Falling for Learning Podcast

TD Flenaugh
  • 5.0 (4)
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  • Updated Weekly

This podcast supports parents and caregivers in gaining the tools and information needed to keep the next generation on track for learning and on track for success! New episodes released Saturdays at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us:      Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/.    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/.   

  1. 6d ago

    Believing in Your Children's Brilliance

    Building Brilliance and JusticeIn this episode, educator and author Andratesha Fritzgerald shares her inspiring journey of integrating anti-racism with Universal Design for Learning (UDL) to transform educational spaces into liberating environments for all students. Gain insights into how community, belief in student brilliance, and strategic advocacy shape equitable learning. Key Topics:Fritzgerald’s personal motivation rooted in legacy and community advocacyThe origins and purpose of her book, Anti-Racism and Universal Design for LearningHow Universal Design for Learning (UDL) can be a tool for liberation and equityStrategies for parents and educators to advocate for inclusive, supportive learning environmentsThe importance of fostering student agency and self-advocacyPractical tips for implementing UDL principles at home and in classroomsThe evolving landscape of anti-racism efforts in education and societyUpcoming resources and projects in Fritzgerald’s work, including trauma-informed and anti-racist frameworksTimestamps:00:00 - Embracing advocacy and the power of seed planting in education 00:29 - The role of students leading protests and personal advocacy journey 01:20 - Guest introduction: Andretisha Fritzgerald’s background and work 02:05 - What drew Fritzgerald into education as a child 04:22 - Origin and purpose of her book, Anti-Racism and Universal Design for Learning 04:39 - The scientific and liberating roots of UDL 05:08 - Writing struggles and the catalyst of societal upheaval in 2020 07:04 - Collaborations with impactful figures like Samaria Rice 07:38 - The importance of integrating anti-racism into everyday educational practices 08:09 - Fritzgerald’s educational path: from engineering to English and beyond 10:47 - The significance of community and connection for under-represented groups 11:15 - The impact of English, women’s studies, and educational leadership studies on her approach 12:14 - Her perspective on lifelong learning and her children’s love for languages 13:01 - Parenting experiences and fostering language development BuildingBlocksOfBrilliance.com 15:22 - Advice for parents supporting children’s learning through UDL principles 17:12 - Preparing children for future success by building their confidence and independence 19:29 - The importance of self-compassion for parents and guardians 22:04 - Mistakes to avoid: over-controlling and under-trusting children’s abilities 28:04 - Starting points for parents reading Anti-Racism and Universal Design for Learning Resources & Links:Building Blocks of BrillianceFollow Andratesha Fritzgerald on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter

    42 min

  2. Jun 13

    Critical Question Parents Should Ask About Their Child's School Culture

    Send us Fan Mail Join us in this episode as Blain Watson, a seasoned educator, school leader, and parent, shares invaluable insights on how parents can actively support their children's academic and social-emotional development. Discover practical strategies rooted in research and personal experience to create a strong supportive environment for learning and growth. Main Topics:  The importance of building a supportive village around children and the concept of a 'critical mass' of influential adultsKey frameworks like the 40 Developmental Assets for nurturing well-rounded kidsHow to engage actively with school staff and systems to ensure your child's success Practical questions parents should ask about curriculum, school culture, and social-emotional supportsStrategies for advocating for your child, including understanding curriculum mastery and support systems  Resources & Links:   Blain Watson on Twitter  Blain Watson on Facebook   Join Our Live Wednesdays:   Instagram Live, every Wednesday, 5:30 - 6:00 PM, to get your questions answered about fostering learning and success in your children.  Support the show We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ https://linktr.ee/falling4learning

    30 min

  3. Jun 7

    3 Ways to Build a Positive Reading Culture for Middle Schoolers

    Send us Fan Mail Discover practical strategies to motivate your middle school child to read regularly and improve their reading skills, especially in the aftermath of disruptions like the pandemic. This episode emphasizes fostering a positive reading environment, selecting engaging texts, and establishing consistent routines to build confidence and love for reading. Main topics: Understanding and defining reading levels (independent, instructional, frustration) Strategies to make reading relevant, fun, and interest-based Tips for scheduling and building a positive reading routine How to assess your child's current reading level Addressing negative attitudes toward reading and resetting their relationship with books In this episode: The importance of matching reading materials to your child's independent reading level How to identify if your child is reading at, below, or above grade level Ways to make reading relevant and engaging based on your child's interests (sports, business, health, etc.) The significance of creating a dedicated and comfortable reading environment Practical tips for establishing a consistent reading schedule Resources for assessing and tracking reading levels, including online tools like NewsElla, IXL, ReadWorks, CommonLit.org How parental attitude and environment influence a child's reading habits Encouragement to be patient and persistent in guiding your child's reading journey Resources: NewsELA – Customized leveled reading texts IXL – Diagnostic and skill practice for reading levels ReadWorks – Reading comprehension resources and assessments CommonLit.org – Free leveled reading passages Connect with TD Flenaugh: YouTube - Falling for Learning Let's help our children fall in love with reading by making it relevant, routine, and positive! Support the show We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ https://linktr.ee/falling4learning

    19 min

  4. May 30

    Igniting Curiosity: New Approaches to Get Teens Excited About Learning

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Falling for Learning Podcast , T.D. Flenaugh dives into the core reasons why traditional schooling methods fail to engage teens and how innovative approaches can reignite their passion for learning. This episode is packed with actionable insights and practical strategies for parents, educators, and advocates to help transform the educational experience for teens. Points of Discussion 1. The Problem with Traditional Schooling    - Traditional methods haven't evolved in decades, leading to disengagement.    - Importance of finding innovative ways to engage learners. 2. Project-Based Learning (PBL)    - Shift from teacher-centered to student-centered learning.    - Examples of PBL: Advocating for community policy changes, publishing a book, starting a social media campaign.   - Benefits of PBL: Real-world implications, civic engagement, and enhancing academic skills through practical application.   - Success stories: Watch our interview that features Social Justice Learning Institute’s  impact on youth -  SJLI Interview with Derek Steele -  https://youtu.be/Nr3aFlE4e_g?feature=shared 3. Maker Spaces and Maker Labs    - Definition and benefits of maker spaces: Hands-on learning through tools and creative  projects.   - Types of projects: Art, robotics, coding, culinary arts.   - How to implement maker spaces in schools and communities.   - Encouraging entrepreneurship and trade skills among teens. - Here is a link to the HGTV show that features a makerspace for building and designing  furniture - Flea Market Flip - https://www.hgtv.com/shows/flea-market-flip - Los Angeles also has a makerspace for kids. Find out more - https://lamakerspace.org/ 4. Interdisciplinary Learning   - Combining multiple subject areas to enrich learning.    - Examples: Writing poetry about history, creating science fiction, using 3D printers to understand viruses.   - Benefits: Broadening educational dimensions and enhancing creativity. 5. Passion Projects and Independent Research    - Encouraging students to explore interests beyond the classroom.    - Examples: Participating in research projects with organizations like the Natural History Museum’s Community Science Initiative -   - Personal anecdotes: The host's experience with gardening as a passion project.    - How to support teens in pursuing their passions, even in limited spaces. - Community Science with the Natural History Museum -  https://nhm.org/community-science-nhm 6. Alternative Assessments and Grading   - The need for assessments beyond traditional tests.    - Examples: Portfolios, performances, presentations.    - Equitable grading practices: Reducing the impact of homework on final grades,  eliminating zeros, offering retests and re-submissions.   - Challenges and solutions in implementing equitable grading. Support the show We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ https://linktr.ee/falling4learning

    37 min

  5. May 23

    Discover the Magic Hiding in Libraries

    Send us Fan Mail Summer is upon us! Take your children to the library! Dr. Eno Attah, a school librarian with a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership, discusses the transformative power of libraries. She highlights her journey from a Nigerian American background, influenced by PBS and her community, to becoming an educator. Dr. Attah emphasizes libraries' role as safe spaces offering resources beyond books, such as hotspots, calculators, and Chromebooks. She advocates for parents to leverage librarians as allies in supporting their children's interests and passions. Dr. Attah also shares her experience transitioning from teaching to librarianship and the diverse roles librarians play in connecting people with resources and passions. Support the show We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ https://linktr.ee/falling4learning

    35 min

  6. May 16

    Teacher Appreciate Done Right

    Send us Fan Mail Celebrating Teachers and Supporting Student Success: A Personal Reflection In this episode, TD Flenaugh shares heartfelt stories and lessons about the importance of teachers in shaping lives, from elementary school to college. It’s a call to recognize ongoing teacher appreciation, foster collaboration, and empower parents and students alike to create environments for success.Key Topics:   The lasting impact of inspiring teachers like Ms. Byler, Ms. Corr, Ms. Nelson,  and Mr. Beu.  Practical strategies for students and parents to cultivate meaningful relationships with teachers.  Lessons in writing, resilience, and navigating educational pathways from elementary to college.  The importance of affirming potential, self-care, and growth mindset in education.  Addressing current challenges faced by teachers and proposing ways to support their vital role.  The significance of community collaboration in fostering student achievement.  Reflection on personal experiences that highlight the power of intentionality, kindness, and advocacy in education.  Encouragement to honor teachers beyond one week and to appreciate their contributions year-round. Resources & Links:   The Rewrite Method  Little Mobile Home on the Tundra  Connect with TD Flenaugh: Instagram  Let's honor our teachers every day and support their critical role in shaping our futures. Support the show We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ https://linktr.ee/falling4learning

    32 min

  7. May 10

    Teachers Who Mattered Most & What I Learned

    Send us Fan Mail Join us for a special Teacher Appreciation Week episode where I share personal stories about the teachers who shaped our futures. This teacher story dives into memorable classroom stories, offering insights into effective education. We also provide tips on how to identify a good teacher and collaborate effectively for student success, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in supporting strong teachers to guide children.  Support the show We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ https://linktr.ee/falling4learning

    32 min

  8. May 2

    Why Traditional Schools Fail Some Kids and How Micro Schools Fill the Gap

    Send us Fan Mail What if there was a way to personalized learning that actually works? Benita Gordon, an education strategist and micro school pioneer, reveals how innovative schooling models can transform your child's success and happiness. This episode dives into the world of micro schools—what they are, how they differ from traditional and homeschool settings, and why they might be the best fit for your child. Benita shares her journey from public school teacher to founder of a micro school, offering concrete examples of how personalized, project-based, and trauma-informed education creates engaged, motivated students. You'll discover how micro schools leverage the principles of small class sizes, flexible schedules, and tailored curricula to meet diverse learning needs. Perfect for curious parents, educators exploring new models, or community leaders advocating for change, this episode unlocks the potential of micro schools to revolutionize learning. Join us and learn how you can be part of the movement creating more inclusive, customized, and effective education options—because every child deserves a space to thrive. In a broader context, this episode emphasizes the critical need for educational choice in our current landscape. Whether your child is disengaged, needs a flexible schedule, or has specific learning challenges, micro schools can offer a viable, scalable solution. With actionable tips for parents and advocates, Benita empowers listeners to seek alternatives that truly serve the child’s best interests—not just conformity or standardized metrics. Benita Gordon is an innovative education strategist, founder of Global Education Concierge, and a leader in the micro school movement. Her decades of experience in public education and community-driven school models fuel her mission to expand access to personalized learning. If you're ready to rethink education and discover the future of schooling tailored for every child, this episode is essential listening. Empower yourself with practical insights and inspiration to make a difference today. Support the show We drop new episodes every Saturday at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us: Instagram -  https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/ https://linktr.ee/falling4learning

    45 min
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4 Ratings

About

This podcast supports parents and caregivers in gaining the tools and information needed to keep the next generation on track for learning and on track for success! New episodes released Saturdays at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Follow us:      Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fallingforlearning/.    Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fallingforlearning/.   

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