Willow Kids Podcast

About Willow Kids Podcast

For parents wanting to improve their children behavior and education. Children development and learning topics for parents.

Publisher

Willow Kids

Category

kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

8 Feb 2026

Latest episode

22 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

12 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   22 Jun 2026

   Parents' Guide to Dealing with bullies and their victims: Understanding Bullying in Children

   Host: Erin Harrigan - Early Childhood and Elementary Education Specialist. Credentials: Master’s Degree Education, Best Practices National University B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development, A.A. in Liberal Studies, A.A. in Behavioral Studies, PCM Certified Trainer (Process Communication Model). Guest: Danyel Kilgore - Educational Consultant Credentials: Master’s Degree Organizational Leadership and Change Pacific Oaks College, 200 Hour Yoga Certification; Social Emotional Learning Facilitator Certificate; IB PYP Certification Key Insight Bullying in childhood is not a normal rite of passage — it is a global public health problem that affects one in three children worldwide and leaves measurable marks on their physical, mental, and social health well into adulthood. Research from Armitage (2021), published in BMJ Paediatrics Open, shows that bullying involves three roles — the victim, the bully, and the bully–victim — and that all three suffer real consequences. Children perceived as 'different' in any way are at greater risk, with physical appearance being the most frequent trigger. The study also reveals something many parents do not realize: bullying often begins at home through sibling bullying, which dramatically increases the risk of being bullied at school. And cyberbullying, while real and serious, rarely creates new victims — it is another tool used against children who are already being bullied offline. This does not mean bullying is hopeless. The encouraging news: whole-school cooperative learning programs show the strongest evidence for prevention, and parental support is one of the most powerful protective factors for any child, regardless of where they live. For parents, this episode is about understanding the warning signs, knowing what really helps, and learning what to do — and what not to do — when your child is hurting. Discussion Themes What bullying actually is, and the three roles children play in it Why bullying starts — at home, at school, and online The short- and long-term effects on victims, bullies, and bully–victims Cyberbullying and how digital bullying is different What parents can do to protect, support, and heal their children What the science says about prevention that actually works

2. 

   9 Apr 2026

   The Hidden Gaps Parents Need to Know Between High School and College

   Host: Danyel Kilgore - Educational Consultant Credentials: Pacific Oaks College M.A., Organizational Leadership and Change Pitzer CollegeB.A., Psychology/Child Development UCLA Extension Extended Learning, Child Development Coursework Guest: Cedric Jones - Former Educator & Workforce Development Professional The Willow Kids podcast introduces the launch of a tutoring pilot program and delves into the topic of hidden gaps between high school and college. The discussion covers challenges and surprises for college freshmen, differences between public and private schools, the importance of executive functioning skills, and the struggles in preparing students for these skills in K-12 education. The conversation covers the shift in educational standards, the importance of parent education and support, preparing children for the present context, skills beyond standardized tests, redesigning middle and high school, habits for college preparation, mistakes to avoid, and the single biggest predictor of freshmen success. Takeaways Importance of executive functioning skills for college success Challenges in preparing students for executive functioning skills Parent education is crucial for understanding the shift in educational standards. Preparing children for the present context involves educating families on the evolving nature of education. Failure and struggle are key to navigating life independently and are important factors in determining success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Willow Kids Podcast 05:31 Surprises and Struggles of College Freshmen 10:59 Differences Between Public and Private Schools 22:55 Importance of Executive Functioning Skills 29:01 Teaching Executive Functioning Skills in K-12 Education 37:13 Struggles in Preparing Students for Executive Functioning Skills 42:47 The Shift in Standards 48:16 Preparing Children for the Present Context 58:55 Habits for College Preparation 01:06:43 Mistakes to Avoid 01:16:50 Predictor of Freshmen Success

3. 

   18 Mar 2026

   Helping Your Kids Thrive in School and in Life: The Whole-Child Advantage

   Host: Katelynn Brown - Developmental Specialist: Master of Science, Child & Adolescent Development, Northcentral University — La Jolla, CA 2024 Bachelor of Arts, Psychology California State University Channel Islands — Camarillo, CA 2022 Guest: Sarah James - Early Childhood Education Specialist: American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — Special Education Credential 2025 American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — M.Ed Early Childhood Education 2024 Indiana University, Bloomington IN — BA Religious Studies with honors, Minor in Jewish studies 2023 The conversation explores the importance of a whole child approach to education, emphasizing the impact of social and emotional skills, self-concept, and resilience on academic success. It also delves into the role of friendships, group projects, and nurturing curiosity in fostering a positive learning environment for children. The conversation covers topics related to child development, education, and parenting. It emphasizes the importance of understanding children as individuals and supporting their holistic growth. The discussion delves into the role of play, hobbies, and social activities in a child's development, as well as the significance of parental involvement and teacher observations. Takeaways Whole child approach Importance of social and emotional skills Supporting children isn't just about grades, it's about helping their mind, heart, and social skills grow together. Celebrating effort and resilience is crucial in supporting a child's development. Chapters 00:00 Emotional Side of Learning 44:20 Final Advice for Parents

4. 

   18 Mar 2026

   The Hidden Network Behind Every Child’s Learning

   Host: Sarah James - Early Childhood Education Specialist: American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — Special Education Credential American College of Education, Indianapolis IN — M.Ed Early Childhood Education Indiana University, Bloomington IN — BA Religious Studies with honors, Minor in Jewish studies Guest: Vivien Firta - Early Childhood Education Specialist and Parent Educator: Master of Arts — Organizational Leadership, Woodbury University Bachelor of Arts — Liberal Studies, California State University, Northridge The Willow Kids podcast introduces the concept of nurturing curiosity and joyful learning. The discussion delves into the hidden network of learning, recognizing learning challenges, differentiating normal learning challenges from those needing extra support, skills that support a child's learning in school, the role of cognitive skills in learning, and the interconnected development of thinking and school skills. The conversation delves into the importance of foundational skills in building confidence and readiness for learning, emphasizing the value of hands-on learning and play-based education. It explores the understanding of learning difficulties and avoidance, the diverse causes of learning struggles, and simple ways parents can support and strengthen a child's learning system. Takeaways Learning challenges may manifest as emotional distress Learning difficulties may require extra support if persistence and guidance do not yield results Learning is a web of interconnected skills, not a linear ladder Cognitive and academic skills strengthen each other over time Foundational skills build confidence Hands-on learning fosters a love of learning Chapters 00:00 The Interconnected Development of Thinking and School Skills 30:42 Foundational Skills and Confidence Building 38:34 Hands-On Learning and Play-Based Education 43:46 Understanding Learning Difficulties and Avoidance 51:36 Diverse Causes of Learning Struggles 59:26 Supporting and Strengthening a Child's Learning System

5. 

   5 Mar 2026

   Why Do Some Children with ADHD Do Better in Certain Schools?

   Host: Katelynn Brown - Developmental Specialist Guest: Erin Harrigan - Early Childhood and Elementary Education Specialist. The conversation explores the impact of ADHD on academic achievement and the challenges children with ADHD face in the classroom. It delves into the importance of finding the right school environment, the responsibility of schools and educators, and the support needed for parents of children with ADHD. Additionally, it discusses how early school support shapes a child's self-perception and inner voice. The conversation delves into the importance of early intervention for children with ADHD, the need for support in time management and study habits, the celebration of effort over outcome, and the creation of environments where children with ADHD can thrive. It also explores the strengths and creativity of children with ADHD and the changes observed over time with the right support. Additionally, it emphasizes the significance of parental support and collaboration in the academic success of children with ADHD. Takeaways ADHD symptoms impact academic achievement School environment and structure play a significant role in supporting children with ADHD Early intervention is crucial Supporting children with ADHD in time management and study habits Celebrating effort over outcome Building environments where children with ADHD can thrive Chapters 00:00 Understanding ADHD and Its Impact 06:26 Finding the Right School Environment 21:40 Supporting Parents of Children with ADHD 27:13 Shaping a Child's Self-Perception 33:24 Strengths and Creativity of Children with ADHD 46:25 Parental Support and Collaboration

6. 

   5 Mar 2026

   If Your Child Is Struggling in School, Should You Consider Homeschooling?

   Host: Danyel Kilgore - Educational Consultant Guest: Sarah James - Early Childhood Education Specialist The Willow Kids podcast explores the topic of homeschooling, discussing the reasons why families consider homeschooling, the impact of homeschooling on family life, and the experiences of children with special educational needs. The conversation also delves into the shift in education due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the changing landscape of homeschooling. The conversation explores the evolution of homeschooling, the challenges and benefits of homeschooling, and the long-term effects of homeschooling on children. It also delves into the societal shift towards understanding the world as a learning environment and the need for a restructuring of the education system to accommodate different learning styles and needs. Takeaways Homeschooling is a popular educational choice for families dissatisfied with the traditional school environment. The decision to homeschool is influenced by factors such as religious/moral instruction, academic concerns, child safety, and the desire to strengthen family bonds. Learning is everywhere Homeschooling requires thoughtful consideration and a family decision Chapters 00:00 Transition to Homeschooling and Daily Life Changes 40:34 Challenges and Benefits of Homeschooling 53:12 Honest Questions Before Choosing Homeschooling 59:20 Long-Term Effects of Homeschooling 01:08:20 Societal Shift and Restructuring of Education

7. 

   25 Feb 2026

   What If your Child Is a Genius — and You Haven’t Noticed Yet?

   The conversation delves into the challenges of recognizing and nurturing giftedness in children, highlighting the limitations of traditional academic performance and standardized thinking. It explores the impact of the rush through nature of the education system, social anxiety, and peer pressure on the recognition of advanced potential. Additionally, it discusses the narrow definition of giftedness and the significance of intrinsic motivation as powerful signs of authentic potential early on, beyond grades and test scores. The conversation delves into the nurturing of gifted children, their cognitive abilities, neuroscience, assessments, and the importance of nurturing potential in a healthy way. It also highlights the significance of parental support, emotional wellbeing, and the journey of discovery and growth in a child's development. Takeaways Giftedness is often misunderstood and overlooked due to traditional academic performance and standardized thinking. Traditional school systems struggle to recognize advanced potential beyond grades and rule following. The rush through nature of the education system and standardized testing can lead to the oversight of highly intelligent children. Social anxiety, peer pressure, and lack of resources can hinder the recognition and nurturing of giftedness in children. Intrinsic curiosity and self-driven learning are powerful signs of authentic potential early on, beyond grades and test scores. Gifted children show differences in brain function and cognitive abilities. Nurturing a child's potential involves providing opportunities and support without creating pressure or unrealistic expectations. Chapters 00:00 Understanding Giftedness 07:32 Challenges in Recognition 18:53 Narrow Definition of Giftedness 29:42 Intrinsic Motivation 37:09 Nurturing Gifted Children 44:35 Assessments and Evaluations 56:43 Parental Support and Emotional Wellbeing 01:05:41 Journey of Discovery and Growth

8. 

   19 Feb 2026

   The effects of excessive screen time on children

   Host: Erin Harrigan - Early Childhood and Elementary Education Specialist. Guest Speaker: Jennie Egan - M.S.Ed. and DIRFloortime® Practitioner. The Willow Kids podcast introduces the tutoring pilot program and explores the impact of screen engagement on children's learning, emotional experiences, and behavior. It delves into the value of face-to-face interaction, signs of screen time replacing connection, and the challenges and compassion for parents. The discussion also highlights healthy and developmentally supportive screen use in everyday family life. The conversation explores the impact of screens on parenting, the importance of shared time, creating supportive screen boundaries, intentional screen time, protecting moments of real connection, responding early to behavioral changes, metacognition and self-reflection, real connection and shared experiences, and concludes with encouragement for nurturing curiosity and lifelong learning. Takeaways Screen engagement impacts emotional understanding Face-to-face interaction is essential for children's growth and development Intentional use of screen time is crucial for modeling behavior and promoting learning. Creating supportive screen boundaries and protecting moments of real connection are essential for healthy screen use. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Willow Kids Podcast 06:32 The Influence of Screens on Emotional and Developmental Experiences 14:55 The Value of Face-to-Face Interaction and Emotional Understanding 24:36 Healthy and Developmentally Supportive Screen Use 30:50 Impact of Screens on Parenting 39:09 Creating Supportive Screen Boundaries 45:00 Guidelines and Intentional Screen Time 51:03 Responding Early to Behavioral Changes 58:10 Metacognition and Self-Reflection

9. 

   17 Feb 2026

   Is it how we teach that makes learning hard?

   Host: Kayla Porter, Music Inquiry & Behavior Specialist Guest Speaker: Danyel Kilgore, Educational Consultant The conversation explores the value of guided play and free play in early childhood education, emphasizing the importance of building a strong social-emotional foundation for successful learning. It also delves into the role of educators in facilitating guided play, the impact of social-emotional skills on learning, and the challenges and opportunities for educators in incorporating these approaches into the classroom. The conversation delves into the significance of guided play in early childhood education, highlighting its impact on children's development and the challenges of learning without structure and guidance. It also explores the integration of structured and playful learning in the classroom, the concept of guided play, and the importance of a multi-tiered, multi-sensory approach to teaching and learning. The conversation delves into the importance of intentional teaching and the impact of educator intentionality on student learning. It also explores the influence of home learning, the balance between structured teaching and freedom, and the role of parents in early childhood education. Additionally, it discusses guiding children's attention and confidence building, as well as the concept of guided play and the parental role in education. Takeaways Guided play and free play are both valuable approaches to learning Building a strong social-emotional foundation is essential for successful learning Guided play vs. free play The role of structure and guidance in learning Importance of intentional teaching The role of parents in early childhood education Chapters 00:00 Introduction to WillowKids Podcast 11:53 The Role of Educators in Guided Play 21:13 Guided Play vs. Free Play 29:22 The Impact of Social-Emotional Skills on Learning 36:19 Challenges and Opportunities for Educators 43:41 The Frustration of Learning Without Guidance 52:30 Structured and Playful Learning 01:00:29 Understanding Guided Play 01:07:29 Multi-Tiered Learning Approach

10. 

    17 Feb 2026

    Why Kids Learn Better with Extra Support—Especially Early On

    Host: Mily Sharko, Educational Therapist & Early Childhood Educator Guest Speaker: Katelynn Brown, Developmental Specialist The conversation explores the impact of tutoring on early childhood education, highlighting the challenges children face in traditional classroom settings and the benefits of personalized support. It delves into the importance of early intervention, the impact of tutoring on reading skills, and the challenges faced by students in regular classrooms. The conversation explores the impact of tutoring and intervention on children's learning and development, emphasizing the importance of early support and the role of educators in providing personalized, engaging, and effective interventions. It also delves into the significance of nurturing a positive attitude towards learning and the social and emotional aspects of a child's growth. Takeaways Early intervention and personalized tutoring can significantly benefit children in their early years of education. Traditional classroom settings often struggle to provide individualized attention and support to students, leading to gaps in learning and skill development. Early intervention and personalized tutoring can significantly impact a child's academic outcomes and confidence. Educators play a crucial role in providing tailored, engaging, and supportive interventions for children's learning and development. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Willow Kids Podcast 05:37 Impact of Tutoring on Pre-K-12 Learning 13:18 Reading Challenges in Kindergarten vs. Second and Third Grade 28:31 The Importance of Play-Based Intervention 34:09 The Role of Educators in Personalized Interventions 53:29 The Social and Emotional Aspects of Child Growth

11. 

    10 Feb 2026

    How to Support Your Child When Math Starts to Feel Hard

    With host Samantha Aguilera and Participant Sarah James. The conversation explores the challenges children face in learning math and the role of hands-on tutoring, emotional regulation, and individualized learning in addressing these challenges. It emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and supportive learning environment, understanding each child's unique learning style, and promoting thoughtful reasoning over speed in math education. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding math comprehension, the limitations of repetition and memorization, the value of real-world learning experiences, long-term learning and processing skills, the impact of tutoring on transfer of knowledge, the importance of foundational skills in math, engagement and choice in learning, the power of small choices in learning, the role of family intervention and early support, the significance of early intervention in education, the impact of pace and expectations on learning, the importance of emotional safety in learning, and supporting children struggling with math. Takeaways Math anxiety and fear of numbers can hinder a child's learning process. Hands-on tutoring and real-world connections help children understand and engage with math. Emotional regulation and cognitive load play a significant role in a child's ability to learn math. Early intervention is crucial for children struggling with math Learning should focus on understanding first, not speed Struggling with math doesn't mean a child isn't capable Chapters 00:00 Understanding Math Struggles 09:19 Anxiety and Clear Thinking 16:21 Mistakes and Real Understanding 24:35 Hidden Gaps and Thoughtful Reasoning 47:20 Supporting Children Struggling with Math

12. 

    8 Feb 2026

    How Parents Can Help Kids Build Real Friendship

    The conversation explores the impact of modern schedules and screens on children's friendship skills, emphasizing the role of adults in modeling social skills and the importance of everyday relationships in building social skills. It also discusses the consequences of insufficient social practice and highlights the significance of early relational health. The conversation delves into the crucial role of adults in child rearing, the importance of unstructured peer interaction, the vital role of schools in social-emotional learning, and supporting friendship development. It also explores building social skills through everyday interactions, supporting shy or awkward children, creating safe opportunities for friendship skills, and supporting children with isolation or self-doubt. Additionally, it emphasizes the impact of educator mental health on the learning environment. Takeaways Friendship skills are learned through practice Everyday human interactions are essential for early relational health Modeling behavior is crucial Supporting mental health of educators impacts the learning environment Chapters 00:00 The Consequences of Insufficient Social Practice 36:02 Importance of Unstructured Peer Interaction 42:55 Building Social Skills through Everyday Interactions 51:43 Supporting Children with Isolation or Self-Doubt 57:02 The Impact of Educator Mental Health on Learning

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