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Part Two: Words That Shape Us - Literacy and Identity in Early Childhood (Ep 13)

Unlocking the Power of Early Language Development

In this must-listen episode, we continue discussing the critical role of early language development and how it forms the foundation of lifelong literacy and learning. Following on from Part 1, we explore how educators can shape their students' academic and life trajectories through simple yet powerful strategies that foster language-rich environments. Learn how everyday interactions can become opportunities for children to connect ideas, build vocabulary, and strengthen the literacy skills that underpin reading and writing.

Featuring expert insights from Mary-Ruth Mendel and Eric Brace, this episode reveals how language is a tool for communication and a gateway to understanding the world. We also celebrate the groundbreaking work that has been recognised globally, including prestigious awards such as:

• Global Winner, Learning & Education, World Summit Awards (Vienna)
• Innovation Award, South by Southwest (Austin, TX)
• Global Challenge Winner, MIT Solve Challenge
• World Summit Award, Culture & Heritage

These accolades reflect the impact of the Living First Language Platform. This digital tool helps Indigenous communities preserve and revitalise their languages while empowering children with literacy skills in their native tongues.

This episode is packed with practical tips, equipping educators with the tools to make immediate changes and help students form deeper connections with their world. By implementing these ideas, you move beyond just preparing children to read and write—you are transforming lives. Don’t miss this chance to inspire and ignite change.

Note: If you haven’t yet listened to Part 1, check it out! These two episodes offer a comprehensive guide to building language development in young learners. You can't afford to miss them!

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#SpeechTherapy

#TeachingLiteracy

#LanguageDevelopmentMatters

#LanguageLearning

#FirstNationsLanguages

#CulturalEquity

#EducationForChange

#TeachingStrategies

#ReadingAndWriting

#CommunityLearning

#IndigenousLanguages

#LanguagePreservation

#FutureOfEducation

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Thank you for listening. Please subscribe to this podcast so you can receive valuable insights and discussions in the future!

For more information about Lili-Ann Kriegler, go to:

Kriegler-Education

https://www.kriegler-education.com

+61438489032

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I respect the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land of the Kulin Nation groups, the Boonwurrung and Bunurong people, where I live, learn, and work.

Lili-Ann Kriegler (B. A Hons, H. Dip. Ed, M.Ed.) is an award-winning author and Melbourne-based education consultant. Her books are 'The Power of Play' for educators and 'Roots and Wings' for parents. Lili-Ann’ is a leader in early childhood education (birth to years), leadership and optimising human thinking and cognition. She runs her consultancy, Kriegler-Education. She is passionate about the early childhood sector and believes in the transformational power of education.
Find out more at https://www.kriegler-education.com.

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Part 1 of 2: Words That Shape Us: Literacy and Identity in Early Childhood

In this thought-provoking first part of a two-part interview, I explore the crucial role of language development and its profound impact on children’s life trajectories. This episode uncovers the foundations of early literacy and its influence in shaping identity. Join me as I interview literacy experts Mary-Ruth Mendel, Co-Founder of the Australian Literacy and Numeracy Foundation (ALNF), and Eric Brace, ALNF’s Director of Programs.

Mary-Ruth and Eric discuss the critical role of oral language in early childhood, the challenges of ensuring literacy equity, and the powerful impact of embracing home languages alongside English in enriching children’s development. They highlight how ALNF’s Early Language and Literacy Program (ELLP) equips educators and families with essential tools to close the learning gap before school, ensuring every child can thrive.

The United Nations has declared the period from 2022 to 2032 as the International Decade of Indigenous Languages, highlighting the urgent need to preserve and revitalise Indigenous languages worldwide.

This episode is packed with practical insights for educators, parents, and anyone passionate about early childhood education. Listen now to explore how we can shape brighter futures for all children through language and literacy.

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we continue this critical conversation focusing on digital platforms for language learning and Indigenous language preservation!

Support the show

Thank you for listening. Please subscribe to this podcast so you can receive valuable insights and discussions in the future!

For more information about Lili-Ann Kriegler, go to:

Kriegler-Education

https://www.kriegler-education.com

+61438489032

Follow Lili-Ann

I respect the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land of the Kulin Nation groups, the Boonwurrung and Bunurong people, where I live, learn, and work.

Lili-Ann Kriegler (B. A Hons, H. Dip. Ed, M.Ed.) is an award-winning author and Melbourne-based education consultant. Her books are 'The Power of Play' for educators and 'Roots and Wings' for parents. Lili-Ann’ is a leader in early childhood education (birth to years), leadership and optimising human thinking and cognition. She runs her consultancy, Kriegler-Education. She is passionate about the early childhood sector and believes in the transformational power of education.
Find out more at https://www.kriegler-education.com.

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Podcast Description:

In this insightful episode of For Your Ears from the Early Years, Lili-Ann Kriegler sits down with parenting expert Sonia DaSilva to explore essential strategies for supporting healthy child development, with a focus on respect, transitions, and the power of play. Sonia highlights the importance of respecting each child's individuality and offering them a sense of agency, even in everyday routines. She shares practical tips, such as using a timer during transitions, to give children control and create a sense of autonomy and enjoyment.

Lili-Ann builds on these ideas, emphasising how explaining the reasoning behind transitions helps children feel more in control, encouraging independence and self-regulation. Together, they explore the concept of "locus of control" and how empowering children with small choices helps them develop self-confidence and decision-making skills.

The conversation also delves into the transformative role of play in children’s overall development—not just as a source of enjoyment but as a crucial tool for creativity, motor skills, and language development. Both Sonia and Lili-Ann agree that the play process is more valuable than the outcome, and they discuss how educators and parents can seamlessly integrate play into daily life.

Sonia also shares her approach to creating language-rich environments, using books, maps, and other materials to encourage communication. Lili-Ann supports this, noting how play can be combined with structured language learning to help children strengthen their communication skills.

This episode is packed with practical strategies for educators and parents alike. It offers valuable insights into how respectful interactions, thoughtful transitions, and meaningful play can promote children’s growth. Whether you’re a parent looking for new tools or an educator seeking ways to engage with families, this conversation provides actionable advice to help you nurture a child’s development with care and creativity.

Support the show

Thank you for listening. Please subscribe to this podcast so you can receive valuable insights and discussions in the future!

For more information about Lili-Ann Kriegler, go to:

Kriegler-Education

https://www.kriegler-education.com

+61438489032

Follow Lili-Ann

I respect the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land of the Kulin Nation groups, the Boonwurrung and Bunurong people, where I live, learn, and work.

Lili-Ann Kriegler (B. A Hons, H. Dip. Ed, M.Ed.) is an award-winning author and Melbourne-based education consultant. Her books are 'The Power of Play' for educators and 'Roots and Wings' for parents. Lili-Ann’ is a leader in early childhood education (birth to years), leadership and optimising human thinking and cognition. She runs her consultancy, Kriegler-Education. She is passionate about the early childhood sector and believes in the transformational power of education.
Find out more at https://www.kriegler-education.com.