The Good Life in Early Life

We revisit one of our most popular episodes in which Dr. Ciera Kirkpatrick shares her research on The Idealization of Motherhood in the Media. Dr. Kirkpatrick dives into social media and the negative outcomes it has on the well-being of mothers. Her study reveals that mothers can experience increased levels of envy and anxiety when viewing social media posts that idealize motherhood. Dr. Kirkpatrick also shares her experience as a first-time mother and how difficult the role of motherhood can be. Notes: https://www.babycenter.com/mobile-apps The Mommy Myth: The Idealization of Motherhood and How It Has Undermined All Women by Susan J. Douglas & Meredith W. Michaels (2005) Free Press. References: Kirkpatrick, C. & Lee, S. (2022). Comparisons to picture-picture motherhood: How Instagram’s idealized portrayals of motherhood affect new mothers’ well-being. Computers in Human Behavior,137, 107417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.chb.2022.107417 https://journalism.unl.edu/kirkpatrick-ciera The following music was used for this media project: Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Co-parenting comes with unique challenges, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In one of our most popular episodes on the podcast, we take on real questions from parents and listeners about the most common struggles they face when co-parenting. To provide expert insights, we’re joined by two distinguished guests from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Dr. Cody Hollist, associate professor of Child, Youth, and Family Studies with a background in marriage and family therapy, and Dr. Holly Hatton, associate professor of Child, Youth, and Family Studies, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience in co-parenting. Together, they share practical advice on adapting to life after divorce, communicating effectively with a co-parent, and ensuring that your children remain at the heart of co-parenting. Resources: Nebraska Extension Co-Parenting for Successful Kids https://child.unl.edu/coparenting/ The following music was used for this media project:     Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende     Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review     License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

What if science, math, and creativity didn’t feel intimidating—but instead looked like play, storytelling, and everyday moments? In this episode, host Emily Manning is joined by other members of the Nebraska Extension Early Childhood team to explore the 2026 STEAM Imagination Guides—free resources designed to make STEAM learning fun, accessible, and meaningful for young children. Together, they share how these guides turn simple children’s books into hands-on learning experiences—from digging into dinosaur discoveries to experimenting with melting ice cream and building with everyday materials. Along the way, they break down common misconceptions about STEAM and show how even the youngest learners are capable of big thinking. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or educator, you’ll walk away with practical ideas and fresh inspiration to spark curiosity, creativity, and confidence in the children in your life. STEAM Guides: https://child.unl.edu/Nebraska-STEAM/ The following music was used for this media project:     Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende     Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review     License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

For many children, a pet isn’t just an animal, it’s a first friend, a quiet comfort, and a daily lesson in care and connection. In this episode, host Emily Manning sits down with veterinarian Dr. Kathleen Ritzmann of Madison County Veterinary Clinic to explore the powerful role companion animals can play in children’s lives. Together, they unpack the human–animal bond and how caring for pets can help children grow in empathy, emotional regulation, and responsibility. Dr. Ritzmann also shares practical guidance for families, from choosing the right pet for your household to safely introducing a new animal and helping children become confident, compassionate caregivers. And don’t miss the end of the episode, where Dr. Ritzmann shares some fun and surprising animal trivia you won’t want to miss! The following music was used for this media project: Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Host Emily Manning welcomes Elizabeth Everett, Vice President of Early Futures Partnership and leader of First Five Nebraska’s policy work, for a conversation about how early childhood policy is shaped in Nebraska. Everett explains Nebraska’s unicameral legislative process and highlights major priorities affecting children, birth to age eight, especially childcare affordability, capacity, and workforce retention. First Five Nebraska: https://www.earlyfutures.org/first-five-nebraska The following music was used for this media project: Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Starting a childcare business takes vision, commitment, and the right community of support. In this episode, Emily is joined by Dena Beck from 6 Regions One Nebraska, Central Region, to spotlight the Childcare Champions initiative and how it is strengthening child care across Central Nebraska. Together, they explore how Childcare Champions walk alongside current and prospective providers, offering mentorship, connection, and practical resources to help new programs grow and thrive. The following music was used for this media project:  Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende  Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review  License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license 

Starting a childcare business begins with a passion for children — and often a lot of questions about licensing. Emily is joined by Gina Ewing from the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative (NECC) to explore what it really takes to become a licensed childcare provider in Nebraska. Together, they discuss the benefits of licensure for providers and families, walk through key steps in the licensing process, and highlight common challenges and surprises along the way. Listeners will hear how NECC’s Licensing Toolkit offers mentoring, guidance, and practical tools to support providers from preparation through their first year of operation, helping turn big dreams into sustainable, high-quality childcare programs. Resource: https://nebraskaearly.org/toolkit-program/ The following music was used for this media project: Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

When holidays arrive in early childhood settings, they bring more than decorations and traditions; they bring stories, identities, and learning opportunities. Emily explores thoughtful approaches to navigating holidays with the director of Ruth Staples Child Development Lab, Jennifer Leeper Miller. Together, they discuss ways to support children’s development while honoring the diverse traditions, cultures, and knowledge families bring to the classroom. Listeners will hear practical ideas for engaging families as partners, creating developmentally appropriate experiences for children, and approaching the holiday season with intention, respect, and care. The following music was used for this media project: Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Gratitude is a powerful tool for strengthening relationships, boosting well-being, and creating healthier workplaces. Emily Manning and guest Dr. Holly Hatton dive into what gratitude looks like in action, especially when it’s woven into a program at the system level rather than left to chance. Together, they discuss how gratitude can strengthen relationships, reduce stress, and create more positive, connected environments for educators, children, and families. Listeners will walk away with tangible ideas for nurturing a more supportive, joyful, and resilient workplace grounded in gratitude.

In this episode of The Good Life in Early Life, Emily is joined by returning guest and statewide Extension Educator Linda Reddish to explore how early childhood professionals can navigate conflict in the workplace with clarity, compassion, and confidence. Linda breaks down the four common types of conflict: task, process, interpersonal, and status. Then, she shares practical insights on why conflict arises, how our personal experiences shape our responses, and what it takes to approach difficult conversations effectively. Together, they discuss the importance of self-reflection, building strong professional relationships, and communicating with both accountability and kindness. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies for engaging in healthier conversations that strengthen teamwork and promote positive work environments. Resources Managing Conflict in Everyday Life: https://extensionpubs.unl.edu/publication/g1696/2007/html/view Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott Nebraska Mediation Centers https://nebraskajudicial.gov/programs-services/mediation-restorative-justice/mediation-centers The following music was used for this media project:  Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende  Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review  License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

In this episode of The Good Life in Early Life, host Emily Manning is joined by Dr. Jessica Mitchell-McCullough, Senior Director of Education at Nebraska Public Media, to explore how parents and educators can thoughtfully select and use media with young children. Jessica shares insights on media literacy, the developmental benefits of co-viewing, and how trusted, research-based programs like Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood can support children’s social-emotional growth. Together, they discuss practical ways to approach “spooky season” media, helping children distinguish between what’s real and pretend while building comfort and connection. The following music was used for this media project:  Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende  Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review  License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

In this episode of The Good Life in Early Life, we examine the concept of “good enough” parenting and what is needed to support healthy child development. Shannon Carr joins us to discuss strategies for fostering independence, creativity, and exploration in young children without succumbing to unrealistic expectations or over-scheduling. The following music was used for this media project:  Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende  Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review  License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

In this episode, we sit down with Senior Director of Behavioral Health at Bryan, Dave Miers, to explore how adults can support children who have experienced or witnessed traumatic events. From navigating difficult conversations to managing the impact of school shootings in the news, Dave offers practical guidance for helping kids feel safe, understood, and resilient. This episode provides thoughtful strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers facing challenging conversations with children about trauma. References and Resources: SAMHSA-https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/trauma-violence/trauma-informed-approaches-programs American Psychological Association-https://www.apa.org/ Bryan Mental Health Screenings- https://www.bryanhealth.com/services/counseling-mental-health/mental-health-online-screenings/ 988 Suicide Prevention Hotline Nebraska Family Helpline- (888) 866-8660 Read for Resilience- https://child.unl.edu/read4resilience/ Sources: https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/interactive/school-shootings-database/ https://www.cnn.com/us/school-shootings-fast-facts-dg https://doi.org/10.1177/000992282311807 The following music was used for this media project:  Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende  Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review  License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

In this episode of The Good Life in Early Life, we explore an innovative solution to one of early childhood education's most persistent challenges: finding qualified substitutes when educators and providers need time away from work. Host Emily Manning speaks with Jonathan Jank, President and CEO of the Seward County Chamber & Development Partnernship, and Tracy Gordon, Executive Director of the Nebraska Association for the Education of Young Children, about their collaboration to create a statewide substitute network tailored for Nebraska’s early childhood programs.

In this episode, we sit down with a 4-H Educator, Ann Dobesh, to explore why valuing the process—rather than just the final product—is so important for youth and young children. We talk about how meaningful time spent with an adult can spark curiosity, build confidence, and support the development of lifelong learners. Our conversation highlights how both success and mistakes offer powerful learning opportunities, and how allowing space for mistakes can help young people discover their interests, passions, and potential.

Discover how every educator can confidently bring music into their classroom, regardless of musical background. With guests, Jentry Barrett (Nebraska Extension) and Mollie von Kampen (Ruth Staples Child Development Lab), this episode offers practical tips and heartfelt encouragement, reminding us that with a little practice and a lot of heart, your voice is more than enough to inspire young learners through song. Resources Jentry’s research- https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/famconfacpub/322/ Kindermusick- https://www.kindermusik.com/

In this episode of The Good Life in Early Life, we delve into the exciting world of STEAM education in early childhood, featuring insightful interviews with experts in the field. Join us as we sit down with Sarah Paulos, a former Nebraska Extension Early Childhood Educator turned lower elementary science teacher. Sarah shares her dissertation findings about incorporating local rural knowledge into science, misconceptions about teaching science to young children, and highlights her favorite STEAM resources for educators. Next, we chat with Jackie Steffen, an Early Childhood Educator, about the 2025 STEAM Imagination Guides. Jackie walks us through the contents of these innovative guides, discusses her favorite children's book from this year, and invites listeners to an upcoming training session aimed at exploring the guides in-depth. Tune in to gain valuable insights into integrating STEAM concepts into early childhood education, discover new resources, and hear firsthand experiences from passionate educators dedicated to nurturing young minds. Resources: 2025 STEAM Imagination Guides- https://child.unl.edu/Nebraska-STEAM/ June 30th 1 pm STEAM Guides Overview and Training for Educators and Parents- https://go.unl.edu/june30afternoon Project Learning Tree- https://www.plt.org/ Project Wild- https://www.fishwildlife.org/projectwild Nebraska Game & Parks Education resources- https://outdoornebraska.gov/learn/educator-resources/education-programs/ The following music was used for this media project:   Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende   Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review   License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license   "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

This episode delves into the essentials of selecting quality childcare. Emily Manning is joined by Nebraska Extension colleagues Lisa Poppe and Katie Krause, as they explore what constitutes quality care, its importance in early childhood, and the challenges parents face in finding suitable options. The discussion includes insights into the Nebraska Step Up to Quality rating system and various resources from the UNL Extension designed to assist parents in making informed decisions about childcare. Both professional expertise and personal anecdotes highlight the key considerations for ensuring children receive safe, nurturing, and developmentally supportive care. Resources: Selecting Quality Care- https://child.unl.edu/quality-child-care/ Checklist- https://child.unl.edu/ianr/extension/early-childhood-development/sites/unl.edu.ianr.extension.early-childhood-development/files/media/file/childcare-checklists.pdf Step Up to Quality: https://stepuptoquality.ne.gov/ Buffett Early Childhood Institute: https://buffettinstitute.nebraska.edu/about-us/early-childhood-in-nebraska The following music was used for this media project:     Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende     Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review     License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

Co-parenting comes with unique challenges, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. In this episode, we take on real questions from parents and listeners about the most common struggles they face when co-parenting. To provide expert insights, we’re joined by two distinguished guests from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln: Dr. Cody Hollist, associate professor of Child, Youth, and Family Studies with a background in marriage and family therapy, and Dr. Holly Hatton, associate professor of Child, Youth, and Family Studies, who brings both professional expertise and personal experience in co-parenting. Together, they share practical advice on adapting to life after divorce, communicating effectively with a co-parent, and ensuring that your children remain at the heart of co-parenting. Resources: Nebraska Extension Co-Parenting for Successful Kids https://child.unl.edu/coparenting/ The following music was used for this media project:     Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende     Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review     License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

In this episode of The Good Life in the Early Life, Emily Manning interviews Dr. Julia Torquati, a professor in the Department of Child, Youth, and Family Studies with 25 years of expertise in child development, childcare, and nature-based environmental education. Dr. Torquati discusses how research has shown that time spent in nature can significantly improve children's performance on assessments of spatial working memory and attention. She also highlights the numerous benefits of nature, including increased pro-social skills. Dr. Torquati shares practical ideas for how adults can incorporate nature into everyday activities to support children's development.    The following music was used for this media project:     Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende     Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review     License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license     "Wholesome" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)  Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License  http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ 

In this episode, Emily returns to Gothenburg to sit down with Nichole Hetz for an update on the Gothenburg Impact Center and its journey to opening an early childhood learning center. From navigating challenges to securing resources, Nichole shares the key steps that made this project a reality. We also explore the ongoing work to ensure sustainability, the lessons learned along the way, and what other communities can take from their experience. Whether you're passionate about early childhood education or community-driven initiatives, this episode offers valuable insights into making a lasting impact. Resources: https://www.gothenburgimpactcenter.com/ The following music was used for this media project:   Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende   Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review   License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license  

In this episode of The Good Life in the Early Life, Emily interviews Dr. Janice Sherman, a licensed mental health practitioner and play therapist with over a decade of experience of supporting youth mental health. Dr. Sherman, who runs a private practice in rural Nebraska, discusses the challenges of providing mental health services to youth in the state. She also highlights key warning signs that parents and adults should watch for in children’s behavior and offers valuable advice on how to seek the help youth need. Resources: Janice Sherman’s website: https://www.janicemorethanplay.com/ Nebraska Rural Youth Suicide Prevention Resources: https://ruralwellness.unl.edu/youth-suicide-prevention-resources National Suicide Prevention Lifeline- 988 provides 24/7 confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals The Nebraska Family Helpline is (888) 866-8660 Crisis Text line- Crisis Text Line is free, 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the U.S. to text with a crisis counselor about any type of crisis. Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Resources from Nebraska Resource Project for Vulnerable Young Children- https://www.nebraskababies.com/resources/video-library/learning-more-about-iecmh-nebraska The following music was used for this media project:   Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende   Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review   License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license  

Nebraska Extension Educators Tasha Wulf and Katie Krause share their personal experiences preparing for a baby in this episode, offering a mix of humorous and heartfelt stories. They also explore research on marketing to new parents and how to identify reputable sources of information. Tune in for valuable insights into the emotional journey of parenthood, the influence of marketing on new parents' choices, and finding trusted resources along the way. Resources: Consumer Product Safety Commission- https://www.cpsc.gov/ American Academy of Pediatrics- https://www.aap.org/ Consumer Reports- Babies and Kids: https://www.consumerreports.org/babies-kids/ References: Voice Group. (2010). Buying into motherhood? Problematic consumption and ambivalence in transitional phases. Consumption, Markets and Culture, 13(4), 373-397 Thompson , R. , Kehily , M.J. , Hadfield , L. and Sharpe , S. 2008 . The making of modern motherhood: Memories, identities and practices , The Open University . Voice Group. (2010). Motherhood, marketization, and consumer vulnerability. Journal of Macromarketing, 30(4), 384-397. The following music was used for this media project:   Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende   Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review   License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license  

In this episode, we dive into the listener requested topic of family style dining and feeding young children. Extension Educator Carly Applegarth discusses the research around effective mealtime strategies and Nebraska parents, Adam and Carli, share the everyday struggles and laughter of teaching young children healthy mealtime habits. References & Resources: Eat Family Style at Home- https://eatathome.unl.edu/ MyPlate- https://www.myplate.gov/ The following music was used for this media project:   Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende   Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review   License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license  

In this timely episode, we discuss the science of gratitude and how being grateful can benefit us personally and professionally. Our guest Dr. Holly Hatton is an associate professor, extension specialist, and program area lead for the Early Childhood team at the University of Nebraska. She highlights that practicing gratitude doesn't mean ignoring challenges we face but reframing them. Dr. Hatton also shares research on how gratitude enhances well-being for early childhood caregivers, children, and families. The following music was used for this media project:   Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende   Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review   License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license  

Dr. Carrie Clark joins us in this listener requested episode about screen time. Dr. Clark and host Emily Manning discuss screen time and the impact it has on brain development, emotional regulation, and relationship skills. Dr. Clark also shares strategies for guiding children through the realities of a screen-filled world.  References & Resources Common Sense Media- https://www.commonsensemedia.org/ American Academy of Pediatrics- https://www.aap.org/ Dr. Carrie Clark- https://naecr.unl.edu/people/bios/clarke-carrie.php Up First NPR podcast about impacts of TikTok- https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Tl2QDjorO02B7nMYNwIln?si=o1WgWEabQ5SzmC9zmhQILw The following music was used for this media project:   Music: Afterparty Review by Sascha Ende   Free download: https://filmmusic.io/song/2962-afterparty-review   License (CC BY 4.0): https://filmmusic.io/standard-license