103 episodes

Parents of young children and parents-to-be: you're in the right place! This podcast takes a kind and respectful view of your child's development during pregnancy and first 3 years. Host Ann McKitrick brings a unique perspective through 30+ years as a child development professor, parenting coach, teacher educator and mentor and most importantly, as a parent. Subscribe now for expert interviews, insightful advice, and real stories about raising a little one in the world today.

Go to https://nurturednoggins.com/ for show notes, downloads and resources for each episode.
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

Parenting in the First 3 Years Ann McKitrick, MS

    • Kids & Family
    • 5.0 • 41 Ratings

Parents of young children and parents-to-be: you're in the right place! This podcast takes a kind and respectful view of your child's development during pregnancy and first 3 years. Host Ann McKitrick brings a unique perspective through 30+ years as a child development professor, parenting coach, teacher educator and mentor and most importantly, as a parent. Subscribe now for expert interviews, insightful advice, and real stories about raising a little one in the world today.

Go to https://nurturednoggins.com/ for show notes, downloads and resources for each episode.
Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

    Recognizing Your Child's Gifts & Passions with Andrea Ventim

    Recognizing Your Child's Gifts & Passions with Andrea Ventim

    In this episode, Andrea Ventim join Ann for a conversation about how we help our kids grow into who they are meant to be.

    Even in the early years, our children's passions and gifts begin to shine through. How we respond as a parent can shape their future self!

    Andrea, mom of 2, shares some great stories and tips on making sure our kids are supported to pursue their interests. In her extensive journey through personal development, Andrea has not only invested in her own growth but has also actively collaborated with top-tier mentors.

    It's a must-listen for any parent who wants to better understand their kids and help them thrive in their own unique way.



    Get this amazing resource to rediscover YOUR gifts and passions, 20 Ways to Power Your Parenting



    Check out the show notes for this episode for Andrea's links!

    Vist Nurtured Noggins to learn more.


    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

    • 23 min
    Is Risky Play Worth the Risk? With Audrey Rowland

    Is Risky Play Worth the Risk? With Audrey Rowland

    How can parents effectively balance the inherent challenge of safeguarding their children while nurturing their autonomy, particularly in the context of risky play?

    In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Audrey Roland, the visionary founder of Green Space Learning. Audrey has dedicated herself to early childhood professional development, and her organization includes licensed childcare centers along with the creation of innovative natural play equipment for playgrounds.

    Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or simply curious about fostering a child's development through risky play, Audrey's wealth of experience and wisdom is bound to captivate you. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to delve into a thought-provoking discussion on the importance of embracing risk in childhood development.



    Topics Discussed:


    Children's compulsion to take risks - it's innate!
    Differentiating between hazard and risk
    The Parents role in engaging with risky play
    Supporting resilience in children

    Here's the show notes.

    And links to learn more:

    Green Space Learning - Is Risky Play Worth the Risk?

    Green Space Learning - It’s Okay To Be Bored

    Why Risky Play Is Beneficial for Kids - DFWChild








    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

    • 30 min
    What You Say Matters: To Yourself, To Your Child

    What You Say Matters: To Yourself, To Your Child

     Have you ever paused to consider the conversations you have with yourself, and how those internal dialogues shape your mindset?

    In this episode we talk about how important it is to speak to yourself with positive words and how you can affirm your child in easy, natural ways. We cover why it matters, the science behind your self-talk and how you can implement the practice in your daily life.

    Topics Discussed:·                 


    The Power of Self-Talk
    The Science Behind Affirmations       
    Crafting Effective Affirmations 
    Affirming Your Child – Practical Strategies  
    How to Create "Kid of the Week"               

    Here's the show notes for this episode.

    Here's a link to the 7 steps to writing goals for yourself.


    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

    • 15 min
    What Children Teach Us About Race with Christine Platt & Catherine Wigginton Greene

    What Children Teach Us About Race with Christine Platt & Catherine Wigginton Greene

    In this episode, Christine, Catherine and I delve into a subject that is both timely and essential – the dynamics of interracial friendships and the impact of these relationships on the journey of parenting. Their new book, Rebecca, Not Becky follows two upper-class stay-at-home mothers (one white, one Black) - who are tasked with “Making a (blank) Friend.” [fill in: white or black, accordingly).

    The backdrop is a "perfect" suburbia where these women must coexist and navigate motherhood, friendship, and the true meaning of sisterhood amidst the backdrop of America’s all-too-familiar racial reckoning.

    The authors share their own experiences with parenting and how to answer some of the questions we're not quite sure how to answer.

    Here's the show notes, where you'll find a links to purchase their book and to connect with the authors.


    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

    • 29 min
    Looking Ahead to 2024 with Ann McKitrick

    Looking Ahead to 2024 with Ann McKitrick

    What's the one dream or goal that, if achieved, would bring you the greatest joy and fulfillment in your life?

    In this episode, we delve into a step-by-step guide on setting and achieving your goals - for yourself as a parent plus that amazing non-parent side of you! From deciding what you truly want in life to celebrating your successes, we've got the roadmap to guide you along the way.



    Start now by downloading this resource: 20 Ways to Power Your Parenting!


    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

    • 16 min
    Navigating Holiday Gatherings with Kids

    Navigating Holiday Gatherings with Kids

    Ever wondered how to transform holiday gatherings into a seamless experience when kids are in the mix?

    The holiday season is filled with excitement and anticipation, but for new parents there can be a sense of angst. Navigating holiday gatherings with babies and toddlers takes intention.

    So join me in this special episode where we share insights, personal stories and practical tips to help you navigate the season with joy and ease.



    Click here for the show notes.



    Check out this blog about how to help the holidays go smoothly for your kids


    ---

    Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ann-mckitrick/support

    • 7 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
41 Ratings

41 Ratings

Andi HV ,

Love it!

As a mother of young children, it’s a breath of fresh air to have someone help guide the way in the most encouraging way. I love the positive perspective, insights and creative ideas of this show. Keep it up!

KatieKaylor ,

“Giving information instead of anxiety”

Absolutely loved every minute of the episode with Audrey Rowland about risky play. Such great dialogue about risks versus hazards and how to step in (or not!) as a caregiver.

Amybklyn ,

Fabulous Podcast!

Ann brings humor, practical solutions, and wisdom to each episode. This podcast is a must for all parents and caregivers!

Top Podcasts In Kids & Family

Greeking Out from National Geographic Kids
National Geographic Kids
Good Inside with Dr. Becky
Dr. Becky Kennedy
Circle Round
WBUR
Wow in the World
Tinkercast | Wondery
Story Pirates
Story Pirates
Raising Good Humans
Dear Media, Aliza Pressman

You Might Also Like