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Podcast Description:

In this insightful episode of For Your Ears from the Early Years, Lili-Ann Kriegler sits down with parenting expert Sonia DaSilva to explore essential strategies for supporting healthy child development, with a focus on respect, transitions, and the power of play. Sonia highlights the importance of respecting each child's individuality and offering them a sense of agency, even in everyday routines. She shares practical tips, such as using a timer during transitions, to give children control and create a sense of autonomy and enjoyment.

Lili-Ann builds on these ideas, emphasising how explaining the reasoning behind transitions helps children feel more in control, encouraging independence and self-regulation. Together, they explore the concept of "locus of control" and how empowering children with small choices helps them develop self-confidence and decision-making skills.

The conversation also delves into the transformative role of play in children’s overall development—not just as a source of enjoyment but as a crucial tool for creativity, motor skills, and language development. Both Sonia and Lili-Ann agree that the play process is more valuable than the outcome, and they discuss how educators and parents can seamlessly integrate play into daily life.

Sonia also shares her approach to creating language-rich environments, using books, maps, and other materials to encourage communication. Lili-Ann supports this, noting how play can be combined with structured language learning to help children strengthen their communication skills.

This episode is packed with practical strategies for educators and parents alike. It offers valuable insights into how respectful interactions, thoughtful transitions, and meaningful play can promote children’s growth. Whether you’re a parent looking for new tools or an educator seeking ways to engage with families, this conversation provides actionable advice to help you nurture a child’s development with care and creativity.

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For more information about Lili-Ann Kriegler, go to:

Kriegler-Education

https://www.kriegler-education.com

+61438489032

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I respect the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land of the Kulin Nation groups, the Boonwurrung and Bunurong people, where I live, learn, and work.

Lili-Ann Kriegler (B. A Hons, H. Dip. Ed, M.Ed.) is an award-winning author and Melbourne-based education consultant. Her books are 'The Power of Play' for educators and 'Roots and Wings' for parents. Lili-Ann’ is a leader in early childhood education (birth to years), leadership and optimising human thinking and cognition. She runs her consultancy, Kriegler-Education. She is passionate about the early childhood sector and believes in the transformational power of education.
Find out more at https://www.kriegler-education.com.