Plant the Seed of Learning

About Plant the Seed of Learning

Plant the Seed of Learning is a research-based podcast that merges the education and medical models to help parents, teachers, and early childhood professionals support young children’s development. Hosted by a pediatric occupational therapist and an education expert, each episode breaks down developmental milestones, early learning, play-based strategies, social-emotional development, early intervention, and kindergarten readiness in clear, practical ways. Designed for parents, educators, pediatric occupational therapists, therapists, and anyone working with young children, this podcast conn

Publisher

Dr. Crystal Loose and Dr. Aimee Ketchum

Category

kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

29 Dec 2025

Latest episode

9 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

41 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Oct 2026

   Episode 40: Move, See, Hear, Read: A Multisensory Approach to Early Literacy

   In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, Dr. Aimee Ketchum and Dr. Crystal Loose welcome children’s author, educator, and literacy advocate Stefanie Hohl, creator of ABC See, Hear, Do. Stefanie shares how her experience helping her own active child learn to read inspired her to develop a multisensory approach that combines visuals, sounds, and movement to make early literacy engaging and accessible. The conversation explores how ABC See, Hear, Do aligns with the Science of Reading and why young children benefit from learning experiences that involve their whole bodies. Together, they discuss the connections between letter formation and letter-sound learning, phonemic awareness and movement, rhythm and language development, and physical activity and attention. Stefanie also shares practical strategies parents and educators can use to strengthen early reading skills while helping children—especially wiggly or struggling learners—build confidence and experience success. This episode reminds us that learning to read doesn’t always have to mean sitting still. When children can see it, hear it, say it, and move with it, literacy comes to life. Connect with Stefanie Hohl: Website: abcseeheardo.com (http://abcseeheardo.com/) Instagram, TikTok, Facebook & X: @stefaniehohl and @abcseeheardo

2. 

   30 Sept 2026

   Episode 39: AI Toys and Young Children: What the Research Really Tells Us

   Are AI-powered toys helpful learning companions or could they pose risks for young children? In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, Crystal Loose and Aimee Ketchum explore new research from the University of Cambridge examining how generative AI toys affect children’s play, communication, emotional development, privacy, and safety. Drawing on observations of young children interacting with an AI-powered toy, the research found that these toys can struggle to understand children, respond appropriately to emotions, support pretend and social play, and provide meaningful emotional connection. The researchers also raise concerns about children developing parasocial relationships with AI toys, as well as unclear privacy practices and the potential for AI to replace, or interfere with important interactions with adults and peers. Crystal and Aimee discuss what these findings mean for parents, educators, therapists, and policymakers, including recommendations for stronger safety standards, clearer privacy policies, responsible toy design, and active adult involvement when children use AI toys. Bottom line: AI toys may have potential, but when it comes to children under five, thoughtful design, regulation, and adult guidance are essential.

3. 

   23 Sept 2026

   Episode 38: Maslow Before Bloom: What Children Need Before They Can Learn and Thrive

   What do children need before they are truly ready to learn? In this episode of Plant the Seed of Learning, Dr. Aimee Ketchum and Dr. Crystal Loose welcome Dr. Bryan Pearlman, author, mental health therapist, educator, and former school principal, for a conversation about the foundations children need to thrive in school and in life. Drawing on his experience in education and mental health, Dr. Pearlman explores how influential theories of child development can help parents, educators, and professionals better understand children’s behavior and learning. The conversation examines the importance of meeting children’s emotional and developmental needs before expecting academic success, the role of trauma-informed practices, and how cognitive behavioral therapy can support children’s mental health. Dr. Pearlman also discusses ADHD, including concerns about over-identification and the influence of technology, and shares the perspective behind his book ADHD Is My Superpower. He explains the work of the Distinguished School of Mental Health & Wellness and offers practical strategies educators can use to help children feel safe, supported, seen, and ready to learn. This episode is a reminder that supporting the whole child isn’t separate from education—it creates the foundation that makes learning possible. Connect with Dr. Bryan Pearlman: Website: BryanPearlman.com STL Mental Health: STLmentalhealth.com X/Twitter: @drp_principal Facebook Group: Maslow Before Bloom Distinguished School of Mental Health & Wellness: DSMHW.org

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

3.0 / 5

2 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

Contact Plant the Seed of Learning

Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.