Ep. 73 Taking Your Kids’ Lead [Indoors & Outdoors] with Brittany Williams

Let them lead! Children often get told where to be, what to do (and not do), and sometimes even how to feel for a good chunk of their days. Watching, listening, and understanding your children or the children you care for, and allowing them to lead, will create wonderful memories and fun adventures. So, where should we start? 

 

In episode 37, you got to meet Brittany Williams, who is from Knoxville, Tennessee. She has worked in Early Childhood Education for nearly 12 years. She could talk risky play and bodily autonomy all day long! And on top of that, she’s a wonderful stepmama who is all about getting her daughter outside on adventures, to explore the world around her! 

 

Brittany’s Last Episode: Episode 37, Risky Play and Nature Education - https://kidswhoexplore.com/podcasts/ep-37-risky-play-nature-education-with-brittany-williams/ 

 

Book Referenced: How To Talk So Little Kids Will Listen by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish 

 

How to Follow Their Lead: 

• Allow them to pick from choices 
• Work on problem solving as a group (everyone can share their ideas – write them down – then you can map out which work for this season/activity/situation) 
• Make a bucket list or wish list with them 
• Be present and watch your children; notice when they are showing interest in certain activities, or moments within the activity 
• Allow pausing for things they want to see, or snacks  

How to Still Guide: 

• Teach navigation and mile markers 
• Teach areas you’re confident in (those topics may lead to more questions) 
• Plan screen limits, so time is spent in different ways 
• In groups, take turns, set timers, accept feelings (even though it’s harder to hear every voice, every voice and feeling matters) 
• Indoors – offer toys that are materials, not just things with one purpose. There is magic in blocks and cardboard boxes (sticks and rocks) – look up / think “loose parts” 

Risky Play: 

• They will assess how their body moves and feels 
• Slow down and watch if they need some reminders of what to pay attention to and assess 

Bodily Autonomy: 

• Accept how they feel from giving hugs to getting wet on an adventure  

Follow Brittany:  

IG: @bbwilliams21 

 

Check out KWE’s #patch4apurpose to support 1, or all 8, charities:
https://kidswhoexplore.com/product/original-explorer-patch4apurpose/ 

Today’s Host: @adriannaadventures & @laurenrodycheberle from @kidswhoexplore
Production: @kpmediaproductions. Music: @michaelferraro_music