In this episode of the Inspiring ECE Podcast, host Marcia Nicole chats with Angela Odusanya, a dedicated early childhood educator and author of the popular Amelia’s Loose Part Art book series. Angela shares her journey into the world of early learning, how she fell in love with loose parts play, and why it’s so important for young children to have open-ended, exploratory experiences. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for bringing loose parts into your classroom or home, learn how Angela’s stories inspire both kids and adults, and hear why fostering creativity and problem-solving is more crucial than ever.

Guest info links

Website: www.angelaodusanya.com

Instagram/FB/TikTok @‌angelaodusanya

Amazon links:

Amelia's Loose Part Art-https://a.co/d/7IXcSXV

Amelia's Loose Part Art: A Day at the Beach-https://a.co/d/iOug0RT

Amelia's Easter Surprise- https://a.co/d/dM2I8jd

In this episode of the Inspiring ECE Podcast, we tackle a topic that every early childhood educator has faced at some point: how do we stay empowered and passionate in a profession that sometimes feels undervalued?

With headlines about burnout, staffing shortages, and the challenges of the field, it’s easy to feel discouraged. But today, we’re flipping the script and focusing on how to reclaim your power, find fulfillment, and thrive in your role—not just survive it.

We’ll explore: ✅ Challenging the misconceptions about ECE and advocating for the profession ✅ New, practical strategies to prevent burnout (beyond just “self-care”) ✅ The importance of professional learning and growth—because evolving as an educator keeps the passion alive

If you’ve ever felt invisible, exhausted, or questioning your future in early childhood education, this episode is your pep talk and action plan rolled into one. Let’s reignite that spark together!

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In this enlightening episode of The Inspiring ECE Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Elizabeth DeWitt, Senior Adoptions & Curriculum Specialist at Learning Without Tears, to explore how multisensory instruction can transform the way children learn and grow. Dr. DeWitt shares practical strategies for integrating touch, movement, music, and more into daily lessons—helping young learners strengthen critical thinking, creativity, and social-emotional skills. We also discuss how to identify student strengths and needs, involve parents in the learning process, and use purposeful play to build a solid foundation for future success.

If you’re looking for engaging, research-backed methods to bring more joy and effectiveness into your classroom, this episode is a must-listen.

• Defining Multisensory Instruction Dr. DeWitt explains the importance of engaging sight, sound, touch, and movement to enhance learning and retention.

• Real-Life Classroom Examples Discover simple, practical ways to embed multisensory moments—such as counting goldfish or mixing formula scoops—into daily routines.

• Identifying Strengths & Needs Learn about the assessments and observations that help educators pinpoint individual learning gaps and address them early.

• Fostering Critical Thinking & Creativity Hear how inviting curiosity and exploration lays the groundwork for deeper understanding and problem-solving.

• Parent-Teacher Collaboration Why modeling behaviors, sharing strategies, and inviting parents into the learning process boosts children’s development.

• Learning Without Tears Resources Explore programs like Get Set for School, Handwriting Without Tears, Keyboarding Without Tears, and Phonics, Reading, and Me.

• Website: www.lwtears.com

• Email: elizabeth.dewitt@lwtears.com

In this episode, host Marcia Nicole dives into one of the most debated issues in early childhood education: using personal devices on the job. She examines both sides—from the convenience of quick communication and handy apps to the pitfalls of distraction and privacy concerns. Marcia also shares tips on setting balanced policies that respect educators’ professional roles while acknowledging their real-life needs. Whether you’re a seasoned ECE professional or just starting out, this conversation helps you navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape in a way that keeps children’s best interests front and center.

• Why It Matters: Personal device use in childcare settings can impact safety, supervision, and the overall classroom environment.

• Pros & Cons: Phones can help with emergency calls, music, or documentation but can also become a distraction if not used responsibly.

• Possible Solutions: Consider policies that allow device use for valid work reasons, designate phone-free zones, or implement work-issued devices to reduce personal phone dependence.

• Balancing Compassion & Professionalism: Respect staff by explaining policy rationales, offering flexibility for real emergencies, and leading by example from the top.

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If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a fellow educator or friend. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the show—it helps us reach more people passionate about early childhood education!

This episode is a special one. I had the honor of sitting down with members of the Association of Early Childhood Educators of Ontario (AECEO)—an organization at the forefront of advocacy for ECE professionals. Their work is dedicated to empowering educators, pushing for systemic change, and ensuring that the voices of early childhood professionals are heard where it matters most.

Together, we explore: 🔹 The power of advocacy—why it’s more than protests and petitions, and how it starts with everyday conversations. 🔹 The real challenges facing ECEs—from wages and working conditions to professional recognition and sustainability. 🔹 How educators can create change—practical steps to step into advocacy and make an impact. 🔹 The AECEO’s role—how this organization is shaping policy, supporting ECEs, and building strong professional communities.

This conversation is inspiring, eye-opening, and essential for anyone passionate about early childhood education. Advocacy isn’t just for a select few—it’s something we can all be part of in our own way. If you’ve ever felt unsure about where to start, this episode will give you the motivation and tools to step into your voice.

🎧 Listen now—because our profession deserves to be seen, valued, and supported.

Guest Links:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_aeceo/

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AECEOntario/

• Email: : info@aeceo.ca

• Website: https://www.aeceo.ca/

Guest bio: The Association of Early Childhood Educators Ontario (AECEO) is the professional association for ECEs in Ontario. Our mission is to build and support a strong collective voice for ECEs so they can participate in and influence positive change that benefits children, families, communities, and ECEs. We advocate for respect, recognition, professional pay, and decent working conditions for all members of the early years workforce, while prioritizing the well-being of all early years professionals as the foundation for quality early learning and care.

Episode description

Are you feeling the weight of job insecurities, endless winter darkness, and the constant flood of negative news? In this candid episode, host Marcia Nicole shares practical ways to protect your emotional well-being—without pretending everything’s sunshine and rainbows. Tune in to discover how to recognize your own emotional toll, limit toxic input (hello, social media scroll!), and find pockets of self-care in everyday tasks (yes, even shoveling snow!). If you’re an educator struggling to keep your head above water, this conversation is here to remind you that you’re resilient, resourceful, and never alone on this journey.

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In this episode of The Inspiring ECE Podcast, we’re thrilled to welcome Kerry Drake, founder of KD Talks, an inspiring thought leader in early childhood education. With over 18 years of experience, Kerry is passionate about creating inclusive, equitable spaces and empowering educators to become reflective practitioners and compassionate leaders.

Join us as we dive deep into the vital role of mentorship in the field of early childhood education. We explore how mentorship shapes the profession, the qualities of a great mentor, and the journey from mentee to mentor. Whether you’re a veteran educator, a new graduate, or somewhere in between, this conversation is packed with insights, advice, and inspiration.

Tune in to learn how mentorship can elevate both mentors and mentees, build stronger teams, and shape the future of early childhood education.

Kerry Drake is the founder of KD Talks, a company dedicated to professional learning for educators. She is a Registered Early Childhood Educator, a Post-Secondary Professor, and holds a Master of Education in Curriculum Studies and Leadership. With over 18 years of experience spanning front-line education and post-secondary teaching, Kerry is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity, and reflective practice in education. She has inspired over 500 educators to become lifelong learners and compassionate leaders.

What We Discuss:

1. Kerry’s Journey: How her passion for early childhood education began and evolved into mentoring and professional speaking.

2. Mentorship and ECE:

   • The role of mentorship in supporting educators and shaping the field.

   • Qualities that make a great mentor.

   • The challenges and rewards of being a mentor.

3. Advice for Mentees: How mentees can foster strong mentor-mentee relationships.

4. Supporting Veteran Educators: Strategies to help experienced educators reignite their passion for mentorship.

5. The Future of ECE: Why mentorship is essential for the growth and sustainability of the profession.

Guest Links:

• Website: www.kdtalks.ca
• Instagram: @‌kdtalks0

Stay Connected:

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This podcast was born out of a deep passion for celebrating and uplifting early childhood educators, leaders, and everyone who supports early learning.

In this kickoff episode, I’m taking a moment to reflect on our journey together, share why I started this podcast, and—most importantly—express my heartfelt gratitude to YOU. Whether you’ve been here since Season One or are just joining us now, this community wouldn’t be the same without your support, dedication, and belief in the transformative power of early childhood education.

Join me as we celebrate the incredible work educators do every day, look ahead to an inspiring season of growth and innovation, and discuss how mentorship, wellness, and positivity can help us all thrive.

Stay Connected:

• Join our Facebook https://www.facebook.com/share/UQ7P8V4vTJTvrmiz/ to connect with other fabulous educators.

• Follow our Instagram: instagram.com/ispyrtoeducate/

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• Subscribe to our Newsletter: Join Our Newsletter