526 Not a Box to Check: Designing an Eclectic Curriculum That Actually Works

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when we stop picking sides in early childhood education and start designing with intention? In this episode of the Child Care Director’s Chair, Erica sits down with Susan Zoll to spill the real tea on eclectic curriculum design—pulling powerful elements from Montessori, Reggio Emilia, and beyond to meet children exactly where they are.Susan brings her deep experience and research-based insights to the table, unpacking how developmentally appropriate practice, thoughtfully designed environments, and evidence-based decision making should guide curriculum—not trends or labels. If you’ve ever wondered how to blend philosophies without watering them down, this conversation is your permission slip to do it on purpose.ABOUT — Dr. Susan Zoll🎟️ Call to ActionIf this conversation fires you up and you’re ready to go deeper, you do not want to miss the Early Education Empowerment Conference. This is where big ideas turn into real strategy—with educators, leaders, and change-makers who are ready to raise the bar together. 👉 Grab your tickets now and join us in the room where it actually happens.Early Childhood Education Empowerment Conference – Learn – Reflect – CollaborateSupport the showThe Child Care Director's Chair Podcast is proudly powered by WatchMeGrow, our premier podcast sponsor and a trusted partner in early childhood education.WatchMeGrow helps child care programs strengthen family engagement through secure live-streaming, classroom video access, and communication tools that build transparency, trust, and peace of mind for families. Their innovative technology empowers programs to enhance safety, strengthen relationships, and showcase the incredible learning happening in their classrooms every day.To learn more about how WatchMeGrow can support your program, visit www.watchmegrow.com.Thank you to WatchMeGrow for supporting our mission to inspire, equip, and empower child care leaders around the world.