The transition from early childcare to kindergarten is a bigstep, not just for kids, but for parents too. In this heartwarming episode of the Ready, Set, Kindergarten Podcast, host Jennifer Andrews, Director of Early Childhood Strategies for Chattanooga 2.0, explores how building strong emotional connections with your child can ease this transitionand lay the foundation for lifelong learning and trust.

Rather than focusing solely on rules and routines, thisepisode encourages parents to become their child’s support system and cheerleading team—engaging in meaningful conversations throughout the day, validating emotions, and creating a safe space for expression. We dive into:

• Why everyday conversations matter for emotional development
• How connection builds confidence and resilience in young children
• The difference between being an authority figure and a trusted guide
• Simple ways to talk with your child that foster trust, curiosity, and emotional safety
• How to respond to big emotions with empathy and encouragement

Jennifer is joined by three expert guests who offerpractical insights and compassionate advice:

• Dr. Allen Coffman, Pediatrician at Highland Pediatrics
• Dr. Beth Capecchi, Licensed Psychologist
• Lauren Hall, President & CEO of First Things First

Whether you're navigating morning drop-offs, bedtimemeltdowns, or just trying to connect during busy days, this episode is full of helpful tips to strengthen your bond with your child and support their emotional growth.

Subscribe and listen to the Ready, Set, Kindergarten Podcast, your trusted guide for parenting through the early years and beyond.

Starting kindergarten is a big step. Not just academically, but emotionally too. In this episode of the Ready, Set, Kindergarten Podcast, host Jennifer Andrews, Director of Early Childhood Strategies for Chattanooga 2.0, explores the vital topic of socio-emotional learning (SEL) and how parents can help young children understand and manage their big emotions during this major life transition. Socio-emotional learning is the foundation for healthy relationships, self-awareness, and resilience. But for young kids, emotions like frustration, anxiety, excitement, and sadness can feel overwhelming-and often show up in unexpected ways. This episode dives deep into:

• What socio-emotional learning looks like in early childhood

• How emotional regulation develops in young brains

• Common emotional challenges during the transition to kindergarten

• Practical strategies for helping kids name, express, and cope with their feelings

• How parents can model emotional intelligence and create safe spaces for emotional growth

Jennifer is joined by three expert guests who bring a wealth of insight and compassion to the conversation:

• • Dr. Allen Coffman, Pediatrician at Highland Pediatrics

• • Dr. Beth Capecchi, Licensed Psychologist

• • Lauren Hall, President & CEO of First Things First

Whether your child is nervous about leaving their preschool friends, struggling with separation anxiety, or just learning how to handle big feelings, this episode provides thoughtful, actionable advice to help you support them with confidence and care.

Subscribe and listen to the Ready, Set, Kindergarten Podcast, your trusted guide for parenting through the early years and beyond.

The end of a school or daycare day can be a whirlwind for both young children and for parents trying to connect. In this episode of Ready, Set, Kindergarten, host Jennifer Andrews, Director of Early Childhood Strategies for Chattanooga 2.0, is joined by two incredible experts: Dr. Beth Capecchi, a licensed psychologist, and Valencia Harris, Coordinator for Community and Family Engagement at Hamilton County Schools.

Together, they explore how parents can start meaningful conversations with their children after a long day, why this transition can be challenging, and practical strategies to ease the stress for the whole family. Whether your child is just starting kindergarten or you're navigating the daily ups and downs of early childhood, this episode offers compassionate insights and actionable tips to help you build stronger connections at home.

Tune in to learn how small conversations can make a big difference.