Play2Learn Podcast

Kelly Vincentini and Alexandra Bishop
  • 5.0 (7)
  • PARENTING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Welcome to the Play2Learn Podcast, where we provide "playspiration" and resources for caregivers during the early childhood years.  We interview experts in the fields of parenting and education to provide you with the tools and insight you need to show up for your children with confidence.

  1. 10/03/2025

    Understanding the World of Childcare - Nanny Edition with Guest Sarah Salisbury

    In this episode, Kelly interviews Sarah Salisbury, a seasoned nanny with nearly 20 years of experience. They discuss the importance of play in child development, daily routines for children, engaging activities for early learning, and the differences between nannies and babysitters. Sarah shares insights on various nanny models, responsibilities, legal aspects of hiring a nanny, and tips for finding the right fit for families. This discussion emphasizes the significance of nurturing children's curiosity and the collaborative relationship between parents and nannies. Connect with Sarah - ssalisbury0809@gmail.com  Resources for fair and legal pay: Domestic Workers' Bill of Rights | Department of Labor  Why Nannies are Non-Exempt Workers and Hourly Employees Payroll Resources | Learn About Household Payroll Tax Payroll Companies: Payroll Services for Household Employees | HomeWork Solutions Nanny and Household Tax and Payroll Service | Care.com HomePay GTM Payroll Services Nanny Taxes and Payroll Services | Poppins Payroll | Poppins Payroll® Contracts: A to Z Nanny Contract offers step-by-step guide through what’s legal, fair and standard. Free Nanny Contract — Nanny Counsel interStellar Nannies Free Nanny Contract — interStellar Nannies Nanny Agency:  Flower City Nannies Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    34 min

  2. 09/19/2025

    What is Early Intervention & How to Navigate the Evaluation Process with Laura Vincent

    In this conversation, Kelly speaks with Laura Vincent, licensed speech language pathologist, about the special education process for children under five. They discuss the importance of early intervention, how parents can navigate the evaluation process, and the types of services available. Laura emphasizes the need for parents to trust their instincts and seek help when they have concerns about their child's development. The conversation also addresses common fears about labeling children and highlights the positive impact of early intervention on long-term success. Regional Program Director Laura Vincent, MS CCC/SLP lvincent@liberty-resources.org Contact 6723 Towpath Road E. Syracuse, NY 13057 Phone: 315-425-1004 Audiology Phone: 315-701-5710 Fax: 315-235-3411 Learn more about Liberty Post here! Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    21 min

  3. 09/05/2025

    Navigate Tough Conversations & Build Emotional Intelligence with Stories: The Gooshi App as a Resource for Parents

    In this episode, Kelly interviews Rita Ho-Bezzola, the founder of Gooshi, a storytelling platform aimed at helping families navigate emotional challenges through literature. They discuss the importance of using books as tools for emotional development, the role of technology in parenting, and the significance of representation in children's literature. Rita shares insights on how Gooshi can be utilized for teachable moments and the necessity of normalizing difficult conversations with children. Here are few of our HOT TOPICS this episode!  🎧Gooshi aims to empower parents with resources to support their children 🎧 Normalizing difficult conversations helps reduce stigma and anxiety 🎧Gooshi provides real-time access to stories for teachable moments 🎧 Representation in children's literature is crucial for inclusivity FOLLOW Rita on Instagram @gooshi_world Download the FREE Gooshi App  Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    34 min

  4. 08/22/2025

    Ten Tips for Back To School Season: Strategies for Both You & Your Child to Make September Successful!

    September is almost here and my family is starting to to feel the ultimate case of Sunday night blues.  As a teacher and mom myself, I've figured out there are certain routines and rhythms that help with the back to school transition.  In this short solo episode Ive outlined strategies to help YOU & YOUR CHILD for the changes that lie ahead in these next few weeks.  September is coming like it or not, let me help you rock this upcoming season!   1.Let’s Label Those Feelings 2. Practice, Practice, Practice 3. Make the Unfamiliar, More familiar 4. Shop Together To Build Excitement 5. Meal Plan Breakfasts & Lunches  6. Tips for Game Day 7. Mudroom Musts 8. Sunday Meetings 9. Bedtime is a Time to Connect 10. Self Care for Survival Check out this FREE Teacher Questionnaire for this upcoming School Year!  Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    10 min

  5. 08/08/2025

    Promote Language Through PLAY: Strategies for Babies and Children - with Speech-Language Pathologist Maggie McGarvie

    On this episode, Kelly Vincentini speaks with Maggie McGarvie, a speech-language pathologist, about the importance of promoting language development in children, particularly during the early years. They discuss practical strategies for parents to engage with their babies and toddlers, emphasizing the significance of connection, narration, and minimizing distractions from technology. Maggie shares insights on how to foster language skills through play, music, and meaningful interactions, while also addressing common pitfalls to avoid during these critical developmental stages. Compass to True Connection Check out her Norms Guide for developmental benchmarks for Articulation, Expressive Language, Receptive Language, Social Language, and Play/Motor for children 0-6years old. Connect with Maggie on Instagram @yourathomeslp - YouTube or email yourathomeslp@gmail.com  Additional Resources Available Here! Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    19 min

  6. 07/25/2025

    Beyond Birth: Breastfeeding and Postpartum Support with Doula Alicia Suskin

    In this episode, Kelly speaks with Alicia Suskin, a doula and breastfeeding specialist, about her journey and the vital role of doulas in supporting families during labor and postpartum. They discuss personal birth experiences, the importance of emotional and physical support, and the misconceptions surrounding the role of doulas compared to midwives. Alicia emphasizes the need for trust and rapport with clients, highlighting the unique challenges and vulnerabilities faced by new mothers. They share the importance of support systems during birth, the benefits of placenta encapsulation, and essential tips for breastfeeding mothers; all while emphasizing the need for education and self-advocacy in maternal health, encouraging mothers to trust their instincts and prioritize self-care during the postpartum period. Alicia's Services - https://www.syracusedoula.com/services  Contact Alicia via email at alicia@syracusedoula.com or  on Instagram @syracusedoula Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    39 min

  7. 07/11/2025

    Motivation for Motherhood with Francesca Thomson

    In this engaging conversation, Kelly and Francesca Thomson explore the themes of motherhood, vulnerability, and community. They discuss the importance of authenticity in social media, the challenges of building connections as mothers, and the significance of embracing the journey of motherhood. Francesca shares her personal journey of career shifts after having kids and emphasizes the need for support and healthy living in motherhood. The conversation concludes with a focus on creating a supportive community for mothers and the joy of sharing experiences. Get On the Bus with Francesca Thomson on Instagram @marathonofmotherhood Check out her Smarter Swaps for Every Day and Every Celebration !  Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    24 min

  8. 06/20/2025

    A Parenting Guide to Navigating Childhood Anxiety with Guest Barb Shepard

    In this episode, Kelly & Alex speak with Barb Shepard, a licensed mental health counselor specializing in pediatric OCD and anxiety. They discuss the nature of anxiety, particularly in children, and how it manifests in various situations. Barb shares insights on recognizing clinical anxiety versus typical childhood worries, strategies for parents to manage anxiety at home, and the importance of fostering resilience and bravery in children. The conversation emphasizes the role of parents in modeling healthy coping mechanisms and the significance of providing support and understanding to children facing anxiety. Email: therapy@barbshepardcounseling.com Website: barbshepardcounseling.com Instagram: @anxietyOCDfamily  Resources-  Books for Parents: -Breaking Free from Child Anxiety and OCD by Eli Lebowitz -Talking Back to OCD by John March -Stopping the Noise in Your Head by Reid Wilson Workbooks for Kids: -The Crushing OCD Workbook for Kids: 50 Fun Activities to Overcome OCD with CBT and Exposures by Natasha Daniels -What to Do when Your Brain Gets Stuck by Dawn Huebner  Podcasts: AT Parenting Survival Podcast - Raising Kids with OCD and Anxiety https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-parenting-survival-raising-kids-with-ocd-anxiety/id1205679186 YouTube: OCD and Anxiety Online - Nathan Peterson https://www.youtube.com/ocdandanxiety Local to Central New York and interested in joining a Play2Learn class? Visit our website to register here: https://play2learntot.com/ Let's connect! Follow us on Instagram @play2learntot REGISTER for your FREE Demo class here! Interested in learning more about Franchising Opportunities? Email us at play2learntt@gmail.com

    39 min
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5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Play2Learn Podcast, where we provide "playspiration" and resources for caregivers during the early childhood years.  We interview experts in the fields of parenting and education to provide you with the tools and insight you need to show up for your children with confidence.

Information

  • Creator
    Kelly Vincentini and Alexandra Bishop
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    24
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Play2Learn Podcast
  • Show Website
    Play2Learn Podcast