Loading...

PODCAST

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV

Early Learning Ventures

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

kids & family parenting

All Episodes

23:57

148 Colorado's 2026 Ballot

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/10/02

Send us Fan Mail Election season is here, and Colorado voters are facing an exceptionally full ballot. With 14 statewide ballot measures, races featuring more than 10 statewide candidates, and additional local initiatives and elections happening across communities, it can feel overwhelming to keep up with it all. In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, Monica DeWitt from the Colorado Resource Center helps break down ballot measures and issues that may impact children, families, and earl...

en-us

22:59

147 What is the Head Start NPRM and why should I care?

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/09/25

Send us Fan Mail Jennifer sits down with Ty Johnson, ELV’s Head Start Director to discuss the Notice of Proposed Rule Making or NPRM released by the Adminstration for Children and Families and the sweeping changes that it entails. They discuss why it matters, what changes will affect families the most and how to take action Sign the Parent Letter: How Parents and Caregivers Can Protect Head Start Standards - NHSA Learn how to make a public comment: How to Submit a Public Com...

en-us

5:25

146: Hidden Hazards and Giving Yourself Grace

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/09/11

Send us Fan Mail In honor of Baby Safety Month, this episode of Family Engagement Fridays explores common household safety hazards for babies and toddlers while reminding parents that mistakes and close calls can happen to anyone. From babies rolling off beds to toddlers discovering new ways to climb, children often develop skills faster than we expect. Join us as we discuss practical ways to identify hidden hazards, create a safer environment, and remember that being a good parent doesn't me...

en-us

3:23

Check the Back Seat

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/09/04

Send us Fan Mail Summer is a great time to review family safety practices. In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we focus on child passenger safety and the importance of building routines that help keep children safe around vehicles. Learn practical tips for preventing hot car incidents, creating reminder systems, and establishing simple habits that can make a lifesaving difference. This conversation is a reminder that safety starts with preparation, awareness, and supporting one anot...

en-us

19:20

Disability Awareness

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/08/28

Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, Petora Manetto-Spratt, PT, DPT, PCS, IMH-E Infant Family Specialist, discusses the services and supports available for children with disabilities and developmental differences. Petora explains how families can navigate resources from birth through age three, including Early Intervention services, and what changes as children transition to services through the school system after age three. She also shares guidance on developmental...

en-us

25:09

143: The Power of Rest featuring The Nap Time Show

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/08/21

Send us Fan Mail In 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 offers encouragement for caregivers who may be running on empty themselves. We also learn about the...

en-us

5:22

142 Simplify Your Life

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/08/14

Send us Fan Mail Life 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 don't need perfection—they need connection. Tune in for practical ideas and a simple challenge that can...

en-us

25:56

Helping children find their voice

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/08/07

Send us Fan Mail In 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 themselves. This conversation offers practical insights and encouragement for families looking to emp...

en-us

4:59

140 Boredom isn't Bad

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/07/31

Send us Fan Mail July 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 given the space to imagine, create, and discover on their own. Learn more about Early Learning Ve...

en-us

14:53

139: Building Communities with Dignity and Respect

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/07/24

Send us Fan Mail In 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 interaction Learn more about Early Learning Ventures! ELV Monthly Newsletter...

en-us

20:05

138 Every Day Moments with Vroom

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/07/17

Send us Fan Mail In 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 mealtime to bath time, Vroom provides simple, science-based tips that support early brain develop...

en-us

7:32

137: Encouraging Independence and Confidence

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/07/10

Send us Fan Mail In 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 how to strike a healthy balance between protecting your child and empowering them to navigate challenge...

en-us

6:12

136: A Safe and Fun Fourth of July for Families

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/07/03

Send us Fan Mail As 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 concerns, prepare for emergencies, explore family-friendly alternatives to fireworks, and discover s...

en-us

17:26

135. Men's Mental Health

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/06/26

Send us Fan Mail In 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 help men better manage stress, strengthen emotional well‑being, and show up fully for themselves ...

en-us

3:24

134: Dads Matter (What the Data Shows)

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/06/19

Send us Fan Mail In 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, and simply showing up consistently can shape a child’s future in meaningful ways. Whether you’re...

en-us

18:47

133 Common Car Seat Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/06/12

Send us Fan Mail In 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 safely position infants and toddlers, when to transition between car seat stages, and tip...

en-us

16:04

Replay: Tiny Wings and Curious Things

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/06/05

Send us Fan Mail In 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 Colleen share fun, safe, and educational ways to spark curiosity and help children connect with

en-us

42:21

132 Grief Isn’t Just About Loss: Coping with...

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/05/29

Send us Fan Mail In 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, including changes in routines, safety, and daily life. She also offers practical strategies to help...

en-us

11:21

Replay: Splash Safely: Water Safety with Kids

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/05/22

Send us Fan Mail Send us Fan Mail In 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 watch with your kids to teach them water safety in a fun, meaningful way! Longfello...

en-us

15:04

131: Children's Chores

Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV ·

2026/05/15

Send us Fan Mail In 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 to encourage your child to contribute at home. This conversation will help families turn every...

en-us

180 results

Similar Podcasts

கதை நேரம் | Tamil Kids & Family Bedtime Stories

Bhargav Kesavan

Short Stories for Kids: Bedtime ~ Car Time ~ Downtime

Short Stories for Kids

Peace of Mind for Pet Parents: Navigating Life With Aging or Ill Pets

BrightHaven Caregiver Academy

Dad V Girls After Hours

The Fellas Studios

Popular Bedtime Stories

Aram L