Early childhood teaching is meaningful—and exhausting. In this episode, we slow things down and speak directly to infant, toddler, and preschool teachers about burnout, well-being, and the emotional weight of the work. Through real classroom scenarios and gentle, practical strategies, this episode offers a moment of validation, reflection, and support—without asking you to do more. This is a reminder that your well-being matters too.

Curious about STARS or wondering what support is available? This episode breaks down what the STARS program is, how the process works, and how coaching and resources help programs build and maintain quality over time. Designed to support long-term success, STARS offers guidance, structure, and partnership—and this episode helps bring it all together in a clear, approachable way.

Step into the new year with clarity, calm, and purpose. A Fresh Start – Mindset and Intentions for the New Year is a gentle, reflective podcast episode designed to help you cultivate a positive mindset and set meaningful intentions—without pressure or perfection.

Through soothing guidance and mindful reflection, this episode invites you to release what no longer serves you, reconnect with what truly matters, and choose how you want to feel and show up in the year ahead. Perfect for a quiet moment of self-care, this podcast offers encouragement, grounding, and inspiration to begin the new year with compassion, confidence, and renewed energy.

Take a deep breath, slow down, and start your year with intention.

In this episode, we explore the core of early childhood learning—attachment. We’ll break down the different attachment styles, where attachment begins, and why it matters so much for children’s growth and development. Through a simple, hands-on activity called Baby Doll Circle Time from Conscious Discipline, we’ll show how attunement and secure connections can be promoted in the classroom in a fun and meaningful way. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to foster strong, nurturing relationships that lay the foundation for lifelong learning.

Get ready as we unlock the mysteries of the pre-designation visit! In this episode, we break down what to expect, how to prepare, and the key pieces that make the process feel smooth, supportive, and totally achievable. Whether you’re approaching your first visit or looking for a confidence boost, we’re giving you the inside scoop you need. Tune in—you’ll walk away feeling informed, empowered, and ready for what’s next!

Walk through the PDP in the PD Registry with me. Listen in while you follow along in your PD Registry Profile to complete/update your PD Self-Assessment and create two goals in your Professional Development Plan. All staff are required to do both of these things on an annual basis at STAR 2 through STAR 4. Step by step directions that you can use while you make your updates will make this process easy yet intentional!

In this final episode of the "Back to School Basics" series, Teresa Beatty focuses on the critical importance of teacher self-care and addresses the high stress levels commonly experienced by educators. She presents various self-care strategies and emphasizes the need for teachers to prioritize their well-being without feeling guilty, including maintaining regulation in the classroom, teaching regulation skills to children, and engaging in personal hobbies. Teresa encourages teachers to establish a support system, set boundaries, and gradually incorporate self-care practices into their daily routines, reminding them that their own well-being is important.

Teresa Beatty continues her series on back-to-school basics for Early Childhood Educators with part 3, emphasizing the importance of addressing the five domains of preschool development through play-based activities. She discusses strategies for promoting cognitive, physical, social, emotional, language, and self-help skills in young learners, offering practical suggestions for classroom setup and daily activities. Teresa concludes by encouraging teachers to plan rewarding activities aligned with children's interests and to seek support when needed, emphasizing the collaborative nature of teaching.