a digital age with new technology or even managing the changes of living during a pandemic. We discuss how to cultivate a sense of hopefulness to allow us to evolve and grow as a species.
Susie...2021-09-2026 minMom ChatsThe Importance of Play - not just for kids!What a fun topic!
In this episode, we talk about the importance of play, how to play with young kids and even how to incorporate play into our lives as adults. Play is not just for kids! We know that living a healthy life means not taking everything too seriously. It means taking time to play!
Susie is a mom and an educator/daycare owner working with young children and Karen is a mom and spiritual life coach working with teens and adults.
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Discovery Kids2021-07-2336 min
Mom ChatsHealth and Wellness - with Special Guest Marco CaponeHealth and Wellness is a big topic of discussion these days. We all want that special trick or magic to live a long and healthy life. How do we do that? What should we consider to live our best life?
In this episode, we dive into the discussion of health and wellness with our special guest, Marco Capone, personal trainer and founder of Fit Life Mastery. We talk about the four pillars - Nutrition, Exercise, Sleep and Hydration and how to incorporate those elements into your life. We know that living a healthy life cannot always be...2021-06-1731 minMom ChatsEmpathy and Compassion (includes guided "Loving Kindness" meditation)What is empathy and compassion? How do we foster it with our children, our families and others? How do we learn to be compassionate to ourselves too?
We share our knowledge and opinions while we explore this topic from the point of view of our own life experiences as both parents and educators. We talk about the importance of self-compassion as a means to learning to be compassionate with others.
In the last 12 minutes of this episode, Karen facilitates a guided meditation with her soothing voice called "Loving Kindness". It is a beautiful meditation for a...2021-05-2743 minMom ChatsStress and Anxiety - Practical Strategies to Effectively Respond to Stress and AnxietyAlmost everyone experiences stress and anxiety at some point in their lives. But stress and anxiety have been especially prevalent in many people's lives during this past year of the COVID pandemic!
In this episode, Karen and Susie explore practical strategies on how to deal with stress and anxiety based on their own personal experiences and insights. Susie is passionate about sharing the coping strategies that she has learned over the years after being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder in her teens.
Karen and Susie discuss "FACE COVID" which is a set of practical steps f...2021-04-1740 minMom ChatsHome Decorating - How to Create a Space That Brings You Joy!In this episode, Karen and Susie invited special guest, Tasia Keeng, owner of Lovelight Home Design, to share her expertise on home decorating. They discuss topics such as how to choose a colour for your home, Feng Shui, and how to create a space that brings you joy.
Tasia Keeng is the creator of the Holistic Harmony Impact system that helps you measure the quality of your life you are experiencing in your space and to what degree it is impacting you. An expert in Feng Shui, Interior Design and design for Disability Access, Tasia uses her H...2021-03-1527 minMom ChatsKindness: How to Foster Kindness Within Ourselves, Our Children and OthersWelcome to Season 2 - our first episode of 2021! We have great plans for this year!
Feb 17th is Random Acts of Kindness Day, so this was a great opportunity to explore the topic of kindness. Not just "Random Acts of Kindness" but kindness in general. How do we foster kindness with our children, our families and others? How do we learn to be kind to ourselves too?
We share our knowledge and opinions while we explore this topic from the point of view of our own life experiences as both parents and educators.
Sus...2021-02-2033 minMom ChatsHoliday TraditionsIn this episode, Karen and Susie discuss their family traditions during the holidays. They reminisce about their childhood memories and the traditions they have with their families today. Even in 2020, there is opportunity to make the holidays special and memorable!
We are so grateful to have had the opportunity to start this podcast in 2020 and look forward to continuing to share our lives and our conversations in 2021!
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Discovery Kids www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com
and
Karen Sue-a-Quan coa...2020-12-1122 minMom ChatsSoul ConversationsIn this episode, Karen and Susie engage in a deeper conversation about the the soul. What is a soul? What is spirit? They share their opinions about this topic. Karen talks about her experiences as a spiritual life coach and her new endeavor called "soul school".
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Discovery Kids www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com
and
Karen Sue-a-Quan coaching www.karensueaquan.com2020-10-3124 minMom ChatsOur 12 Favourite ThingsIn this episode, Karen and Susie discuss their favourite things. They talk about their favourite books, toys, movies, celebrity and childhood memories. After the last couple of episodes focusing on some serious topics during the pandemic, they wanted to lighten things up with this fun and whimsical episode. Join in on their fun and laugh along with them!
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Discovery Kids www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com
and
Karen Sue-a-Quan coaching www.karensueaquan.com2020-09-1427 minMom ChatsHeading Back to School during a Pandemic: Fear, Judgement and AcceptanceIn this episode, Karen and Susie discuss the difficult decision to send your children back to school during a pandemic. They discuss personal experiences with their own children as well as the experiences they have as educators with other parents, kids and teens. They talk about pervasive issues of fear, judgement and ultimately trusting yourself to make a good decision as a loving parent.
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Discovery Kids www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com
and
Karen Sue-a-Quan coaching www.karensueaquan.com2020-08-1233 minMom ChatsThe Importance of Human Connection - Experiences during the COVID-19 PandemicIn this episode, Karen and Susie chat about their experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic and the importance of human connections. They explore how important connections are for young children, teens and adults. They talk about how they develop connections with others, with the self and with a divine presence.
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Discovery Kids www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com
and
Karen Sue-a-Quan coaching www.karensueaquan.com2020-07-0135 minMom ChatsSupporting Our Children's Education During the PandemicSusie and Karen discuss the topic of supporting children's education at home during the pandemic. Many parents are providing formal education at home during the pandemic and they are struggling. Susie shares some of her insights into how to support children of all ages from infant to teen.
This episode is sponsored by:
Alpha's Discovery Kids www.alphasdiscoveryclub.com
and
Karen Sue-a-Quan coaching www.karensueaquan.com2020-05-2219 minMom ChatsExploring Self-Care as MomsIn the next few episodes, we will be focusing our discussions around navigating this COVID-19 pandemic as moms. The role of a mom is often centered around providing care for others, sometimes at the expense of our own health or our own needs. In this episode, we talk about how we as moms can take care of ourselves and our families during this time. We discuss strategies that we can use to maintain optimal health while taking into consideration our physical, emotional and spiritual needs in a holistic way.
This episode is sponsored by:2020-04-2530 min
Mom ChatsMom Chats - Getting to Know Susie and KarenMom Chats began with two moms having heart-to-heart chats about life. Susie and Karen would gather in Karen's living room and talk about everything. Their topics of conversation would include parenting, education, childhood memories and would often venture into more spiritual topics about their soul journey through this life. As they talked, they felt inspired and rejuvenated! This led to the birth of this Mom Chats podcast where they will share those conversations with others to inspire, connect and share their views about life as a mom.
In this first episode of Mom Chats, S...2020-03-0129 min