Stumbling Through Work podcast artwork

PODCAST · education

Stumbling Through Work

Working in education is to stumble through your everyday! We love what we do, but staff, families, policies, regulations and sometimes even the children make us quit everyday then come back the next day. Just remember, you are not in this alone.

  1. 83

    Child Care Is Not Okay

    Send us Fan MailWe break down the newest NAEYC workforce survey data and call out the real reason child care keeps teetering on the edge: the money does not match the expectations. Then we get practical about leadership restraint, parent trust, messy staff conflict, hiring for reliability, and policies that keep you out of legal trouble.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  2. 82

    Don’t End Up On The News

    Send us Fan MailSomething is deeply broken when a childcare worker thinks it’s acceptable to punish a crying child with humiliation and confinement. We react to a North Carolina daycare case under investigation and say the quiet part out loud: abuse is abuse, and leadership can’t hide behind “training” or “being overwhelmed.” If you run a center, the real question isn’t only who gets fired. It’s how your environment, supervision, and staff culture either block harm or make room for it. From there, we shift into the daily leadership habits that decide whether families trust you. If you don’t know children’s and parents’ names, you’re not building relationships, you’re managing transactions. We break down why name recognition changes child behavior, improves emotional safety, and boosts retention, plus a practical system for learning hundreds of names without excuses. Then it gets messy in the way early childhood education always does: break room talk that a coworker repeats in front of kids, parents hearing “sugar daddy” rumors at pickup, and how to respond without oversharing or feeding gossip. We also talk daycare policies that protect everyone, like diaper requirements for non-potty-trained toddlers, hiring signals that predict chaos, and the employee classification rules that prevent benefits drama and “Brenda” situations. If you care about daycare safety, childcare leadership, staff training, and real-world center management, hit play. Subscribe, share with a director who needs this, and leave a review so more educators can find the show.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  3. 81

    The Government Keeps Changing The Rules And Providers Pay The Price

    Send us Fan MailThey say it’s about fraud, but the numbers don’t match the panic. The federal government is rolling back key Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) rules, pushing child care subsidy payments back toward attendance-based billing and away from enrollment-based payments and advance pay. If you’ve ever tried to run a classroom, a center, or a small family daycare, you already know what that means: a sick kid becomes lost revenue, a vacation becomes a budget hole, and a no-call no-show somehow becomes your financial problem while rent, payroll, and food bills stay the same.I break down why this kind of child care funding whiplash keeps early childhood education unstable, and why child care should be treated like infrastructure instead of a welfare-style program with constantly shifting rules. Then we pivot into the real-world leadership piece that directors actually feel every day: your staff “not communicating” and your parents “being difficult” often points to people leadership, not a staffing problem. Presence matters. Clear, calm communication matters. Building ownership matters, especially if you’re tired of being the bottleneck for every tiny decision.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  4. 80

    Are We Building Child Care Systems Or Seats

    Send us Fan MailNYC is pushing toward universal city-run child care, and depending on who you ask, it’s either a long-overdue lifeline or a wrecking ball aimed at private programs. I’m holding both truths at once: expanding access can change family budgets, boost workforce participation, and bring better early childhood education wages and standards. But if we ignore what makes child care actually run, we’re about to learn the hard way that good intentions don’t operate a system.We break down the real trade-offs behind universal childcare policy: market displacement when “free” enters the room, fewer provider choices over time, and the uncomfortable question of long-term public funding sustainability. Then we get to the point that decides success or failure: childcare infrastructure. Not vibes. Physical space, staffing pipelines, training, coaching, enrollment systems, compliance tracking, leadership capacity, and all the unglamorous operational work that keeps quality from collapsing when scaling up.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  5. 79

    Circle Time With Lenny Endsley

    Send us Fan MailThey promised families Disneyland, but too often educators are running a parking lot carnival on max ratio and pure willpower. We sit down for Circle Time with Lenny, a longtime educator with deep early childhood education experience and current middle school perspective, to get brutally honest about what makes childcare centers burn people out and what finally helps teachers breathe again.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  6. 78

    Funding Cuts

    Send us Fan MailNevada’s early childhood workforce is being asked to do the impossible again: earn more credentials, raise quality, and keep classrooms stable while the state pulls one of the only programs that actually makes college affordable. We dig into the TEACH Early Childhood Scholarship Program and what it really does for childcare teachers, directors, and programs across Nevada’s mixed delivery system. When funding ends July 1 with only a short runway, it’s not a theoretical policy change. It’s educators deciding whether they can stay enrolled, take on debt, or walk away from early childhood education entirely.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  7. 77

    Circle Time w/ Trina Richardson

    Send us Fan MailTrina shares the joy that keeps people going—parents becoming confident advocates, babies flourishing into curious learners, and former students returning as thriving adults—while naming the stress cycles, the full-moon crisis days, and the boundaries leaders need to protect their teams.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  8. 76

    Directors Aren’t Doctors; They’re Keeping Centers Open

    Send us Fan MailHeadlines say guidance changed. Our lobby says prove it. We unpack how federal vaccine recommendations collided with state childcare rules and turned drop-off into a debate club—and we give you the exact language to calm the room without playing doctor. This is a guide for directors who need operational stability more than hot takes: documentation that stands up to scrutiny, exemption workflows that don’t wobble, and an outbreak plan ready to send in minutes when measles stops being theoretical and starts being Tuesday.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  9. 75

    Circle Time w/ Shanell Townsend

    Send us Fan MailEver been “voluntold” to fix the room everyone avoids while the favorite gets a trophy? We invited Chanel Townsend—educator, coach, and relentless advocate—to unpack how to walk into a chaotic toddler classroom, keep the peace, and still raise the bar. Her approach is all signal, no swagger: weave descriptive language into circle time, make effective visuals unavoidable, and let strong practice become the culture rather than the exception.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  10. 74

    Your Child Is Not DoorDash, And Pre-K Isn’t Amazon Prime

    Send us Fan MailPreschool isn’t “just pre‑K.” We dig into the data on chronic absence and make the case that showing up is the intervention: consistent attendance wires language, early math, and self‑regulation, and those early gains echo into second grade and beyond. When half of a public pre‑K cohort is chronically absent, the consequences aren’t abstract—they surface as reading gaps, behavior challenges, and classrooms stuck reteaching routines instead of building new skills.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  11. 73

    Circle Time w/ Airis Potts

    Send us Fan MailWe dig into the human side of early childhood leadership with Aris “Mama Vegas” Potts, from calling out harmful nap practices to surviving licensing scares and rebuilding trust. We push for boundaries, better funding, and a brighter path for children and the people who teach them.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  12. 72

    Preschool Wins, Childcare Loses

    Send us Fan MailWant to know how a well-meaning universal preschool plan ended up shrinking childcare access across Los Angeles? We pull back the curtain on the economics policymakers ignored: four-year-olds don’t just fill classrooms, they subsidize infant and toddler care. When those children moved to free public programs, more than 150 community centers closed and 12,000 seats disappeared. We walk through the margin math, the licensing realities that make “just pivot to infants” a fantasy, and why the equity win landed hardest in wealthy neighborhoods while working families lost options.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  13. 71

    Milk Mustaches and Mixed Messages

    Send us Fan MailHeadlines say whole milk is back for kids, but that’s not the whole story. We dig into what the new Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act really changes, what it doesn’t, and why most early childhood programs are still bound by CACFP, state licensing, and QRIS. If you’ve already fielded a parent email that starts with “If schools can do it, why can’t you?” this conversation will arm you with simple language, clear reasoning, and a plan to steady expectations without extra drama.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  14. 70

    Circle Time w/ GiGi Wynn

    Send us Fan MailWith veteran coach and trainer Gigi Wynn, we explore ECE in different positions with what real support looks like when safety, behavior, and policy collide.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  15. 69

    America Loves Kids Like I Love My Gym Membership

    Send us Fan MailA country that can regulate crib slats but can’t protect classrooms has its priorities backwards. We start by tearing into the ritual that follows school shootings—thoughts, prayers, half-staff flags—and ask what it would look like to put children over comfort with policies that actually reduce harm. No platitudes, no performative concern, just a hard look at how safety becomes theater while kids carry the weight.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  16. 68

    Child Care Math Is Rude

    Send us Fan MailWe call out the broken childcare math, the lazy myths about greedy centers, and the way policy failure pushes women and caretakers out of the workforce. Then we go inside preschool life under immigration fear, answer tough listener questions, and lay out practical policies that keep programs sane.• Why childcare costs more than rent yet underpays educators• The harm of treating a public good like a luxury• Real fixes: public investment, wages, and employer flexibility• How ICE fear disrupts drop-off, enrollment, and trust• Trauma signs in preschoolers and staff emotional labor• Licensing, documentation, and impossible compliance choices• Concrete supports: trauma training, data privacy, community partners• Listener Q&A: probation anxiety, diarrhea policies, hide-and-seek• Hiring insight: answering conflict questions with emotional intelligence• Policy segment: why two-week written notice existsFollow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  17. 67

    Inside A Preschool Scandal: Abuse, Oversight Failures, And The Fight For Safer Childcare

    Send us Fan MailWe confront a big-brand preschool scandal, then widen the lens to expose how staffing, oversight, and culture create the conditions for harm—and how to fix them with real accountability, funding, and courage. Along the way we answer listener questions, call out hiring red flags, and argue for licensing that measures safety culture, not just binders.• abuse allegations at a brand-name preschool and bleach-water incident• systemic causes: staffing crisis, weak oversight, corporate optics• fear and silence that block whistleblowing• parents’ tools: unannounced visits, incident logs, clear questions• educator survival: routines, pacing, co-regulation, mentorship• leadership actions: audit training, ratios, supervision, remove unfit staff• policy fixes: funding aligned to expectations, QRIS, continuous accountability• licensing reform: consistency, context, partnership over punishment• listener Q&A on overwhelm and handling a parent’s sexist, racist behavior• hiring red flags and interview answers that reveal fit• practical policies: why wage garnishment lives in the handbookIf today made you laugh, think, or just say, Wow, that's my life, go ahead and subscribe and leave a review. Or share this with another educator who's one licensing violation away from quitting.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  18. 66

    We Came For Goldfish And Got Bleach Instead

    Send us Fan MailA water pitcher, a cleaning bottle, and a rushed routine turned snack time into a health scare—then a bland corporate statement tried to make it disappear. We pull back the curtain on how incidents like this happen in real programs: thin ratios, frantic handoffs, vague labeling, and a pace that makes errors inevitable. Safety isn’t a poster on the wall; it’s a culture built from boring consistency—clear systems, ongoing training, locked storage, separate prep zones, and immediate, honest communication with families.From there, we widen the lens to a policy debate with real stakes: removing “professional” status from education degrees. That shift wouldn’t just bruise egos; it would hit wages, QRIS metrics, scholarships, and teacher pipelines, with early childhood education taking the first and hardest blow. Lower standards mean lower pay, higher turnover, and less stability in classrooms that need it most. Communities already carrying the weight—low‑income neighborhoods, rural areas, families of color—would feel the cuts immediately. Children lose access to trained, consistent adults, and long‑term outcomes suffer. Professional recognition is not a luxury; it is the backbone of quality.We also get practical. We talk ratios and mixed‑age chaos, how to evaluate whether higher tuition buys better staffing or just prettier lobbies, and the hiring traps that keep programs stuck in survival mode. Directors get a blueprint for structured interviews and meaningful evaluations that reward the steady and release the checked‑out. Teachers hear permission to leave roles that grind them down and find work that fits their strengths. Parents get a checklist of what to look for: calm rooms, stable teams, clear procedures, and leaders who show their work.If you care about safety, respect for educators, and real quality in early childhood education, this one matters. Listen, share with a colleague, and tell us what system you’re fixing first. And if the show helps you think and lead better, follow, rate, and leave a review so more educators can find it.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  19. 65

    Childcare Math Doesn’t Add Up

    Send us Fan MailChildcare isn’t expensive because anyone’s getting rich; it’s expensive because keeping tiny humans safe, fed, and learning costs real money. We open the books on rent, insurance, payroll, licensing, curriculum, food, and the constant stream of supplies that make a classroom run. Then we connect the dots to the bigger truth: parents can’t pay more, centers can’t charge less, and teachers can’t live on wages that don’t match the work. Without public investment—like K–12 receives—the math will always fail the people doing the caring and the families depending on them.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  20. 64

    SNAP!: How A Shutdown Hits Childcare, Families, And Teachers

    Send us Fan MailA shutdown stalls SNAP and shakes childcare, leaving families, teachers and programs scrambling for stability while kids lose consistency. We also confront bias against male ECE teachers, name red flags in constant staff reassignments, unpack real answers to stress interviews, and explain why harassment policies protect everyone.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  21. 63

    Grandma Is Not Helping And One Glove Is Not For Everyone

    Send us Fan MailA daycare sends a Saturday-night email announcing it’s closed effective immediately, and by Monday morning parents, teachers, and an entire neighborhood are scrambling. We dig into what sudden closures reveal about the state of childcare: budgets stretched to breaking, staff underpaid and undervalued, and families forced to choose between a paycheck and their kids. We tackle a grim hygiene shortcut—reusing gloves during diaper changes—and lay out the non-negotiables for health and licensing. We also share a clear playbook for leaving an unstable job with professionalism and zero guilt when your hours aren’t guaranteed. And yes, we talk about the tour from hell, where a director left a preschool class unsupervised for nearly an hour—why that violates supervision standards and what it says about capacity and leadership.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  22. 62

    Pass the Collection Plate for Childcare?

    Send us Fan MailThe day a state slices $225 million from childcare and 45 centers go dark, the ripple doesn’t stop at the classroom door—it hits every shift, every meeting, every bottom line. We dig into why asking local businesses to “chip in” can’t replace public responsibility, and we map out what real fixes look like: permanent funding that doesn’t vanish after a grant cycle, practitioner voices at the decision table, and pay that matches the professional weight of early education.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  23. 61

    Bubble Sheets and Here We Are

    Send us Fan MailFollow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  24. 60

    Kids Say...

    Send us Fan MailEver wonder what keeps educators up at night? Spoiler alert: it's rarely the children. In this refreshingly candid episode, we dive into the real challenges that make working in education both hilarious and maddening.From the three-year-old who perfectly uses profanity in a sentence during rhyme time to the parent who sends their child to school with Tylenol-laced milk, these stories highlight a fundamental truth in education: children are predictably unpredictable, but adults are chaos incarnate.Ready for a dose of educational reality served with a side of humor? Listen now and discover why "every enrollment is not a good enrollment" and other pearls of wisdom from the educational frontlines.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  25. 59

    Beyond Talk: When States Actually Solve the Child Care Crisis

    Send us Fan MailNew Mexico has just achieved what many thought impossible – implementing truly universal, free child care for all residents regardless of income. Follow this podcast to stay updated on this groundbreaking initiative and share this episode with anyone interested in how states can transform early childhood education from aspiration to reality. Visit jarekhuff.com for more resources and to connect with me directly.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  26. 58

    Who Will Care for Us Tomorrow? The True Cost of Education Policy

    Send us Fan MailThe political weaponization of early childhood education takes center stage, as these children will take care of us when we get older. The stay-at-home mom is considering childcare employment for the wrong reasons, while the school administrator is dealing with an employee whose child's father violated a protection order by impersonating a social worker. Subscribe to Stumbling Through Work wherever you get your podcasts.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  27. 57

    Stickers and Sleepy Kids

    Send us Fan MailWhen four-year-old Lane smuggled home a mysterious sticker, the episode dives deep into the ethical boundaries being crossed in early childhood settings and why even challenging classroom behaviors never justify administering substances without parental consent.Through real-world scenarios and practical advice, this conversation provides a compassionate yet honest look at the complexities educators navigate daily while advocating for both children's wellbeing and teacher support systems. This episode delivers a compelling mixture of shocking realities, practical solutions, and the reassurance that you're not alone in stumbling through the complex world of education.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  28. 56

    When New Hires Ghost: Tales of Professional Disappearing Acts

    Send us Fan MailHave you ever spent weeks interviewing candidates, finally found "the one," only to have them quit within 24 hours? How do you stand firm on your planned departure date when a director tries to guilt you into staying? Share your own workplace disappearing act stories with us – we know you've got them!Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  29. 55

    Bonnets & Boundaries, Should we Judge Parents?

    Send us Fan MailProfessional standards in educational environments matter, from dress codes to qualifications, as we explore how expectations shape children's experiences and learning environments. • Parent dress codes at schools spark debate about setting examples for children• Principal resigned over controversial dress code comments, but school board later adopted similar policy• Different circumstances exist but basic presentation standards are reasonable expectations• ECE teacher strikes aren't viable solutions due to private funding model constraints• Many ECE teachers lack appropriate qualifications or understanding of educational requirements• Parents often prefer teachers who neglect classroom supervision to chat with them• "Testing" staff adherence to safety protocols creates unnecessary disruptions• Interview tip: Ask candidates to describe themselves in one word then request examples• Policy reminder that professional behavior standards exist because someone previously violated themFollow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  30. 54

    Exploitation, Fraud, Weed, and Late Pickups

    Send us Fan MailFollow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  31. 53

    Not a Felony and Parental Ambushes

    Send us Fan MailA man received just one month in jail for allegedly holding down a four-year-old so another child could "retaliate" against them. From unproductive staff who waste valuable nap time scrolling on phones to the complicated dynamics when workplace relationships turn personal, the episode concludes with practical hiring advice centered on identifying candidates who can effectively prioritize tasks when faced with overwhelming workloads. Whether you're an educator seeking solidarity in shared struggles or a parent wanting to understand the challenges faced by those caring for your children, this episode delivers unfiltered truths about what happens behind the scenes in early childhood settings.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  32. 52

    Firing, Hiring, and Not Pulling Hair

    Send us Fan MailWhether you're a seasoned educator or new to the field, this episode offers honest perspective on navigating workplace challenges with integrity. Follow the podcast to join this ongoing conversation about the realities of education work.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  33. 51

    Naptime Narcotics: When Teachers Turn to Benadryl

    Send us Fan MailA troubling case from Georgia reveals how a daycare lost its license after staff administered Benadryl to toddlers without consent, raising serious questions about trust and safety in childcare settings. Meanwhile, nearly $6.8 billion in federal education funding is being withheld, affecting critical programs for vulnerable student populations. Through a candid exploration of real-world scenarios, we offer practical guidance for keeping outside drama where it belongs - outside - and strategies for handling challenging situations with family members who may attempt to override parents' decisions. Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  34. 50

    Dangerous Preschools, Woke Tests, and the Walmart Bag Exit Strategy

    Send us Fan MailThe alarming realities of unregulated childcare facilities operating with twice its maximum occupancy, this facility housed infants in a windowless basement alongside propane tanks, creating what authorities described as "nightmarish, hellish conditions." The conversation shifts to Oklahoma's peculiar response to teacher shortages—creating additional barriers rather than incentives and professional approach to firing employees that maintains dignity while protecting children and programs from unnecessary drama. The episode concludes with a thoughtful response to an educator contemplating leaving the field due to burnout. Rather than seeing this as an indictment of early childhood education as a profession, the solution may be finding a better fit rather than abandoning our calling.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  35. 49

    Drop Off Mistakes, Transitions, and Overtime Challenges

    Send us Fan MailA young girl was accidentally dropped off at the wrong preschool. What do you do? Shifting gears,  I share insights into how observing and coaching can be more impactful than immediate critiques or corrective actions. Finally, we tackle a common workplace conundrum: managing unauthorized overtime. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with valuable insights and practical advice, and feel free to share your thoughts or get in touch through my website.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  36. 48

    Extended Play: Wine and Overqualified

    Send us Fan MailCan a simple bottle of wine transform the way we show appreciation to educators? Join me in this extended play episode as we explore the art of meaningful recognition, venturing beyond the standard pizza party. Whether you’re an educator or an employer, these insights promise to guide you in navigating the often tricky world of hiring and workplace appreciation.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  37. 47

    Preschool Blunders: Locked Babies and Naptime Dilemmas

    Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Stumbling Through Work, we unravel an incident in Philadelphia where three daycare workers face charges after leaving a seven-month-old baby locked inside a closed facility. Shifting gears, we examine how the underlying culture and climate of a school can drastically shape the educational experience. Finally, we tackle a policy of keeping lights on during naptime. Join me in considering these critical issues and share your thoughts.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  38. 46

    High Costs, Low Training...

    Send us Fan MailCan you imagine entrusting your child to a daycare, only to discover that the teacher is abusive? This episode kicks off with a jaw-dropping account from Florida, where a 20-year-old teacher shockingly admitted to kicking, slapping, and flipping off a child. Ever wondered where all that tuition money goes? We break down the financial labyrinth of running high-quality educational programs. From soaring utility bills to the skyrocketing prices of food and essential supplies, maintaining a top-notch learning environment is no small feat. Tune in for an enlightening episode filled with candid stories, critical insights, and a touch of humor.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  39. 45

    Handling Crisis and Boosting Preschool Enrollments

    Send us Fan MailThis week on Stumbling Through Work, we confront the unsettling realities of child care center vandalism. Hear the details of a shocking incident that left a preschool in disarray, Switching gears from crisis management to proactive planning, I’ll share practical strategies to enhance your preschool, afterschool, and enrichment programs for the upcoming academic year. Whether it’s converting summer camp participants into year-long enrollments or tackling logistical nightmares like busing and drop-ins, I’ve got you covered. Learn the importance of hosting an open house right before the school year and how it can significantly boost your enrollments.Hear about a chaotic incident on the playground that highlights the necessity of professional behavior among staff and effective administrative intervention. Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  40. 44

    School Threat: Unchecked Teacher Behavior and When to Let them Go

    Send us Fan MailUnchecked teacher behavior? We critique the responses of those involved and emphasize the importance of confronting problematic behavior head-on, ensuring a safe and nurturing space for young learners.Reflecting on the unchecked teacher behavior story, we discuss the headaches of firing underperforming employees and the ripple effects it can have on a school's reputation.  Join us for practical strategies and insights that aim to shape a brighter future in early childhood education.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  41. 43

    Babysitting: A Professional Dilemma

    Send us Fan MailWhat happens when an early childhood teacher oversteps her boundaries and administers medication to infants without parental consent? Effective communication is the backbone of any educational setting, and in the second chapter, we break down six essential types of conversations that administrators should master. Is babysitting undermining the professionalism of early childhood educators?  While acknowledging the financial pressures and low wages that lead many educators to seek side gigs, we discuss how informal babysitting arrangements can devalue our field. Join us in this episode as we explore these pressing issues and invite you to share your thoughts.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  42. 42

    Safe and Professional in Preschool

    Send us Fan MailThis shocking incident kicks off our latest episode, where we address the crucial topic of safety in early childhood education. While I sprinkle in a bit of humor to lighten the mood, the focus remains on practical strategies to enhance safety measures in schools, ensuring a secure environment for both staff and children.Switching gears, we discuss the importance of maintaining professional behavior and the pitfalls of cell phone use during work hours.  We delve into classroom supervision policies, urging educators to review or establish guidelines that keep the focus on children's safety. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable insights and practical advice on fostering professionalism and security in educational settings.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  43. 41

    Evaluations: Not a Punishment & The Conflict of Interest

    Send us Fan MailEver had that moment where you walked out of a performance review feeling blindsided? We're going to explore the surprising realities of educator evaluations and how they can truly foster growth instead of dread. We're setting the stage for honest, impactful conversations that lead to tailored coaching plans, ensuring every educator not only meets but exceeds their potential.With a dash of personal stories and a pinch of cautionary tales, we'll examine the perils that come when educators take on side gigs that hit too close to home—like babysitting for student's families. Join me for a frank discussion on why setting firm boundaries is crucial for a drama-free workplace, and how maintaining a clear separation between our personal and professional lives safeguards our careers and the educational sanctity of our classrooms. Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  44. 40

    Count Every Child: Face to Name

    Send us Fan MailThink back to a time when a simple lapse in attention could have led to dire consequences. That's a scenario no one in childcare should ever face, yet it's what we tackle head-on in our latest episode, where the disturbing trend of children being neglected in educational settings is brought into the spotlight.We dissect the critical need for strict attendance and punctuality policies, a reflection of our unwavering commitment to discipline and respect within our ranks. I break down the nuts and bolts of how these policies are implemented and the uncompromising stance we take towards any infringements, sending a clear message about the non-negotiable priority of attendanceFollow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  45. 39

    The Teacher's Tango: Not Getting Along

    Send us Fan MailEver grappled with the tricky tango of workplace dynamics, especially in the world of education?  In this episode, I share two educators who do not get along and how harmony in the workplace doesn't require friendship, but a collective commitment to the purpose of our school.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  46. 38

    I Guess the Grass isn't so Green

    Send us Fan MailPeople get upset and leave... then try to come back. Nope, I'm not accepting you back with open arms.Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  47. 37

    Supervise or Mentor

    Send us Fan MailWe spend more time supervising than mentoring our staff. Are you guilty of this?Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  48. 36

    Conflict Management Style

    Send us Fan MailI've taken another online assessment quiz, this time for Conflict Management. To address any conflict in your school, you have to understand what your style is first. Here is a link to the quiz I took.http://www.thesmartworkplace.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/ConflictManagementStylesAssessment.pdfFollow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  49. 35

    How to Act With Company

    Send us Fan MailI thought everyone knew how to behave when you have company over... people don't care about that anymore, just listen...Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

  50. 34

    You Don't Even Work Here...

    Send us Fan MailHow many times do people who don't even work with you ask about staff schedules? If you're confused, just listen...Follow me :Website:  https://www.abbreviatedlearning.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/abbreviatedlearningInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/abbreviatedlearning

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Working in education is to stumble through your everyday! We love what we do, but staff, families, policies, regulations and sometimes even the children make us quit everyday then come back the next day. Just remember, you are not in this alone.

HOSTED BY

Jerek Hough

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Stumbling Through Work have?

Stumbling Through Work currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Stumbling Through Work about?

Working in education is to stumble through your everyday! We love what we do, but staff, families, policies, regulations and sometimes even the children make us quit everyday then come back the next day. Just remember, you are not in this alone.

How often does Stumbling Through Work release new episodes?

Stumbling Through Work has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Stumbling Through Work?

You can listen to Stumbling Through Work on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Stumbling Through Work?

Stumbling Through Work is created and hosted by Jerek Hough.
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