ECCDC

Welcome to the April ECCDC podcast. We are pleased to bejoined by Christi Scarrow managing partner with the Light house NINE group. Christi is a trainer, consultant, executive coach, Tedx speaker, podcast host and author of the book Truth Warriors. She is passionate about helping leaders to navigate the messy bits of leadership in a time of rapid change. During our conversation Christi shares insights on how organizations can work towards building a culture of accountability with real life examples of accountability in practice. She also shares tools and plenty of strategies including how to call someone in rather than calling them out.As educators we are all leaders so whether you are a frontline educator, supervisor or executive director there’s something for you. Join Christi as she dives into what accountability is and can look like within early learning and child care programs to develop collective ownership, commitment and a cohesive team that wants to come to work each day.Links:Tedx:  https://youtu.be/ki8dDocvPX8Monkeys:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUhDlV34aDgAbove and Below the Line:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLqzYDZAqCI&t=2sAccountability Quiz:  https://www.christiscarrow.com/accountabilityLighthouse NINE Group: www.lighthouse9.ca

Welcome to the March episode of the ECCDC podcast. We are please to be joined by Paula McLean who is a long-time friend and supporter of the ECCDC Paula McLean. Paula is a life-long learner, facilitator, educator and advocate for raising the bar and improving practices at all levels of an organization. She has worked for more than 3 decades, in Alberta and Ontario, with leaders and teams of Canadian nonprofit organizations, including early childhood settings. She is also the author of six books including the Canadian #1 best-selling book Great Boards Plain & Simple.During our conversation Paula highlights the need to shiftour lens away from team building to creating strong teams. She shares how programs and leaders at all levels of early learning and child care programs can contribute to creating strong teams. Paula also shares many strategies and resources to support early childhood programs in creating strong teams.Whether you are a front-line educator, team lead, supervisor, executive director or a member of a board of directors there is something for you to take away from this podcast. LinksPaula’s website https://learningforleaders.ca/ If you have any follow-up questions for Paula, please email [email protected] Paula’s PowerPoint presentation with the Bakers Dozen https://www.eccdc.org/userfiles/Creating_Strong_Teams_in_Early_Childhood_Settings.pdf

Welcome to the February 2026 ECCDC podcast. We are pleased to welcome Dr. Jaime Barratt (She/Her) PhD RECE who is an Assistant Professor on the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education with the Faculty of Education at Brock University. Jaime’s research focuses on fostering physical literacy among Early Childhood Educators, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping young children’s movement valuation and holistic well-being and during this episode of the ECCDC podcast we will be exploring how educators and programs support young children with the development of physical literacy. Jaime offers an overview of what physical literacy is and what it canlook like in early learning and child care programs. She speak to ways in which educators can incorporate physical literacy throughout the day and how educators can overcome some of the potential challenges. Jaime’s work spans nationally funded projects and international collaborations examining physical literacy, outdoor and active play, and educator professional learning and during this podcast she offers insights into her current research project.So, if this sparks your curiosity join Jaime and Ginette as they dive more deeply into physical literacy and how educators can build physical literature experiences into their programs.LINKS:Active for Life https://activeforlife.com/Sports for Life https://sportforlife.ca/Jaime’s project website: https://www.storyingphysicalliteracy.ca/Champions for Life: https://www.storyingphysicalliteracy.ca/ APPLE model Early Years Physical Literacy for Life Home | Early Years PhysicalLiteracy | Calgary, Alberta  Australian PL framework: https://www.ausport.gov.au/physical_literacy

For our first ECCDC podcast of 2026 we are pleased to welcome Dr. Dane Marco Di Cesare (he/him) who is an Associate Professor and the program director for the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education with the Faculty of Education at Brock University. He is also the Chair of the Canada Regional Network of INQYR (the International Partnership for Queer Youth Resilience). During this episode of the ECCDC podcast we will be exploring how educators and programs can build more inclusive communities where all families fells seen, respected, and safe. We discuss some of the challenges that programs face and Dane shares some great strategies to overcome those challenges and many practical strategies and wonderful resources that educators and programs can utilize to incorporate diverse perspectives and experiences into their curriculums.Dane draws on his research work and his personal lived experiences of working as an early childhood educator as well as navigating the child care system as part of a same sex family with a child attending an early learning and child careprogram.So, if this sparks your curiosity join Dane and Ginette as they dive more deeply into how programs can build more inclusiveenvironments.To register for Dane’s 2 part webinar seriestaking place on Tuesday the 3rd of February and the 3rdof March Every Family Belongs: Equity-Centered Practices to Foster 2SLGBTQ+Belonging within Early Childhood Spaces place click on this link  https://www.eccdc.org/events/registration/487

As early childhood educators we are very humble and have a tendency to put others before our own needs and can be under appreciated. In this episode of the ECCDC podcast we are pleased to welcome back long-time friend of the ECCDC and champion of the early learning and child care field, Sarah McVanel. Sarah is the founder of Greatness Magnified and has spent over 25 years speaking, coaching and leading teams, using her FROG. Listen to the podcast to find out more about FROG and frogging. Sarah AKA the Frog Lady has worked with early childhood educators and presented at many early learning and child care events within Ontario and beyond. Join Sarah as we discuss how educators can honour greatness in themselves in intentional ways and stay grounded in remembering their greatness even on the hardest of days.Please see below for links mentioned in the podcastGreatness Together podcast link https://greatnessmagnified.com/podcast/An article based on Ashley Barfoot's great work Low Effort, High Impact: Effective Recognition Ideas toFoster Team Appreciation

As Educators we focus a lot on sharing the learning journey of the children in our classrooms with families and fellow educators, but what about our own learning journey? In this episode of the ECCDC podcast we are joined by Melanie Dixon, the Director of Professional Practice with Ontario’s College of Early Childhood Educators (CECE), who share’s some insight on how educators can document their early learning professional goals and the steps they can take to achieve them. Melanie, is a collaborative leader and learner, who as part of her own professional learning journey is examining ways to support mentorship in the context of early childhood education in Ontario, shares her experiences of working in the early years sector and her role with the CECE, along with some tips and strategies that educators can utilize when documenting their professional early learning journey. Melanie also speaks to how educators can incorporate reflective practice within their daily, weekly and monthly rituals. Useful Links CPL Portfolio Cycle webpage includes links to supporting resources and portfolio examplesForms of Documentation, one-pager providing types of portfolio documentationSupporting lifelong learning: ​A diffractive toolkit for postgraduate reflective practice, research out of the University of Glasgow which I referred to in the interview.https://www.college-ece.ca/ College of Early Childhood Educators website https://www.college-ece.ca/members/resources/ College of Early Childhood Educators resources Connect with the College of Early Childhood Educators via their website https://help.college-ece.ca/hc/en-ca/requests/new by telephone 416 961-8558 or Toll free 1 888 961-8558 or via email [email protected] So,if this sparks your curiosity join Melanie and Ginette as they dive deeply intodocumenting and achieving early learning professional goals and reflectivepractice.

Children’s engagement in risk-taking in their play has been on our agenda in early learning and child care for the past decade or so with educators being at various stages on their personal journey to embracing risk-taking in children’s play.In this edition of the ECCDC podcast we are joined by follow podcaster and long-time friend and support of the ECCDC Rusty Keeler. Rusty has spent the past 30 years traveling the world designing natural play environments and championing children’s right to play. A pioneer in the global movement to connect children with nature, Rusty inspires educators, communities, and change-makers to reimagine what’s possible for outdoor play. Rusty is currently the Vice President of the USA chapter of the International Play Association.Rusty shares his experiences and thoughts on outdoor play, the concept of risk-taking in children’s play, common misconceptions and provide insights into striking the balance between safety and stimulating play experiences.  So, if this sparks your curiosity join Rusty and Ginette as they dive more deeply into risk-taking in children’s play. LINKS Free Resources: Risky Play / Nature Play Design / Outdoor Loose PartsOnline Courses: Risky Play / Nature Play Design / Outdoor Loose Parts Play Nature Podcast Play Nature Podcast Rusty’s website Website

We know that not all early learning and child care programing takes place in the same space each day. Some programs rotate classrooms in a school setting; some take their programs outside and into the woods. In this edition of the ECCDC podcast series we will be combining both being mobile, and being in the great outdoors, as Starlene Ruttan, RECE, OCT, & Kim Barton MS, RECE share how the University of Guelph’s Child Care and Learning Centre facilitates outdoor summer programming for school-agers on the move. They will share their perspectives and insights on their program and how they ‘go out and about’ taking learning outdoors in nature with their ‘Exploring Nature Outdoor Learning Program’ along with their go to resources.If this sparks your curiosity then join Star, who is the lead educator for the CCLC’s outdoor learning program who’s pedagogical pursuits involve studying risky-play, land based connections, and leading with curiosity and wonder; Kim, who is a pedagogical leader who’s pedagogical pursuits involve studying pedagogy and pedagogical leadership, cultivating relationship-based practices, pursuing questions, and playing, learning, healing, and living well throughout the human experience, and me as we dive into school-aged mobile outdoor learning.ResourcesCoyote's Guide https://wildernessawareness.org/store/alumni-authored/coyotes-guide-to-connecting-with-nature-2nd-edition/ Jacob Rodenburg's Books https://newsociety.com/book_author/jacob-rodenburg/?srsltid=AfmBOopHsOWtJXRfgrB8zAJSkgtNjDT2rxSkXGL70AFPNU1p2wLY0UBP Anywhere Artist https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/33503518-anywhere-artist Hay Little Ant https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/114998.Hey_Little_Ant?ref=nav_sb_noss_l_11 Snail Trial https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/849161.Snail_Trail?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=sUzFEnNwNh&rank=2 Sibley's Birds East https://www.sibleyguides.com/product/sibley-field-guide-birds-eastern-north-america-second-edition/ Forest & Nature School Practitioner Course CNAC https://childnature.ca/forest-school-canada/

School-aged educators’ have often been referred to as the forgotten ECEs. However, they provide a vital service to working families as according to Stats Canada 88% of families with children aged 4-12 participate in the workforce and in 2022 40% of Canadian children aged 4 to 12 were attending some form of before or after school care. In this episode of the ECCDC podcast we will be exploring school aged programs and programing with Jamie-Lee Wagler RECE, OCT, BA, who has being facilitating before and After school programs as well as summer camps for over 15 years. Jamie shares her passion for everything school-aged, what inspires her, her approach to program planning with children along with some great strategies and tips and much more. Jamie also shares some great insights into how educators can adopt an emergent approach with school-aged children.  Whether you are an experienced educator working with school-aged children or curious about working with school-agers there is something is something for you in this podcast. So, please join Jamie and me in conversation as we dive into before and after school, and camp programs.Website: https://www.missjamieconsulting.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/missjamie_rece/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-lee-wagler-871773165/Beyond the Bell Monthly Newsletter: https://miss-jamie-consulting.kit.com/bacde16a76

Outdoor play, including nature-based programs have been gaining popularity over the past decade. And one of the silver linings of the covid 19 pandemic has been a greater emphasis on outdoor play affordances for children, which has continued post pandemic. In this episode of the ECCDC podcast we will be exploring nature-based outdoor play in early learning and child care programs and how educators can rethink their outdoorplay and materials to bring more nature-based affordance to the children they care for. We are joined in conversation by the directors of Greenbelt Academy and Early Learning Centre; Tiffany Tierney RECE, FSP, Joelle Kanakis RECE, FSP and Jaclyn Giesbrecht OCT,FEP, who are passionate about outdoor nature-based play. They will be sharing their outdoor nature-based play journeys, what nature-based play and materials look like in their program, what inspires them and much more.Whether you are experienced in nature-based outdoor play or new to this pedagogy there is something for you.

In this episode of the ECCDC podcast, we’re diving into the foundations of literacy and how movement, play, and meaningful interactions lay the groundwork for lifelong learning. We’re joined by Stacy Benge, M.S. early childhood speaker and author of The Whole Child Alphabet How Young Children Actually Develop Literacy published by Exchange Press, who shares insights on how young children actually develop literacy through authentic, child-led experiences. Plus, we hear from Andrea Stranges  a K–12 Literacy Consultant  from Niagara Catholic District School Board,who brings a school-age perspective, discussing evidence-based practices rooted in the Science of Reading and how to support all learners in becoming confident readers and writers. Whether you’re working with infants, preschoolers, or school-age children, this episodeis full of practical ideas, thoughtful reflection, and inspiring reminders thatliteracy is so much more than letters and sounds, it’s about connection,curiosity, and play.Find more about Stacy:Free Literacy Guide:  https://www.stacybenge.com/5mistakesWebsite: www.stacybenge.comThe Whole Child Alphabet book: www.ExchangePress.com/abc Facebook: www.facebook.com/StacyBengeMSInstagram: www.instagram.com/stacybengemsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacybenge/Find more about Andrea: Facebook: @powerreadersInstagram: @powerreadersWebsite: www.powerreaders.ca

Early learning environments have the power to shape how children see themselves and the world around them. In this episode of The ECCDC Podcast, Carla Ward dives into the art of designing spaces that let children explore, grow, and discover their limits. Learn how to create environments that support agency, respect boundaries, and encourage children—and educators—to embrace the joy of saying “yes.” Find Carla at: https://elfoundations.com/ or listen to her podcast over at The Everything ECE Podcast

Whether you're an experienced professional or just starting out, a Community of Practice might be exactly what you're looking for. Tune in as we chat with ECCDC’s Patricia Couroux and Ginette Wilson, to explore the concept of Communities of Practice. We’ll discuss what a communities of practice network is, how these networks can be a powerful tool for innovation and problem-solving, all while collaborating with like-minded professionals.

Early Childhood Educators make an incredible impact on children every day, and taking care of our well-being is crucial to sustaining this important work. In this episode of the ECCDC Podcast, we’re joined by Elizabeth Skronski, a certified developmental coach and mindfulness expert, who illuminates how to manage stress effectively and highlights the vital role of mental health in education. Elizabeth offers practical strategies for incorporating mindfulness into daily routines and emphasizes the importance of modeling these practices with children. Later, we’ll hear from Lisa Clarke, owner of Lala Wellness and Aura House, who shares her insights on embodying mindfulness in early childhood settings and provides actionable tips to support both educators and children. Tune in for practical tips to enhance your well-being and support the children in your care. Connect with Elizabeth: www.mindfulnessforwellbeing.ca [email protected] Recommended resource: Buddha's Brain: The Practical Neuroscience of Happiness, Love, and Wisdom by Rick Hanson Lisa Clarke www.theaurahouse.ca www.lalawellness.ca

This episode features the insightful and passionate F.R.O.G Lady, Sarah McVanel, as she shares inspiring stories and actionable strategies to transform the everyday struggles of child care professionals into opportunities for growth and well-being. Discover how acknowledging the impact of your work and choosing self-care can lead to a more fulfilling and sustainable career in child care.  Join us as we tackle the real challenges faced by educators, exploring topics like combating burnout, the transformative power of recognition, and the importance of choosing ourselves amidst the demands of caregiving.  Listen in for a chance to participate in a self-compassion giveaway! Sarah will send a surprise to those who tune in and comment below. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your well-being.  To learn more about Sarah McVanel, head over to her website, My Greatness Magnified, at https://greatnessmagnified.com, to access awesome free resources, including the Recognition Checklist, Resiliency Quiz, Self-Compassion Checklist, and more.

Learning is the process of acquiring new knowledge, skills, values, and preferences. Join us as we delve into How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years with Adriana Carbone where we will explore the philosophy behind the approach, highlighting the emphasis on relationships, inclusivity and reflective practice within it’s pedagogical framework.

In this episode, we sit down with Roisin Derbis. With years of experience under her belt, Roisin has encountered and resolved countless questions and concerns from families and educators seeking support. Tune in as she shares her insights and expertise on addressing these common challenges, discusses educators most frequent inquiries and shares information on making the referral process more accessible and compassionate.

In this episode of the ECCDC Organizational Support Podcast, our summer interns join in to share the projects they have been working on, discuss strategies for research and social media as well as highlight what information they came across in their journeys that surprised them.

As educators, engaging in ongoing continuous professional learning is part of the cycle of learning. When educators register for a session, how do they play their goals? What might be strategies for sharing learnings with colleagues to leverage information within programs? How do educators share learning with families and the community through digital media? In this podcast we will explore strategies and ideas to support these and other questions related to professional learning.

ECCDC partnered with Kiwanis Clubs of Niagara to bring Treasure Baskets to Niagara's Licensed Child Care Programs. Treasure Baskets afford infants and toddlers open-ended opportunities to explore the world around them through their senses and exploration of everyday objects. The podcast features Kiwanis Lieutenant Governor Sandie Greenhalgh.

How Does Learning Happen? Ontario's Pedagogy for the Early Years has been our resource guide and framework in supporting and building relationships with young children and families. In this podcast we'll dig back into the four foundations of belonging, well-being, engagement, and expression and how to align these with our pedagogy, environments, materials, and curriculum to further develop our early years programs.

Learning occurs in many places and a well-designed outdoor play environment can be an extension of our classroom. This podcast will focus on the importance of outdoor play for learning in the early years with some practical ideas and resources on how to support children in their play and learning outdoors.

Please join us for ECCDC's next podcast featuring guests from Niagara's licensed child care programs. WE had the opportunity to connect with Child's View Cooperative Child Care. A Child's Work Child Care Services and La Boîte a Soleil to hear their reflections on the impact the pandemic has had on their organizational operations, their relationships with children and families, and the many human resources challenges. Through their stories we have learned from their positive strategies, critical thinking, and how through adversity their organizations and staff teams have grown, thrived and become more resilient. We thank our guests for sharing how they adapted to change and persevered with positivity.

Many things have changed over time, but the importance of outdoor play still remains. Join us as we explore the benefits of extending your outdoor play times, what that may look like with different centre dynamics, and how it can be implemented through creative thinking in the best interests of the children, educators and centre as a whole. We will have an opportunity to dive into creative topics such as Easy Art Outdoors, Classroom on Wheels, and Optimizing Outside, while hearing first hand from some of the centres who helped bring to light these great ideas.

Educators look a little different these days wearing masks and personal protective equipment; however, they are finding new and creative ways to support the children they work with. Educators have been exploring different ways to engage with children while building their language and literacy skills, understand how to read body language and tone of voice, offering sensory experiences, and building on their strengths for continued development. Join us for a conversation on what this looks like in early learning.

As Early Learning Professionals, you have spent valuable time working on building relationships and fostering authentic connections with families to create a sense of belonging and well-being. Families value those interactions with their children and educators and place high importance on being involved in their child's day. In this podcast, we will uncover how stressors, reservations, and change can cause families to feel disconnected and what we can do to bridge the gap of communication and overcome barriers together. We will learn about how families are mourning the loss of being engaged in their child's day through entering your early learning settings and how we can use empathy as a tool to feel connected, once again.

The positive impact educators have in our community truly reflects their ongoing commitment in the child care and early years field. With the added expectations and guidelines during the Pandemic, the well-being of our educators is an essential part of the daily practice. Healthy habits, mindfulness, and resiliency are experiences that can be learning and incorporated at any stage of our lives. Let's take a journey on how to embody such practices in the present moment.