Think Like a Kid

Danielle Mimbs

Whether you’re in the classroom, the carpool lane, or halfway through your coffee, let’s stop guessing and start teaching the way kids actually learn. Think Like a Kid is your weekly chat to unlearning the "sit still and listen" methods of the past and giving your child a true educational advantage. Hosted by Danielle Mimbs–mom of three, former teacher, and Learning Behavior Specialist, each episode delivers brain-based strategies and creative STEAM ideas that turn learning into play. We ditch the one-size-fits-all approach to focus on how kids actually learn: through movement, curiosity, and connection. It’s time to make learning fun again and give your child the best head start to early learning! How? By thinking like a kid!

  1. 3h ago

    Episode 20: Counting is Not Math — The 9-Skill Number Sense Blueprint

    Counting to 100 looks incredibly impressive at the family dinner table, but is it actually math? In this kickoff episode of our 9-Skill Number Sense Series, we're breaking down a major misconception in early childhood education: counting is often just rote memorization, like reciting the alphabet without knowing what any of the letters actually do. If your child can rattle off numbers but still struggles to understand what they actually represent, this episode is your secret weapon. In this episode, we cover: Subitizing: The ability to instantly recognize small amounts (like dots on a die) without counting them one by one.One-to-One Correspondence: Pointing to exactly one physical object for every one number word spoken.Cardinality: Understanding that the last number said when counting a group represents the total amount of items.Conservation of Number: Realizing that a quantity stays the same even if the items are spread far apart or bunched tightly together.Magnitude / Comparison: The visual capability to naturally identify which group has "more" or "less" without counting them first.Numeral Recognition: Making the mental connection between the spoken word ("three"), the written digit ("3"), and a physical group of three items.Spatial Relationships / Patterns: Seeing how numbers fit visually onto structural math tools like ten-frames or number lines.Part-Whole Awareness: Understanding that larger numbers are made up of smaller numbers combinedHierarchical Inclusion: The concept that smaller numbers are nested inside larger numbers Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode: Early Learning Standards Guide: Grab your free copy of the early learning standards:STEAM Made Simple Preschool: Recommended Episodes: • Episode 15: Top 3 Kindergarten Readiness Skills • Episode 12: How to Challenge Your Child Without Overwhelming Them • Episode 17: An Easy Activity To Do With Your Kiddo Before the School Year Begins If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play. You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.

  2. Jul 21

    Episode 19: How Everyday Routines Become Language-Rich Learning Moments

    What if some of the most powerful learning moments for your child are already happening in your everyday routines? In this episode, I sit down with pediatric speech-language pathologist Jennifer Adams Oppenheimer to talk about how simple moments—like getting dressed, bath time, or walking to the park—can become incredible opportunities for language development. Jennifer shares practical strategies that help children build communication skills through repetition, connection, and play. You'll walk away with easy ideas you can start using today, without buying another toy, app, or curriculum. In this episode, we cover: • Why everyday routines are the best place for language learning • What verbal routines are and how to use them • How songs and repetition support communication skills • Creating smoother transitions with simple language cues • Fun language games for bath time and family walks • Why using rich vocabulary helps children become stronger communicators • How parents can naturally build language through everyday interactions Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode: • Jennifer's FREE Language-Rich Learning Moments Quick Start Guide: https://speakjoy.com/kid • SpeakJoy Center for Development: https://speakjoy.com/ • Follow Jennifer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/speakjoycenter Your "Think Like a Kid" Homework This Week: Choose one everyday routine—getting dressed, bath time, mealtime, or bedtime—and create a simple verbal routine or song that you repeat every day. Notice how your child begins to anticipate, participate, and connect through the routine. Recommended Episodes: • Episode 17: An Easy Activity To Do With Your Kiddo Before the School Year Begins • Episode 15: Top 3 Kindergarten Readiness Skills • Episode 11: Practical Emotional Regulation Techniques That You Can Teach Your Child Today If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play. You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.

  3. Jul 14

    Episode 18: The 15 Minute Parenting Hack That Actually Works

    What if just 15 intentional minutes a day could help reduce power struggles and strengthen your connection with your child? In this episode, I share a simple parenting strategy that's made a huge difference in my own family. Inspired by the "9-9-9 Rule," I explain how I use three five-minute windows of one-on-one connection throughout the day to help my kids feel seen, safe, and emotionally supported. These small moments have transformed our relationship, and I hope they'll do the same for yours. In this episode, we cover: • The parenting strategy behind the 9-9-9 Rule • Why I use three 5-minute connection windows each day • How morning connection sets the tone for the day • Supporting your child after school or daycare • Why bedtime is the perfect time to reconnect • How quality time reduces power struggles and meltdowns • Why connection matters more than constant attention • Simple ways to tailor connection time to your child's personality Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode: • The 9-9-9 Rule for intentional parent-child connection Your "Think Like a Kid" Homework This Week: Try the three 5-minute connection windows for one week. Spend five uninterrupted minutes with your child in the morning, after your reunion, and at bedtime and notice how it impacts your connection and their behavior. Recommended Episodes: Episode 17: An Easy Activity To Do With Your Kiddo Before the School Year BeginsEpisode 11: Practical Emotional Regulation Techniques That You Can Teach Your Child TodayEpisode 10: The SIMPLE Framework: 6 Steps to Learning That Sticks If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play. You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.

  4. Jul 7

    Episode 17: An Easy Activity To Do With Your Kiddo Before the School Year Begins

    Getting ready for a new school year doesn't have to mean endless worksheets or flashcards. One of the best ways to prepare your child is by helping them build confidence in who they are. In this episode, I share one of my favorite back-to-school activities that I used in my classroom and now do with my own children. The "All About Me Bag" helps kids practice self-expression, communication, and confidence before they step into a new classroom. Best of all, you can download this activity for free as part of the first week of my preschool curriculum! In this episode, we cover: • Why confidence is an important part of school readiness • How the "All About Me Bag" activity works • Helping your child identify what makes them unique • Ways to encourage self-expression without giving the answers • Practicing presentation and conversation skills before school starts • How this activity prepares children for classroom sharing and participation Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode: • FREE Sample Week of my STEAM Made Simple Preschool Curriculum • STEAM Made Simple Preschool Curriculum Your "Think Like a Kid" Homework This Week: Download the free sample week and complete the "All About Me Bag" activity with your child. Let them choose 3–5 items that represent who they are, then practice sharing their bag together as a family. Recommended Episodes: Episode 15: Top 3 Kindergarten Readiness SkillsEpisode 12: How to Know if Your Child is Being Challenged EnoughEpisode 11: Practical Emotional Regulation Techniques That You Can Teach Your Child Today  If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play. You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.

  5. Jun 30

    Episode 16: 5 Signs of a Genius Kid

    Have you ever wondered if your child's "quirky" behaviors are actually signs of something more? Some of the traits that can be frustrating in everyday life—like endless questions, intense emotions, or taking toys apart—may actually point to a highly curious and gifted mind. In this episode, I share five common behaviors I've seen in gifted children throughout my years as a teacher and as a mom. I'll explain why these traits matter, how to support them without shutting down your child's curiosity, and simple ways to nurture their natural love of learning. In this episode, we cover: • Five common signs of a gifted or high-IQ child • Why hyperfocus can be a strength • What relentless questioning really tells us • Why some children love taking things apart • The connection between emotional intensity and giftedness • How imagination and unconventional thinking fuel creativity • Practical ways to nurture your child's curiosity • Why STEAM activities are a powerful tool for gifted learners` Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode: • My FREE 10 Signs of a High IQ in Children Guide • My Genius Kids Course • My Emotional Regulation Guide • STEAM Made Simple Preschool Curriculum   Your "Think Like a Kid" Homework This Week: Pick one of the five traits we talked about today and look at it through a different lens. Instead of trying to change it, ask yourself how you can nurture it and give your child more opportunities to explore their natural curiosity. Recommended Episodes: Episode 15: Top 3 Kindergarten Readiness SkillsEpisode 13: Why You Don't Need to Be a 24/7 Cruise DirectorEpisode 11: Practical Emotional Regulation Techniques That You Can Teach Your Child Today  If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play. You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.

  6. Jun 23

    Episode 15: Top 3 Kindergarten Readiness Skills

    Wondering if your child is ready for kindergarten? It’s easy to focus on ABCs and counting, but I believe the most important readiness skills go far beyond academics. In this episode, I share the three areas I would prioritize before your child starts kindergarten: independence, social-emotional skills, and a love of learning. I'll explain why these foundational skills matter so much in the classroom and give you practical ways to help your child build confidence before the first day of school. In this episode, we cover: • Why kindergarten readiness is about more than academics • Simple independence skills every child should practice • The importance of self-advocacy and asking adults for help • Social-emotional skills that help children thrive in the classroom • Teaching children to handle disappointment and frustration • Helping kids build healthy friendships and set boundaries • The academic skills I recommend focusing on before kindergarten • Why reading together every day is one of the best things you can do • How STEAM activities naturally build kindergarten readiness Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode: • Independent Play Guide   Your "Think Like a Kid" Homework This Week: Instead of asking what your child needs to know for kindergarten, choose one skill they can do more independently this week—whether it's opening a snack, ordering their own meal, asking an adult for help, or cleaning up after an activity. Recommended Episodes: Episode 13: Why You Don't Need to Be a 24/7 Cruise DirectorEpisode 12: How to Challenge Your Child Without Overwhelming ThemEpisode 11: Practical Emotional Regulation Techniques That You Can Teach Your Child Today  If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play. You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.

  7. Jun 16

    Episode 14: How to Advocate for Your Child Without Fighting the School: From a School Psychologist

    Have you ever left a school meeting feeling like no one truly sees your child? Maybe the conversation focused on everything they're doing wrong. Maybe you walked away with more questions than answers. In this episode of Think Like a Kid, I sit down with school psychologist and special education advocate Mariah Choate to discuss how parents can advocate for their children confidently, effectively, and collaboratively without turning every school meeting into a battle. We also tackle one of the biggest misconceptions adults make when supporting children: What if the behavior isn't the problem? What if the real issue is a missing skill or an unmet need? In This Episode We Discuss: How to shift school conversations from deficits to strengthsWhat to do when every meeting seems focused on what's wrongWhy children often need support not punishmentHow reading struggles, executive functioning challenges, and emotional regulation difficulties can be mistaken for defianceWhat school psychologists wish parents knew about the special education processHow to tell the difference between "can't" and "won't" Key Takeaways 1. Behavior is Communication Instead of asking: "Why won't they do it?" Try asking: "What's making this hard?" 2. Ask for the Data If you're receiving repeated calls or concerns from school, ask: What interventions have been tried?Which interventions helped?How is progress being tracked? 3. Special Education is a Service, Not a Place One of the biggest myths parents believe is that an IEP automatically means a separate classroom. It doesn't. 4. Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions You don't need to understand every educational acronym or legal term. 5. Lead With Strengths Mariah's advice was simple but powerful: Before anyone else can see the good in your child, you have to see it first. Free Resource: Prior Written Notice Template If you've requested support from your school and aren't sure what to do next, Mariah shares a free Prior Written Notice template that parents can use when requesting evaluations and services. This resource helps you document concerns and understand your rights throughout the process. click here   Want More Support? Mariah has created a comprehensive Special Education Advocacy System that walks parents through: Evaluations504 PlansIEPsScripts for difficult conversationsSpecial education lawDocumentation systemsAdvocacy tools If you've ever felt overwhelmed navigating the school system, this resource was created specifically for you. https://stan.store/Wholisticallypsyched/p/the-special-education-support-system-  Mariah’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholistically_psyched/

  8. Jun 9

    Episode 13: Why You Don't Need to Be a 24/7 Cruise Director

    Do you ever feel responsible for keeping your child entertained all day long? Between summer break, sports, camps, screens, and endless activities, it's easy to fall into the trap of feeling like you need to be your child's personal cruise director. In this episode, I share why boredom is actually one of the most powerful tools for your child's development. We'll talk about how boredom builds creativity, problem-solving skills, and independence—and why giving your child space to figure out their own fun may be one of the best gifts you can give them this summer. In this episode, we cover: • Why boredom is beneficial for child development • The pressure parents feel to constantly entertain their children • How boredom builds creativity and critical thinking • The connection between boredom and executive functioning skills • Why screens can make boredom feel harder to tolerate • How to respond when your child says, "I'm bored" • Creating a boredom jar or activity menu • Why independent play is an essential life skill • Simple ways to encourage self-directed play this summer Featured Resources Mentioned in this Episode: • Independent Play Guide   Your "Think Like a Kid" Homework This Week: The next time your child says, "I'm bored," resist the urge to solve the problem for them. Give them space to be uncomfortable, trust their creativity, and see what they come up with on their own. Recommended Episodes: • Episode 12: How to Challenge Your Child Without Overwhelming Them • Episode 11: Practical Emotional Regulation Techniques That You Can Teach Your Child Today • Episode 5: Why Behaviors Are Communication If you loved this conversation, make sure you're following the show so you never miss an episode or a quick win. And hey, if you're looking for a way to bring this 'think like a kid' energy into your daily learning, check out my STEAM Made Preschool Curriculum: https://stan.store/steammadesimple/p/the-steam-made-simple-preschool. It's the best way to give your child a head start with an educational advantage that actually feels like play. You can also connect with me on Instagram @STEAMMadeSimple for daily tools, behind-the-scenes stories, and playful learning ideas.

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About

Whether you’re in the classroom, the carpool lane, or halfway through your coffee, let’s stop guessing and start teaching the way kids actually learn. Think Like a Kid is your weekly chat to unlearning the "sit still and listen" methods of the past and giving your child a true educational advantage. Hosted by Danielle Mimbs–mom of three, former teacher, and Learning Behavior Specialist, each episode delivers brain-based strategies and creative STEAM ideas that turn learning into play. We ditch the one-size-fits-all approach to focus on how kids actually learn: through movement, curiosity, and connection. It’s time to make learning fun again and give your child the best head start to early learning! How? By thinking like a kid!

Information

  • Creator
    Danielle Mimbs
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Danielle Mimbs
  • Show Website
    Think Like a Kid