Early Childhood Chats

Where will the next generation of early childhood educators come from — and what will it take to prepare them for the realities of today's classrooms?In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, Andy Roszak sits down with Carol Williamson, Professor and Director of the Early Childhood Education Program at Carroll Community College, to explore the future of the early childhood education workforce.Drawing on more than 40 years of experience, Carol shares how early childhood education has changed, what today's aspiring teachers need to succeed, and why hands-on classroom experience should begin long before graduation.Andy and Carol discuss:• The early childhood educator workforce pipeline• Teacher recruitment and retention challenges• Compensation and the early childhood workforce shortage• Career pathways, CDA credentials, associate degrees, and teacher certification• Why real-world classroom experience matters• Developmentally appropriate practice vs. “push-down” curriculum• Screen time and technology in early childhood• The importance of flexibility, curiosity, and a love of learning• Teacher burnout, wellness, and self-care• Mentorship from experienced educators• College partnerships with Head Start and child care programs• Making teacher education more accessible for working and nontraditional students• The future of early childhood educationCarol also shares how Carroll Community College is creating flexible pathways for future educators through service learning, internships, credit for prior learning, and flexible course options — while giving students meaningful classroom experience from the beginning of their education.Whether you're an early childhood educator, Head Start professional, program director, college student, teacher educator, or someone considering a career in early childhood education, this conversation offers an important look at how we can strengthen the profession for the next generation.Learn more about Carroll Community College: https://www.carrollcc.edu/Subscribe to Early Childhood Chats for more conversations about the people, policies, ideas, and innovations shaping early childhood education.----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

Monica Rollins from Rooted: A Wellness Collective joins Andy Roszak to talk about what actually changes in an early childhood classroom when you introduce yoga and mindfulness, what nervous system literacy means for educators, a live breathwork demonstration you can try with your class tomorrow, and the new kids yoga teacher certification she just launched specifically for preschool teachers.In this episode, Monica shares her origin story bringing yoga into early childhood classrooms back in 2010, the story of a four-year-old who taught herself to sit in a hallway and breathe through big feelings, a live kid-friendly breathwork exercise, her four pillars of kids yoga (movement, breath, focus, and intentional rest), what nervous system literacy means in plain language, the kids yoga teacher certification she just launched, what she is hearing from educators across the country, and one free thing you can do tomorrow morning to start shifting your classroom culture.CONNECT WITH MONICALinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/monica-kaye-rollinsFree Guide: The Preschool Breathwork Blueprint: https://rootedwellnesscollective.kit.com/freebieLive Workshop: Teach Preschool Yoga Like a Pro: https://rootedwellnesscollective.kit.com/liveworkshopEmail: hello@rootedwellnesscollective.org----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

In this special edition of Early Childhood Chats, Andy Roszak sits down with Yvette Sanchez Fuentes, SVP Government Relations and Research at Start Early and former Director of the Office of Head Start, to break down major proposed changes to the Head Start program — and what they could mean for children, families, educators, and programs across the country.The proposed rulemaking could eliminate or change significant portions of the existing Head Start Performance Standards. Andy and Yvette discuss some of the biggest areas of concern, including services for children with disabilities, language and instruction, support for families experiencing homelessness, parent and family engagement, administrative funding, classroom quality, and the future of Head Start's comprehensive services.They also explain what happens during the federal rulemaking process, what could happen after the public comment period closes, and why Head Start programs should use their own experiences and data to tell their stories.The message from Yvette is clear: submit a comment.The public comment deadline discussed in this episode is October 6.Whether you're a Head Start director, teacher, administrator, parent, early childhood professional, or advocate, this conversation will help you better understand what's being proposed and why this moment could have long-term implications for Head Start and early childhood education.Topics include:• Head Start proposed rule changes• Head Start Performance Standards• Federal Head Start regulations• Public comment process• Early childhood education policy• Services for children with disabilities• Dual language learners• Family engagement and comprehensive services• Head Start funding and administration• The future of Head StartResources:https://togetherforheadstart.org/----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

Big changes could be coming to Head Start and federal early childhood education policy, but what is actually changing, what is still only proposed, and what can Head Start programs, educators, parents, and advocates do about it?In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, Andy welcomes Whitney Pesek, Senior Director of Federal Child Care Policy at the National Women’s Law Center (NWLC), for an important conversation about the federal government's proposed Head Start regulatory changes and what they could mean for children, families, educators, and programs across the country.Whitney breaks down the federal rulemaking process, why a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) matters, and why Head Start programs should understand that these proposed changes have not yet taken effect.The conversation explores:* Proposed changes to Head Start teacher-child ratios and group sizes* Proposed English-only instruction and assessment requirements* How the federal rulemaking process actually works* Why public comments on Head Start regulations matter* How programs can use local data and family experiences to strengthen comments* Potential legal challenges if a final rule is issued* The role Congress could play* Head Start funding and federal early childhood policy* Workforce recruitment and retention challenges* What early childhood leaders should be watching nextWith federal early childhood policy changing rapidly, understanding the difference between proposals, final regulations, legislation, and funding decisions is more important than ever.Whether you're a Head Start director, Early Head Start educator, child care provider, early childhood advocate, parent, policymaker, or community leader, this episode provides important context for understanding what's happening in Washington and how the early childhood community can make its voice heard.Learn more and connect with Whitney here: https://nwlc.org/staff/whitney-pesek/https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneypesek/https://www.legistorm.com/person/bio/357712/Whitney_Pesek.html

Potty training is one of those milestones that sounds simple until you are in the middle of it. Parents get conflicting advice. Teachers get put on the spot. Children get confused. And somehow, a process that every human being eventually masters has become one of the most stressful chapters of early childhood for everyone involved.In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, Andy Roszak sits down with Jackie, the founder and Chief Potty Officer of Tot on the Pot, a play-based potty training system she created nearly twenty-five years ago after potty training her own children. What started as a set of rhymes and activities for her nonverbal eighteen-month-old son became a full product line: an anatomically correct training doll, a toy potty, a children’s book, a parent guide, and twenty activity reward cards designed to keep parents and children connected throughout the process.Jackie and Andy talk about why thinking like a toddler is the key to this whole thing. They walk through the fifteen steps a child has to master, the sensory overload of a bathroom from a toddler’s perspective, and why the diaper is actually one of a child’s closest companions. Jackie explains why reward cards that foster connection outperform candy and screen time, how parent anxiety and frustration transfer directly to children and can introduce shame into the process, and why the timeline for potty training has shifted later in recent years — not because children changed, but because culture did.For the early childhood professionals in the audience, Jackie delivers a message worth hearing: you are doing some of the most important work there is in this process, and you are the bridge between home and school that families desperately need. She walks through what consistency between settings looks like, how to handle the parent who shows up asking for advice, and why body awareness conversations should start long before anyone is thinking about a potty.Whether you are a parent in the thick of it, an early childhood educator fielding daily questions, or a new professional who has never potty trained a child in your life, this conversation will give you something practical to take with you. Give it a listen and share it with your team.Learn more about Jackie and Tot on the Pot:https://www.totonthepot.com/----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

How do premature birth, toxic stress, environmental health, and childhood experiences shape lifelong development?In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, Andy Roszak sits down with pediatric and neonatal nurse practitioner Dr. Michelle Kelly of Villanova University and the Mid-Atlantic Center for Children's Health and the Environment to discuss the hidden influences affecting children's physical, emotional, and cognitive development.Topics include:• Premature birth and lifelong outcomes• Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)• Toxic stress and child development• Environmental health risks including lead, air pollution, and secondhand smoke• Developmental milestones every educator should watch for• How Head Start, childcare providers, and early educators can make a lasting difference• Practical strategies to support children and familiesWhether you're an early childhood educator, childcare director, Head Start professional, healthcare provider, parent, or policymaker, this conversation provides practical insights backed by research that can help children thrive.Subscribe for more conversations on early childhood education, child safety, health, emergency preparedness, and family wellbeing.Learn more: https://www.villanova.edu/university.htmlhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-kelly-11213693/https://www.villanova.edu/university/nursing/faculty-and-research/centers/macche.htmlpacer.net#EarlyChildhood #ChildDevelopment #HeadStart #PrematureBirth #EarlyEducation #EnvironmentalHealth #ACEs #Childcare #Podcast #EarlyChildhoodChats

Emergency medicine physician and climate health researcher Dr. Tess Wiskel of Harvard Medical School joins Andy Roszak to talk about what extreme weather actually means for early childhood programs. They cover why young children are uniquely vulnerable, how rising heat affects classrooms and outdoor play, what frontline clinic research tells us about preparedness gaps, the resources available to build climate resilience, and the practical steps every program can take today to protect children and staff.Learn more about Tess:➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tess-wiskel-0a587b35/➡️ https://hsph.harvard.edu/profile/tess-wiskel/➡️ https://fxb.harvard.edu/blog/directory/tess-wiskel-md/➡️ https://www.crisisready.io/team/tess-wiskel/Resources:➡️ https://toolkit.climate.gov/topic/health-care➡️ https://www.americares.org/what-we-do/community-health/climate-resilient-health-clinics/Papers:➡️ https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/disaster-medicine-and-public-health-preparedness/article/preparedness-information-needs-and-interruptions-in-medical-care-after-the-california-oak-fire/F2FE1BF5A2CB195D25D7BFCC8D081AB4➡️ https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12875-024-02622-y➡️ https://www.bmj.com/content/391/bmj-2025-086218?__cf_chl_f_tk=MLhcjcUoDcoxU4PMzpb1ClKqXsU3nEUg9wy3vuAQWj4-1783442437-1.0.1.1-JnjBqHJHX16K3LdDFKG3rtkf6tCm6wFWp5mDVHCGkOA----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

How can early childhood educators prevent burnout and rediscover the joy of teaching?In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak sits down with Dr. Marisa Macy (University of Wyoming) and Amy Reyes-Hauff (Wyoming Department of Education) to explore practical ways educators can reconnect with purpose, improve classroom culture, and build sustainable careers in early childhood education.You'll learn:✔️ Why play-based learning is essential for both children and teachers✔️ How outdoor learning improves educator wellness✔️ Practical strategies to reduce burnout and compassion fatigue✔️ Leadership tips for creating joyful classroom environments✔️ Why nature, relationships, and authentic teaching matter more than perfection✔️ The impact of digital technology on young children's development✔️ Actionable ideas educators can implement immediatelyWhether you're a preschool teacher, childcare provider, Head Start professional, administrator, or early childhood leader, this conversation offers research-backed inspiration and practical advice to help you thrive in the classroom.Featured Guests• Dr. Marisa Macy – Professor, University of Wyominghttps://www.marisamacy.com/https://www.uwyo.edu/education/faculty-staff/marisa-macy.htmlhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/marisa-macy-970b3737/https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Marisa-Macyhttps://scholar.google.com/• Amy Reyes-Hauff – Early Learning Specialist, Wyoming Department of Educationhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-reyes-hauff-a1b15844/https://edu.wyoming.gov/https://www.facebook.com/WYOEducationIf you're passionate about early childhood education, teacher wellness, play-based learning, classroom management, outdoor education, preschool leadership, Head Start, or educator burnout prevention, this episode is for you.👍 Like this video🔔 Subscribe for more conversations about early childhood education, leadership, child development, and supporting educators.----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

Ryan Miller, Senior Director of Program for Young Athletes and Elementary at Special Olympics New York, joins Andy Roszak to talk about what Special Olympics is actually doing in early childhood settings — and why it is almost nothing like what most people assume. They cover the Young Athletes and Junior Athletes curricula, how programs serving children with disabilities can check compliance boxes while delivering genuine developmental value, why Head Start is one of the most natural partnerships Special Olympics has ever found, and what it actually takes to get a program up and running in a matter of days.Connect with Special Olympics New York:➡️ https://www.specialolympics-ny.org/➡️ https://www.instagram.com/specialolympicsny➡️ https://www.facebook.com/SpecialOlympicsNewYork➡️ https://www.linkedin.com/company/special-olympics-new-york/----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak sits down with Drew Vernon from Tonies to talk about a product that has become a staple in his own household and is making waves in early childhood classrooms across the country. Tonies is a screen-free audio system designed for young children, featuring a soft, portable speaker box and magnetic character figures that trigger stories, songs, and educational content when placed on top. Drew shares the origin story of the company, which began in Dusseldorf, Germany, when two dads on a preschool board saw teachers still using CDs and streaming devices that kids could not operate on their own. He walks through his own journey from Procter and Gamble to LEGO to leading the education program at Tonies in the United States.The conversation covers the growing body of research on screen time and child development, the L.A. school district’s recent decision to restrict screens through first grade, the power of audio-based learning in building vocabulary and creative visualization, and the many ways teachers can integrate the Toniebox into classroom centers. Drew also talks about Creative Tonies, the blank recordable figures that let parents, grandparents, and even incarcerated fathers record personal messages and stories for their children. Andy shares his own experience using Creative Tonies to connect his one-hundred-and-one-year-old grandmother with his daughters, and the two discuss the Toniebox 2’s new features including Bluetooth, a sunrise alarm, and a screen-free game system called Tonie Play.Learn more about Tonies: https://us.tonies.com/https://www.instagram.com/tonies.us/Episode Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Andy’s experience as a Tonies parent1:30 Drew Vernon’s background: from P&G to LEGO to Tonies3:30 The origin story of Tonies in Dusseldorf, Germany5:15 How the Toniebox works: magnets, RFID, and kid-friendly design6:30 My First Tonies for ages one and up7:00 Licensing partnerships: Disney, Paw Patrol, Sesame Street, Mr. Rogers, and more8:30 The philosophy behind screen-free audio and creative visualization10:30 Screen time research and the impact of COVID on children’s media habits13:00 The L.A. school district restricting screens through first grade14:30 Creative Tonies: recording your own voice for your children16:00 Incarcerated fathers staying connected through Creative Tonies17:30 Using Tonies during travel, road trips, and at Great Wolf Lodge18:30 Integrating Tonies into the classroom: five learning centers model20:30 Age range: from My First Tonies at age one to audiobooks at age ten21:30 Bluetooth headphones, external speakers, and classroom ratios22:30 Battery life and portability (eight hours)23:00 What’s next: Pokemon partnership and Tonie Play game system25:00 Where to buy and the twenty percent teacher discount26:00 Drew’s favorite Tonie: the LeVar Burton Reading Rainbow collaboration28:00 Wi-Fi and connectivity explained30:00 Drew’s closing thoughts on giving kids the right tools for one childhood----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak talks with Kevin Wright from Watch Me Grow about a topic that generates a lot of opinions and not enough informed conversation: cameras in childcare settings. Watch Me Grow is a video platform built exclusively for the early childhood education industry, offering commercial-grade camera integration, secure parent viewing, long-term footage retention for compliance, and a growing suite of AI-powered features designed to support proactive program management rather than reactive crisis response.Kevin walks through his own path into early childhood technology, including his time at a childcare management platform before joining Watch Me Grow during the merger with PB&J TV. The conversation covers how parent viewing actually works in practice, including the data showing that average parent viewing time is less than a minute per day or week, how centers are using cameras as coaching and professional development tools rather than surveillance, the legal and insurance value of reliable footage retention, and how programs are offsetting costs by offering camera access as a value-added service to families. Kevin also previews Watch Me Grow’s active supervision AI feature, which detects when an adult is not present in a classroom and flags the event for director review. Andy and Kevin discuss the shift in perception from cameras as punitive “big brother” tools to proactive instruments for quality improvement, staff support, and family trust.Learn more about Watch Me Grow:https://watchmegrow.com/Episode Timestamps0:00 Introduction: cameras at the intersection of early childhood and technology1:00 Kevin Wright’s background and how he ended up at Watch Me Grow2:30 The PB&J TV and Watch Me Grow merger3:30 Why Watch Me Grow is built exclusively for early childhood education4:30 What Watch Me Grow actually is: the platform explained6:30 Parent viewing: how it works and how centers customize access8:30 The data on parent viewing: enrollment boosts, retention, and average viewing time under one minute10:30 Cameras as a professional development and coaching tool13:00 The hockey film analogy: watching to build best practices, not to catch mistakes14:30 Myths and misconceptions about cameras in childcare16:30 The story of a director who could not produce footage when it mattered18:00 Camera placement: classrooms, hallways, playgrounds, parking lots, and exteriors20:00 Offsetting costs: charging a technology fee for parent viewing access22:00 The legal value of reliable footage: discovery, insurance claims, and the jury argument24:00 The shift from reactive to proactive: using video to identify trends before incidents escalate26:00 The iPad story: how video revealed a staffing need, not a teacher failure28:00 Active supervision AI: detecting when an adult is not present in a classroom31:00 What’s next: ratio tracking, smart observations, and emotional learning features33:00 Security benefits: after-hours surveillance, vandalism, vehicle incidents35:00 The vehicle-into-building story from Canada and why footage matters for insurance37:00 How to reach Watch Me Grow and the discovery conversation process39:00 Closing thoughts on transparency and the future of video in early childhood----------------------------// Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness

In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, we tackle one of the most urgent challenges in early education today: the growing gap in mental health support for young children.Host Andy Rozak sits down with Dr. Neal Horen and Shai Idelson from the Thrive Center at Georgetown University to discuss rising behavioral challenges in classrooms, increasing preschool expulsion rates, and why early childhood educators are facing unprecedented stress and burnout.We dive into:* Why infant and early childhood mental health matters more than ever* The reality of challenging behaviors in today’s classrooms* The shortage of mental health consultants and why programs struggle to access support* Innovative solutions to build internal capacity and expand the workforce* Practical strategies for educators and directors to manage stress and support childrenIf you work in early childhood education, Head Start, childcare, or behavioral health, this conversation is a must-watch.Learn more about the Thrive Center: 👉 https://thrivecenter.georgetown.edu/👉 https://www.facebook.com/GUUCEDD👉 https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrive-center-at-georgetown-university/👉 https://www.instagram.com/guthrivecenter/👉 https://www.iecmhc.org/👉 Georgetown Thrive Center: thrivecenter.georgetown.edu👉 Practical Certificate in IECMH Consultation: thrivecenter.georgetown.edu/training-and-education/certificates/practical-certificate-in-infant-early-childhood-mental-health-consultation/👉 Head Start East Partner Events: headstarteast.org/event#EarlyChildhoodEducation #MentalHealthSupport #Childcare #HeadStart #TeacherBurnout----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Every state in the country is watching New Mexico right now. In November 2025, New Mexico lifted its income eligibility cap for child care assistance, making quality child care available to any family with a child from birth through age twelve whose parents are working or in school. In a matter of months, the number of children served grew from 32,000 to 48,000 — and the state is already exceeding its own projections.But the story is not really about what happened in November. It is about what happened in 2019, and in the years of advocacy and organizing that came before it. Kendal Chavez, Deputy Secretary of the New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department, joins Andy Roszak to pull back the curtain on how the state got here: the creation of a unified early childhood department, a trust fund now worth eleven billion dollars seeded from oil and gas revenues, a wage scale and career ladder for the early childhood workforce, a zoning reform bill that removed local barriers to building new child care facilities, and an evidence base that is already showing children in the state's most under-resourced communities outperforming national cohorts.This is a conversation about governance, political will, and what is actually possible when a state decides that early childhood is not a nice-to-have — it is the strategy.GUESTKendal Chavez, Deputy Secretary, New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD)Appointed by Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham in August 2025. Brings more than fifteen years of public-sector experience at the intersection of education, public health, food systems, and child and family well-being. Holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Mexico and previously served as a Policy Advisor to the Governor.ABOUT THE NEW MEXICO ECECDThe New Mexico Early Childhood Education and Care Department was created in 2019 as one of the first unified early childhood agencies in the country. Its mission is to bring all programs and services for children prenatal through age five under one roof, giving families a single point of access and giving the state a coordinated system for investing in young children. The department oversees child care assistance, universal pre-K for four-year-olds, home visiting, and early intervention programs — all connected and funded in part through New Mexico's Early Childhood Trust Fund. Website: nmeced.orgTOPIC OVERVIEWNew Mexico's universal child care initiative is not a single policy announcement — it is the culmination of more than six years of deliberate system-building under Governor Lujan Grisham, supported by decades of advocacy before her. When the state lifted its income eligibility cap in November 2025, it did so with an eleven-billion-dollar trust fund already in place, a unified department managing all early childhood programs, a workforce wage scale codified in law, a cost-based reimbursement model that incentivizes quality, and a zoning reform bill removing local barriers to expanding supply. In this conversation, Kendal Chavez walks through every piece of that infrastructure and explains what it means for families, educators, and policymakers who are watching from other states.---------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PFounder of the Institute for Childhood Preparedness and Head Start East. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

Most early childhood educators know handwriting matters. Fewer realize how much is lost when it disappears from the classroom. Research from Indiana University and the University of Washington has consistently shown that children who practice handwriting show stronger neurological activation in regions tied to reading and language development than children who rely on keyboards. Yet across the country, the skill is fading quietly — replaced by screen-based instruction, academic pressure pushed down into preschool, and a system that asks children to produce letters before they have the developmental readiness to form them.Holly Britton spent more than 25 years in classrooms watching this happen firsthand. After pivoting during COVID to build what she had been conceptualizing for years, she founded Squiggle Squad, a research-based, developmentally appropriate program built on a stroke-by-stroke approach that separates motor skill from letter learning. The results have been striking.In this conversation, Holly and Andy discuss the developmental window for handwriting instruction, how play-based classrooms can incorporate handwriting without abandoning their philosophy, and what the rise of AI and screens means for how young children learn to think. Holly also shares practical, no-cost starting points any teacher or parent can use right now."Handwriting, as innocuous as it seems, is deeply human. For us not to teach that human skill is, to me, as awful as not teaching them how to read."🔗 Learn more about Squiggle Squad: https://squigglesquad.com👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SquiggleSquad/👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/squigglesquadhandwriting/👉 Email Holly: [email protected]: https://hollyonhandwriting.substack.com/about📌 Subscribe for more early childhood education insights#handwriting #earlychildhoodeducation #braindevelopment #literacy #teachingtips #educationpodcast #learning----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

Running a childcare center isn’t easy. From staffing shortages to parent communication, burnout is real. In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, we dive into the biggest challenges facing early childhood leaders in 2026 and how technology can help simplify operations, improve communication, and support your team.➡️ Get a 14-day free trial to Famly here: https://bit.ly/AndyRoszakJoin host Andy Roszak with guests Meghan Cornwell and Harrison Brazier from Famly as they break down:✔️ How to reduce childcare director burnout✔️ Strategies for improving staff retention and engagement✔️ The role of childcare management software in daily operations✔️ How to strengthen parent communication and trust✔️ Why many childcare leaders feel isolated — and what to do about it✔️ How AI and automation are shaping the future of early childhood educationWhether you’re a childcare director, preschool owner, teacher, or early education leader, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you run a stronger, more sustainable program.🔔 Subscribe for more early childhood leadership tips, childcare business strategies, and ECE insights!➡️ Get a 14-day free trial to Famly here: https://bit.ly/AndyRoszak#childcare #earlychildhoodeducation #preschoolleadership #daycaremanagement #eceleadership----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Empowering Kids: Why Children Can Become Entrepreneurs Today | Early Childhood ChatsAre kids ready to lead and start businesses? According to educator and entrepreneur Leah Ellis, the answer is yes — and they’re ready right now.In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak sits down with Leah Ellis, founder of the Society of Child Entrepreneurs, to discuss how teaching entrepreneurship, leadership, and financial literacy to kids can transform their confidence and creativity.Leah shares the incredible story of how her four-year-old daughter started a business during COVID, which eventually led to a nationwide movement helping children develop real business skills through hands-on learning, children's business fairs, and entrepreneurship education.You'll learn:➡️ Why kids are capable of leadership and innovation earlier than we think➡️ How entrepreneurship builds confidence and communication skills➡️ How children can learn financial literacy through real business experiences➡️ Why “failing forward” is one of the most important lessons for young entrepreneurs➡️ Practical ways parents and teachers can introduce entrepreneurship to kidsWhether you're a parent, educator, homeschooler, or entrepreneur, this conversation will change how you think about what kids are capable of.Because the truth is: kids aren’t just the future... they’re leaders today.🔗 Learn more about Leah Ellis and the Society of Children Entrepreneurs here:https://societyofchildentrepreneurs.org/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leahkellis/👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if you enjoyed this episode!----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

Fatherhood matters more than ever.In this powerful episode of the Early Childhood Chats Podcast, host Andy Roszak sits down with Lamar Henderson Jr. - founder of the Fatherhood Legacy Project and one of the nation’s leading voices in father engagement - to explore how we can transform fatherhood in early childhood education.From boot camps for new dads to hands-on STEM activities in Head Start programs, Lamar shares practical, research-backed strategies for increasing father involvement, breaking generational cycles, and creating father-friendly learning environments.You’ll learn:➡️ Why early childhood programs must intentionally include fathers➡️ How dads shape children’s long-term development and health outcomes➡️ Practical, low-cost ways to engage fathers in Head Start and preschool➡️ How to overcome generational trauma in fatherhood➡️ Why “choose your regrets wisely” might change how you parent foreverWhether you're a father, early childhood educator, Head Start leader, or family advocate, this conversation will inspire you to rethink what father engagement truly means.🔗 Learn more about Lamar Henderson Jr. and the Fatherhood Legacy Project:https://www.thefatherhoodlegacyproject.com/#Fatherhood #FatherEngagement #EarlyChildhoodEducation #HeadStart #ParentingPodcast #DadsMatter #ChildDevelopment #positiveparenting ----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Burnout and turnover continue to challenge early childhood education programs nationwide — but what if the solution isn’t another checklist or one-time training?In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, Andy Roszak welcomes the LUME Institute team — Meghan Whitworth, Roxeanna Steiner, Jason Mercer, and Amber Buchheit — to unpack the “inside work” that supports educators from the inside out. LUME Institute, born from the philosophy of University City Children’s Center (UCCCC) in St. Louis, focuses on relational coaching, emotional development, and sustainable professional learning that strengthens culture over time.Together, they explore:➡️ Why emotional milestones and attachment matter as much as cognitive development➡️ How adult stress and dysregulation can unintentionally fuel classroom power struggles➡️ Why LUME calls their method “slow food learning” — and how it outperforms one-and-done PD➡️ How leaders can build psychological safety through shared commitments➡️ Why play is the antidote to stress (and how to find your “play personality”)➡️ How qualitative stories and relationship-centered data reveal real impactWhether you’re a teacher, director, coach, or training leader, this episode offers practical insight and encouragement for building a more connected, resilient early childhood workforce.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode!👉 Connect with LUME Institute: https://www.lumeinstitute.org/----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

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

Artificial intelligence is already shaping our classrooms, homes, and society... but how do we prepare children for an AI-driven future without losing what makes us human?In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak sits down with Jeffrey Riley, former Massachusetts Commissioner of Elementary and Secondary Education and Executive Director of Day of AI, a nonprofit born out of MIT.Together, they explore how AI is transforming education, why AI literacy is becoming a foundational skill, and how teachers, parents, and school leaders can use AI safely, ethically, and effectively. From early childhood classrooms to high school and beyond, this conversation tackles real concerns around data privacy, bias, mental health, and over-reliance on technology — while highlighting how AI can actually give educators time back and personalize learning for every student.This episode also dives into:➡️ Why AI is the “fourth R” alongside reading, writing, and arithmetic➡️ How teachers can use AI without compromising academic integrity➡️ The importance of critical thinking and “trust but verify” in an AI world➡️ The upcoming Student AI Bill of Rights and Youth AI Festival➡️ How families can talk to kids about AI — even without technical expertiseWhether you’re a teacher, administrator, parent, or education leader, this episode will help you understand what AI means for the future of learning — and how to approach it with confidence, not fear.Learn more about Jeff and Day of AI here:• dayofai.org• dayofaiusa.org• [email protected] Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, Andy Roszak is joined by Kama Einhorn with Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit organization behind Sesame Street, to discuss how they are helping children, families, and educators build resilience, emotional well-being, and emergency preparedness.Learn how trusted Sesame Street characters are being used to support trauma-informed care, social-emotional learning, and disaster preparedness for young children facing extreme weather events like hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, and floods.We explore:➡️ How early childhood educators and caregivers can support children before, during, and after emergencies➡️ Why familiarity, play, and trusted relationships are critical during stressful events➡️ How free, research-based Sesame Workshop resources help children feel safe and supported➡️ The role of adults in modeling self-care and resilience🎒 These FREE emergency preparedness and resilience resources are available online and can be used in classrooms, childcare settings, homes, and communities.🌎 Resources are available in both English and Spanish.🔗 Learn more and access the materials: https://sesame.org/https://sesame.org/emergencies/Whether you’re an early childhood educator, parent, childcare provider, or community professional, this conversation offers practical, compassionate tools to help young children navigate uncertainty and build lifelong resilience.----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak sits down with Gerard Visco, Director of Professional Development at a Head Start agency in New Jersey, to explore what high-quality early childhood education really looks like.Together, they dive into: ✏️ Why picture books and read-alouds are one of the most powerful tools in early learning✏️ How to make early math meaningful, playful, and story-driven✏️ Common mistakes educators make during circle time—and how to fix them✏️ The role of professional development, mentorship, and teacher advocacy✏️ A thoughtful breakdown of AI-generated children’s books vs. human-created literature✏️ What today’s early childhood educators need most to succeedThis conversation is packed with practical strategies, real classroom examples, and powerful reflections for preschool teachers, Head Start professionals, school leaders, and anyone passionate about early learning.🎧 Perfect for:Early childhood educatorsPreschool and Head Start teachersInstructional coaches and PD leadersParents interested in literacy and learningAnyone invested in the future of education👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with an educator who needs this conversation today.👉 Connect with Gerard: https://www.edutopia.org/profile/gerard-visco/----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2026 all rights reserved

What happens when you combine 50+ years of early childhood education experience with honest conversations about policy, workforce challenges, and advocacy?In this powerful episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Rozak sits down with Dr. Robert Gundling, a nationally respected early childhood leader, former president of DC AEYC, Head Start advocate, and founder of Sense of Wonder.Dr. Gundling shares unforgettable stories from the very beginning of Head Start, explains why early childhood education has been misunderstood for decades, and outlines what it will take to finally build a sustainable, respected, and fully funded early learning system in the United States.This episode covers:➡️ The history and future of Head Start➡️ Why early childhood education is NOT babysitting➡️ Workforce shortages, pay equity, and professionalism➡️ Men in early childhood education➡️ Universal Pre-K and state-level policy success stories➡️ Advocacy lessons from Washington, DC, Virginia, Maryland, and beyondWhether you’re an early childhood educator, Head Start leader, policy advocate, or education reformer, this episode is packed with insight, history, and inspiration.Learn more about Dr. Robert Gundling here:👉 https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-gundling-aa0a5a5/Subscribe for weekly conversations on early childhood leadership, policy, and practice.----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

In this powerful episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak sits down with national expert Alan Guttman to unpack one of the most important—and often misunderstood—topics in early childhood education: mandatory reporting requirements.Whether you're a preschool teacher, childcare provider, administrator, Head Start professional, or early learning advocate, this conversation shines light on what mandatory reporting really means, why suspicion alone is enough to trigger a report, and how to overcome fear, uncertainty, and workplace barriers.Alan shares real-life stories from his 40-year career, breaks down state-by-state differences, explains the role of educators versus investigators, and provides practical guidance for protecting children, supporting staff, and creating safer early childhood environments.👉 Learn the why behind mandated reporting👉 Understand common misconceptions👉 Hear real examples of reporting done right👉 Discover how programs can support staff in difficult situations👉 Get clarity on what happens after a report is filedThis is essential listening for anyone responsible for the health, safety, and wellbeing of young children.Learn more about Alan:https://headstartconsultant.com/https://maec.org/staff/alan-guttman/https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanguttman/----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

In this powerful episode of Early Childhood Chats, we uncover the hidden dangers most childcare programs never think about: vehicles crashing into playgrounds, buildings, and drop-off areas. Safety expert Ken Skertich joins host Andy Roszak to break down what really puts early childhood facilities at risk—and what programs can do to prevent tragedy.From bollards and guardrails, to proper risk assessments, retrofitting, and real-world crash examples, this conversation is eye-opening for anyone working in childcare, Head Start, preschool operations, or facility management.Whether you're a director, owner, safety manager, or educator, this episode gives you practical, budget-friendly steps to protect your program, staff, and children.▶️ Topics Covered:• Why playground fences and building walls aren’t enough• What types of barriers actually stop vehicles• Budget-friendly ways to improve safety• How to assess your program’s vulnerabilities• Real-life crash incidents and what we can learn• What municipalities and insurance companies look for• How bollards and barrier systems work• New innovations in playground safety📌 Want a safer facility?Learn more about risk assessments, barriers, and expert support to help protect your childcare program.Learn More about Ken & Resources:ProjectCore – https://www.projecore.com/Storefront Safety Council – www.storefrontsafetyinitiative.orgInstitute for Childhood Preparedness – www.childhoodpreparedness.orgStorefront Safety Resource Hub – www.childhoodpreparedness.org/storefrontsafety----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Andy Roszak sits down with architect John Hollo to explore how design and construction strategies can save lives. Discover how childcare centers, schools, and community buildings can prevent tragic vehicle-into-building crashes through thoughtful design, crash-tested barriers, and proactive safety planning.John shares over 25 years of architectural experience and real-world examples of how simple site assessments, bollards, and protective layouts can drastically reduce risk and keep children safe.💡 In this video, you’ll learn:Why “luck is not a strategy” when it comes to child safetyHow to assess your property for vehicle impact risksLow-cost and creative solutions for existing buildingsThe difference between conventional and crash-tested barriersHow safety design can also enhance aesthetics and trust🎥 This is part two of our Designing Safety Series, dedicated to protecting children from preventable accidents in childcare and community environments.👉 Subscribe for more expert insights on safety design, childcare security, and community protection.Learn more about John:https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-hollo-83a890126/Storefront Safety: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/storefrontsafety----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Vehicles strike commercial buildings about 100 times a day—and early childhood programs aren’t spared. In this kickoff to our three-part safety series, host Andy sits down with Rob Reiter, co-founder of the Storefront Safety Council (https://www.storefrontsafety.org/), whose database tracks 50,000+ incidents to unpack why “vehicle-into-building” and playground crashes are both foreseeable and preventable.They break down the highest-risk moments (drop-off/pick-up chaos, nose-in parking pointed at entrances, unprotected ADA stalls near front doors) and explain why nearly half of incidents at early childhood sites result in injuries. You’ll hear practical, low-cost fixes—rethinking traffic flow, relocating parking, and adding effective barriers (yes, bollards…or friendly-looking planters)—plus policy insights and what closures, insurance gaps, and community impacts really look like after a crash.👉 Subscribe for more early childhood strategies!Learn more about Rob and R&R Consulting:Website: https://storefrontcrashexpert.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reiter-and-reiter-inc/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StorefrontSafetyCouncilX: https://x.com/SafeStorefronts----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Urgent Episode Exposes Human Cost of Shutdown on 65,000 Head Start KidsWASHINGTON, D.C. — As the federal government shutdown enters its fifth week, Early Childhood Chats releases a breaking episode recorded just 48 hours before November 1st, when 134 Head Start programs serving 65,000 children in 41 states and Puerto Rico could lose all funding.Host Andy Roszak, a former Senate staffer and early childhood advocate, sits down with Sarah Rubinfield, Managing Director of Government Affairs at the First Five Years Fund (FFYF). With over 15 years of Capitol Hill experience advocating for children and families, Sarah now leads bipartisan efforts to strengthen federal support for early learning and child care—ensuring parents can work and children can thrive. Learn more at ffyf.org.Together they go beyond headlines to reveal the real-time human toll: teachers updating résumés for Walmart, parents forced to quit jobs the moment child care vanishes, and the possible uptick in domestic violence that follows when families lose their safety net.“They might last a week… then the doors close.” — Sarah Rubinfield“One day a child gets three meals. The next? Nothing.” — Andy RoszakThe conversation explores how the shutdown threatens Head Start, CCDBG, SNAP, and WIC—and how those losses ripple through workplaces, local economies, and the national fabric. Despite decades of bipartisan support for these programs, federal inaction now puts essential early learning at risk.From Capitol Hill insights to on-the-ground realities, Andy and Sarah deliver one urgent message: this shutdown isn’t politics as usual. It’s about real families, real children, and real futures we can still protect.“Your voice is bigger than any lobbyist. Bring a crayon drawing.” — Andy RoszakCall Congress: house.gov | senate.govAct now: ffyf.orgListen Now: earlychildhoodchats.com 👉 Subscribe for more insights and updates👉 Head Start East Conference: https://www.headstarteast.org/🌐 Learn more from First Five Years Fund:Website: https://www.ffyf.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/firstfiveyears/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ffyfInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/first5yearsfundX: https://x.com/firstfiveyearsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/firstfiveyearsEpisode SummaryIn this powerful and timely episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Roszak sits down with Sarah Rubinfield, Managing Director of Government Affairs at the First Five Years Fund, to unpack the devastating effects of the ongoing federal government shutdown on America’s most vulnerable families. Recorded 48 hours before the November 1st funding cliff, the conversation goes beyond headlines to explore what happens when programs like Head Start, CCDBG, SNAP, and WIC lose funding—and how those disruptions ripple through communities, workplaces, and the national economy. Together, Andy and Sarah shed light on the real-world consequences for children, parents, and providers—and what can be done to protect essential early childhood programs that millions depend on. From Capitol Hill insights to on-the-ground realities, this episode underscores one urgent message: this shutdown isn’t politics as usual; it’s about real families, real children, and real futures.----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more FOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Children with big emotions can be both inspiring and challenging to support. In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, clinical social worker and author Claire Lerner shares practical strategies for understanding and guiding kids with strong reactions and sensitivities. Building on insights from her bestselling book Why Is My Child in Charge? and her new release Big Reactors: Practical Strategies for Parenting Highly Sensitive Children, Claire offers real-world guidance grounded in decades of experience.Learn how to recognize the root causes of behavior, set loving limits, and support highly sensitive children through transitions, big feelings, and everyday challenges. This conversation is filled with actionable insights for anyone working with or caring for children.👉 Subscribe for more parenting insights and early childhood strategies!🌐 Learn more from Claire Lerner:Grab Claire's New Book (Big Reactors: Practical Strategies for Parenting Highly Sensitive Children): https://a.co/d/6AL3zhOWebsite: lernerchilddevelopment.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lernerchilddevelopment/🎥 Watch our previous episode with Claire:Taming Tantrums and Tears: https://youtu.be/qf11T98DUKE?feature=shared----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

In this new This Week in Early Childhood series, host Andy Roszak recaps the latest news, stories, and lessons for early learning professionals. In this week’s episode, we discuss the new ACF director’s priorities, a devastating daycare fire in Pennsylvania, alarming vehicle crashes into childcare centers, tragic safety incidents, and much more.Stay informed, stay prepared, and join us weekly for your essential early childhood news roundup.📌 Key Topics Covered:🏛️ Federal Leadership: Alex Adams confirmed as the new ACF Director, overseeing Head Start and the Office of Child Care.🏢 Government Shutdown: Impacts on programs awaiting new Notices of Award.🔥 Fire Safety Month Reminder: Fire destroys a Pennsylvania childcare center — why drills and evacuation plans matter.🚗 Storefront Safety: Car crashes into playground in Rhode Island; tragic fatal crash at Canadian daycare sparks legislative discussions.🚐 Transportation Incident: 13 children hospitalized after a childcare van crash in North Carolina.🐶 Supervision Failures: Two-year-old killed by daycare owner’s Rottweilers in Georgia.🔫 Violence Near Childcare: Parent fatally shot during a carjacking near a Louisiana daycare.🌲 Natural Disasters: 47 childcare programs destroyed by California wildfires — what providers are learning from recovery.📢 Mandatory Reporting: Pennsylvania childcare center closed for failure to report abuse — preview of upcoming Early Childhood Chats podcast episode with expert Allan Guttman.📅 Upcoming Event: Head Start East inaugural conference, March 2–5, 2026, in Puerto Rico – early bird pricing available now. Visit headstarteast.org for more! 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:Alex Adams confirmed as ACF Director – https://idahocapitalsun.com/2025/07/22/idaho-health-and-welfare-director-aims-to-prioritize-early-childhood-learning-foster-care-at-hhs/Pennsylvania childcare fire – https://www.wpxi.com/news/local/westmoreland-county-community-unites-help-rebuild-day-care-destroyed-by-fire/TJPTMFXKFNAUXBLOHARDZUDSQI/Rhode Island playground vehicle crash – https://www.wpri.com/news/local-news/west-bay/car-crashes-into-coventry-day-care/ and https://www.abc6.com/fire-chief-12-15-kids-on-coventry-playground-when-car-crashed-through-fence/Canada daycare tragedy –https://petrolialambtonindependent.ca/2025/10/06/concrete-barriers-to-be-installed-at-school-child-cares/North Carolina van crash –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FzEzsrqeDJsICP Walkie Talkies - https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/walkietalkies Georgia Rottweiler fatality – https://people.com/boy-mauled-death-dogs-left-him-unattended-daycare-11824647Louisiana carjacking shooting – https://www.miamiherald.com/news/nation-world/national/article312353005.htmlLos Angeles wildfires impact on childcare – https://www.laschoolreport.com/months-after-los-angeles-wildfires-child-care-providers-are-still-in-crisis/Scranton program closed for failure to report abuse – https://www.thetimes-tribune.com/2025/10/03/state-closes-daycare-in-scranton-for-alleged-failing-to-report-child-abuse/Head Start East Conference – https://headstarteast.org📚 Takeaways for Early Childhood Leaders:🔥 Revisit fire evacuation routes and drills this month.🚗 Assess your site’s vulnerability to vehicle crashes — simple steps can save lives.📞 Review your emergency communication plan, especially for mass casualty incidents.ICP Walkie talkies - https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/walkietalkies 👁️ Strengthen supervision protocols — even small lapses can have tragic consequences.📜 Review your mandatory reporting policies and training.

Discover the untold stories and strengths of tribal childcare programs across the United States. In this episode of Early Childhood Chats, host Andy Rozak speaks with Jennifer Rackliff, Executive Director of the National Indian Child Care Association (NICCA), about the challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping Native communities.Learn how tribal childcare blends cultural traditions, sovereignty, and federal funding to build stronger systems for children and families. From policy advocacy in Washington, D.C. to hands-on community care, this conversation sheds light on the complexities of early learning in Native American, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian communities.Whether you’re an educator, policymaker, or parent, this video provides rare insights into the world of Indian childcare, tribal sovereignty, and early childhood education.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on childcare, early learning, and community building!🌐 Learn more about Jennifer and NICCA:Website: https://www.nicca.us/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicca.us/X: https://x.com/nicca_usLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nicca-us/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NICCA.US----------------------------Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PFounder and CEO of the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Andy is joined by Dr. Kimberly Honnick of Bo Knowz Learning. Unlock the power of early childhood education in this inspiring conversation about teaching, learning, and social-emotional growth. With over 30 years of experience as a teacher, principal, superintendent, and consultant, Dr. Honnick shares her passion for serving children and families, building meaningful classroom experiences, and creating supportive environments for both students and educators.In this episode, we dive into:Why early childhood education matters more than everCreative ways to make curriculum relevant and engagingThe role of social-emotional learning (SEL) in classrooms and at homeSupporting teacher wellness and family engagementThe story behind Bo Knowz Learning and its mission to empower children, parents, and educatorsWhether you’re a teacher, parent, or education leader, this video offers practical strategies, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on helping kids thrive in a changing world.👉 Learn more about Bo Knows Learning: https://www.boknowzlearning.com/👉 Connect with Dr. Kim Hanock on social media: https://youtube.com/@boknowzlearning?feature=sharedhttps://x.com/dochonnickhttps://www.instagram.com/drkimhonnick/----------------------------Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. // Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Today we sat down with the distinguished Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW  @JamesRodriguezFFCA  for an insightful and thought-provoking discussion on the critical aspects of early childhood development and education. Find out more about his work at: https://fathersandfamiliescoalition.org/Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-PExecutive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/trainingFOLLOW UShttps://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPreparedhttps://twitter.com/ChildPreparedhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness© Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Tara is a speech-language pathologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in autism and the founder of @autismlittlelearners She is dedicated to providing valuable resources, materials, and training to support special education teachers, speech-language pathologists, and parents of young autistic children. Find out more about her work here: https://autismlittlelearners.com/ and check out our free social stories on preparedness developed with Tara here: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/printables Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Claire Lerner is an internationally recognized child development and parenting expert with more than three decades of experience in education and direct practice. She partners with parents to help them solve their most vexing childrearing challenges by guiding them through the detective work to decode the meaning of their children’s behavior. Together, she and the parents identify the root cause of the problems they are struggling with. This insight enables her to come up with effective strategies that help parents thread the sometimes seemingly elusive needle of being the loving, connected moms and dads they want to be while setting the limits and boundaries kids need to learn to self-regulate, to build resilience, and to be able to manage life’s expectations, frustrations, and disappointments. Find out more about her services here: https://www.lernerchilddevelopment.com/ Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2025 all rights reserved

Today we bring you a special episode thanks to our friends @GryphonHouseBooks In November they took time to sit down with our Founder and CEO Andrew Roszak, where he shared insights from his journey, starting as a firefighter and paramedic to becoming an attorney and advocate for safety in schools and childcare centers. He provides practical advice for early childhood education professionals on how to prepare for various emergencies, from natural disasters to cybersecurity threats, and sheds light on how to conduct drills without traumatizing young children. Subscribe to the Gryphon House Books Podcast, Early Childhood Chapters on their Youtube Channel @GryphonHouseBooks You can purchase Andy's books on the Gryphon House Site: https://bit.ly/4fbPvDx Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

A few months back we sat down with Client Success and Communications Manager for National Early Childhood Program Accreditation (NECPA) and National Child Care Association ((https://www.linkedin.com/company/national-early-childhood-program-accreditation-necpa-/) Moriah Whitehead (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moriah-whitehead-6b004b192/) Moriah is a passionate young professional with a diverse skill set whose work for The National Early Childhood Program Accreditation is focused on promoting benchmarks for high quality standards throughout the early care and education profession. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today we sat down with Jose Moreno, Founder & CEO at Neulight (https://www.neulight.io/) - Revolutionizing Personalized Student Support with IntelliTier with over 15 years at Microsoft and Netflix, Jose is leveraging his software expertise to pioneer educational innovations at Neulight, aiming to transform EdTech with AI. You can follow him here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jose-neulight/ Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today we sat down with Coleen Walker, Principal of Inside Crown, Inc. (www.insidecrown.com), who brings over 25 years of extensive expertise in the Human Resources field. Her diverse background encompasses extensive experience in DEI initiatives, governance training, and human resource consulting and training across nonprofit and for-profit sectors. As an accomplished facilitator, Coleen promotes open dialogue, fosters collaboration, and maximizes team potential in various settings, including board meetings, staff retreats, and community engagement forums. Connect with Coleen at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coleenkwalker/ Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today we sat down with Kathy Haule who brings #20+years of experience in #earlychildhood education. She thrives on opportunities to support educators working young children. With enthusiasm, Kathy Haule, promotes standards of high quality to maximize the benefits of early learning programs. She and her husband, Art, have one daughter and one granddaughter. You can find out more about her #consultancyservices here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-haule-2335786b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today we sat down with Tanika Steele a Public Speaker, Life Coach, and Educational Consultant (https://www.steeleedconsult.com/). She holds a Bachelor's degree in secondary education English and a Master's in Public Administration and Not for profit management and leadership. She has over 29 years of experience working with at risk children and families from communities all over Suffolk and Nassau county. Over the past decade, Tanika has worked as a Childcare Director and Educational consultant creating professional development trainings and workshops for public schools, Head starts, and preschool programs all over the United States. As well as literacy workshops at public libraries for children and adults throughout Long Island and New York City. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today we sat down with Jackie Rivera who has been a Health Administrator at a Head Start in central Missouri for over 10 years and is a certified Community Action professional. Before becoming a nurse, Jackie spent 10 years as an early childhood education teacher. Jackie oversees health and safety at her agency and is project manager for the agency’s Childhood Obesity and Diabetes Prevention Project and Women and Infant Relief program. Jackie is a licensed practical nurse, child development associate, and lactation counselor. Jackie is certified to train in many topics, such as Compassion Fatigue, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (or CPR)/First Aid Motivational Interviewing, I Am Moving, I Am Learning, Family Wellness, Infant Massage, Mind in The Making, and Experiential Facilitation. Jackie has had the honor of being named for a National Child Plus Community Service Award and received MOCAN Healthcare Profession award. You can follow her on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-rivera-a0437b34/ Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today we sat down with Nikkia Mosley an accomplished professional with 26 years of experience in the Head Start program, EHS, CCP, MSHS, and Home base. She currently serves as the Executive Director for Fort Valley State University. Nikkia’s journey in the field of early childhood education began when she started as a Head Start parent. Over the years, she has held various roles within the Head Start program, including teacher, center manager, coordinator, and Head Start director. Nikkia Mosley’s educational background includes an MBA and a Master’s degree in Human Resources. Her expertise and dedication to early childhood education have led her to work in six out of the twelve regions, including regions 11 and 12. Nikkia is a well-respected figure in the field and has been invited to present at prestigious events such as the National Head Start Association (NHSA), New Migrant Seasonal Head Start Association (NMSHA), South Carolina Fatherhood Collaboration, and she is also a UCLA Head Start Fellow. Nikkia Mosley has also served on the executive board of directors for the National Migrant Head Start Association for 4 years. Throughout her career, Nikkia Mosley has demonstrated a deep commitment to improving early childhood education and advocating for children’s rights. Her extensive experience, coupled with her academic qualifications, make her a valuable asset to the Fort Valley State University community and the broader field of early childhood education. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today on Early Childhood Chats we sat down with Patrick J. Patterson the President of Global Partners for Fathers and Families Consulting (globalpartnersff.com) LLC, a national consulting firm that equips public and private sector agencies with the tools to serve fathers, male students, and their families authentically. Patrick has launched and managed community, statewide, and federal programs during his 20-year career, including serving as manager for the National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse during President George W. Bush and President Barack H. Obama Administrations. As an expert at working with fathers, men, and boys, Patrick has been a featured fatherhood keynote, workshop leader, or trainer in 43 states, the US Virgin Islands, and seven countries. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

We sat down with Early Childhood Solutions to discuss their distinctive kind of “Boutique Retreat Training” for early childhood professionals. They have a collective 60 years of experience in early childhood and you can find out more information about their offerings here: earlychildhoodsolutions.net Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Recorded at the NAFCC Annual Conference in St. Louis. Today Andy chats with Laney Jones, Program Coordinator for Atlanta-based Small Bites Adventure Club. Learn about ways we can encourage healthy eating for our children and include them in activities surrounding the selection and preparation of food. Small Bites Adventure Club's vision is that every child receives the opportunity to discover, eat and love fruits and vegetables. Head on over to https://smallbites.club/ to learn more about the services Small Bites Adventure Club offers. Laney Jones oversees partnerships and day-to-day operations. As a registered dietitian, she is passionate about evidenced-based nutrition education, and is an entrepreneurial spirit. She also holds a Masters in Food and Nutrition from the University of Georgia. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Special Edition - from St. Louis at the National Association of Family Child Care Conference. Short interview with family child care provider Sydia Winstead of Pennsylvania. Discussing why she became a family child care provider, what she enjoys best about her job, and some of the issues facing the industry. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today we sit down with Mortricia White MA, Ed.D (ABD), owner of White’s Consultants (whitespremierconsultants.com) a veteran, minority, woman owned business has 15 years of experience conducting Head Start/Early Head Start Reviews, onsite compliance monitoring, and Infant, Toddler, and Pre-K CLASS. She has a background in Early Childhood Development and Elementary Education. Ms. White has expert knowledge of the Head Start Program Performance Standard, the monitoring protocol, and the Early Learning Outcomes Framework. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today on the podcast we sit down with Amber Rollins the Director of Kids and Car Safety https://www.kidsandcars.org/. Ms. Rollins graduated from the University of Kansas (Go Jayhawks!) with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Welfare. Ms. Rollins began her career in injury prevention with Kids and Car Safety in 2005. She manages national public safety campaigns and major projects, develops strategic partnerships, coordinates the national family advocate program and volunteer network as well as media relations, grant writing and day-to-day operations. She also diligently maintains the organization’s unique national data collection system and analysis on nontraffic incidents. Early Childhood Chats is hosted by Andrew Roszak - JD, MPA, EMT-P Executive Director at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved

Today on Early Childhood Chats we sat down with Kelly B. Currie, MD, Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon who specializes in hands and upper extremities to discuss Fire Work Safety for the 4th of July. You can find out more about her here: https://physicians.wustl.edu/people/kelly-b-currie-md/ Today Early Childhood Chats was hosted by Ruth Kvistad a MD/JD student at Southern Illinois University and Legal/Policy intern at the Institute for Childhood Preparedness. The Institute for Childhood Preparedness is proud to use its decades of experience to offer comprehensive and expert disaster and emergency preparedness trainings live in-person, via webinar, and on-demand online. //Visit: https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/ to find out more // Schedule your training today https://www.childhoodpreparedness.org/training FOLLOW US https://www.instagram.com/childhoodpreparedness/ https://www.facebook.com/ChildPrepared https://twitter.com/ChildPrepared https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-for-childhood-preparedness © Institute for Childhood Preparedness 2024 all rights reserved