Circle Time Convos

In this episode of Circle Time Convs, we sit down with Esmeralda Bueno, District Chief at Chicago Public Library (CPL), to explore how modern libraries have evolved into vibrant community hubs that offer far more than just books. Esmeralda highlights the essential resources available across CPL’s 81 locations, including STEM programs, dual-language literacy tools, and the strategic partnership with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) to provide on-site Pre-K registration support. From free technology access and "Teacher in the Library" homework help to summer reading challenges and nutritious meal programs, discover how your local library acts as a vital partner in your child's early education journey.

Is Pre-K just "play," or is it the foundation for a lifetime of learning? In this episode, we sit down with Mrs. Eileen Gregor, a teacher from Carver Elementary School, to explore the intentionality, joy, and rigor found in the early childhood classroom.

In this episode of Circle Time Convos, we are joined by Emily Kelin, Director of Early Childhood Access and Enrollment at Chicago Public Schools, to discuss the Chicago Early Learning application. The application window opens today at 10 AM CDT, allowing families to rank up to five program choices without the need to rush on the first day. We discuss how placements are prioritized and where families can also learn about vital support resources.

In this episode of Circle Time Conversations, we are opening up about the magic that happens in the Chicago Public Schools Pre-K classroom. Join us as we sit down with Mrs. Eileen Gregor from Carver Elementary School, who shares how teachers care for your kids as they transition into the classroom and thrive.

Choosing the right Pre-K can feel overwhelming, but the signs of a great education are often hidden in plain sight. In this episode, we walk through the halls and classrooms to give parents what to look for when choosing a Pre-K for their child. 

Are we missing the signs of how children actually think? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Jie-Qi “Jackie” Chen, a child development specialist, about the "hidden" learning that happens during play. Dr. Jackie explains why we should stop rushing to correct children and instead start letting them explore their choices.

What does true quality care look like when it starts right in the heart of the community? Today, we are joined by Darlene Johnson, founder of Darlene’s Daycare, to discuss the unique power of home-based childcare. Darlene’s journey began within her own family of 12 siblings and has since blossomed into a lifelong career dedicated to nurturing the "whole child" through intentionality and love.

In Part 2, Rukiya Curvey Johnson unpacks how STEM learning shows up long before high school and why curiosity, family engagement, and real-world experiences matter more than expensive tools or technology. Rukiya reflects on how COVID-19 reinforced the need for inquiry-based STEM education, the importance of representation in science and medical research, and how families can nurture STEM learning at home through everyday moments.

Those awkward questions your child asks might actually be the start of STEM learning. In this episode, we’re joined by Rukiya Curvey Johnson, VP of Community Health Equity and Executive Director of the Rush Education & Career Hub, to reframe how families and educators think about STEM. From early childhood curiosity to career pathways, Rukiya shares how everyday moments can spark lifelong interest in science, technology, engineering, and math.

How do you nurture a STEM mindset in Pre-K without worksheets or fancy materials? In this episode, CPS Pre-K teacher Tatianna Cook shares how curiosity, open-ended questions, emotional regulation, and play-based learning help young children build confidence in STEM from the very start. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and early childhood educators.

How can parents nurture a love for STEM in their preschoolers—without needing to be math experts? In this episode of Circle Time Convos, Chief Leslie McKinley sits down with Amy Spar, VP of the Chicago Children’s Museum, to explore simple, playful ways to spark curiosity and critical thinking in young children. From using everyday materials at home to Chicago’s Curiosity Classrooms, learn how STEM learning starts with one thing—asking great questions.

Want to make a real impact in your child’s school?In this episode of Circle Time Convos, we sit down with Myra Winding, CPS Assistant Director of Local School Council Relations, to explore how parents can take an active role in shaping their child’s education. From Local School Councils (LSC) to Parent Advisory Councils (PAC) and Community Advisory Councils (CAC), Myra breaks down how families can get involved, what training is provided, and why your voice truly matters. Whether you’re a parent of a pre-K student or a seasoned CPS family, this episode gives you the tools, insight, and inspiration to step into leadership and advocate for your school community.

Why do preschoolers act out, and what are they really trying to tell us? In this episode of Circle Time Convos, Dr. Carrie Comer-Yates, former Senior Manager of Early Childhood Instructional Quality at CPS, joins the conversation to unpack how misbehavior is often misunderstood. She shares insights on supporting children with disabilities, addressing trauma, and recognizing that every behavior has meaning.

In this episode, we’re joined by Artinese Myrick, Deputy Director at Live Free Illinois, to talk about how trauma shows up in our homes, communities, and classrooms—and what healing really looks like for families. Artinese shares her personal journey and the generational patterns of strength and sacrifice that shape Black women’s experiences. Together, we explore how caregivers’ unhealed trauma impacts children, the importance of social-emotional learning, and why healing the whole family matters.

In this episode, we welcome our very first kindergarten teacher guest, Kamille Miller from Chicago Public Schools. Kamille shares what she loves most about teaching kindergarten, including how she helps families and children transition into school, as well as the important role of routines, play, and family engagement. From building stamina for full school days to addressing common myths, Kamille offers practical advice and reassurance for families. Plus, she highlights simple ways parents can support learning at home, like creating bedtime routines and sharing books together.

In this episode of Circle Time Convos, we sit down with Dr. Chrisna Perry, an educational psychologist, learning disability specialist, and founder of Comprehensive Learning Services, to discuss how children’s diverse experiences show up in the classroom. From understanding the typical behaviors of 4 and 5-year-olds to recognizing when extra support may be needed, Dr. Perry shares practical insights on social-emotional learning, executive functioning, and how teachers and parents can partner to create safe and supportive spaces for every child to thrive.

Applying for Kindergarten doesn’t have to be overwhelming! In this episode of Circle Time Convos, we sit down with Erika Peterson from the CPS Office of Access and Enrollment to break down everything families need to know about the GoCPS application process. Erika shares key dates, important information, and practical tips to help families move from confusion to clarity. 

When young children act out, it’s easy to see only the surface: tantrums, hitting, shutting down. But what if those behaviors are really signals of something deeper? In this episode, we unpack what trauma really is (and isn’t), how it can show up in classrooms and homes, and why understanding the “why” behind behavior changes everything. Instead of asking what’s wrong with this child, we start by asking what happened, what’s needed, and how we can help.

Trauma can shape how young children learn, trust, and connect. In this episode, guest Shantay McKinily, Director of the Positive School Center, shares how educators and families can work together to create safe, healing school environments—where every child feels seen, supported, and understood.

Big emotions in little bodies? It’s normal but how can you tell when your child might need extra support? In this episode, we explore early childhood mental health through the Head, Heart, Hands framework. Learn how CPS developmental screenings work, why early intervention matters, and how parents and educators collaborate to support children’s emotional well-being.

What happens when school meals disappear for the summer? For too many Chicago families, it means facing an empty fridge and impossible choices. In this episode, we are joined by Camerin Mattson from the Greater Chicago Food Depository to explore the realities of food insecurity and how local partnerships are addressing the gap. From free summer meals at libraries to wraparound services at community pantries, we explore how families can access resources to cover the loss of meals, such as free lunch, for their children during school breaks.

Lead exposure can impact children before they even step into a classroom. In this episode, we’re joined by Sharita Webb from the Chicago Department of Public Health to talk candidly about how families can prevent lead poisoning and protect their Pre-K children.  We’ll bust common myths in a round of “Red Light, Green Light,” uncover where lead hides in homes, and ease common fears around testing and exposure. Sharita shares practical advice on getting your child screened, understanding your rights, and tapping into free city resources.

Starting Pre-K means more than new backpacks and fresh crayons—it means doctor’s appointments, medical forms, and school health deadlines that can sneak up fast. In this episode, host Leslie is joined by Alexandra Sontag, a Family Nurse Practitioner supporting school health at the Chicago Department of Public Health. Together, they break down what it really takes to get your child medically cleared for Day One of CPS Pre-K—and why readiness goes far beyond paperwork. From understanding CPS health requirements to tips for supporting your child’s emotional well-being, we’re laying it all out. Tune in now to get expert tips, timelines, and must-know info so your child is clear to start on Day One!

Summer is more than a season—it’s your secret weapon for a smooth start to school. In this episode, Rachel Mayo from Chicago Public Schools’ Office of Early Childhood joins us to break down how families can use the summer months to prepare their little ones for pre-K and kindergarten. From free CPS transition programs like Preview to Pre-K and Kick Off to Kindergarten, to everyday activities in parks, libraries, and living rooms, we explore what readiness really looks like. We also tackle common concerns around separation anxiety and what “homework” should mean for preschoolers (spoiler: it’s not worksheets). Tune in for simple, joyful ways to make the most of summer and give your child a confident, connected start to school.

In this jam-packed episode of Circle Time Convos, we’re talking all things enrollment—from the first application click to walking through the school doors on Day One. Joining us is the one and only Jenny LeFlore, affectionately known as Mama Fresh—the Chicago Tribune’s crowned “Coolest Mama” and a powerhouse in building community around modern motherhood. With two kids and a whole lot of wisdom, Jenny brings the real talk on navigating pre-K applications, prepping your little one emotionally, and embracing the “kiss and fly” drop-off routine. Whether you're a first-time parent or doing it all over again, this one’s full of game-changing tips, heartfelt moments, and laughs you won’t want to miss.

The Pre-K waitlist can feel confusing and frustrating—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, host Leslie McKinily is joined by Tasha from Illinois Action for Children, part of the extended Chicago Early Learning team, to bust the biggest myths about the waitlist process. Together, they demystify how students are prioritized, explain how families can remain on waitlists even after accepting an offer, and break down what happens behind the scenes after you apply. Whether you're still exploring options or anxiously waiting, this episode offers clarity, guidance, and a reminder to stay patient and persistent—your child’s learning journey is worth it.

In this episode of Circle Time Conversations, we answer real parent questions about navigating the Pre-K application process. Hear advice on picking the best program for your family, handling the disappointment of not getting a top choice, and why early learning matters—even when family care is available. Learn what to look for in a quality program, why trusting your gut is key, and how early childhood experiences shape lifelong learning. Plus, get a simple action step to help you move forward today. Your voice matters. Join us at chicagoearlylearning.org.

Circle Time Convos is officially here. Our first episode introduces our host, Leslie McKinily, Chief Officer of Early Childhood Education at Chicago Public Schools. Leslie shares personal experiences, expert insights, and the kind of conversation every parent and educator needs to hear. Whether you're raising a little one, teaching a classroom full of them, or just passionate about early childhood education, this podcast is for you.