Podcast
Quest for Quality Podcast
Hosted by Community Connections for Children · EN
Listen along for bite-sized insights surrounding quality program practices. Led by the dedicated STARS Coaches from Community Connections for Children, serving ELRC Regions 8, 9, & 10, this podcast is your go-to source for early learning and child development information and resources.
11episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
48: An Introduction to Risky Play in ECE
1w ago00:15:19Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we explore the benefits of risky play and why opportunities for challenge, exploration, and manageable risk are so important for children’s development and regulation of their nervous systems. We discuss the six elements of risky play, simple ways to begin incorporating risky play in an ECE classroom, and practical tools to support implementation. This conversation is led by two of our STARS coaches after completing the Embracing Risky Play course through Canada's Outdoor Learning School and Store and facilitating a provider community of practice focused on risky play. Be sure to check out this Benefit Risk Assessment template to help you get started, or reach out to Rhea Simmons (Quality Coach), Barb Green (Start-Up Coach), or Elizabeth Marcello (Outdoor Learning Coach) for support.
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47: Making A Safe Place
3w ago00:15:39Tap to summarizeThinking about creating a Conscious Discipline Safe Place in your classroom—or refreshing the one you already have? This episode explores why Safe Places matter, what to include, and how to use them effectively to support emotional regulation, connection, and learning in the classroom.
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46: Creating a Culture of Connection
Apr 2800:14:43Tap to summarizeIn early childhood education, we know relationships are the heart of children’s learning—but what about the relationships between leaders and teachers? In this episode, we explore how strong connections with staff are just as essential as those with children. Through practical strategies and reflective insights, we look at how directors can build trust, encourage positive noticing among colleagues, and create a culture where educators feel supported, valued, and inspired in their work.
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45: The Creative Mindset
Apr 1400:28:45Tap to summarizeCreativity isn’t just about art projects or painting a picture—it’s a way of thinking. In this episode, we explore creativity as a mindset that fuels problem-solving, innovation, and deeper learning for both children and adults. We discuss how program culture can either spark or stifle creative thinking, why creativity tends to fade as we grow older, and what leaders and educators can do to keep that spark alive. Through reflection and practical strategies, we look at how to build environments where curiosity thrives, ideas are welcomed, and children are encouraged to think boldly and creatively every day.
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45: Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI)
Mar 3100:24:56Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Jenn walks listeners through how Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) connects to the 2023 STARS standards. She explains which indicators —require programs to use data, set measurable goals, involve staff, and review progress each year. Using a real CQI planning form, Jenn shows how feedback from Program Observation Instruments, family surveys, staff development plans, and other program self-assessments can be turned into meaningful goals that strengthen childcare programs. Whether you’re a director, teacher, or administrator working within childcare through OCDEL, this episode offers practical guidance for turning STARS requirements into a clear, doable annual CQI plan that supports staff, families, and children.Resources:CQI Goal SheetCQI Review Sheet
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44: Leading Your Legacy
Mar 1700:06:42Tap to summarizeLeadership legacy in early childhood isn’t about titles or tenure. It’s about people. In this episode, we reflect on Andy Stanley’s Leadercast 2025 message and explore how the everyday choices we make as early childhood leaders shape what and who we leave behind. Join Jenn Wertz as she dives into this topic. What will you leave behind?
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43: Potty Training
Mar 300:27:03Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Potty Train with Confidence: Supporting Readiness and Routine in the Classroom, we’re joined by Eryn Panko, CCC’s Health and Wellness Coach, for a practical and encouraging conversation on supporting potty training in early care settings. Together, we explore how tuning into each child’s cues, fostering open communication between families and educators, and maintaining strong hygiene practices can create a smoother, more respectful potty training experience for everyone involved. Whether you're in the classroom, leading a program, or a parent or family member of a potty training child, this episode offers supportive insights to help you approach potty training with clarity and confidence.
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42: Dealing with Energy Vampires? Bless their Heart
Feb 1800:22:48Tap to summarizeHave you ever left a conversation with someone and felt completely exhausted or drained? Maybe they overshared about their personal life or there just always seems to be some type of drama in their life. Well, if you’ve ever experienced that, you likely have been bitten by an energy vampire. Weaving in Conscious Discipline strategies including the “7 powers for conscious adults”, this episode discusses energy vampires, what they are, if you’ve ever been impacted by one, and how to handle it with empathy and love.
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41: You Matter Too (a 5 minute reset for teachers)
Feb 300:07:05Tap to summarizeEarly 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.
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40: Understanding STARS & the Supports Behind Quality
Jan 2000:09:43Tap to summarizeCurious 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.
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