#232: The 10-Second Pause: A Powerful Strategy in the Classroom episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 13, 2026 · 12 MIN

#232: The 10-Second Pause: A Powerful Strategy in the Classroom

from The Everything ECE Podcast · host Carla Ward

In early childhood education, it’s natural to want to step in right away to help children solve problems. But sometimes the most powerful thing an educator can do is pause.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores the idea of the 10-second pause - a simple practice that encourages educators to pause briefly before intervening in children’s play, conflicts, and problem-solving moments.Inspired by the concept of “le pause” discussed in the book Bringing Up Bébé, this episode reflects on how our culture of instant gratification influences the way adults respond to children. Carla shares how giving children a moment to work through challenges can support independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence.The episode also explores how practicing the pause can benefit educators by creating space to shift from reacting to responding with empathy and intention.If you’re an early childhood educator looking to support children’s learning while also creating a calmer classroom environment, this episode offers practical insights and reflection for your daily practice.LinksSummit: The Everything ECE SummitSponsor: Ratio Staffing- https://ratiostaffing.com/ Bringing Up Bébé- Book LinkSUBSCRIBE & REVIEWIf you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us reach more ECEs who are in the thick of it!. Thanks for tuning in to The Everything ECE.  See you next week! shape their early years.CONNECT WITH CARLAThe ECE Latte LoungeEmail Newsletter: ⁠⁠Click Here⁠Website: carlatheece.comInstagram: @carlatheece

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#232: The 10-Second Pause: A Powerful Strategy in the Classroom

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This episode was published on March 13, 2026.

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In early childhood education, it’s natural to want to step in right away to help children solve problems. But sometimes the most powerful thing an educator can do is pause.In this episode of The Everything ECE Podcast, Carla Ward explores the idea...

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