Join us for a deep dive into the Building Strong Brains initiative, a transformative project dedicated to early childhood development in Elkhart County. Hosted by Marshall King and Kevin Deary, this episode features insights from Dr. Kimberly Boynton on engaging parents as key partners in their children's education. Understand the critical role of parental involvement in ensuring kindergarten readiness and the comprehensive support system being established to make resources accessible and practical for families.

00:00:26: Introduction of Doctor Kimberly Boynton

00:00:36: Doctor Boynton's role and responsibilities

00:01:01: Focus of the Coalition: Building Strong Brains

00:01:37: Genesis and evolution of the coalition

00:02:54: Importance of mindset shifts for parents

00:03:29: Elkhart County early childhood skills and research

00:05:05: Selection and collaboration with partners

00:06:39: Systemic approach to early childhood development

00:08:19: Example of collaboration: Kindergarten readiness tool

00:09:42: Partnership with Tamarack Institute

00:11:13: Importance of early childhood development

00:14:51: Doctor Boynton's background and transition to coalition work

00:16:14: Leadership skills in coalition building

00:18:03: Doctor Boynton's book on building language-rich environments

00:19:34: Challenges in running a coalition

00:20:56: Support for parents and connection to resources

00:22:52: Introduction to policy changes in Elkhart County

00:23:31: Capacity and support structure

00:24:12: Ten-year systemic plan for Building Strong Brains

00:25:01: Working together in Elkhart County

00:25:44: Healthcare collaboration and maternal health

00:26:52: Funding and grant opportunities

00:28:01: Importance of early childhood readiness

00:30:11: Advice for parents to prepare children for kindergarten

00:31:01: What gives hope for the future

00:31:35: Show credits and acknowledgments

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This show is a production of the Community Foundation of Elkhart County. It is powered by equipment from Sweetwater and recorded in the Viaggio Studio at weIMPACT in Elkhart's River District. Editing is done by the award-winning communication students at Goshen College, home of one of the best college radio stations in the nation. Listen to Globe Radio at 91.1 FM. Learn more about the Community Foundation of Elkhart County at inspiringgood.org You can follow us on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn. Music is provided by Sensational Sounds. Thanks for listening. We hope you are inspired and inspire good and your community.