In this episode, Vanessa and Meg explore practical tools and supportive strategies for managing feelings of anxiety and nervousness in preschoolers. We discuss common misconceptions teachers may have, and the importance of understanding that all behavior is communication. Key strategies include teaching emotional management skills early, using breathing exercises, employing yoga poses, and reading preschool-friendly interactive social stories. The episode also emphasizes not taking a child's anxious behavior personally and offers advice for fostering a supportive environment.

Vanessa and Meg delve into social-emotional learning techniques for creating calm classroom environments in preschool and pre-K amid rising job-related stress. They emphasize the importance of cultivating calm, both in recognizing and managing students' emotional states and in teachers regulating their own emotions. The conversation covers the necessity of calm down corners in classrooms, practical steps for implementing and utilizing these spaces effectively, and the importance of introducing and teaching mindfulness strategies to children. They address common concerns and propose simple steps educators can take to integrate mindfulness and calm down techniques into daily routines, fostering better emotional regulation for both students and teachers.

Join Vanessa and special guest host Meg in this episode of 'Elevating Early Childhood' as they dive deep into the world of preschool emotions. Learn how to equip young learners with critical emotional skills to handle their big feelings and improve behavior in the classroom. Vanessa and Meg share practical strategies and resources, including the 'Feelings Check-In' chart and 'Emotions Bingo,' to support social-emotional learning. Discover how to integrate these methods seamlessly into daily routines, address post-pandemic behavior challenges, and why prioritizing emotional well-being is essential for both teachers and students. Tune in for actionable tips and inspiring stories from their classrooms!

Unlock the secret to a thriving preschool classroom by discovering why play matters more than worksheets! In this episode, I'm joined by Amanda Morgan, the author of How Powerful Play Drives Development in Early Childhood. We delve into the latest research on play in the early childhood classroom, showing you how play acts as “fertilizer for the brain” and lays the foundation for academic success and lifelong learning. You’ll learn: - Overcoming Skepticism: Why people don’t value what they don’t understand - Play is fertilizer for the brain – the neuroscience behind play-based learning - How play supports the development of academic skills - Tips for advocating play with administrators & families

Today we're going to discuss exactly what to do during circle time, step-by-step. These are some of my favorite tips and tricks to keep young children engaged and focused.

Today I'm tackling a topic that every single one of us has encountered at one point or another, and that is working with challenging families or caregivers. Now, I know what you're thinking. Challenging families. Oh boy, here we go. But before you roll your eyes, stick with me because we're going to flip the script on this topic and approach it in a way that might just make your job a little easier and a whole lot more fulfilling.

Each new school year presents fresh challenges, especially when it comes to managing separation anxiety in preschoolers. Let's explore some fun and practical ways to ease this anxiety and ensure a smooth start for everyone!

Unpopular opinion alert! Today I'm taking on fine motor journals. Let's talk about the developmental stages of writing, proper letter formation, and authentic opportunities for developing fine motor skills - without fine motor journals!

Check out my latest circle time area makeover, 2023 edition! Have you ever wondered what you should have in your circle time area? Or maybe you're wondering what's really necessary, and what's not. In this episode of Elevating Early Childhood I'll be unveiling my new circle time board for 2023-2024. You'll learn the must-haves, as well as the "don't bothers" so you can set yourself, and your students up for success all year long.

Welcome to another episode of "Elevating Early Childhood!" In this episode, we unravel the secrets to creating a successful preschool writing center from Day 1. 🍎✏️ 🔍 What You'll Learn: Why planning and setup are essential before the school year starts. The importance of organization: center signs, 'I Can' cards, and labels. Which supplies are a MUST at the beginning and why. Demonstrating and instilling proper procedures and routines. Pro tips on combining art and writing centers effectively. 🎨 Common pitfalls to avoid for a seamless experience. Plus, special insight for those working in smaller classroom spaces! 🖍️ Remember, nurturing young writers is a beautiful journey filled with discovery, creativity, and a little bit of messiness! Embrace the process and watch your little learners thrive. If you found this video helpful, don't forget to subscribe for more content on elevating early childhood education.