Thriving Together: Reducing Stress and Restoring Joy in Early Childhood Classrooms

Stress is one of the biggest drivers of burnout, turnover, and dissatisfaction in early childhood education — and it affects not only educators, but children and families as well.In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, Andy Roszak is joined by Raelene Ostberg, founder of Thriving Together and a nationally recognized expert in educator wellness, toddler behavior, and resilience.Raelene shares her personal journey from being a “Head Start baby” to becoming a leading voice in supporting early childhood professionals. Together, they explore why stress is not going away — and why the solution isn’t perfection, but small, intentional shifts woven throughout the day.This conversation covers practical strategies for reducing stress hormones in classrooms, reframing challenging behaviors, strengthening leadership culture, and restoring joy in the work of caring for young children.Why stress is the #1 issue in early childhood education — now and historicallyHow Raelene’s early childhood trauma and Head Start experience shaped her missionThe “default network” (the hamster wheel brain) and why our minds stay stuck in stressWhy educator burnout impacts children’s behavior and emotional regulationThe post-COVID “big dropout” — educators leaving or disengaging while stayingHow challenging behaviors have intensified across programs nationwideSimple classroom shifts that increase presence and decrease chaosWhy leadership stress sets the tone for the entire organizationBuilding culture through small connection routines, not unrealistic overhaulsHow reframing stories can reduce stress and increase compassionWhy educators must reclaim their power to influence outcomes — without blaming families