Tiny Hands, Big Skills: Fine Motor Foundations for Early Childhood
Release Date: 01/07/2025
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Beyond the Classroom: The Power of Outdoor Education
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Episode Summary: In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we welcome Dr. Rachel Larimore, an expert in nature-based early childhood education. Dr. Larimore shares her insights on why outdoor learning is essential for young children, how educators and caregivers can integrate nature into daily routines, and the long-term benefits of connecting children with the natural world. Key Topics Discussed: The definition of nature-based early childhood education and how it differs from traditional approaches. The benefits of outdoor learning, including cognitive, social-emotional, and physical...
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In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we welcome Dr. Angela Searcy for a deep dive into navigating difficult conversations in early childhood education. Following her recent EdWeb webinar, Pushing Past Conflicts With Adults: Navigating Uncomfortable Conversations in Early Childhood, Dr. Searcy joins the podcast to address lingering questions and expand on key strategies for managing challenging discussions with administrators, colleagues, and parents. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ How to communicate effectively with administrators who may not be receptive to new ideas....
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Do It Scared: How Educators Can Foster True Equity
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In this thought-provoking episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we sit down with Dr. Tameka Ardrey and Dr. Ebonyse Mead, co-authors of , along with Gryphon House President Dr. Rebecca Berlin. Together, they delve into the challenges and opportunities of fostering equity in early childhood education, particularly in today’s complex political climate. The conversation explores the distinction between equity and equality, the importance of culturally responsive teaching, and how discipline policies disproportionately impact marginalized children. Dr. Mead and Dr. Ardrey offer actionable...
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Reclaiming Childhood: Why Play Matters in Early Education
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we sit down with early childhood expert, author, and speaker to explore the importance of play-based learning and why reclaiming childhood is more urgent than ever. Kathy shares insights from her decades of experience working with young children, writing books, and developing curricula that prioritize sensory-rich, hands-on experiences. She discusses the dangers of pushing academic expectations too early, how play supports brain development, social-emotional skills, and creativity, and what parents and educators can do to foster a true love of...
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Early Childhood Chapters
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Tiny Hands, Big Skills: Fine Motor Foundations for Early Childhood
Early Childhood Chapters
In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we sit down with Keriann Wilmot, an occupational therapist, author, and toy expert affectionately known as "The Toy Queen." Keriann shares her insights on the importance of fine motor development in young children and offers practical advice for parents, educators, and caregivers. The conversation dives into Keriann's book, (published by ), exploring the role of toys, play-based learning, and sensory activities in fostering foundational motor skills. The episode also addresses the impact of increased screen time on childhood development, how...
info_outlineIn this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, we sit down with Keriann Wilmot, an occupational therapist, author, and toy expert affectionately known as "The Toy Queen." Keriann shares her insights on the importance of fine motor development in young children and offers practical advice for parents, educators, and caregivers.
The conversation dives into Keriann's book, Fine Motor Foundations: Tools and Techniques for Tiny Hands (published by Gryphon House Books), exploring the role of toys, play-based learning, and sensory activities in fostering foundational motor skills. The episode also addresses the impact of increased screen time on childhood development, how parents can use everyday household items to create meaningful learning experiences, and advice if you think your child needs help.
Whether you're a parent looking for ideas to help your child succeed or an educator wanting to better understand the developmental milestones of fine motor skills, this episode is packed with expert advice and actionable tips.
Highlights:
- What are fine motor skills and why are they crucial in early childhood?
- The developmental window for fine motor skills and its long-term impact.
- The role of tummy time and core strength in building motor abilities.
- How pencil grip and handwriting skills evolve over time.
- The impact of screen-based play on fine motor development.
- Practical, low-cost play ideas using everyday household items.
- How to identify and address developmental delays in fine motor skills.
- The importance of thoughtful, play-based opportunities in early education.
- Insights into the toy industry and recommendations for educational toys.
Keriann Wilmot, also known as "The Toy Queen," is an experienced occupational therapist and toy expert who specializes in fine motor development. She has spent decades working with children and collaborating with the toy industry to identify tools that promote learning through play. Keriann is the author of Fine Motor Foundations: Tools and Techniques for Tiny Hands, a comprehensive guide for parents and educators, as well as Wired Differently: A Teacher's Guide to Understanding Sensory Processing Challenges."