RISE & BUILD NEH 2:18 SHARE. COLLABORATE. TEACH.

Building All Children

Welcome to The Rise & Build Podcast, where we understand that parenting is no easy feat— especially in today’s complex world. Each week, our host Kendra Morgan dives deep into meaningful conversations with experts, exploring the latest child development topics that matter most to you. Our mission is to empower and resource parents, providing practical help rooted in a biblical worldview. Join us as we tackle the challenges of raising children, offering insights and encouragement to strengthen your hand for the good work of parenting. Come with us as we rise & build.

  1. Aug 11

    Anna Gundy- What every parent needs to know about a 1st grader

    Send us Fan Mail Starting first grade is a big transition! Anna Gundy, a public school teacher with 13 years of experience—including nine years teaching first grade—shares what parents can expect as their child makes the jump from kindergarten. First grade brings more independence and bigger expectations. Children may have their own desk, manage their supplies, complete independent work, and follow classroom routines. Anna says it can take about a month for children to fully adjust to these new expectations. Academically, first graders are working toward becoming fluent readers, recognizing numbers through 100, and strengthening addition and subtraction skills. But academic readiness isn't the only piece of the puzzle. Parents can help children prepare for first grade by practicing: Following directions and routinesActive listening and paying attentionCompleting simple tasks independentlyRecognizing letters and numbersReading and practicing math factsSocial skills through role-playIdentifying emotions and practicing self-regulationAnna also recommends creating a consistent routine at home. It doesn't have to look the same for every family, find what works for you and your child, but remember that consistency is key!  Positive reinforcement, such as sticker charts, can also help children build new habits. The important thing is finding what motivates your specific child.  Finally, be mindful of the pressure we put on children. Anxiety can affect learning, and our words matter. Give children opportunities to make mistakes, learn how to manage their emotions, and build confidence.  Your child doesn't have to know everything before starting first grade but with consistency, encouragement, and opportunities to practice independence, they can enter the classroom ready to learn and grow! For more Aha Moments visit https://buildingallchildren.org/podcast

    Anna Gundy- What every parent needs to know about a 1st grader
  2. Jun 10

    Creating Joy for Today & Hope for Tomorrow

    Send us Fan Mail In today’s episode, Kendra is joined by author and Licensed Professional Counselor, Amber Joy Thaxton, for an honest and encouraging conversation about what it means to create joy for today and hope for tomorrow especially for families feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, and burnout. Together, they explore the growing struggle many adults and families face when anxiety begins to take over daily life. Amber offers a refreshing perspective, reminding listeners that anxiety itself is not inherently bad. In fact, anxiety is our body’s protective response to biological danger, it exists for a reason! The challenge comes when our minds begin perceiving everyday situations as threats, leaving us feeling constantly overwhelmed or stuck in survival mode. Kendra and Amber also discuss the balance between self-care and true personal wellness. In a world that often defines self-care as quick comforts or temporary escapes, Amber shares a deeper perspective: true self-care isn’t simply a manicure or a day off—it’s caring for the whole person. That means prioritizing sleep, healthy rhythms, physical movement, emotional wellness, and spiritual connection. This episode is a reminder that hope is possible, joy can be cultivated, and sometimes the first step forward is simply slowing down and returning to what matters most. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or stretched thin, this conversation is for you. 💛 For more Aha Moments visit https://buildingallchildren.org/podcast

    Creating Joy for Today & Hope for Tomorrow

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Rise & Build Podcast, where we understand that parenting is no easy feat— especially in today’s complex world. Each week, our host Kendra Morgan dives deep into meaningful conversations with experts, exploring the latest child development topics that matter most to you. Our mission is to empower and resource parents, providing practical help rooted in a biblical worldview. Join us as we tackle the challenges of raising children, offering insights and encouragement to strengthen your hand for the good work of parenting. Come with us as we rise & build.

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