Quest for Quality Podcast

Join us to take a deep dive into each of the four standard areas of STAR 3 and 4: Staff Qualifications & Professional Development, Early Learning Program, Partnerships with Families & Communities, and Leadership & Management. We unpack the indicators, discuss what evidence might look like, and explore how programs can prepare and reflect on their quality practices. Whether you’re aimin...

In this episode, we break down the essential steps programs need to take to move from STAR 1 to STAR 2 in Pennsylvania’s Keystone STARS. Learn what indicators are required at STAR 2, how to begin the application process for the designation, and what support is available to help you along the way. Whether you're just starting to explore the move or already gathering documentation, this episode offe...

In this episode, we explore the heart of Baby Doll Circle Time—a powerful, intentional practice designed to nurture attachment and attunement in early childhood settings. Rooted in the understanding that secure relationships are the foundation for all learning, this approach uses simple routines with baby dolls to model empathy, connection, and co-regulation.

In this episode of Quest for Quality, we dive into the PDO (Professional Development Organization) and its role in supporting early childhood educators on their journey toward higher education. We discuss why continuing education is essential in the ECE field, how it benefits both educators and the children they serve, and explore common barriers. Tune in for insights, resources, and strategies to...

Join the ELRC 8, 9, and 10 designation team as they share their top 10 tips for a smooth and successful designation process. Whether you're new to the process or looking for ways to streamline your experience, these expert insights will help you navigate designation with confidence!

This episode shifts our lens to look back on what we have accomplished in our Quest for Quality so far. Take a listen for a snapshot into the topics we’ve covered, and an opportunity to provide feedback. We appreciate your listens!

In this episode, we sit down with Usha, a family child care provider, to explore cultural differences through the lens of her experience growing up in India. Usha shares her personal journey, highlighting key cultural distinctions and how they have shaped her approach to early childhood education. She also discusses the ways she fosters an inclusive environment, supporting children and families fr...

In this episode of Quest for Quality, we welcome Rande Fregm and Liz Jones to discuss how we can better support children with extra needs in the ECE classroom. We explore how inclusive practices not only benefit children with additional needs but enhance learning and engagement for all. Join us as we dive into the importance of mindful daily routines, structured yet flexible schedules, and small a...

In this episode, STARS Coach Joe Barry is joined by Leann Goodling, Professional Development Coordinator with the Bureau of Certification Services, and Shelby Joyce, a Certification Supervisor. Together, we will bring you 10 tips that will help you build a healthy and safe summer program. Disclaimer: This episode was recorded on January 23rd, 2025, and all information presented is accurate as of t...

In this episode of “Quest for Quality” Jen DeStephano, a Quality Coach, and Karen Bell, a Child Care Works Manager, discuss and answer some of the more common questions about the responsibilities of being a provider with a CCW agreement. Click here for Resources.

In this episode, Coty Slothour, a Technical Assistance Coach, and Jen DeStephano, a Quality Coach, explore the importance of well-designed supervision practices in early childhood settings. They discuss strategies to enhance supervision, practical ways to strengthen awareness, and how to prevent common lapses to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for children. Click here for Resourc...

In the last episode of our four-part social emotional learning series, we will discuss the idea of problem solving. Now that we’ve built a safe environment for children and made connections with them, they are ready to solve problems. They are in their executive state and ready to override the impulses and insecurities of the lower states. We will discuss the CD tools of positive intent and conseq...

In part three of our four-part series on social emotional development, we will discuss the importance of connection and why positive relationships and secure connections with adults are foundational in early learning. When children feel safe and secure with their caregivers, they are more likely to explore, learn and develop new skills. These relationships serve as the building blocks for all futu...

In this second episode of our four-part series on social emotional learning we will dive deeper into emotional safety and why it is paramount for children. When children feel emotionally secure, they are more open to learning and taking risks. This sense of safety extends beyond the classroom. It impacts their lifelong sense of security and well-being. We’ll look at the first two skills of Conscio...

In this episode of "Quest for Quality," Elizabeth Marcello and Teresa Wilson, technical assistance coaches, discuss the crucial role of social and emotional skills in early childhood education. They emphasize the importance of positive relationships and secure connections with adults as the foundation for future learning. The episode focuses on the significance of emotional safety, the transfer of...

In part 2 of this outdoor learning series, we are doing a deeper dive into what outdoor play really looks like, including some additional areas you can set up, how to easily connect outdoor play to learning standards, and our role as the adult in this type of play-based, child-led exploration. Click here for Outdoor Learning Resources.

Research shows that children thrive outdoors and have opportunities for learning, development and self-regulation that cannot be achieved indoors. In this podcast, we discuss how nature play supports the health and well-being of children and adults alike, the features of an Outdoor Learning Environment compared to a playground, the barriers that may limit how much time children spend outdoors, and...

This episode is packed with valuable information and resources to help you create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere for fathers in ECE programs. Tune in to learn how you can champion fatherhood engagement and make a lasting difference in the lives of young children. Click here for Fatherhood Inclusion Resources.

In this episode, we dive into the art of crafting effective staff meetings. We’ll explore the importance of setting clear intentions and share a variety of topic ideas to keep your meetings engaging and relevant. Discover strategies for scheduling that respect everyone’s time and learn how to empower your staff by making meetings more inclusive and motivating. We’ll also provide tips on creating a...

Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to the concept of social stories, this episode will provide you with valuable insights and actionable ideas to enhance your teaching toolkit. Tune in and learn how to harness the power of social stories to create a supportive and understanding classroom environment. Click here for Social Stories Resources.

In this episode, we delve into the enriching world of process art in early childhood education, emphasizing the journey of creation over the final product. Discover how focusing on the creative process fosters critical brain development in young children, nurturing growth. We’ll discuss practical insights for educators on setting up engaging invitations for creative processes, offering strategies...

Mealtimes are more than just moments to satisfy hunger, they are opportunities for learning, socialization, and growth. In this episode we will explore the benefits of family-style eating and how to make every meal a meaningful experience for young learners. Click here for Mealtime Resources.

In order to value children’s play and allow learning to take place through play in the classroom, we need to understand the importance of play, and be playful ourselves. As an adult, it can be difficult to know how to be playful when we have a job, bills, laundry, and many other responsibilities on our plates. It can often feel overwhelming. Play researcher Dr. Fraser Brown has identified 8 “play...

Have you ever wondered why some children love to dump toys, throw food, or hide themselves? Then this episode is for you! Find out how you can use play schemas to engage your children’s interest in the classroom and meet their cognitive, social emotional, and physical needs. Click here for Play Schemas resources: https://cccforpa.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Play-Schema-Resources.pdf

Rapid Response may not be a new term to you, but how the support service is implemented has recently changed. Check out our conversation with rapid response coordinator Kim Alloway and learn the history of rapid response, the importance of such a program, and the process steps for utilizing the support program. See additional documents here: RR Expectations – Programs – Bilingual Updated Flow Char...