Plant the Seed of Learning

Dr. Crystal Loose and Dr. Aimee Ketchum
  • 3.0 (2)
  • Parenting
  • Updated Weekly

Plant the Seed of Learning is a research-based podcast that merges the education and medical models to help parents, teachers, and early childhood professionals support young children’s development. Hosted by a pediatric occupational therapist and an education expert, each episode breaks down developmental milestones, early learning, play-based strategies, social-emotional development, early intervention, and kindergarten readiness in clear, practical ways. Designed for parents, educators, pediatric occupational therapists, therapists, and anyone working with young children, this podcast conn

  1. Aug 12

    Episode 32: Screen Time, Sleep, and Connection: What the Research Really Says

    In this research scramble episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, hosts Crystal Loose and Aimee Ketchum dive into one of the most debated topics in early childhood today: screen time. Drawing from current research in education, pediatrics, and occupational therapy, Crystal and Aimee explore what we know—and what we still don't know—about the impact of screens on young children's development. They discuss parents' mixed feelings about technology, the benefits and risks of digital media, the relationship between screen use and sleep, and the importance of family connection in a digital world. The conversation highlights findings from leading researchers including Jenny Radesky, Dimitri Christakis, and others who have examined how screen media influences learning, imagination, sleep quality, self-regulation, and family interactions. The hosts also unpack recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and share practical strategies families can use to support healthy media habits. Most importantly, Crystal and Aimee emphasize that this is not an anti-screen conversation. Instead, it's a pro-sleep, pro-play, and pro-connection discussion focused on helping children thrive in a technology-rich world. In this episode, you'll learn:• What current research says about screen time and child development• Why children under age two learn best through human interaction• How screen use can affect sleep quality and bedtime routines• The role parents play in helping children navigate media• Evidence-based sleep hygiene strategies for babies and preschoolers• Alternatives to screen time that foster creativity, problem-solving, and STEAM learning• How families can create healthy, balanced relationships with technology Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, or policymaker, this episode offers practical, research-based guidance for raising and teaching children in the digital age. American Academy of Pediatrics Screen Time Guidelineshttps://www.aap.org/en/patient-care/media-and-children/center-of-excellence-on-social-media-and-youth-mental-health/qa-portal/qa-portal-library/qa-portal-library-questions/screen-time-guidelines Radesky et al. (2016)Overstimulated Consumers or Next-Generation Learners? Parent Tensions About Child Mobile Technology Usehttps://doi.org/10.1370/afm.1976 Radesky & Christakis (2016)Increased Screen Time: Implications for Early Childhood Development and Behaviorhttp://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pcl.2016.06.006 LeBourgeois et al. (2017)Digital Media and Sleep in Childhood and Adolescencehttps://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2016-1758J Waller et al. (2021)Screen Time Use Impacts Low-Income Preschool Children's Sleep Quality, Tiredness, and Ability to Fall Asleephttps://doi.org/10.1111/cch.12869 Domoff et al. (2019)A Naturalistic Study of Child and Family Screen Media and Mobile Device Usehttps://doi.org/10.1007/s10826-018-1275-1 "We're not anti-screen. We're pro-sleep, pro-play, and pro-connection. Technology is a tool—but relationships are the foundation of learning." – Aimee & Crystal Resources & Research MentionedKey Takeaway

  2. Aug 5

    Episode 31: The Joy of Reading Starts at Birth: How Reading Is Fundamental Is Building Lifelong Readers with Dr. Erin Bailey

    In this inspiring episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, hosts Dr. Crystal Loose and Dr. Aimee Ketchum welcome Dr. Erin Bailey, Vice President of Literacy Programs and Research at Reading Is Fundamental (RIF), the nation's largest children's literacy nonprofit. Together, they explore why literacy development begins long before children enter kindergarten and how joyful, everyday interactions lay the foundation for lifelong reading success. Dr. Bailey shares how RIF has evolved over its 60-year history to meet the changing needs of children, families, and educators through research-based resources, free digital books, professional learning, and innovative literacy initiatives. She highlights Skybrary, RIF's digital reading platform featuring hundreds of free children's books, as well as the Reading Inspires podcast, which brings together leading literacy researchers and educators to share evidence-based practices. The conversation also explores the powerful connection between dramatic play and literacy, explaining how pretend play builds vocabulary, storytelling, comprehension, and oral language skills that prepare children to become confident readers. Erin introduces practical, free resources, including graphic organizers, family activities, and literacy tools—that parents and educators can begin using immediately. Whether you're a parent, teacher, therapist, librarian, or school leader, this episode is filled with practical strategies and free resources to help children discover the joy of reading from the very beginning. Learn more about Reading Is Fundamental: https://www.rif.orgExplore Skybrary: https://www.skybrary.orgListen to the Reading Inspires podcast: https://readinginspires.podbean.com How reading to NICU babies can benefit moms in a big way Literacy Central: Literacy Central | RIF.org   Early Childhood Digital Hub: Early Childhood Education Center | RIF.org   Graphic Organizer Collection: Graphic Organizers | RIF.org   Toddlers Can Read: Toddlers CAN Read – Toddlers Can Read    Listeners will learn: Why literacy development begins at birth—not kindergartenHow shared reading supports brain development and language growthThe critical role of dramatic play in building future readersFree literacy resources available through Reading Is FundamentalPractical ways families and educators can foster a lifelong love of reading

  3. Jul 29

    Episode 30: The Power of the First Three Years with ZERO TO THREE's Rebecca Parlakian

    In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, hosts Crystal Loose and Aimee Ketchum welcome Rebecca Parlakian, Senior Director of Programs at ZERO TO THREE, one of the nation's leading organizations dedicated to ensuring that every baby and toddler has a strong start in life. With more than two decades of experience supporting children, families, educators, and policymakers, Rebecca shares practical, research-based insights on how relationships, responsive caregiving, and everyday interactions shape children's development from birth through age three. Together, they explore the power of co-regulation, helping adults "share their calm" with young children, fostering curiosity and early STEM learning, and creating meaningful learning opportunities during everyday routines. Rebecca also discusses the biggest challenges facing today's families, where she sees hope for the future, and the policy changes that could make the greatest difference for young children over the next decade. Listeners will learn how simple moments—reading a book, asking a question, sharing a laugh, or responding to a child's emotions—can have a profound impact on brain development, emotional well-being, and lifelong learning. Why the first three years are critical for brain developmentHow co-regulation helps children develop emotional resiliencePractical strategies for supporting infants and toddlers during stressful momentsEveryday ways to encourage curiosity, learning, and STEM thinkingHow parents and educators can nurture development without overscheduling childrenThe advocacy work of ZERO TO THREE and its impact on familiesResources available through ZERO TO THREE for parents and professionalsInsights from Rocking and Rolling, ZERO TO THREE's trusted parenting resourceThe policy changes that could transform outcomes for babies and familiesRebecca Parlakian on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-parlakian ZERO TO THREE:https://www.zerotothree.org Rocking and Rolling Parenting Resources:https://www.zerotothree.org/resource-type/rocking-and-rolling Word Wonders Early Language and Literacy Curriculum:https://www.zerotothree.org Rebecca will be presenting two exciting sessions at the upcoming LEARN Conference in Portland, Oregon: • Introducing Word Wonders, a new FREE early language and literacy curriculum grounded in the Science of Reading • Revealing findings from ZERO TO THREE's NEW 2026 National Parent Survey Learn more and register: https://learnconference.org In This Episode:Learn MoreJoin Rebecca at the 2026 LEARN Conference

  4. Jul 22

    Episode 29: Beyond Behavior: Trauma-Informed Strategies to Help Children Thrive with Dr. Jarmel Bell

    In this powerful episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, Crystal Loose and Aimee Ketchum sit down with behavior and human development expert Dr. Jarmel Bell to explore the deeper “why” behind children’s behavior. Drawing from over 16 years of experience working in schools, juvenile detention centers, and resilience programs, Dr. Bell shares how trauma-informed and connection-centered practices can transform the way adults support children. Together, they discuss why trauma-informed care is not about asking “What’s wrong with this child?” but instead understanding “What has this child experienced?” Dr. Bell explains how identity, emotional awareness, relationships, and environment all shape behavior—and how educators and caregivers can respond with empathy, consistency, and practical strategies. Listeners will learn: How trauma-informed practices improve classroom managementWhat adults can do in the moment when a child is upset or dysregulatedWhy helping children build a strong sense of identity mattersHow the “I Am Me” program supports emotional intelligence and resilienceWays teachers and schools can create safer, more connected learning environmentsWhether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, or administrator, this episode offers actionable insights to help children feel seen, supported, and empowered. Learn more about Dr. Jarmel Bell and Bell’s Education:🌱 Website: https://www.bellseducation.com/🌱 About the I Am Me Program: https://www.bellseducation.com/about🌱 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarmel-bell

  5. Jul 14

    Title: Episode 28: What One City is Doing to Support Families in Kindergarten Readiness, Conversation with Trying Together, Val Williams

    What if kindergarten didn't begin on the first day of school, but months before? In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, pediatric occupational therapist Dr. Aimee Ketchum and professor of education Dr. Crystal Loose welcome Valerie Williams, kindergarten transition leader at Trying Together, whose career has spanned the arts, education, nonprofit leadership, and public policy. Val shares how her unique journey shaped her passion for helping children and families navigate the transition to kindergarten. Together, they explore what kindergarten readiness really means, why every child is ready to learn, and how successful transitions require more than prepared children. They require prepared families, schools, and communities. The conversation highlights Pittsburgh's nationally recognized Hi5 Kindergarten Transition model, the annual Kindergarten, Here I Come! event, and practical ways libraries, pediatricians, childcare programs, businesses, and educators can work together to give every child the best possible start. Whether you're a parent wondering how to prepare your child, an educator supporting incoming students, or a community leader looking to strengthen early childhood partnerships, this episode offers practical ideas and an inspiring reminder that kindergarten readiness is everyone's responsibility. In this episode, you'll learn: Why kindergarten transition begins long before the first day of school.What kindergarten readiness really means and why it's about more than academics.Why every child is ready to learn, even if they develop at different rates.How communities can work together to support children and families.What makes the Hi5 Kindergarten Transition model a national example.Simple, meaningful ways parents can prepare their child for kindergarten this summer.LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/valwilliamspgh Songs for Young Whippersnappers on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@songsforyoungwhippersnappe5084?si=ZfaZAx1PWig4vDuE If you'd like to connect to the HI5 Kindergarten Transition Network you can join their free Professional Learning Community which meets 6x/year virtually on zoom by registering HERE. To reach Hi5, email: Hi5@tryingtogether.org Val's Book! : Dilber the Cranky Banana Links to Informatoin Discussed on this Episode:

  6. Jul 8

    Episode 27: From the NICU to Kindergarten: Why Premature Birth Matters Long After Discharge

    What happens after a baby leaves the NICU? For many children born prematurely, the journey is only beginning. In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, pediatric occupational therapist Dr. Aimee Ketchum and professor of education Dr. Crystal Loose welcome Dr. Genevieve Guyol—a neonatologist, researcher, and former special education teacher whose career bridges medicine and education in a truly unique way. Together, they discuss why children born preterm are at greater risk for challenges with kindergarten readiness, why so many educators and healthcare professionals receive little training on the long-term effects of prematurity, and what can be done to better support these children and their families. The conversation explores the transition from the NICU to the classroom, the importance of early intervention, and how stronger communication between healthcare and education could improve outcomes for thousands of children. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, physician, or policymaker, this episode offers practical insights into how we can work together to give children born prematurely the strongest possible start. In this episode, you'll learn: Why premature birth can affect learning and development long after infancyWhat research tells us about kindergarten readiness in children born pretermWhy communication between healthcare providers and educators is so importantWhen "wait and see" is appropriate—and when early intervention mattersWhat parents can do to advocate for their childPolicy changes that could improve outcomes for children born prematurelyRelated research discussed in this episode: Guyol G, et al. Kindergarten Readiness Among Children Born Preterm (publication and related work)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Genevieve+GuyolLearn more about early intervention services in your state:https://ectacenter.org/contact/ptccoord.aspThis episode is a reminder that supporting children born prematurely isn't just a medical responsibility or an educational responsibility—it's both. When healthcare and education work together, we can help more children thrive from the NICU to the classroom.

  7. Jun 30

    Episode 26: What Kindergarten Is Really For: A Conversation with bestselling author, Susan Engel

    In this thought-provoking episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, pediatric occupational therapist Dr. Aimee Ketchum and professor of education Dr. Crystal Loose welcome renowned developmental psychologist and author Dr. Susan Engel to discuss her newest book, American Kindergarten. Drawing from visits to 29 kindergarten classrooms across 14 states, Dr. Engel shares what she discovered about the purpose of kindergarten, what young children truly need to thrive, and why the conversation about kindergarten readiness may be missing the bigger picture. Together, we explore the role of play, curiosity, relationships, identity, and thinking in early learning, and discuss what today's classrooms are getting right—and where we still have room to grow. Whether you're a parent, educator, therapist, or policymaker, this episode will challenge assumptions about early education and leave you with practical insights for supporting young children during one of the most important years of their lives. In this episode, you'll learn: Why Susan Engel wrote American KindergartenWhat she observed in classrooms across the United StatesThe role of play and curiosity in effective kindergarten classroomsWhat children really need before they enter schoolCommon misconceptions about kindergarten readinessWhat an ideal kindergarten classroom would look, sound, and feel likeThe one piece of advice Dr. Engel hopes every parent and educator will take awayLearn more: American Kindergarten by Susan Engel: https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300271987/american-kindergarten/Susan Engel's faculty page: https://www.williams.edu/psychology/susan-engel/If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who cares about giving children the strongest possible start.

  8. Jun 24

    Episode 25: Risky Play: Why Children Need Challenge, Adventure and Risk to Thrive

    As summer begins and children spend more time outdoors, many parents and educators find themselves asking: How much risk is too much? In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, pediatric occupational therapist Aimee Ketchum and professor of education Crystal Loose explore the fascinating research behind risky play—the thrilling, child-led activities that involve challenge, uncertainty, and manageable risk. Drawing from the study The Prevalence of Risky Play in Young Children's Indoor and Outdoor Free Play by Sandseter, Kleppe, and Sando (2021), we discuss what risky play looks like in real life, how often children naturally engage in it, and why it is essential for healthy development. You'll learn: What researchers mean by "risky play"The eight categories of risky playThe difference between risks and hazardsHow risky play supports motor skills, executive functioning, confidence, resilience, and problem-solvingThe connection between risky play and anxiety preventionWhy school readiness is about more than academicsPractical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers to support risky play safelyWe also share specific phrases adults can use instead of saying "Be careful!" to encourage children's critical thinking, self-awareness, and independence. Whether you're a parent, teacher, therapist, or policymaker, this episode will help you understand why allowing children to test their limits may be one of the most important gifts we can give them. Research ArticleSandseter, E. B. H., Kleppe, R., & Sando, O. J. (2021). The prevalence of risky play in young children's indoor and outdoor free play. Early Childhood Education Journal, 49(2), 303–312.https://doi.org/10.1007/s10643-020-01074-0 Book ReferencedDearybury, H., & Jones, D. (2020). Playful by Design: Your Stress-Free Guide to Raising Confident, Resilient, and Creative Kids.https://www.playfulbydesignbook.com

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Ratings & Reviews

3
out of 5
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About

Plant the Seed of Learning is a research-based podcast that merges the education and medical models to help parents, teachers, and early childhood professionals support young children’s development. Hosted by a pediatric occupational therapist and an education expert, each episode breaks down developmental milestones, early learning, play-based strategies, social-emotional development, early intervention, and kindergarten readiness in clear, practical ways. Designed for parents, educators, pediatric occupational therapists, therapists, and anyone working with young children, this podcast conn

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Crystal Loose and Dr. Aimee Ketchum
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    33
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Dr. Crystal Loose and Dr. Aimee Ketchum
  • Show Website
    Plant the Seed of Learning