The Intentional ECE

Play invites courage - from children and educators alike. In this episode, Suzanne Axelsson shares how play, learning, and teaching are deeply connected, and why creating brave spaces is essential to honouring children’s rights and voices.To learn more about Suzanne and her work:The Original Learning ApproachIG:  Interaction ImaginationSubstack:  Original LearningPlayarista Training

Do your materials have enough possibilities to keep play alive? In this episode, we explore playability - the idea that open-ended materials are active agents, whose affordances meet children's curiosity and imagination to invite, sustain, and deepen play. This episode is an invitation to look at your own environment through the lens of possibility, openness, and connection.Summer Coaching

When we slow down, there’s space for children to show us who they are. In this episode, Heather Jackson shares her Reggio-inspired journey, exploring how inquiry, collaboration, and reflective dialogue support both children’s thinking and educators’ growth - while creating spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.To learn more/connect with Heather:The Sunflower SchoolIG:  The Sunflower Studio, The Sunflower SchoolActions of Play

What becomes possible when we slow down and truly see before and after school care as meaningful learning spaces? Jamie Wagler shares how relationships, choice, and curiosity can shape rich experiences for children - and why stronger communication between educators can support a more connected, wholistic view of each child.Learn more about/connect with Jamie:https://www.missjamieconsulting.com/InstagramLinkedIn

Care, relationship, and responsiveness are at the heart of infant and toddler education - but they’re not always recognized as pedagogy. In this episode, Paige Wernick invites us to see these everyday moments with more clarity, and to consider how naming our “why” can strengthen both practice and identity.Learn more/connect with Paige:Instagram

What does it mean to be fully yourself while in relationship with others? In this episode, we explore collective autonomy and how play becomes a space where children learn to balance agency, connection, and belonging. Through reflection and real classroom experiences, I consider how we can support children in being autonomous - together.References:The Original Learning Approach by Suzanne AxelssonPlayaristaWhat is the Play Cycle?The Intentional Educator

In this episode, Paola Lopez shares the story of building her schools from a place of curiosity, imagination, and deep respect for children and educators. What emerged is a culture of inquiry, joy, and possibility - where both children and adults are given time and space to follow their curiosity and grow in confidence and competency. A hopeful conversation that demonstrates the lasting impact of play, relationships, and intentional practice.To learn more about Paola’s programs:Kinderoo AcademyInstagram:  Kinderoo AcademyFacebook

In this episode, we explore the play cycle and how understanding the cues and responses between children can help educators see play more deeply. Through a lived observation, Cathy reflects on how play unfolds, how educators can honour and protect the flow of play, and how observing through both ludic and pedagogical lenses can support responsive teaching.References & ResourcesWhat is the Play Cycle?The Intentional EducatorIG:  @theintentionaleducator_yvr

What counts as play - and how do we recognize it? In this episode, Cathy reflects on several definitions of play and uses them as a starting point to explore the many ways children engage with the world through play. From energetic social play to quiet moments of exploration, noticing these experiences more closely helps us understand what children are curious about and how they are making sense of and adapting to their world. As educators, this awareness allows us to support the development of children’s autonomy and agency through play, helping them see themselves as capable, confident participants in their own learning and in the world around them.Suzanne AxelssonPlayaristaDr. Stuart BrownPeter GrayThe Intentional Educator JournalIG:  @theintentionaleducator_yvr

In this episode, Cathy speaks with Shane Woodrow about his “Gap Year” travelling and visiting innovative schools around the world. Together, they explore what becomes possible when education is grounded in shared values, curiosity, and agency - and when schools function more like villages that inspire hope, joy, and belonging. A thoughtful conversation about reimagining the purpose of schooling, keeping relationships and heart at the centre.To follow Shane’s journey:Instagram LinkedIn

Educators are often told to “facilitate”, or “teach” - but rarely are we invited to consider the art of knowing when to do each.In this episode, we explore responsiveness as relational attunement in action. Using the metaphor of jazz, we reflect on moving between three stances - honouring play, supporting flow, and extending knowledge.This episode offers both conceptual clarity and reflective questions to help educators strengthen their discernment and deepen their practice.Because the art of being an educator is not about mastering one role - it’s about learning when to shift.The Original Learning Approach by Suzanne AxelssonThe Intentional Educator

In this episode, Samuel Broaden and Cathy reflect on what it means to care for ourselves and one another within education systems often shaped by efficiency and compliance.Together, they explore how tending to educator wellbeing — through courage, collaboration, and connection — allows us to show up more fully for children and for each other.A hopeful conversation about creating early learning spaces rooted in shared humanity, safety, and collective care.Learn more about or connect with Samuel at:https://www.instagram.com/samuelb.theece/

In this episode of The Intentional ECE, Cathy is joined by early childhood educator and literacy specialist Laura Shea to explore how literacy grows through children’s curiosity, storytelling, and play.Moving beyond “learning to read,” Laura shares how emerging reading and writing is woven into children’s everyday life - from play, to art, to conversation and relationship. Together, they reflect on how educators and families can nurture literacy in ways that are joyful, developmentally responsive, and grounded in children’s intent.A gentle, practical, information rich conversation for anyone supporting young learners at school or at home.To learn more about Laura’s work:Little Stories that StickIG:  @little.stories.that.stick

In this episode of The Intentional ECE, I’m joined by Em Clark for a thoughtful conversation about children’s rights, participation, and what becomes possible when we move beyond systems rooted in control and compliance.Together, we explore how traditional educational structures shape and constrain both children and educators, narrowing what we believe is possible in our work. Em invites us to consider what shifts when we begin to see children as already whole, and worthy of meaningful participation.Our conversation opens space to reimagine education as an act of being human together - grounded in relationship, dignity, and collective responsibility - creating conditions where everyone can flourish.To learn more about Em’s work:Liberating Childhood

Why does theory matter in our day-to-day work with children? This episode explores how educational theories shape our beliefs, values, and practices, and how becoming aware of these influences can support deeper reflection, shared language, and more intentional teaching.Resources:Theory & Practice Reflective ToolReading ListNewsletter

In this episode, Ron Grady reflects on what it means to witness children’s lives with care and intention. The conversation explores the idea that children’s lives are not separate from schooling, and that educators - through their close, everyday proximity - are deeply embedded in the learning environment. Together, the episode examines observation and documentation as practices of curiosity rather than capture, reminding educators that their presence is not an interruption. Through manageable entry points and revisiting moments over time, documentation becomes a way to notice the richness already present in children’s everyday experiences.To learn more about Ron’s work:Childology.coIG:  @childology.co

In this episode, Lisa Goddard invites a slowing down - a shift in how we look, listen, and make meaning with children. Together, the conversation explores how dominant narratives in early childhood education can limit our thinking, and how decentring humans opens new ways of understanding our place within the natural world and the implications for our work with children. Through attention to small gestures, intentional choices, and the practice of documentation and dialogue, this episode offers gentle provocations for becoming more comfortable with uncertainty and seeing relationships everywhere - with  light, surfaces, and more than human beings.To learn more or connect with Lisa:Playing in the Anthropocene:  Inquiry Group

In this episode’s conversation, early years leader and Playoneering creator Hayley Peacock sheds light on what it truly means to embed playful rigour into learning. Drawing inspiration from the Reggio Emilia Approach, Hayley shares how children’s competence, curiosity, and connectedness are honoured across her early years settings and future-focused school. Together, we talk about inquiry, designing for tomorrow, and the framework that shapes children’s lives, bringing meaningful learning and growthTo learn more or connect with Hayley:LinkedInHayley Peacock Education

This anniversary episode reflects on one year of podcasting and the power of educators coming together in dialogue. Through conversations with guests from around the world, shared themes of trust, care, agency, play, materials, and belonging emerged—deepening understanding and offering hope. A celebration of collective learning and the relationships that shape intentional practice.The Intentional Educator@theintentionaleducator_yvr

In this seasonal episode, Cathy explores the gift of slowing down through a gentle reading of Bear and Wolf by Daniel Salmieri. As the year shifts - into winter’s stillness for some and summer’s brightness for others - this episode invites educators to pause, notice the small wonders around them, and reconnect with curiosity and connection. A quiet moment of calm and reflection for early childhood educators everywhere.Bear and Wolf by Daniel Salmiere

In this episode, we explore what it means to re-member - to piece back together the connections that have been quieted by objectivity, efficiency, and the pressures of modern education. Drawing on the ideas of David Jardine, Shelley Brandon, and Robin Wall Kimmerer, we reflect on wholeheartedness, reciprocity, and our shared belonging with children and the world. A gentle invitation to return to relationship as the heart of our practice.References:To Dwell with a Boundless Heart by David JardineA Story of Autonomy by Suzanne AxelssonReimagining Heartbreak by Shelley BrandonThe Serviceberry by Robin Wall KimmererFree Book Study Workbook

n this episode, kindergarten educator Chaylene Clarke joins the conversation to share what it means to move beyond curriculum and teach through connection. Drawing from her work in Ontario’s full-day kindergarten program, Chaylene reflects on how slowing down, listening deeply, and nurturing relationships with children and families opens space for authentic, meaningful learning. Together, we explore the beauty and challenge of choosing connection - and , while not always easy, is profoundly rewarding.To learn more, you can find Chaylene at:IG ~ @theunhurriedclassroom

What does it mean to truly listen to children - not just with our ears, but with our eyes, presence, and curiosity? This episode explores how our capacity to listen supports children’s rights to play, participate, express, rest, and belong. We reflect on how educators can take intentional, actionable steps to uphold these rights in their practice.Convention on the Rights of the Child

In this gentle and deeply reflective conversation, longtime Reggio-inspired educator Mary Bell invites us to slow down and notice the ordinary moments that shape our teaching and our lives.Together, we explore how being present, building trust, and embracing imperfection help us see the beauty and meaning in everyday interactions with children. Mary reminds us that joy and connection aren’t found in grand gestures - they live in the small, authentic moments of relationship, curiosity, and care.To learn more or contact Mary, find her at:IInspired by ChildrenIG:  @marybellinspiredbychildrenIG:  @theintentionaleducator_yvr

In this rich conversation with Dr. Misty Paterson, founder of Pop-Up Studio, we explore what it means to make care matter in teaching and learning. Misty invites us to move beyond transmission-based models toward inquiry, creativity, and awe - ways of engaging that honour the complexity of teaching and the wholeness of learners. Together, we reflect on how care, curiosity, and connection can shape curriculum, bridge theory and practice, and nurture both student and teacher well-becoming.To learn more or to contact Misty, find her at:Pop-Up StudioIG:  @popupstudioed

In this episode, Cathy reflects on a series of experiences that reveal the hidden systems shaping our teaching and learning.  Through these stories, she explores how awareness helps us make the invisible visible — uncovering the quiet ways we teach children (and ourselves) what to value. Cathy also shares how community and collaboration among educators can offer a way forward: from consuming to creating, from isolation to solidarity, and from teaching to thinking.From Teaching to Thinking by Ann Pelo, Margie CarterPlayarista with Suzanne AxelssonVancouver Reggio Association From Teaching to Thinking Book Study Workbook

Play is more than fun - it’s foundational. In this episode, Tina Geers, play advocate and founder of the Alberta Early Childhood Play Connection Network, joins the conversation to explore play pedagogy and what it means to protect play in our learning environments and communities. Together, we reflect on how play is both simple and complex, what educators can do to connect with play, and how honouring play nurtures curiosity, connection, and joy for both children and educators.To learn more and connect with Tina:Inspired Minds ECCAlberta Early Childhood Play Connection Network

What happens when we resist the urge to step in - to help, to guide, to teach - and instead give space for a child’s experience to unfold? In this episode, Cathy reflects on the power of pausing in our work with children. Through moments of play, disappointment, and discovery, she explores how a simple pause can nurture agency, deepen connection, and invite joy back into learning.The Intentional Educator Journal ~ monthly newsletter with resources, reflective questions, stories to support your teaching practice

What if picture books were less about teaching and more about connecting? In this episode of The Intentional ECE Podcast, we explore how stories can open spaces for laughter, wonder, and empathy — helping children make sense of their worlds and build relationships with others. Join Cathy as she reflects on how educators can use picture books as invitations for connection, curiosity, and shared meaning.Blanket by Ruth OhiElla Who? by Linday AshmanIt Came in the Mail by Ben ClantonOutside My Window by Linda Ashman

In this episode, Megan Graham from Around the Birch Tree joins the conversation to share how play creates space for families to slow down, connect, and rediscover play together. From these family moments, we move to the larger circle of community - exploring how strong connections among families nurture parents, enrich children’s lives, and support collective wellbeing. It’s an invitation to reflect on play, presence, and the ways connection shapes both family life and community.To learn more and connect with Megan:Around the Birch TreeIG:  aroundthebirchtree

In this episode, we’re joined by Susan Harris MacKay and Matt Karlsen from the Center for Playful Inquiry to reflect on what true growth for educators can look like. Moving beyond traditional notions of professional development, we explore how transformation emerges when educators engage in dialogue and lean into community. Together, we consider how playful inquiry can sustain us, challenge our assumptions, and help us imagine new possibilities for ourselves as educators and the children in our care.Learn more at Center for Playful Inquiry

In this episode, we explore connection as the heartbeat of pedagogy with Bree Jackson of The Humble Educator. Together, we reflect on how authentic relationships with children and families create the foundation for meaningful learning. Bree shares insights from her 15 years in education and her role as a pedagogical leader, reminding us that when we truly see and honor each child’s world, we open pathways for growth, trust, and deep learning.To learn more and connect with Bree:https://thehumbleeducator.comInstagram - @the.humble.educator Facebook - The Humble Educator 

What if education was less about outcomes and more about learning how to live well together? In this episode of The Intentional ECE Podcast, we explore the deeper purpose of education—beyond curriculum and standards—through play, relationship, trust, and community. Join Cathy as she reflects on how educators can create spaces where children experience belonging, agency, and the joy of learning as fully human beings.From Thinking to Teaching by Ann Pelo & Margie CarterThe Hungry Mind:  The Origins of Curiosity with Susan EngelThe Intentional Educatortheintentionaleducator_yvr

What if classrooms were seen not as static places, but as living, breathing organisms that grow and adapt with children? In this episode, guest Alona Yildirim shares her 25 years of experience as an early childhood educator, leader, and co-founder of Documentation Studio Türkiye. Together, we explore how learning environments act as co-teachers—shaping curiosity, inspiring creativity, and making learning visible for both children and educators.To Learn more and/or connect with Alona:documentationstudioturkiye.orgIG:  @little.people.learn LinkedIn:  Alona YildirimResources:The Third Teacher: 79 ways you can use design to transform teaching and learningReggio Children Children, spaces, relationsDeb Curtis Designs for Living and learningIngrid Crowther Creating Effective Learning Environments Sandra Duncan Inspiring Spaces for Young children,  Rethinking the Classroom Landscape Through A child’s Eyes The Space: A guide for educatorsThe Space: A guide for leadersYi Fu Tuan Spaces and Places: The Perspective of ExperienceJim Freeman Caring Spaces, Learning PlacesJure Kotnik Designing Spaces for Early Childhood Development: Sparking Learning & CreativityArchitect Faith Swickard Spatial Conditions of Emotion

In this episode, Cathy sits down with artist-educator and consultant Jesús Oviedo to explore how materials act as a language of inquiry in early childhood education. Jesús shares how encounters with “intelligent materials” open pathways for children’s thinking, expression, and collaboration — and how educators, by paying attention to this dialogue, can deepen their own practice. Together, they reflect on the role of materials in shaping ideas, sparking curiosity, support inquiry and how educators can look at children’s artwork to understand the meaningful learning that’s in process.To learn more and/or connect with Jesús:https://www.materialearning.com/

In this episode, we explore the power of outdoor learning with April Zajko. From noticing the wonders of nature to creating spaces where children feel a deep sense of curiosity and belonging, April reminds us that the outdoors is more than a backdrop - it’s a teacher in its own right. Together, we reflect on how embracing nature can nurture belonging, resilience, creativity, and joy for both children and educators.To learn more and connect with April:Nature Inspired Teacher!IG: @natureinspiredteacherFB:  Nature Inspired Teacher

In this episode, Shirley Rempel—family child care provider, play advocate, and early learning leader—talks with us about the depth and value of home-based care. Shirley shares her experiences running a day home for over 16 years, her commitment to child-led, play-based learning, and the importance of advocacy for early childhood education in Alberta and beyond.To learn more about Shirley’s work you can find her at:https://toplayistolearndayhome.weebly.com/IG:  @toplayistolearndayhomedayhomeFB:  To Play Is To Learn Day HomeEmail:  [email protected]:  Alberta (and Beyond) Early Learning and Child Care Network

What does it truly mean for children to have agency in early childhood settings? In this thought-provoking episode, Marta Skrzypczak invites us to consider how autonomy, democratic practices, and systems like children’s councils can support meaningful participation. Drawing inspiration from Janusz Korczak’s legacy, Marta shares insights into moving beyond small choices to real, empowered action.Learn more about Marta’s work at ⁠Participation Coach⁠Instagram:  ⁠@participation_coach

What if the path to literacy doesn’t begin with letters and sounds—but with movement, play, and connection? In this episode, Stacy Benge, M.S.—early childhood educator, speaker, and author of The Whole Child Alphabet—joins me to talk about how literacy develops through the body, the senses, and the child’s natural curiosity.Stacy helps us unpack the real foundations of literacy, from language development and vision to rhythm, play, and child-led experiences. With clarity and heart, she offers a refreshing perspective for both educators and families—one that honours the whole child.Learn more about Stacy’s work at:IG: @StacyBengeMSFB: StacyBengeMSLinkedIn: StacyBenge

In this episode, we explore how an educator’s personal history—our beliefs, values, and lived experiences—shapes what we notice and how we interpret children’s actions and words. Drawing on insights from Beau Lotto and Ann Pelo, we reflect on perception, cultural lens, and the power of self-awareness in observation. When we look inward as we look outward, our observations become more intentional, responsive, and grounded in care.Resources:Deviate by Beau LottoFrom Teaching to Thinking by Ann Pelo & Margie Carter

In the final episode of our play and arts series, we pause to reflect. What has surfaced through playful observation, creative expression, and time spent reconnecting with our senses and surroundings? What common threads have emerged? And how might these insights shift the way we think, teach, observe, and respond?

In this third episode of our four-part play and arts series, we explore the art of observation as a form of play and creative expression. Through sensory experiences, drawing, writing, photography, and sound, educators are invited to rediscover the world around them and reconnect with curiosity, wonder, and joyResources:Georgia HeardCenter for Playful InquiryLondon Drawing Group

In this second episode of our four-part series on play and art, we explore how developing an art mindset begins with embracing play. By reconnecting with the joy, curiosity, and openness that live in both play and process art, educators can create meaningful, developmentally rich experiences for children—and rediscover their own creativity in the process.

What if play isn’t just something we do, but a way of being? This episode explores play as a state of curiosity, freedom, and connection—one that nourishes our sense of joy, replenishment, and belonging. Listeners are invited to notice their own moments of play and consider how this shift in perspective can deepen their work with children, themselves, and the world around them.Resources:The Original Learning Approach by Suzanne AxelssonPlay by Stuart BrownFree to Learn by Peter GrayCenter for Playful Inquiry

In this episode, I’m joined by Rosalba Bortolotti—pedagogist, mentor, and founder of the Acorn Collaborative—for a rich conversation rooted in the Reggio-inspired philosophy. We begin by exploring the powerful idea of seeing and being seen—and how the image we hold of children and ourselves as educators shapes relationships, environments, and the everyday decisions we make in our learning spaces. Rosalba shares her insights on materials as co-constructors of learning, what it means to create a living studio of ideas, and how educators can begin to transform their practice through reflection and intention. We also talk about her Mini Book Collection—a beautifully curated set of stories, provocations, and invitations—and how it can serve as a meaningful companion for educators on their journey.Learn more about Rosalba at acorncollaborative.comInstagram:  @acorncollaborative

In this episode of The Intentional ECE, we explore professional learning as more than just a list of strategies or a requirement to check off. When approached with intention, learning becomes a joyful, reflective, and deeply personal journey—one that mirrors the way we believe children learn best. Tune in for inspiration, thoughtful questions, and a fresh perspective on what it means to grow as an educator.

What does it really mean for educators to feel a sense of belonging? In this heartfelt conversation, Kerry Drake of KD Talks shares her insights on creating inclusive, supportive spaces where educators feel seen, valued, and connected. We talk about mentorship, perspective checking, reflective practice, and why fostering belonging for adults is essential to building strong learning communities for children.Learn more about Kerry’s work at KD TalksInstagram:  @kdtalks0Disclaimer:  The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes; it does not replace the advice of a counselor, psychologist or doctor.

In this inspiring episode, Marta Skrzypczak—early childhood educator and founder of Participation Coach—joins us to explore the vital connection between participation and agency. Marta shares why children's right to participate in decisions, both big and small, is foundational to their sense of self and belonging. From daily routines to long-term planning, she offers practical ideas for inviting children into authentic decision-making. As Marta says, “without participation, there is no agency”—and this conversation shows us exactly why that matters.Learn more about Marta’s work at Participation CoachInstagram:  @participation_coach

In this episode, we explore the heart of meaningful conversation: listening. Listening — not just hearing — is key to relationship-building, emotional intelligence, and deeper learning. We discuss how educators can intentionally nurture children’s ability to listen to each other, hold conversations, and build understanding through playful inquiry, trust, and patience.ResourcesCultivating Professional Friendships by Diane KashinThe Original Learning Approach by Suzanne Axelsson

What does it look like to move beyond traditional behavior management—and toward something more connected, respectful, and equitable? In this inspiring conversation, Samuel Broaden, founder of Honoring Childhood, shares insights from his new book From Control to Collaboration in Early Childhood Education: Rethinking Classroom Management. We explore how traditional classroom management practices often fall short, and how a collaborative approach can transform both educator and child experiences. If you're ready to reimagine what’s possible in your learning space, this episode is for you.Learn more about Samuel’s work at honoringchildhood.org.Instagram:  Honoring ChildhoodFrom Control to Collaboration in Early Childhood Education by Samuel Broaden