STEAM in early childhood education—what does it really look like? How can we move past the idea that STEAM is just about science experiments and tech gadgets and instead see it as a natural part of how children learn and explore the world?

In this episode of The Inspiring ECE Podcast, I sit down with Paula Walsh, an early childhood educator, lecturer, STEAM researcher, and author of Full STEAM Ahead. Paula is passionate about making STEAM practical, playful, and accessible for all educators—because let’s be real, we don’t need to be scientists or engineers to bring rich learning experiences to young children!

We’re talking about:

• The real difference between STEM and STEAM and why the Arts are a game-changer

• How STEAM fits naturally into play-based and inquiry-driven learning

• Simple, everyday ways to introduce STEAM—no expensive resources required

• Why “unplugged technology” is just as important as screen-based learning

• How educators can build confidence in STEAM (even if it feels intimidating)

• Paula’s book Full STEAM Ahead and how it helps educators bring STEAM into their classrooms with ease

This episode is all about breaking down barriers and empowering educators to embrace STEAM in a way that feels fun, engaging, and meaningful.

Paula's most recent book, entitled "Full STEAM Ahead" is a guide to implementing STEAM in the early years and is also available now from Boru Press here. You can contact Paula or learn more about her work here.

LinkedIn: Paula Walshe

Twitter: @‌walshe_paula

Instagram: @‌paulawalshe77

You can also email her: paula.walshe@setu.ie

Guest bio: Paula Walshe is a published author, Assistant Lecturer in Early Childhood Education at South East Technological University in Carlow, Ireland and a PhD candidate at Dundalk Institute of Technology. Her PhD research focuses on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts and maths) in early childhood education and care (ECEC).

In this empowering episode of The Inspiring ECE Podcast, your host Marcia Nicole welcomes a true trailblazer in the field of Early Childhood Education—Anisha Angella. As an entrepreneur, author, Registered Early Childhood Educator, and dynamic leadership coach, Anisha is on a mission to inspire educators to think beyond the classroom and embrace leadership roles with passion and purpose.

This episode is a heartfelt conversation filled with practical insights, contagious energy, and powerful lessons from Anisha’s own journey from classroom teacher to influential leader and coach. Whether you're just starting out or looking to make impactful changes in your ECE career, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to keep you motivated and focused on your personal and professional growth.

What You’ll Learn/Show Notes:

• The pivotal moments and mentors that shaped Anisha's journey from educator to entrepreneur

• Practical tips for new entrepreneurs looking to branch out beyond the classroom

• How to find the right mentor and build a supportive professional community

• Realistic strategies to manage burnout while keeping your passion alive

• The evolving landscape of leadership in ECE, including addressing mental health, diversity, and educator empowerment

Tune in, take notes, and get ready to be inspired! Anisha’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the ECE community.

• Website: www.anishatheecc.com

• Instagram: Instagram (@theecc.community)

• Facebook: The Early Childhood Coach | Mississauga ON

• Twitter: Anisha.theecc (@AnishaAngella) on X

• Youtube: The Early Childhood Coach Channel

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anishaangella/

• TikTok: Anisha | Early Childhood Coach on TikTok

• The ECE Hub (Facebook Group): The ECC Hub | Facebook

• The ECC Academy (Podia): ECC Academy

• Book A Workshop or Speaking Engagement with The ECC: Get in touch with The Early Childhood Coach

In this heartfelt episode of the Inspiring ECE Podcast, we delve into the profound reasons why choosing and remaining in the field of Early Childhood Education (ECE) is not just a career choice but a transformative journey. Amidst discussions of burnout and staffing shortages, it's crucial to reconnect with the passion and purpose that drew us to this vocation.

Key Takeaways:

• Navigating Negative Narratives: Learn strategies to shift your perspective from challenges to the impactful moments that define your teaching journey.

• Building a Supportive Community: Discover the importance of surrounding yourself with positive, passionate educators who uplift and inspire.

• Personal Growth Through ECE: Understand how your role as an educator not only shapes young minds but also fosters your own personal and professional development.

Be on the lookout for our Special Offering:

To support your well-being, we're excited to offer a FREE Wellness and Self-Care Course tailored for educators. This resource provides practical tips and strategies to nurture your mental and emotional health, ensuring you can continue to inspire and educate with enthusiasm.

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By subscribing to our mailing list, you'll receive updates on future podcast episodes, special guest interviews, and exclusive content designed to empower and motivate. It's also a platform for you to share your thoughts, suggest topics, and become an active participant in our growing community.

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Call to Action:

Reflect on the positive moments in your teaching journey and share them with a colleague or within our community. Let's collectively shift the narrative towards the rewarding and joyful aspects of ECE.

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• Email: info@ispyrtoeducate.com