Leading the Way: Building Trust and Inspiring Teams
Release Date: 05/20/2025
Respect the Role: Shifting How We Show Up in Early Ed
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
Why is it so hard for early educators—especially those working with infants and toddlers—to be seen and respected as professionals? Despite the critical brain development that happens in the first three years of life, those doing this essential work are often undervalued and underpaid. In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Ty, The Childcare Whisperer, to unpack the behaviors, habits, and program-level decisions that unintentionally reinforce the "babysitter" stereotype. Together, we explore how early childhood professionals can take ownership of their role, shift the culture within their...
info_outline
Educational Media: How APT Supports Early Learning at Home and in the Classroom
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
In this special episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we’re discussing the pivotal role of educational media in fostering early childhood development. Joined by Tiffany Armstrong, Director of Early Childhood Education at Alabama Public Television (APT), and other APT professionals, we’ll explore the array of resources and programs APT offers to support both parents and educators. From PBS KIDS programming to professional development courses, discover how APT is enhancing learning experiences for young children across Alabama. Key Takeaways for Listeners: Educational media, when...
info_outline
Leading the Way: Building Trust and Inspiring Teams
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
In this episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, host Jessica Stinson sits down with Robert Johnson—author of Navigating Organizational Leadership—and special guest Desiree Keith to talk about what it really means to lead in early childhood education. Whether you’re managing a large Head Start program or leading a small child care team, this conversation dives into what it takes to lead with trust, vision, and integrity. Drawing on Robert’s 20 years in the U.S. Navy and decades of experience mentoring leaders, we explore the powerful lessons that translate directly into early learning...
info_outline
Tackling Transitions with Toddlers
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
Transitions can be some of the most challenging moments in a toddler’s day—both at home and in early learning programs. Moving from one activity to another, whether it's getting dressed, leaving the house, cleaning up, or transitioning to circle time, can often lead to frustration and challenging behaviors for both toddlers and caregivers. In this episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we’re sharing developmentally appropriate strategies for making transitions smoother and less stressful for toddlers in both home and classroom settings. We’ll explore why transitions are...
info_outline
Quality Counts: How QRIS Supports Continuous Improvement in Early Learning
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
In this episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we explore how Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS) help child care providers elevate their programs and enhance outcomes for young children. QRIS frameworks offer a structured approach to training, coaching, and accessing resources that support continuous improvement in early learning settings. Joining us are Kellie Holcombe and Symone Mixon from Alabama Quality STARS, Alabama’s QRIS program, to discuss how quality rating systems benefit educators, families, and communities. We’ll break down how QRIS works, why participation...
info_outline
Noticing, Naming and Navigating Emotions
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
Children often have BIG emotions—both positive and negative—and learning to recognize, name, and manage these feelings is essential for their social and emotional development. In this episode, we welcome Sandy Resa and Michelle Denney from the Truman Pierce Institute to discuss practical strategies for helping young children navigate their emotions. They’ll share insights from their educator training, offering guidance on how early childhood professionals can create emotionally responsive environments, support emotional check-ins, and validate children's experiences. Join us for this...
info_outline
Safe Screens and Sound Minds
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
In this episode, we explore the digital landscape with a focus on wellness and protection. Join us as we chat with Amanda Lightsey from Children's Trust Fund and her colleague about the new initiative, Safe Screens and Sound Minds. This engaging conversation will delve into strategies for promoting internet safety and supporting mental health for youth, parents, and educators alike. Drawing from their training class—designed to equip early educators with the tools needed to lead Safe and Sound workshops—our guests share insights on creating balanced digital environments and fostering...
info_outline
Collaborating with Families to Support Children with Autism
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
In this episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we explore the importance of collaboration between educators and families to support children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Dr. Tricia Shelton, an early childhood education expert, published author, mother and autism consultant, shares insights from both her professional experience and personal journey as a parent. Listeners will gain practical strategies for building strong family-educator partnerships, overcoming common challenges, and creating inclusive learning environments that help children with ASD thrive. The Power of...
info_outline
Building Better Programs in 2025
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
In this insightful episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we’re joined by Dr. Calvin E. Moore, Jr. and Dawn Owens to reflect on the key lessons learned in early childhood education throughout 2024 and look ahead to what’s on the horizon for 2025. Together, we’ll dive into the challenges, trends, and opportunities shaping the future of early learning programs and discuss actionable strategies for success in the coming year. Key Topics Covered: Lessons from 2024: What worked, what didn’t, and how we can grow. Anticipated changes in 2025 and how programs can stay prepared. ...
info_outline
How to Harness the Holiday Spirit to Build Connections
Tiny Talks on Early Learning
In this festive episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, we explore how the holiday season can be a powerful tool for building connections and creating a warm, inclusive environment in early childhood settings. Erica Law, a GRECS Head Start Education Coach, shares insights on how to cultivate a sense of community among families and staff, shaping a positive workplace culture that resonates year-round. From fun, strategic ways to celebrate with children and families to fostering collaboration and morale among colleagues, this episode will inspire early childhood leaders to capitalize on the...
info_outlineIn this episode of Tiny Talks on Early Learning, host Jessica Stinson sits down with Robert Johnson—author of Navigating Organizational Leadership—and special guest Desiree Keith to talk about what it really means to lead in early childhood education. Whether you’re managing a large Head Start program or leading a small child care team, this conversation dives into what it takes to lead with trust, vision, and integrity.
Drawing on Robert’s 20 years in the U.S. Navy and decades of experience mentoring leaders, we explore the powerful lessons that translate directly into early learning settings—from building healthy team culture and navigating change to the value of active listening and managing through crisis. Plus, Desiree shares firsthand insights from the classroom and leadership roles that highlight how trust, communication, and collaboration shape the future of our youngest learners.
-
Trust is the foundation: Whether in military units or preschool classrooms, trust is the cornerstone of effective leadership.
-
Leadership ≠ Management: Vision and mentoring are central to leadership, while management focuses on structure and systems—both are necessary and must coexist.
-
Leaders set the tone: Modeling calm, collaborative, and respectful behavior during high-stress moments shows others how to lead with confidence.
-
Team culture drives outcomes: Children thrive when staff feel valued, supported, and aligned with the program’s mission and vision.
-
Be a lifelong learner: The best leaders remain curious, humble, and open to learning from everyone—including the children they serve.
Grab your copy of Robert Johnson’s Navigating Organizational Leadership
Subscribe to Tiny Talks on Early Learning so you never miss an episode.
Let us know: How are you building trust and inspiring your team this year? Share your story on social and tag us!