EMpowered

• Beyond Behaviours Series Episode 5: What does ‘Meeting Children’s Needs’ in the Classroom Mean?

  Behaviour is communication and children act out when their needs aren’t met. But what does that actually mean? And how do we meet their needs in the classroom in a way that helps them feel safe, connected, and engaged? In this episode, I’m talking about what it really means to meet children’s needs (beyond the buzzwords) so you can shift from reacting to behaviour to understanding what’s underneath it. If you’ve ever wondered why certain students seem to be in constant meltdown mode, why some avoid tasks or disrupt lessons, or why connection is such a big deal, this episode will give you a clear framework to start working with. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why children’s behaviour is often linked to unmet needs or skill gaps. The five core needs that drive behaviour How to shift from seeing behaviour as “good” or “bad” to recognising what children are trying to communicate. Why focusing on connection and safety first leads to fewer behaviour challenges. Practical ways to create a classroom culture where children feel safe, capable, and seen. Free Resources for Teachers Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle—10 comprehensive guides (including one on meeting needs) plus bonus resources like brain break guides and behaviour scripts. It's packed with actionable strategies to create a trauma-informed, non-punitive classroom. Connect with Em Website: www.emmagentle.com.au Instagram: @em_gentle LinkedIn

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• EMpowered Podcast Take Over Series: Using Boundaries as a Tool to Support Behaviour with Danica See

  Boundaries are often misunderstood, but when done right, they create safety, structure, and predictability. The key ingredients for a classroom where children feel secure and engaged. If you’ve ever struggled with feeling like kids are walking all over you or wondered how to hold firm boundaries without resorting to control or punishment, this episode is for you. This episode is part of the EMpowered Podcast Take Over Series, where incredible educators take the mic to share their expertise on creating conscious and connected classrooms. Danica is an early childhood educator, university lecturer, practicum supervisor and mama of two. She is also the owner of Little Bloom, a platform that shares a multitude of information about child development, social-emotional learning and, most significantly, supporting children’s behaviour and big feelings for early childhood professionals who support young children. After working in the early childhood space for over 16 years, Danica has recognised a fundamental need for a shift in the way that we support children’s behaviour - people are seeking help with how to effectively support young children’s behaviour and emotional development but are unsure of where to find this information. Through Little Bloom, Danica has made it her mission to bridge the divide between theory and practice by bringing evidence-informed information to early childhood educators by sharing personal anecdotes, camaraderie, current research and strategies. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: The difference between boundaries and limits (and why most people get this wrong). Why firm and fair boundaries create emotional safety for children. How to hold a boundary without yelling, shaming, or threatening. What to do when children push back against a boundary How boundaries actually support self-regulation and emotional growth. A simple framework to help you set boundaries effectively. Want more support with boundaries? Danica is running a workshop in April on limits, boundaries, and consequences, helping you use each of them as a tool to support behaviour, not control it. You'll walk away with a whole toolkit of practical strategies and a clear plan to make boundaries work in your classroom or home. Find the links on her instagram below! To keep in touch, you can find Danica here: Instagram: @littlebloom.consultancy Website – https://www.littlebloomconsultancy.com.au/ Email – [email protected] Resources for you Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle, which is a 10-part guide to behaviour support grounded in connection and empathy. It’s packed with resources to help you create a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming classroom that supports students holistically. Just $47 and full of actionable strategies. Connect with Em Website: emmagentle.com.au Instagram: @em_gentle LinkedIn

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• Beyond Behaviour Series Episode 4: Why Educators Need to Understand Trauma Informed Practice

  Trauma affects how children learn in the classroom. When children don’t feel safe, they cannot access the part of the brain required for learning. If you've ever wondered why some students seem constantly dysregulated, reactive, or withdrawn, this episode will give you the missing piece. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why trauma leaves a lasting impact on a child’s behaviour, emotions, and ability to learn. The difference between simple, complex, and developmental trauma and why it matters. How trauma keeps children stuck in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn states. Why traditional behaviour management strategies (like rewards and punishments) don’t work, particularly for children with trauma. How to create a safe, predictable classroom environment that supports regulation. Why your own emotional regulation is key to helping students feel safe. Free Resources for Teachers Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Want to learn how to implement trauma-informed practices step by step? Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle for practical strategies to support students holistically. If you’re ready to focus on your own regulation and stress management, my Signature Online Program ‘The Emotionally Intelligent Educator’ will teach you how to stay grounded, balanced, and responsive in the classroom. Check it out here Connect with Em Website: www.emmagentle.com.au Instagram: @em_gentle LinkedIn

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• Beyond Behaviours Series Episode 3: The Lowdown on Rewards and Punishments in the Classroom

  Rewards and punishments might seem like an easy way to manage behaviour, but do they actually work? In this episode of the Beyond Behaviours series, I’m talking about why extrinsic rewards and punitive consequences don’t create long term behaviour change, and what to do instead. If you’ve ever relied on sticker charts, prize boxes, or detentions but found they don’t really shift behaviour, this episode will give you a new way to think about it. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why rewards and punishments control behaviour in the short term but don’t teach long-term skills. How extrinsic rewards undermine intrinsic motivation and create a “what’s in it for me” mindset. Why punishments don’t address the root cause of behaviour and often leads to shame and disconnection. How understanding stress responses, unmet needs, and skill gaps changes the way we support behaviour. What to do instead—effective feedback, setting boundaries, and holding space for emotions while keeping the classroom safe. Free Resources for Teachers Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step. Resources Mentioned in the Episode Need step-by-step guidance on replacing rewards and punishments with approaches that actually work? Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle. Only $47.  It’s packed with practical tools to help you build a connected, non-punitive classroom. Connect with Em Website: www.emmagentle.com.au Instagram: @em_gentle LinkedIn

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• Beyond Behaviours Series Episode 2: Classroom & Learning Environment Setup

  In this episode, I’m focusing on how you can set up your classroom and learning environment for 2025. It’s not about Pinterest-perfect displays but creating a purposeful, functional space where children feel emotionally, physically, and mentally safe. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to balance aesthetics with practicality or you’re unsure how your classroom setup impacts behaviour and learning, this episode is for you. Here’s what you’ll learn: How to avoid overstimulating classrooms that overwhelm neurodivergent learners. Why clutter impacts focus and behaviour and how to create a calm, organised space. The importance of co creating your classroom setup with students for connection and ownership. Practical tips for incorporating flexible seating, clear pathways, and sensory tools. Why setting up for safety, functionality, and intention is the key to a successful school year. Free Resources for Teachers Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step. Resources Mentioned in the Episode If you’re ready to learn everything about creating a classroom that’s trauma-informed, non-punitive, and built on connection, Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle. Only $47. Connect with Em Website: www.emmagentle.com.au Instagram: @em_gentle LinkedIn

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