Reimagine Childhood

Early Childhood Christian Network
  • 5.0 (11)
  • EDUCATION FOR KIDS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to Reimagine Childhood brought to you by Early Childhood Christian Network—where we equip you with the tools you need so you can confidently care for and teach young children. We know early childhood is prime time for all development and, yet, we often overlook our critical role in providing optimal learning experiences. In every episode, you'll find seasoned experts sharing their passion and expertise in a way that is easily applied to everyday experiences in the classroom and anywhere else you're involved with young children. We want to protect and celebrate early childhood in all its wonder and imagination, rather than rushing through it to get "prepared" for the next stage. So….how will you reimagine your approach to early childhood? We'd love to invite you on this journey with us!

  1. FEB 9

    Ep. 79: Preventing Burnout: Practical Strategies for Early Childhood Educators with Faith Rivera

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, host Monica Healer discusses combating burnout with Faith Rivera, founder and principal consultant of Allos. Consulting. Faith outlines the causes of burnout, differentiates it from stress and overwhelm, and offers practical strategies for early childhood educators to manage stress and avoid burnout. The conversation delves into the emotional, physical, and mental health impacts of burnout, the importance of self-care, and setting boundaries. Additionally, Faith highlights the necessity of community relationships and provides her top five habits for preventing burnout. The episode concludes with a call to action for educators to prioritize their well-being to better serve the children in their care.   00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:55 Understanding Burnout with Faith Rivera 02:16 Recognizing the Signs of Burnout 11:08 Impact of Teacher Burnout on Children 15:22 The Impact of Stress on Health 16:46 Top Five Personal Habits to Manage Stress 19:51 The Importance of Being Present 23:28 Building and Maintaining Positive Relationships Here are some resources to help as you take steps to protect your own well-being: Habit Tracker downloadable to help you stay on track with goals Finding Rest in the Rush course on our website. Sacred Rest by Dr. Saundra Dalton-Smith on 7 types of rest

    31 min

  2. JAN 26

    Ep. 78 Embracing Language Diversity in Early Childhood with Libby Wright

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer engages in a conversation with education professional Libby Wright about supporting multilingual children in early childhood classrooms. Libby, who has extensive experience fostering community among teachers, parents, and students from diverse backgrounds, discusses practical strategies for creating inclusive, language-rich environments. The episode highlights the cognitive and social benefits of language diversity in classrooms, emphasizes the importance of maintaining home languages, and provides tips for building strong relationships with families. The conversation also touches on leveraging visual aids, encouraging play-based learning, and using tools like labeling and translation apps to enhance communication. Tune in for a wealth of research-backed insights and actionable tips aimed at helping educators navigate the unique challenges and opportunities presented by multilingual settings.   00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:52 Meet Libby Wright: Embracing Multilingual Classrooms 02:51 Benefits of Language Diversity in Early Childhood 06:06 Creating a Language-Rich Environment 20:01 Modeling Language for Preschoolers 21:49 Creating Inclusive Snack Time 23:09 Embracing Cultural Differences 28:09 Partnering with Parents for Language Development

    38 min

  3. JAN 12

    Ep. 77 The Magic of Play-Based Learning with Kris Ramos

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer engages in a heartfelt discussion with Kris Ramos, a former public school educator turned church-based preschool teacher, about the transformative power of play-based learning. Kris shares her journey from a structured educational setting to embracing a more flexible, child-centered approach focused on hands-on, joyful learning experiences. They delve into the foundational benefits of play for cognitive, emotional, and social development, the challenges teachers face in advocating for play-based education, and the role of educators in creating meaningful and developmentally appropriate learning environments. Tune in to discover practical strategies, inspiring stories, and the profound impact of nurturing curiosity and joy in early childhood education. 00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:49 Meet Kris Ramos: Journey to Play-Based Learning 04:25 The Importance and Impact of Play-Based Learning 14:44 Misconceptions and Defending Play-Based Learning 17:19 Regional Conference Promo 20:16 Understanding the Importance of Play in Child Development 21:29 Communicating the Value of Play to Parents 25:24 Practical Steps for Implementing Play-Based Learning 29:58 The Joy and Impact of Early Childhood Education ·       Find Kris on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the_inspired_llama/ ·       We have a discounted link for Amanda Morgan's "Why We Play" letters to help you communicate the value of play-based learning to parents, teachers, and other community members. You must have an active ECCN membership to access the discount - https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/resources/#exclusive ·       You can find more of Amanda's resources at https://notjustcute.com/

    38 min

  4. 12/29/2025

    Ep. 76 Faith-Based Strategies for Early Childhood Education with Monica Healer

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, Monica Healer, the host, offers a heartfelt discussion aimed at early childhood educators, focusing on how personal growth in wisdom, physical well-being, and faith can impact their teaching and caregiving roles. Drawing from Luke 2:52, Monica emphasizes the continuous journey of learning, the importance of physical care, and the necessity of deepening one's relationship with God. She shares practical strategies for daily reflection, self-care, and spiritual development, encouraging educators to seek God's guidance, nourish their bodies, and strengthen their faith. Ending with a reminder of the eternal impact educators have on children and their communities, Monica provides actionable steps to grow in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man in the coming year. 00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 01:01 A Different Kind of Episode 01:41 Growing in Wisdom 04:39 Taking Care of Your Physical Body 10:26 Nurturing Your Relationship with God 16:50 Growing in Favor with Man 20:39 Final Encouragement and Farewell

    22 min

  5. 12/15/2025

    Ep. 75: Guiding Hearts and Minds: Biblical Teaching in Preschool with Renee Blaine

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, host Monica Healer welcomes Renee Blaine, associate preschool minister at Brentwood Baptist Church in Nashville, Tennessee. With over three decades of early childhood experience, Renee shares her passion for building biblical foundations in young children in age-appropriate ways. They discuss how to integrate biblical literacy into the classroom, drawing parallels to teaching emerging literacy. Key strategies include building oral language, introducing repetitive truths, and creating a love for God's Word. The episode highlights the importance of partnering with parents and provides practical tips for incorporating faith-based messages into everyday learning. 00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:48 Meet Renee Blaine: A Journey in Early Childhood Education 02:22 The Importance of Biblical Literacy in Early Childhood 07:18 Practical Strategies for Teaching Biblical Literacy 18:47 Regional Conference Promotion 21:03 The Importance of Music in Early Childhood 21:56 Laying a Solid Foundation of Faith 25:41 Teaching God's Word Effectively 29:53 Equipping Parents and Educators Download the Gospel cube Renee talked about in the episode - https://elevatechurchconference.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/8.5x11_GospelCubeImages-1-1.pdf Renee's cube is adapted from this resource (which has TONS of other resources for teaching the Bible)! https://sundayschoolzone.com/bible-story/gods-unfolding-story/ Renee wrote a blog article with great tips for sharing the gospel in an age-appropriate manner with young children, including instructions for using the cube above: https://elevatechurchconference.com/preschool-ministry-sharing-the-gospel/

    39 min

  6. 12/01/2025

    Ep. 74: Fostering Inclusive Classrooms with Ashley Myers

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, hosted by Monica Healer and brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, Monica sits down with Ashley Myers, founder of The Abiding Family and a children's minister in Texas. Ashley shares her personal journey of raising a son with Down syndrome and how it has shaped her passion for creating inclusive classrooms. They discuss the importance of inclusion from a theological perspective, practical strategies for accommodating children with various needs, and the significant impact that inclusive teaching can have on a child's development and faith formation. This episode is packed with actionable insights and resources for educators seeking to foster an inclusive and supportive learning environment.   00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:42 Meet Ashley Myers: A Journey with Special Needs 01:29 The Importance of Inclusion in Classrooms 10:17 Practical Strategies for Inclusive Education 20:24 Primetime Promo 22:01 Creating an Inclusive Classroom Environment 24:38 The Power of Visual Supports and Calm Down Spaces 28:46 Effective Communication Strategies for Children with Special Needs 32:42 The Call to Inclusion and Overcoming Barriers 40:04 In Conclusion Find Ashley on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089046874497 Instagram @abiding.family_ashley.myers and TikTok https://tiktok.com/@the.abiding.family   You might also want to work through our three-part Special Needs training series provided by Sandra Peoples. HERE is the link to check that out!   Help Me Grow - https://helpmegrownational.org/ — Check for a local affiliate who can help you support families in getting resources.   Milestones Info - https://www.cdc.gov/act-early/families/milestones-matter.html

    44 min

  7. 11/17/2025

    Ep. 73: Balancing Screen Time and Real Play in Early Education with Jennifer Howington

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Jennifer Howington, associate director and childhood ministry specialist in the Texas Baptist Discipleship and Next Gen Ministries group. They delve into the impact of screen time on child development, exploring concepts like 'digital natives' versus 'digital immigrants,' the rise in childhood anxiety and depression, and the role of media in shaping young minds. The conversation covers practical strategies for managing screen time, fostering play and creativity, and reinforcing strong developmental foundations. Jennifer emphasizes the need for balancing technology use with real-world interactions and community building. The episode also highlights the importance of allowing children to experience and overcome challenges to develop resilience and independence. Join Monica and Jennifer as they offer valuable insights for parents, educators, and ministry leaders to help children thrive in a digital age.   00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:42 Meet Our Guest: Jennifer Howington 01:40 Generational Differences in Technology Use 03:59 The Impact of Screen Time on Child Development 07:07 Navigating Technology in Parenting 16:17 Regional Conference Promotion 17:37 Safety & the Anxious Generation 28:52 Conclusion and Call to Action Enjoy a new course "Counteracting the Effects of Screentime in the Classroom" in our Course Library - https://earlychildhoodchristiannetwork.com/course-catalog/   Books mentioned in this episode: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt - https://a.co/d/6G6CcVd The Pandemic Population - https://a.co/d/bIZO2qU

    34 min

  8. 11/03/2025

    Ep. 72: Enhancing Early Education Through Music and Scripture with Darlene Abbott

    In this episode of Reimagine Childhood, brought to you by the Early Childhood Christian Network, host Monica Healer chats with Darlene Abbott, an expert in children's music and curriculum, about the significance of music and worship in early childhood development. Darlene shares her extensive experience and provides practical strategies for integrating music into teaching. The conversation delves into the emotional and social benefits of music, the innate ability of children to respond to music, and the power of incorporating scripture into songs. The episode emphasizes the importance of creating worship moments, being intentional in teaching, and the lasting impact of scripture memory on children's lives. Tune in to explore how these practices not only benefit children's spiritual growth but also support their overall development.   00:00 Introduction to Reimagine Childhood 00:42 Guest Introduction: Darlene Abbott 01:33 The Benefits of Music in Early Childhood 06:30 Incorporating Scripture into Music 21:21 Primetime Promotion 22:53 Engaging Families Through Scripture and Music 23:58 Creative Programs to Unite Families 26:31 Intentional Worship in Early Childhood 29:09 Understanding the Basics 31:40 The Lasting Impact of Teaching Scripture

    43 min
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5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to Reimagine Childhood brought to you by Early Childhood Christian Network—where we equip you with the tools you need so you can confidently care for and teach young children. We know early childhood is prime time for all development and, yet, we often overlook our critical role in providing optimal learning experiences. In every episode, you'll find seasoned experts sharing their passion and expertise in a way that is easily applied to everyday experiences in the classroom and anywhere else you're involved with young children. We want to protect and celebrate early childhood in all its wonder and imagination, rather than rushing through it to get "prepared" for the next stage. So….how will you reimagine your approach to early childhood? We'd love to invite you on this journey with us!

Information

  • Creator
    Early Childhood Christian Network
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    82
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Reimagine Childhood