This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Matt Barnes, who works to help parents defend their children from hidden threats that are unique to the 21st century. In this episode, Matt uncovers three of those threats.Matt also discusses the challenges faced by students in the education system and the importance of empowering parents to take ownership of their children's education. He highlights the impact of technology and AI on children and emphasizes the need for a more flexible and relevant education system. Matt addresses the growing issue of youth loneliness and advises parents and educators on how to support authentic learning and address mental health concerns. He even shares his vision for the future of education and the importance of continuous learning and growth.Episode 40 also explores: 🔥 the importance of critical thinking and self-leadership in nurturing the next generation🔥 the specific educational barriers faced by black boys🔥 how we can overturn a system that too often leaves black youth behind🔥 and so much more!KEY TAKEAWAYS:🔑  The education system needs to adapt to the changing needs of students and provide more flexibility and relevance.🔑  Technology and AI can have both positive and negative impacts on children, and parents need to be aware of the potential dangers.🔑  Youth loneliness is a growing concern we need to address by fostering meaningful connections and relationships.ABOUT THE GUEST:Matt is the husband of one wife, three kids, and a rescue dog. Over the last 25 years, Matt has run an $18m hospital department, distributed $500m in philanthropy, led an education reform nonprofit, served on 10 educational boards, including a public and private college, started three companies, and has coached thousands of parents on how to grow learners in the 21st century. Matt's current project is an employee-owned bread company with formerly homeless residents at a local group home in Houston, Texas. Matt sits on several boards and is an Elder in his church.LINKS: 🔗 Subscribe to Matt's YouTube channel🔗 Follow Matt on LinkedIn🔗 Got a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Mike Oliver, the progressive principal of Mountain View High School in Mesa, Arizona, about the components of an ideal educational opportunity for students. Mike, driven by the profound belief in doing what's best for kids, was also the founding principal of Zaharis Elementary School, recognized as one of the “25 most innovative, inspiring and coolest schools in America." Episode 39 also explores: 🔥 the importance of disrupting culture-bound biases and embracing diversity in education🔥 the power of book clubs🔥 the benefits of co-creating and constructivist learning🔥 the challenges of transitioning to a new learning paradigm🔥 and so much more!This episode covers Mike's story and how it fits into the larger movement toward creating learning environments that foster purpose, real-world connections, and the joy of discovery. You don't want to miss it!KEY TAKEAWAYS:🔑 Redesigning the education system requires a shift in teaching and learning methods.🔑 Building relationships and creating joyful learning experiences are key to student success.🔑 Standardized tests and grades should be reevaluated as measures of success.Got a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Olivia Nannono, the executive director of Enhance Humanity Uganda, about the challenges communities in Uganda face when it comes to accessing education and what her organization is doing about it. During the episode, you'll hear about the amazing work Enhance Humanity Uganda is doing to develop self-reliance and break cycles of dependency across Ugandan communities. You'll also learn about the importance of unconditional love and attachment in helping children thrive, the need for parent education to create safe and nurturing homes, and the significance of English literacy in Uganda.Episode 38 also explores: 🔥 the role of learning centers in providing a safe space for children🔥 Olivia's journey of establishing the learning center🔥 the materials and opportunities available at the center, including teaching English and computer skills🔥 the need for partnerships and support to make the program sustainable🔥 the challenges and strategies of teaching kids with different educational backgrounds🔥 the power of literacy and learning🔥 and so much more!This episode is a heartfelt reminder of the remarkable changes that occur when children receive the love and support they deserve. You don't want to miss it! ABOUT THE GUEST:Olivia Nannono holds a diploma in law and is trained in leadership, counseling, and guidance. After her Diploma in law, Olivia joined an organization that reaches out to the most vulnerable families with children with disabilities, where she served for three years. While living with her colleague during Covid Lock-downs Olivia yearned for ways she could be of service and kept engaging her friend on different crazy ideas that were running through her head, which finally led to the birth of Enhance Humanity Uganda, which is a learning center for the homeless and disadvantaged youth in Uganda.🔗 RELEVANT LINKS 🔗Enhance Humanity UgandaFacebookInstagramXIf you are interested in contacting Olivia, email her at Got a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool

Ever found yourself wondering why your child seems overwhelmed by choices or why a simple instruction can lead to confrontation? This week, Kaity and Adriane's conversation with Linda K. Murphy, a speech-language pathologist and RDI® Consultant, answers this question and more. You'll learn all about declarative language and its powerful role in connecting more deeply with our kids, especially those navigating social learning differences. Episode 37 also explores: 🔥 the impact of stress on learning🔥 techniques for managing decision-making anxiety🔥 practical examples of how parents and teachers can incorporate declarative language into their daily interactions🔥 the importance of creating space for learners to process information and express themselves🔥 tips for modeling self-regulation and emotional regulation throughout the day🔥 the concept of visual referencing🔥 and so much more!From engaging games to verbalizing coping strategies, you'll leave this episode with the tools to promote a more inviting and supportive approach to communication. So tune in now and learn how a shift in language can lead to a transformation in growth and well-being for both you and your child.KEY TAKEAWAYS:🔑 Declarative language involves making comments rather than asking questions or giving commands, creating a supportive and engaging environment for learners.🔑 Tone and nonverbal communication play a crucial role in declarative language, and it is important to align them with the positive intention of the communication.🔑 Modeling self-regulation and emotional regulation can help children learn to manage their own emotions and behaviors.ABOUT THE GUEST:Linda is a speech-language pathologist and RDI® Consultant. She co-founded Peer Projects Therapy From the Heart, a clinic in Beverly, MA, dedicated to helping kids and families by using a positive, thoughtful communication style that emphasizes understanding, patience, respect, and kindness. Linda has been working with individuals with social learning differences for over 25 years. She leads trainings on the topic of social learning, has authored Declarative Language Handbook, Co-Regulation Handbook, numerous articles, and co-authored the book Social Thinking and MeGot a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool

Join Kaity and Adriane in a conversation with Trevor MacKenzie about the power of inquiry-led learning. Discover the importance of building relationships, the different phases of the inquiry cycle, and the transformative potential of flipping traditional teaching methods. Learn how to foster curiosity, create a culture of excellence, and empower students through inquiry-based learning.

This week, Kaity and Adriane discuss a new approach to understanding and addressing kids' behavior.  Their conversation dives deep into the developmental expectations placed on children and the need for age-appropriate support. Plus, they introduce a problem-solving approach that empowers children to find solutions and build critical thinking skills. Episode 35 also explores: 🔥 parenting challenges and triumphs🔥 the power of patience🔥 the importance of modeling positive behavior🔥 technology's place in our kids' lives and how to support their digital exploration effectively🔥 and so much more!So tune in, forget everything you thought you knew about discipline, and discover how to guide your kids through life's tumbles with empathy and understanding. RELEVANT LINKS:WorksheetsRaising Human Beings: Creating a Collaborative Partnership with Your Child by Ross GreeneBeyond Behaviors: Using Brain Science and Compassion to Understand and Solve Children's Behavioral Challenges by Mona DelahookeDuct Tape Parenting by Vicki HoefleGot a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Peter Gray, research professor of psychology and neuroscience at Boston College and renowned author of "Free to Learn." This episode is all about the power of play in learning, shedding light on how self-directed exploration can ignite children's natural curiosity and shape their futures. Peter shares his journey into the field of education and his personal experience with his son's struggles in traditional schooling. He discusses the pivotal moment that led him to discover Sudbury Valley School, an alternative school focused on self-directed education. Peter also talks about his study on the graduates of Sudbury Valley School, which found they were successful in various careers, debunking the notion that traditional schooling is necessary for success. Episode 34 also explores: 🔥 the importance of play in cognitive and social development🔥 the definition of play🔥 the value of play in regulating emotions and developing essential skills for getting along with others🔥 the impact of play deprivation🔥 and so much more!ABOUT THE GUEST:Peter Gray is a research professor of psychology and neuroscience at Boston College who has conducted and published research in behavioral biology, developmental psychology, anthropology, and education. His recent research focuses on the role of play in human evolution and how children educate themselves through play and exploration when they are free to do so. He has expanded on these ideas in his book, "Free to Learn: Why Unleashing the Instinct to Play Will Make Our Children Happier, More Self-Reliant, and Better Students for Life."🔗 RELEVANT LINKS 🔗📖 Free to Learn🌐  Learn more🔑 TAKEAWAYS 🔑Play is an act of self-control and teaches children to follow rules.Children are better at following rules in play than in real life.Play is a creative and imaginative activity that exercises children's creativity and engages them in hypothetical deductive reasoning.Play is essential for children to develop autonomy, compGot a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool

Caleb Collier, co-founder of The Forest School, discusses the practicality of self-directed learning, strategies for cultivating student agency, and the imperative of school leaders in transforming institutional norms. He also explores how parents can support their children's educational journey and align family expectations with student outcomes. The podcast explores the value of self-directed education and the role of influential parents in fostering a love of learning.

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with KJ Althoff,  Director of Content for Big Life Journal. This episode is all about navigating a child's emotions and how it can lead to a deeper understanding of ourselves. KJ shares her insights into gentle parenting and fostering emotional literacy in children.This episode also explores: 🔥 the challenges of regulating our own emotions while teaching our children to manage theirs🔥 how co-regulating alongside kids can create a nurturing environment 🔥 the strategies of gentle parenting🔥 guiding with respect and patience🔥 children's developmental stages🔥 the impact of fear-based approaches🔥 and so much more!Learn all about resources like Big Life Journal and its new platform, GrowthMinded, that offer support for parents committed to raising resilient and kind-hearted children. So, join us for an insightful and candid exploration of emotional regulation and gentle parenting, and discover how we can create a generation that embraces their feelings with courage and self-compassion. You won't want to miss this episode!ABOUT THE GUEST:KJ is the Director of Content for Big Life Journal. She has also built her community on social media with over 100k followers on Instagram, sharing about her gentle parenting journey as well as healing from childhood wounds. She has a master's degree in mental health counseling and is also a certified parenting coach. KJ and her husband, Adam, have been married for seven years. They have a 6-year-old son, who is the reason KJ began her gentle and conscious parenting journey more than three years ago.🔗 RELEVANT LINKS 🔗 🌐 Big Life Journal🪴 GrowthMindedGot a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool

This week, Kaity and Adriane chat with Seth Perler, an executive function coach who overcame his academic struggles and now offers hope to children facing similar challenges. They discuss learning differences, emphasizing the importance of advocating for each child's unique strengths and addressing the systemic roadblocks that can hinder their progress.This episode also explores: 🔥 the double-edged sword of labels🔥 tensions that teachers face🔥 the impact of recognizing every student's potential🔥 and so much more!You'll leave this episode with actionable strategies to assist children grappling with executive function hurdles. Whether establishing a curated study environment or breaking down organizational skills into color-coded victories, we look beyond the typical toolbox, encouraging positive reinforcement and the delicate art of advocacy without hovering. Join us for an episode that's not just about learning but about understanding, empathizing, and empowering learners.ABOUT THE GUEST:Seth wears many hats in the Executive Function, Neurodiversity, ADHD, 2e, and Education worlds: activist, coach, speaker, educator, vlogger, and guy who cares about seeing outside-the-box kids succeed. Seth also runs TEFOS, The Executive Function Online Summit.At the heart of it, Seth helps struggling learners navigate a baffling system so they can launch a successful future. And it all has to do with Executive Function. His weekly vlog at SethPerler.com gives game-changing answers in a sea of misguided educational fluff.RELEVANT LINKS:Seth's websiteGot a story to share or question you want us to answer? Send us a message!About the podcast:The KindlED Podcast explores the science of nurturing children's potential and creating empowering learning environments.Powered by Prenda Microschools, each episode offers actionable insights to help you ignite your child's love of learning. We'll dive into evidence-based tools and techniques that kindle young learners' curiosity, motivation, and well-being. Got a burning question?We're all ears! If you have a question or topic you'd love our hosts to tackle, please send it to podcast@prenda.com. Let's dive into the conversation together!Important links:• Connect with us on social • Subscribe to The Sunday Spark• Get our free literacy curriculum Interested in starting a microschool?Prenda provides all the tools and support you need to start and run an amazing microschool. Create a free Prenda World account to start designing your future microschool today. More info at ➡️ Prenda.com or if you're ready to get going ➡️ Start My Microschool