Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV
Get ready to take your parenting skills to the next level with "Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV"! Join the passionate and experienced staff as they dive deep into all things parenting, offering expert advice, helpful tips, and valuable insights.
Whether you're a parent looking for guidance on how to navigate the ups and downs of raising a child, or an early childhood education professional seeking resources and support, "The Early Learning Ventures" has got you covered. With engaging discussions and interviews, this podcast will help you stay on top of the latest trends and research in the field of early childhood development.
Each episode is packed with practical tips and tricks for everything from potty training to preparing your child for kindergarten, as well as valuable resources and advice for ECE professionals. And with a community of like-minded listeners, you'll have the opportunity to connect and share your own experiences with others who are just as passionate about early childhood education as you are.
So whether you're a parent, teacher, or caregiver, join "Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV" and discover a world of knowledge and support for all your parenting needs. Tune in on your favorite podcast app and start your parenting journey today!
Life with young children can feel busy, overwhelming, and sometimes just plain complicated. In honor of National Simplify Your Life Week, this episode of Family Engagement Fridays encourages parents to take a step back and focus on what matters most. We’ll talk about letting go of the pressure to do it all, finding simple ways continue reading
In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, Laura Vega Flores, Early Learning Ventures’ Early Intervention Manager, shares her personal experience as the parent of a child with autism and the journey of helping her son develop self-advocacy skills. Laura discusses the importance of advocating for your child while also modeling and gradually teaching them how continue reading
July is Anti-Boredom Month, but what if boredom isn’t actually a bad thing? In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we explore how unstructured play helps young children develop creativity, independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence. Parents often feel pressure to keep children constantly entertained, but sometimes the best learning happens when children are given the continue reading
In this episode, Michelle Gilman, Speech-Language Pathologist with Early Intervention Colorado, discusses the importance of Disability Awareness and how greater understanding can strengthen families, schools, and communities. Michelle shares practical ways to recognize and appreciate individual differences, communicate with respect, and support people with disabilities in everyday interaction Listen Now Follow us on social media
continue readingIn this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we welcome Lucy Soffer from Parent Possible, a Colorado organization dedicated to helping parents access the tools, resources, and support they need to help their children thrive. Lucy joins us to talk about Vroom, a free app that helps parents turn everyday moments into meaningful learning opportunities for young continue reading
In this episode, Julie Mendenhall explores the concept of helicopter parenting—what it means, how to recognize the signs, and the impact it can have on children’s growth and development. Julie discusses practical ways parents can step back while still providing support, helping children build independence, confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. Tune in to learn how continue reading
As Colorado communities navigate wildfire conditions, poor air quality, and changing holiday celebrations, families may be wondering how to celebrate the Fourth of July safely with infants and toddlers. In this special episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we share practical tips for enjoying the holiday while keeping young children safe. Learn how to manage wildfire continue reading
80. They Aren't Your Grandfather's Libraries Anymore
his week, we are thrilled to have Cynthia Kiyotake, Associate Director of Library Operations, and Andy Gallegos, Supervisor of Early Childhood Literacy Services from Arapahoe Libraries, join us to share how today’s libraries have so much more than books!
Tune in to discover:
Surprising things you might find in libraries today
The wide range of services libraries offer for families with young children
Valuable resources available for early childhood educators
Don’t miss this conversation packed with insights on the vital role libraries play in our communities. Listen now! 
79. Beyond "No, Stop, and Don't"
Join us for valuable insights that can help you foster more positive and supportive relationships with the children in your life.
In this episode, Kim Self from Mesa County’s STRiVE shares 3 practical positive behavior strategies to support better interactions between caregivers. These strategies are effective for both younger and older children, helping to reduce the reliance on phrases like “No, Stop, don’t.”
Tune in to learn:
- How to encourage positive behavior in children of all ages
- Techniques to improve communication and minimize negative language
- Real-life examples and tips from parents and providers
78. The Importance of Screenings: Senna and Shayla's Story
In this episode, Jenn sits down with Shayla, a parent and teacher from The Caterpillar Clubhouse, one of our child care partnership Family Child Care Homes, to discuss the importance of screenings in early childhood education.
Shayla shares her unique perspective on screenings, both as a parent and a teacher. She recounts her personal experiences, including a powerful story about her own child’s screening and how early detection can make a significant difference. Jenn and Shayla also discuss the critical role screenings play in identifying potential issues early and ensuring every child receives the support they need.
77. Lead Poisoning isn't a thing of the Past
In honor of National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week, Jennifer García Rosendo is joined by Megan Snow from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. Together, they explore the topic of lead poisoning, discussing its dangers and sharing essential prevention strategies.
Tune in to learn:
- The health risks associated with lead exposure
- Practical tips for preventing lead poisoning in your home and community
- Resources and support available for those affected
Don’t miss this important conversation aimed at keeping you and your loved ones safe. Listen now!
76. Colorado's 2024 Ballot
We’re releasing this episode just in time, before the ballot boxes open on Monday, October 21st to help you stay informed and make your vote count!
Join us for an insightful conversation with Monica Dewitt from the Community Resource Center as we dive into Colorado’s 2024 Ballot. In this episode, we break down two key ballot measures from both sides of the discussion, and what they mean for the community. Monica also shares valuable resources on where to find more information about the other measures on the ballot.
75. Should I Force My Child to Apologize
Julie Mendenhall is back joined by Colleen Roahrig for a deep dive into a topic every caregiver needs to hear: “Forced Apologies: Do they work?”
In this eye-opening episode, Julie and Colleen explore the hidden pitfalls of making children say “sorry” and how it can backfire, leading to insincere apologies and missed opportunities for genuine learning.
74. Double Up Food Bucks
Jennifer Garcia Rosendo talks to Caitlin Stuart from Nourish Colorado, an organization in Colorado that works make nutritious food access the norm. Today we talk about a resource for SNAP recipients called Double Up Food Bucks and how to use them.
73. Punishment vs Discipline
Colleen Roahrig speaks with Julie Mendenhall who is a wife, mother, grandmother, author, musician and educator. Julie has been in the education field for over 40 years. As a teacher and a counselor Julie has worked with children individually, in groups, and with whole classrooms presenting social skills lessons. Julie has worked closely with parents and has facilitated parenting classes.
72. The Importance of Voting
It’s a presidential election year. Jennifer Garcia Rosendo sits down to talk to Monica DeWitt of the Community Resource Center Participation Project which offers nonpartisan voter engagement. Listen to hear more about the importance of voting.
71. Colorado Housing Connects
Colleen Roahrig interviews Pat Noonan about the many resources that Colorado Housing Connects offers. A call to Colorado Housing Connects helps renters reach critical eviction prevention services while also helping homeowners find a HUD-approved housing counseling agency for foreclosure prevention, answering all sorts of housing questions in between.
70. Formula Feeding
On this episode, Jennifer Garcia Rosendo talks to Arapahoe County WIC Supervisor Grace Perez about all the important things to know about Formula Feeding. Fed is best!
69. Coffee and Crumbs with First Time Working Mums
Five Early Learning Venture first time moms will discuss what it is like to be a mom, their experiences, successes and challenges.
68. What is a Healthy Beverage?
Jennifer García Rosendo talks to Arapahoe County Public Health about their Healthy Beverages Program. Joining us today is Hannah Oshner an Arapahoe County Public Health Registered Dietician, Lactation Counselor, and WIC Supervisor and Leslie Levine, Arapahoe County Public Health’s Senior Community Health Promotion Specialist. In today’s episode we talk about sugary drinks, the impact on health and alternatives.
67. Families finding Childcare
Coleen Roahrig interviews Daisy Thomson from Mesa County Partnership for Children and Families. They discuss tips to use when when searching for childcare and questions families should ask.
66. Text2LiveHealthy
Jennifer García Rosendo talks to Beth Watts, Ashley Hurst, and Rosy Balleza, from School of Public Health at CU- Anchutz School and Community Wellness program. We talk about how to get children eating and moving more healthily. We also learn about Text 2 Live Healthy a FREE program with resources for SNAP recipients.
This project was funded by USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program in collaboration with Colorado Department of Human Services, the state agency for SNAP-Ed administration.
65. 211 Colorado-Resources for Families- Mile High United Way
Join us to learn about 211 Colorado, a statewide program connecting people with resources in their community, including food pantries, rent/utility assistance, transportation, and more!
64. April Loose Parts
Vail Shoultz-McCole continues her discussion about loose parts and how they can be a part of children’s learning without spending lots of money on toys. Vail also shared some history of loose parts and books that showcase the use of loose parts. Some of the below books may be available at your local library.
63. Peak Parent Center
On this episode, Jennifer Garcia Rosendo speaks with Sherrell Bethel from about the wonderful things PEAK does in the community. Peak Parent Center improves the lives of families of children with disabilities by walking with them and guiding them through challenges they face when they try to access education and community services.
62. Gardening with Children
This week we chat with our very own Sue Kansteiner. Sue is a Early Learning Ventures Child Care Partnership Specialist. Spring is upon us and we thought this would be a fantastic opportunity to discuss how to get your children involved in gardening.
61. Autism awareness and Knowledge
In this conversation, Lisa Rodriguez defines Autism and shares the signs and symptoms of Autism. She discusses what parents can do at home to support their child and the diagnose process.
60. Art and the Young Mind
In this conversation Paris Baker, the Family and Early Childhood Manager at the Clyfford Still Museum talks about their program offerings and their mission to make art more accessible to young families. They have programs for infants (Art Crawl), for children from 15 months to eight years old (Maker Mornings) and for school agers (Free inStill). The inStill experiences are at the museum and virtual experiences. Visit the website for more information.
www.Clyffordstillmuseum.org
59. Advocating for your Child with Special Needs
In this conversation Jennifer speaks to Laura Vega Flores, ELVs Early Intervention Coordinator about how best to advocate for your child with special needs. Your child has rights and so do you!
Resources: Peak Parent Center: www.peakparent.org
58. It takes a village, but where is mine?
Description: Jennifer and Colleen talk about Strengthening Families’ key protective factor: Social Connections. Why is this important and how do I know who my village is?
57. Fun with Loose Parts- Part 3
In this final session (for now) Colleen continues her conversation with Vail Shoultz-McCole, MA Ed ECE, MA Ed who is discussing how to find “loose parts” around the house and outdoors for children to play with and learn
56. Fun with Loose Parts- Part 2
In this podcast Colleen Roahrig speaks to Vail Shoultz-McCole, MA Ed ECE, MA Ed who is discussing how to find “loose parts” around the house and outdoors for children to play with and learn
55. Fun with Loose Parts- (Part 1)
In this podcast Colleen Roahrig speaks to Vail Shoultz-McCole, MA Ed ECE, MA Ed who is discussing how to find “loose parts” around the house and outdoors for children to play with and learn.
54. My Friend Ben
In this conversation, Jennifer García Rosendo speaks to Elise Henson from My Friend Ben. My Friend Ben is a FREE tool that will tell you what benefits and tax credits you’re eligible to receive, the time it will take you to apply and the estimated cash value of the benefits and tax credits.
www.myfriendben.org
53. Postpartum Depression
Trigger Warning: In this podcast Colleen Roahrig speaks to Liz Kregar, LCSW and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant for Mind Springs in Grand Junction, CO regarding Postpartum depression. Liz talks about possible symptoms that may present following the birth of a baby and who could be impacted and when to seek support.
52. When Children Fight
In this conversation Colleen Roahrig speaks to Liz Kregar, LCSW and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant for Mind Springs in Grand Junction, CO. Learn ways to help your verbal and non –verbal children to address behavior challenges and disputes with other children. Help to teach your children empathy for others.
51. Build a relationship with your child's early childhood caregiver and educator
In this conversation Colleen Roahrig speaks to Liz Kregar, LCSW and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant for Mind Springs in Grand Junction, CO. Learn ways to communicate with your child’s caregiver on an ongoing basis to best support you and your child.
Circleofsecurityinternational.com
50. Wee Cycle
Description: In this conversation, Sue Kansteiner speaks with Morgan from Wee cycle. She speaks about their mission which is to recycle essential baby gear and match it to Colorado families in need.
49. Hands of the Carpenter
In this conversation, Sue Kansteiner speaks with Crystal Huntington about how Hands of the Carpenter supports single women with dependent children by providing automobile services which can include vehicle placement, vehicle education, vehicle maintenance and repairs.
48. Vision in Early Childhood Years
Tammy Miller, MA. Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments, Director of Children’s Programs and Services at Anchor Center for Blind Children in Denver will discuss the importance of vision. Additionally, she will describe how vision problems are detected, the most common vision problems in children and what parents/teachers can watch for. Early detection and diagnosing are KEY.
For more information you can contact Tammy Miller at tmiller@anchorcenter.org
47. Recycling is for Everyone
In this conversation, Sue Kansteiner speaks to Dianna Croce to learn ways to recycle with your children and your whole family. She speaks about how recycling can include paper, cardboard, glass, etc. We can take our used items to thrift stores and buy items from thrift stores. We can take old blankets to animal shelters, etc. You can contact Dianna Croce <DCroce@parkerpch.com and check out these websites for more ideas: freecycle.org, earth911.com.
46. New Year, New Money Habits
Jennifer Garcia Rosendo talks with Joe’Mar Hooper Hooper from . 3rd Decade provides financial education for young adults and strives to help individuals overcome prevalent financial literacy problems. In this conversation, we will chat about what 3rd Decade is, and how to access it.
45. My family's journey to a Toxic Free Home
Sue Kansteiner has a discussion with Alisha Mullins, an Early Learning Ventures Childcare Partnership Specialist, mother and grandmother about using less toxins in her home and everyday life as a way to improve her family’s health.
44. Importance of Early Intervention
In this podcast episode, Jennifer Garcia Rosendo speaks to Early Learning Ventures Disabilities Coordinator, Laura Vega Flores to find out why Early Intervention is so important.
43. WIC- Women's, Infants and Children
Learn more about the WIC Program (Women, Infants, and Children). WIC can change the lives of families through nutrition education, breastfeeding and formula feeding support, and helping your budget by providing nutritious foods. Moms, dads, foster families, and caregivers can see if they qualify and learn more by going to coloradowic.com
42. Math Everyday
Jennifer Garcia Rosendo talks with Lora Stanfield Rohlman a Program Manager at Early Childhood Network in Garfield County about how to incorporate math activities everyday with your children.
