Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV
Join hosts Jennifer Garcia Rosendo, Colleen Roahrig, and Sue Kansteiner as they sit down with leading organizations dedicated to supporting families during the critical early years. Whether you’re searching for Colorado-specific resources or national programs, this podcast is your go-to guide for trusted information. Each episode delivers expert advice, practical tips, and actionable tools to help parents and caregivers navigate challenges like early childhood education, nutrition, health and wellness, and social-emotional development. Our guests share proven strategies and programs designed to give your child the strongest start in life.
Episodes
143: The Power of Rest featuring The Nap Time Show
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we welcome Sierra Boone, host and executive producer of The Nap Time Show. Together, we explore the important role rest plays in young children's growth, learning, emotional regulation, and overall well-being. Sierra shares practical strategies for creating calming routines, discusses the difference between sleep and rest, and offe
142 Simplify Your Life
Send us Fan MailLife with young children can feel busy, overwhelming, and sometimes just plain complicated. In honor of National Simplify Your Life Week, this episode of Family Engagement Fridays encourages parents to take a step back and focus on what matters most. We'll talk about letting go of the pressure to do it all, finding simple ways to reduce stress, and remembering that children do
141 Helping children find their voice
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, Laura Vega Flores, Early Learning Ventures' Early Intervention Manager, shares her personal experience as the parent of a child with autism and the journey of helping her son develop self-advocacy skills. Laura discusses the importance of advocating for your child while also modeling and gradually teaching them how to advocate for
140 Boredom isn't Bad
Send us Fan MailJuly is Anti-Boredom Month, but what if boredom isn't actually a bad thing? In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we explore how unstructured play helps young children develop creativity, independence, problem-solving skills, and confidence. Parents often feel pressure to keep children constantly entertained, but sometimes the best learning happens when children are gi
139: Building Communities with Dignity and Respect
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Michelle Gilman, Speech-Language Pathologist with Early Intervention Colorado, discusses the importance of Disability Awareness and how greater understanding can strengthen families, schools, and communities. Michelle shares practical ways to recognize and appreciate individual differences, communicate with respect, and support people with disabilities in everyday
138 Every Day Moments with Vroom
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we welcome Lucy Soffer from Parent Possible, a Colorado organization dedicated to helping parents access the tools, resources, and support they need to help their children thrive. Lucy joins us to talk about Vroom, a free app that helps parents turn everyday moments into meaningful learning opportunities for young children. From mealtim
137: Encouraging Independence and Confidence
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Julie Mendenhall explores the concept of helicopter parenting—what it means, how to recognize the signs, and the impact it can have on children's growth and development. Julie discusses practical ways parents can step back while still providing support, helping children build independence, confidence, resilience, and problem-solving skills. Tune in to learn ho
136: A Safe and Fun Fourth of July for Families
Send us Fan MailAs Colorado communities navigate wildfire conditions, poor air quality, and changing holiday celebrations, families may be wondering how to celebrate the Fourth of July safely with infants and toddlers. In this special episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we share practical tips for enjoying the holiday while keeping young children safe. Learn how to manage wildfire and smoke conc
135. Men's Mental Health
Send us Fan MailIn honor of Men’s Mental Health Month, this episode features Darnell Anthony, MSW, LSW (Grand Junction, CO) sharing valuable insight on the importance of mental wellness for men. He discusses strategies and services available to help men meet their mental health needs, and emphasizes the importance of connecting with a therapist, counselor, or support group.Accessing support can he
134: Dads Matter (What the Data Shows)
Send us Fan MailIn this special Father’s Day episode, we take a closer look at what the research really says about fathers and their impact on young children. While dads are often overlooked, the data tells a powerful story—engaged fathers play a critical role in children’s emotional development, confidence, learning, and long‑term success.We explore how everyday moments like play, conversation, a
133 Common Car Seat Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
Send us Fan MailIn honor of National Safety Month, we’re focusing on one of the most important ways to protect young children—car seat safety. In this episode, we’re joined by Megan Chapman, Early Learning Ventures’ Early Head Start Health and Safety Coordinator and certified Child Passenger Safety Technician. Megan shares essential guidance for families, including common car seat mistakes, how to
Replay: Tiny Wings and Curious Things
Send us Fan MailIn honor of the dawning summer we are playing one of our favorites!Get ready to explore the miniature world of bugs with Vail Shoultz-McCole and Colleen Roahrig! In this episode, we’re diving into the fascinating lives of insects and how parents can turn everyday outdoor moments into exciting learning adventures for their little explorers. 🐞From butterflies to beetles, Vail and Col
132 Grief Isn’t Just About Loss: Coping with Emotional Overload in Today’s World
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Licensed Professional Counselor Barb Kamlet shares expert insight on how grief, stress, and emotional overwhelm are impacting families in today’s uncertain world. Many parents and caregivers are experiencing anxiety, exhaustion, and a sense of heaviness—even when they can’t clearly identify the cause.Barb explains how grief can show up beyond traditional loss, incl
Replay: Splash Safely: Water Safety with Kids
Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn honor of Water Safety Month we are replaying this oldie but goodie. Join Christie Caster from the Western Colorado Red Cross as she shares essential tips to help keep children safe around water. While water can be fun, it also comes with real risks—making safety knowledge critical for every family.👀 Check out age-appropriate videos at redcross.org that you can
131: Children's Chores
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Julie Mendenhall and Colleen Roahrig share practical strategies for getting children involved in household chores. Learn why age‑appropriate responsibilities are important for building independence, confidence, and a sense of belonging within the family.Julie and Colleen offer simple ideas for creating chore plans, using chore charts, and finding the right approach
130 A Pep Talk for Mothers
Send us Fan MailIn this special Mother’s Day episode, we offer a heartfelt reminder for moms of young children: you are doing better than you think. Parenting can feel overwhelming, but your presence, love, and everyday moments matter more than perfection.If you’re feeling tired, unsure, or stretched thin, this gentle pep talk is for you. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and remember—you are enoug
129- Nutrition and Eating Habits for Children
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jess shares practical guidance on how to introduce solid foods to babies and build healthy eating habits from the very beginning. She offers easy, realistic strategies to encourage children of all ages to try a variety of foods, without turning mealtimes into a battle. Jess also discusses how parents can model positive, healthy dinnertime routines to create stress‑
128. From Waste to Wellness: How “We Don’t Waste” Brings Recovered Food to Our Communities
Send us Fan MailWhat happens to perfectly good food that would otherwise go to waste? In this episode, we’re joined by Caroline from We Don’t Waste, an organization transforming surplus food into meaningful community nourishment across Colorado.Caroline shares how We Don’t Waste recovers food from retailers, producers, and partners—then redistributes it through mobile food markets, community organ
127- The Importantance of Well Child Visits
Send us Fan MailJessica King PA talks about the importance of your child’s “Well Child Visits”. You will learn what you can do to prepare for these appointments, what you can expect to discuss, and questions that you could and should be asking. You will learn about topics to discuss with your medical provider that your child is currently displaying and any things to look for as your child gets old
126 Screen Time Struggles? A Mental Health Expert Breaks It Down
Send us Fan MailAre screens stealing your child’s attention? In this eye‑opening episode, mental health therapist Elizabeth Clark, who works directly with students and families in Mesa County’s SD51, breaks down the real impacts of excessive technology use on kids’ behavior, learning, and emotional health.Elizabeth shares the most common tech‑related issues she sees in schools today, why kids stru
Replay Measles
Send us Fan MailIn light of the recent measles cases confirmed here in Colorado, including a rare breakthrough infection in a vaccinated individual, we’re re‑releasing one of our most relevant conversations. In this episode, Colleen Roahrig sits down with Heidi Belatti, RN, to help parents, caregivers, and educators understand what measles is, how it spreads, and what families can watch for during
125: Getting More Out of Your Pantry: Smart Storage, Zero‑Waste Cooking & Budget‑Friendly Hacks
Send us Fan MailUnlock the secrets to stretching your groceries, reducing food waste, and creating delicious meals with what you already have! In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Caroline from We Don’t Waste to explore simple strategies for getting more life — and more meals — out of your pantry, fridge, and freezer.Discover practical food‑storage tips, creative “ends and stems” recipes, and
Replay: Toddler Sleep Struggles? Let’s Talk Solutions with the Pyramid Model
Send us Fan MailMarch 1st was Baby Sleep day which highlights the importance of healthy sleep for infants and their families, preceding World Sleep Day. In honor of Baby Sleep day we are replaying this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by Robin Levy, a Pyramid Model Coordinator, and Morgan, a mom to 14-month-old Javi, who’s navigating the ups and downs of toddler sleep. Together, they explore ho
124 Dealing with being overwhelmed- Julie Mendenhall
Send us Fan MailWho has not been overwhelmed at certain times in life? It is a normal human feeling. The important thing is recognizing the feelings of being overwhelmed and how to address those feelings. Julie will share some ideas and strategies to help you manage your feelings of being overwhelmed. Learn more about Early Learning Ventures! ELV Monthly Newsletter - Early Learning Ventures
Replay: Oral Health Basics
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Kim Wolff from Healthy Child Care Colorado to talk through the five basics of oral health every family should know. Kim covers why baby teeth matter, why water should be the go‑to drink, how to choose tooth‑healthy foods, the essentials of brushing, flossing, and swishing, and why regular dental visits are key to preventing cavities. Perfect for pa
123- How Cavities Form & How to Prevent Them
Send us Fan MailIn honor of Dental Awareness Month, Brittany Williams, RDH, breaks down how cavities form and what parents can do to prevent them. Cavities are the most common chronic childhood disease, affecting kids across communities every day. Even though baby teeth eventually fall out, they play a crucial role in eating, speaking, and holding space for adult teeth. The good news? Cavities are
122 Who Owns The Problem?
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Julie Mendenhall talks about how parents can tell who is responsible for solving a problem—the parent or the child. She explains that unsafe behaviors like hitting are the parent’s problem to solve, while feelings and emotions belong to the child. Learn simple ways to set boundaries, guide behavior, and help children build problem‑solving skills.Learn more about Ea
121 Building a Dental Home: Early Oral Health Tips for Young Children
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we talk with Nikki Weaver from Kids In Need of Dentistry (KIND) about the importance of early dental care for babies and toddlers. Nikki explains when to schedule a child’s first dental visit, why fluoride is safe and essential, what a “dental home” is, and how early habits help prevent cavities. Parents will also learn signs of early d
120: Understanding Elopement and Safety in the Autism Community
Send us Fan MailJoin Ariana DeAngelis from The Autism Project as she discusses essential strategies for keeping both children and adults safe within the Autism community. In this episode, Ariana explains what elopement is, why individuals on the spectrum may elope, and practical steps families can take to reduce risk. She also shares important guidance for first responders on how to support autist
119 – The Different Parts of the Autism Diagnosis
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Ariana from The Autism Project takes a deeper dive into understanding Autism. She explains the different subcategories within the diagnosis and shares insights on behaviors parents may notice as early indicators.Resources Mentioned:FREE Webinars for Parents | The Autism ProjectLearn the Signs. Act Early. | CDCMilestone Tracker App | CDCLearn more about Early Learni
Replay: New Year, New Money Habits
Send us Fan MailWe’re kicking off the year by revisiting an important conversation with our partners at 3rd Decade, who are now accepting applications for their 2026 cohorts.In this replay, Jennifer Garcia Rosendo talks with Joe’Mar Hooper from 3rd Decade about how the organization empowers young adults through financial education. You’ll learn what 3rd Decade offers, why financial literacy matter
Replay Understanding CCCAP & the Current Enrollment Freeze
Send us Fan MailAs the year comes to a close, we are highlighting our top episodes of the year. This one was the most listened to podcast in 2025. In this episode, we’re joined by Carlie Reed, Mesa County CCCAP Supervisor, to break down what families need to know about the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP)—especially during the current enrollment freeze affecting many counties acr
Replay: Toddler Sleep Struggles? Let’s Talk Solutions with the Pyramid Model
Send us Fan MailTo celebrate a new year of FeF we are replaying the top episodes from this year. This one comes in at number 2. In this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by Robin Levy, a Pyramid Model Coordinator, and Morgan, a mom to 14-month-old Javi, who’s navigating the ups and downs of toddler sleep. Together, they explore how the Pyramid Model—a framework for promoting young children’
Replay Take Time to Play
Send us Fan Mail We are doing our end of the year celebration of our favorite episodes. Here is Number 3In the whirlwind of parenting responsibilities, it’s easy to forget one of the most powerful ways to connect with your child: play. 💞 This episode is a gentle reminder that some of a child’s most cherished memories come from simple, joyful moments spent playing with their parents. Julie and Col
118 - Holiday Health & Safety Tips for Kids and Adults
Send us Fan MailThe holidays are full of joy—but they can also bring hidden hazards and seasonal illnesses. In this episode, Heidi Belatti, RN, shares practical tips to keep your home safe while decorating, plus strategies to prevent and manage common winter illnesses. From childproofing festive décor to boosting family wellness during gatherings, this conversation is packed with advice to help yo
117: What every parent needs to know- Measles
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Colleen Roahrig sits down with Heidi Belatti, RN, to unpack everything parents need to know about measles, from early signs and symptoms to effective prevention strategies. Heidi explains how to recognize risk factors in your child’s school and community, and shares practical tips for educating yourself and others to reduce exposure. This conversation offers clear
116- Understanding Autism – Insights from The Autism Project
Send us Fan MailJoin Ariana from The Autism Project as she breaks down the clinical definition of Autism and provides a clear, accessible overview for parents and caregivers. In this episode, you’ll learn what Autism really means, common characteristics, and where to find trusted resources and support for families navigating an Autism diagnosis. 🎧 Listen now to gain practical knowledge and discove
115 Tattling and Telling – Helping Kids Know when to Speak Up
Send us Fan Mail Ever wonder why kids tattle—and how to help them know when to speak up? In this episode, Colleen sits down with Julie Mendenhall to unpack the difference between “tattling” and “telling.” They share practical strategies for parents to guide children through tricky social situations, build empathy, and develop problem-solving skills. If you’ve ever heard “I’m telling!” and wondered
Replay: My Plate Will Look Different Than Your Plate
Send us Fan Mail As families across Colorado face the SNAP benefit freeze, we’re revisiting a powerful conversation that feels more relevant than ever. In this episode, Jennifer Garcia sits down with Cooking Matters facilitators Paul Soderstrom and Brigid Hunt to explore how families can prepare healthy, comforting meals on a budget. From embracing cultural food traditions to making the most of wh
114: Navigating the SNAP Freeze
Send us Fan MailIn this special episode of Family Engagement Fridays, Jennifer Garcia Rosendo shares timely information and practical resources to help families navigate the November 1 SNAP benefit freeze in Colorado. With federal funding paused, many families are facing food insecurity—but there are tools, apps, and community programs stepping up to help. Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Feed
113: Keeping Halloween Safe
Send us Fan Mail In this special Halloween edition of Family Engagement Fridays, Jennifer Garcia shares practical, family-friendly tips to help keep your trick-or-treaters safe—whether they’re tiny toddlers in strollers or older kids exploring the neighborhood with friends.From costume safety and visibility to pedestrian awareness and smart planning, this episode covers everything caregivers need
112 – Empowering Children Through Meaningful Choices and Questions
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Julie Mendenhall joins us to explore how offering intentional choices and asking reflective questions can positively shape children's behavior and emotional development.🧠 Learn how to:Use choices as a behavior guidance tool that builds trust and autonomyAvoid common pitfalls like unrealistic or confusing optionsAsk questions that spark meaningful conversations
111: Your Vote, Your Voice: Ballot Measures That Impact Families
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we’re joined once again by Monica Dewitt, Civic Engagement Specialist at the Community Resource Center, to talk about what’s on Colorado’s statewide ballot this November—and why it matters for families with young children. 🗳Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or early childhood professional, this episode will help you feel informed and empowered to participate in t
110 Take Time to Play
Send us Fan MailIn the whirlwind of parenting responsibilities, it’s easy to forget one of the most powerful ways to connect with your child: PLAY! 💞 This episode is a gentle reminder that some of a child’s most cherished memories come from simple, joyful moments spent playing with their parents. Julie and Colleen share insights on why play matters, how it strengthens relationships, and how even a
Replay: They Aren’t Your Grandfather’s Library Anymore
Send us Fan MailIn honor of Library Card Sign-up Month we are pulling this episode out of the archives! We’re joined by Cynthia Keyotake and Andy Gallegos from Arapahoe Libraries to explore how today’s libraries are transforming the way families learn, play, and grow. 💡👶🎧 Tune in to discover:✅ Surprising things you’ll find in libraries today✅ Services designed for families with young children✅ R
109 Home Buying 101 – What Families Need to Know
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we’re joined by Briony Hudson, a realtor with The Briony Group, a team of award-winning REALTORS® dedicated to helping families achieve their homeownership dreams. Briony walks us through the home buying process offering practical advice for first time buyers navigating the real estate world. From understanding credit and down payments to finding culturally respons
108: Understanding CCCAP
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we’re joined by Carlie Reed, Mesa County CCCAP Supervisor, to break down what families need to know about the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP)—especially during the current enrollment freeze affecting many counties across the state. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or community partner, this episode offers valuable insights into navigating chi
107: Toddler Sleep Struggles? Let’s Talk Solutions with the Pyramid Model
Send us Fan MailIn this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by Robin Levy, a Pyramid Model Coordinator, and Morgan, a mom to 14-month-old Javi, who’s navigating the ups and downs of toddler sleep. Together, they explore how the Pyramid Model—a framework for promoting young children’s social-emotional development—can help families create consistent, nurturing bedtime routines. Morgan shares her real
Replay: Vision in Early Childhood – What Every Parent & Educator Should Know
Send us Fan MailIn honor of Children's Eye Health and Safety Month we are digging into the archives for a great episode. In this episode, we speak with Tammy Miller, MA, Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments and Director of Children’s Programs at Anchor Center for Blind Children in Denver. Tammy shares expert insights on the critical role of vision in early childhood development, how v
106 Is Screen Time Taking Over Family Time?
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Julie Mendenhall explores how screen time—from tablets and phones to video games and smartwatches—is impacting young children’s development and family connection. 👨👩👧👦🎧 Learn how to: Recognize screen time habits Understand the effects on social and emotional growth Create more opportunities for face-to-face interactionLearn more about Early Learning Ventures!
105 Cavity Free Kids
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Kim Wolff from Healthy Child Care Colorado shares why oral health is essential for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers—and what every parent should know to protect their child’s smile. 👶🪥🎧 What you’ll learn: ✅ Why baby teeth matter✅ The 5 basics of oral health✅ What to do if you suspect a dental issue✅ How to build strong dental habits earlyResource: https://youtu.b
104: Parenting Styles – Giving Orders, Giving In, Giving Choices
Send us Fan MailEver wonder how your parenting style shapes your child’s behavior and emotional growth? In our latest episode, we talk with Julie Mendenhall about three common parenting approaches:🔹 Giving Orders🔹 Giving In🔹 Giving ChoicesJulie shares real-life examples and practical strategies to help families better understand their parenting style and how to use it to meet their child’s unique
103: Oral Health Basics for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers
Send us Fan MailIn this must-listen episode for parents and caregivers, we sit down with Kim Wolff from Healthy Child Care Colorado to talk about the five essential oral health habits every family should know. Whether you're caring for a baby, toddler, or preschooler, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you build strong dental routines from the start.What you’ll learn:Why baby
102: Pyramid Model – Building Social & Emotional Support for Families
Send us Fan MailJoin us for a meaningful conversation with Robin Levy, the 2025 recipient of the National Pyramid Champion Award! Robin breaks down the Pyramid Model, a powerful framework designed to support the social and emotional development of young children and their families.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the Pyramid Model is and how it worksPractical ways it supports families and caregi
101: 🦋 Tiny Wings & Curious Things
Send us Fan MailGet ready to explore the miniature world of bugs with Vail Shoultz-McCole and Colleen Roahrig! In this episode, we’re diving into the fascinating lives of insects and how parents can turn everyday outdoor moments into exciting learning adventures for their little explorers. 🐞From butterflies to beetles, Vail and Colleen share fun, safe, and educational ways to spark curiosity and h
Replay: Gardening with Children
Send us Fan MailWe’re joined by our very own Sue Kansteiner, Child Care Partnership Specialist at Early Learning Ventures! With summer in full bloom, it’s the perfect time to explore how gardening can be a fun and educational activity for young children. Sue shares practical tips, creative ideas, and the many benefits of getting kids involved in the garden. Whether you’re a seasoned green thumb or
100 Splash Smart: Water Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know
Send us Fan MailChristie Caster from the Western Colorado Red Cross shares essential tips to keep kids safe around water. 💧 Water is fun—but it can be dangerous without the right precautions.👀 Check out age-appropriate videos at redcross.org that you can watch with your kids to teach them water safety in a fun, meaningful way!Longfellow’s WHALE Tales Water Safety for Children | Red CrossLearn more
99: When Not to Say “Please”
Send us Fan MailWe all teach our kids to say “please” — but what if there are times when it’s not the right word to use? 🤔In this eye-opening episode, Julie Mendenhall dives into the power of language and explores when using “please” might actually weaken your message — especially in moments of conflict or correction. Julie shares practical strategies for helping children navigate tough social sit
98: Be Red Cross Ready – Prepare So You Can Protect
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Christie Caster from the Western Colorado Chapter of the Red Cross shares practical tools, apps, and strategies to help you get ready before disaster hits. From wildfires to floods, Christie walks us through how to build a family emergency plan, why it’s crucial to involve your kids in preparedness, and how to turn drills into empowering family routines.Whether you
97. Tackling Rude Behavior
Send us Fan MailIn this insightful episode, Julie Mendenhall joins Colleen Roahrig to explore how parents can respond to their children’s rude behaviors in ways that are calm, constructive, and rooted in teaching—not just correcting.Learn more about Early Learning Ventures! ELV Monthly Newsletter - Early Learning Ventures
96 Family Budgeting at its best.
Send us Fan MailJoin this discussion with Katie Griffin the supervisor of community education at ENT credit union. She shares some great ideas on family activities and realistic ways to save money, even when on a tight budget. Resource: ENT.com for free financial education Learn more about Early Learning Ventures! ELV Monthly Newsletter - Early Learning Ventures
95. Growing Flowers with children
Send us Fan MailGrowing flowers at your home with young children can be a magical experience, especially in the beautiful and diverse landscapes of Colorado. From the rugged mountain to the windy plains and high desert; these climates present unique challenges, but with the right tools, safe flower choices, and some creative planning, your young child can thrive alongside the blooms. Learn more ab
94 Lantern (formerly Bright by Text)
Send us Fan MailJoin Jennifer Garcia Rosendo and Dr. Katie Richardson as they talk about Lantern. Lantern is a national nonprofit specializing in delivering childhood development resources to parents through an innovative text messaging platform providing information from prenatal to 11 years old. Tune in to learn more. Learn more about Early Learning Ventures! ELV Monthly Newsletter -
93. Friendship and Family Support with First time moms
Send us Fan MailJoin first-time moms Faith and Elsa as they dive into the journey of pregnancy and motherhood. In this episode, they reveal the invaluable role of friendship and family support during and after pregnancy. Discover how they navigated the challenges of childcare, financial hurdles, and emotional ups and downs with the help of their loved ones. Plus, get their top tips for new moms on
92. Fun Gardening Activities with our Children- Vail Shoultz-McCole:
Send us Fan MailDiscover the joy of gardening, whether you have a small balcony or a big backyard! Vail Shoultz-McCole will share creative ways to garden in any space and fun activities to get your kids involved. Learn fascinating facts about fruits and veggies, and find out how to start affordable gardening projects.Gardening with your children is a wonderful way to "Plant Memories" tog
91. One Step- American Lung Association
Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, we are thrilled to have Tracey Maruyama, Health Promotions Manager for the American Lung Association in Colorado, join us. Tracey will share valuable resources for parents and caregivers to help keep children's lungs healthy, especially when they are around people who use tobacco, smoking, and vaping products. Learn more about Early Learning Ventures!
90. American Red Cross- National Free Smoke Alarm Program
Send us Fan MailColleen Roahrig had a conversation with Christie Caster who is with the Colorado/Wyoming Region of the American Red Cross and the Western Colorado Chapter Executive Director. Christie shared about the American Red Cross’s National Free Smoke Alarm Program. The American Red Cross provides needed smoke alarms to individuals, installs the alarms and provides free home safety tips incl
Replay: My Plate Won't Look Like Your Plate
Send us Fan MailIn honor of National Nutrition Month we are replaying this great episode. Jennifer talks to Paul Soderstrom and Brigid Hunt, Cooking Matters facilitators, about how to feed your family healthy foods on a budget. The conversation includes talk about comfort food and how we can embrace all ways of eating for balanced health. Mentioned in this conversation: SNAP/Double Up Fo
89: Navigating Birth Plans and Medical Guidance
Send us Fan MailJoin first-time working moms Faith, Morgan, and Elsa as they share their personal journeys of navigating birth plans amidst the guidelines and recommendations from doctors and nurses. They discuss the challenges, surprises, and triumphs they faced while balancing their own preferences with medical advice. Tune in to hear their stories, gain valuable insights, and feel empowered to
88 Teaching Kids to Handle Meanness: Strategies for Conflict Resolution
Send us Fan MailJoin Julie Mendenhall and special guest Colleen Roahrig as they explore effective strategies for teaching children how to respond when others are mean to them. In this insightful episode, Julie introduces the powerful skill of "Look at them, name it, and walk away," a simple yet effective technique that children of all ages—and even adults—can use to handle confrontations
Replay Ready To Read
Send us Fan MailMary and Andy, Early Literacy Librarians from Arapahoe Libraries, discuss ways that caregivers can help young children get ready to read. They share Five points: Read, talk, sing, write and play. Vroom: https://www.vroom.org/ A free resource for helping adults build strong brains in their little ones. Hundreds of example activities that are research-based and include how they sup
87. Navigating teething with a baby/toddler.
Send us Fan MailELV's first time moms are back! This week, they're diving into the world of teething. From the first signs to the sleepless nights, join them as they share their personal experiences, tips, and tricks to help you and your little one navigate this challenging phase. Whether you're a new mom or just looking for some extra support, this episode is packed with practica
86. Tax Season 2025! What you should Know.
Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Early Learning Venture’s podcast, Family Engagement Fridays! In this episode, we are excited to have Monica DeWitt from the Community Resource Center join us to discuss valuable resources for tax preparation. Monica will share insights on federal and state tax credits, as well as free and secure tax filing options available for 2025. Tune in to learn how you can max
85. Two techniques to help children to calm down.
Send us Fan MailJulie Mendenhall is joined by Colleen Roahrig to discuss “Two techniques to help children calm down”. These two techniques help children to calm down and be better thinkers in order to solve problems. Julie will discuss the importance of children being calm in order to hear instructions and be able to communicate with the child during times of stress. Please below attachments for y
84. Experiencing Postpartum
Send us Fan MailOur first-time working moms are back to share experiences of postpartum, how they take care of their mental health and maintain their identify. They also discussed how their social life changed after having a child. Learn more about Early Learning Ventures! ELV Monthly Newsletter - Early Learning Ventures
83. Helping our children understand the words; Stuck, Shift, Think
Send us Fan MailJulie Mendenhall is back and joined by Colleen Roahrig to discuss “Helping our children understand these words: Stuck, Shift and Think. These words can easily be taught to children to help them to understand what is going on with their brain. Julie has helped children understand that they are in charge of their brain and that it is very important that they take care of their brain
82. Coffee and Crumbs with First Time Moms: Feeding Decisions
Send us Fan MailThey're baack !!!! Faith, Elsa and Morgan, first time moms from ELV, discuss feeding their babies and their experience of breast feeding. They share many insights for first time moms and the importance of doing what is right for yourself and your baby. Learn more about Early Learning Ventures! ELV Monthly Newsletter - Early Learning Ventures
81: Four goals of misbehavior
Send us Fan MailJoin Julie Mendenhall and Colleen Roahrig as they delve into the concept of the "Four Goals of Misbehavior," based on the work of Rudolph Dreikurs. Discover how children's misbehavior often stems from feelings of discouragement or a desire to belong. When they can't find positive ways to fit in, they may resort to negative behaviors.In this insightful episode, y
Replay Coffee and Crumbs with First Time Working Moms
Send us Fan MailAs we come to the close of the year, we are taking this time to highlight our favorite episodes from this year! This one was our most listened to episode. Tune in for a great conversation Join us for a heartfelt episode as we dive into the lives of five incredible women at Early Learning Ventures who are not only dedicated employees but also first-time moms. Malana Miner, Elsa
Replay: What is a Healthy Beverage
Send us Fan MailAs we close out 2024, we are highlighting our most popular episodes. This one comes in at number 2Jennifer García Rosendo talks to Arapahoe County Public Health about their Healthy Beverages Program. Joining us today is Hannah Oshner an Arapahoe County Public Health Registered Dietician, Lactation Counselor, and WIC Supervisor and Leslie Levine, Arapahoe County Public Health’s S
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