Ep. 31: Harmony in Learning: Navigating Stress, Music, and Joy in Early Education with Sharon Burnett

 Today, I get to have a conversation with Sharon Burnett.  Sharon is a publisher and co-founder of two early childhood companies, most currently – CELEBRATE Successful Early Learning. The company creates supplemental big books, little books, music, and digital e-Stories based on a foundation of FUN and SUCCESS for our youngest learners. You might recognize the "Sing and Read" books like "Apple Annie", "Benjamin Bunny" from years past! Sharon works with educators in the areas of Infant, Toddler, Threes, Pre-K, and Kindergarten within school districts, Head Start agencies, and Child Care organizations both nationally and internationally. Her knowledge and expertise in early childhood provide a cornerstone in the foundational years to enhance best practices for our youngest children. In this podcast episode, Sharon Burnett discusses the current state of early learning classrooms, highlighting the stress, anxiety, and extreme behaviors that both children and adults are experiencing. She attributes these issues to the changing world and society, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Burnett emphasizes the importance of reconnecting, communicating, and creating enjoyable learning environments. She also discusses the significance of music in early learning, citing research that shows its positive effects on reducing anxiety, increasing vocabulary, and promoting fluency and language development. She goes on to encourage educators to incorporate more music into their classrooms and to recognize the value of fun and joy in early childhood education.  Where are you using music to make your day more FUN? I really hope it's not just relegated to your music class, but that you are using fun songs – either recorded or just made up on your own to bring joy, laughter, and connection to your classroom. SO much research tells us that music is good for the brain and for the soul. If you read our newsletter or follow us on social media, you'll often here me saying that it's time to add in another "dance party" to your day!  Truly, music, movement and laughter change the atmosphere of every environment. Don't skimp on it!  See you next time!    You can find Sharon's website HERE and follow Celebrate Successful Early Learning on social media HERE  As always, we would love to connect with you on Instagram HERE and on Facebook HERE.