Not-for-profit provider Sparkways releases podcast for educators and families

Early childhood education and care (ECEC) provider Sparkways has released a podcast for both educators and parents, featuring experienced educators and subject matter experts to deep dive and unpack topics of interest. 

Season One of The Sparkways Podcast has six episodes, which guide the listener through a series of relaxed conversations with guests who provide parents, caregivers and educators with an easy access platform to help connect with and better understand children and young people. 

Led by journalist and mother Nicole Azzopardi, the podcast features parenting expert Maggie Dent, music therapist Allison Davies, and Billy Button Children’s Centre representative Simone Smith. 

“Parents and educators alike are extremely hard working and very time poor,” said Sparkways CEO Angela Forbes. “This podcast is the kind of thing you can listen to, learn from and be entertained by while driving, shopping, or when you’ve got a moment to yourself.”  

Each episode provides an opportunity for listeners to reflect on the needs of children and young people and how to surround them with support, understanding and skill to help them to thrive. 

Maggie Dent kicks off the podcast series, giving practical tips to help children feel connected and respected while making stronger foundations to support them as they grow. 

In another episode, assertiveness coach Dr Nathalie Martinek  discusses real-life ways to bring adults and children to the negotiating table, while providing assertiveness tools which can help to decrease conflict, boost confidence to speak up, to feel heard and to hear others.  

Access to The Sparkways Podcast is available via the Sparkways website and also via a range of podcast apps such as Spotify, Google Podcasts and Apple Music.