Small Talk: Big Ideas About Little Learners
Season 1 Trailer Transcript
March 2026
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NARRATOR: How important is play to a child’s brain development? Why do Americans pay so much for child care while educators earn so little? How can families and policymakers work together to shape the future of early learning?
NAEYC, the National Association for the Education of Young Children, presents Small Talk: Big Ideas About Little Learners. This podcast dives into conversations that matter now -- to little learners and the big people who show up for them.
We’ll bring you stories of struggle:
NAEYC MEMBER: We’re the workforce behind the workforce. If it weren’t for our centers or our family childcares, people wouldn’t be able to go to work every day.
NAEYC MEMBER: You are enough. We value you. We need you.
NARRATOR: Inspiration:
NAEYC MEMBER: Ever since I was in high school, I wanted to work with children.
NAEYC MEMBER: They are so innocent. They love you no matter what. I love their hugs. I love their energy. I love speaking to the families, getting to know them.
NAEYC MEMBER: When he saw me outside of school at the supermarket, he said, “Why don’t you live in the classroom?” or “I thought you lived in the classroom. You’re not supposed to be here.”
NARRATOR: ... and hope for our children’s future:
NAEYC MEMBER: Yeah, just seeing the children grow and flourish in their development and prepare them for kindergarten. That brings me a lot of joy.
NAEYC MEMBER: Every child deserves a champion, and I just wanted to be that for someone.
NARRATOR: Small Talk: Big Ideas About Little Learners is launching soon. Learn more at NAEYC.org/SmallTalk or listen wherever you get your podcasts.
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