Chat about Children

What Everyone Should Know About the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Network PART 2

This Chat About Children episode is Part 2 of our series on the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Network. You will hear from MDHS early childhood training specialists, parents, military families, and community partners across Mississippi about how Resource and Referral sites support the people raising and educating children. From free learning materials and coaching to developmental screenings and safe places to connect, these centers help families and educators give children a strong start. These interviews were recorded on site, so you may hear children playing and everyday activity in the background. Learn more about the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Network at mslift.org [http://mslift.org] Learn more about the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi at childrensfoundationms.org [http://childrensfoundationms.org]

Episode 3: What Everyone Should Know About the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Network PART ONE

Chat About Children connects you to the people, places, and practical tools that help Mississippi’s children reach their potential. In this episode, host Bailey Shelton Ray, Director of Communications and Outreach for the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi, takes listeners inside the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Network, a statewide system of free community centers supporting families, educators, and anyone involved in early childhood care. The network includes multiple centers located across Mississippi, each offering playrooms, lending libraries, developmental screenings, and professional training at no cost to the public. In this episode, Bailey visits a few of them in Hattiesburg, Leland, and Tupelo to highlight how these local sites are making a statewide impact. Produced by the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi in partnership with Mississippi LIFT. Learn more at childrensfoundationms.org [http://childrensfoundationms.org] and mslift.org [http://mslift.org].

Episode 2: Understanding Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health with Dr. Gabrielle Banks and Dr. Courtney Walker

In this enlightening episode of Chat About Children, host Bailey Shelton (Director of Communications and Outreach at the Children's Foundation of Mississippi) sits down with licensed clinical psychologists Dr. Gabrielle Banks and Dr. Courtney Walker to explore the often overlooked topic of infant and early childhood mental health. Together, they break down what mental health looks like in babies and toddlers, how caregiver well-being shapes a child’s development, and how to recognize early signs that a child might need support. You’ll hear candid insights, relatable parenting stories, and practical strategies for creating emotionally supportive environments. The conversation also touches on the impact of screen time, the power of early intervention, and how we—as a community—can better support parents and caregivers. ✨ Brought to you in part by Mississippi LIFT, this episode is packed with expert advice and encouragement for anyone raising or working with young children. 📌 For more resources, visit Mississippi LIFT and the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi.

Episode 1: Raising Healthy Kids in a Digital World with Dr. Michael Rich

In our inaugural Chat About Children podcast episode, Dr. Linda Southward, Director of the Children's Foundation of Mississippi, chats with Dr. Michael Rich, a pediatrician, former filmmaker, and founder of the Digital Wellness Lab at Boston Children's Hospital. Dr. Rich, also known as "The Mediatrition," shares his insights on parenting in a screen-saturated world and previews his upcoming keynote at the Children's Foundation of Mississippi's Fourth Annual Summit in February 2025. From exploring the benefits and challenges of digital media to understanding its impact on children's development, Dr. Rich offers practical strategies for parents, educators, and caregivers. Learn how to model, mentor, and monitor healthy screen habits, create meaningful family connections, and embrace imperfection along the way. Join us for an enlightening conversation on navigating the digital age while raising joyful, smart, and kind kids.

Welcome to Chat about Children!

Welcome to the Chat about Children Podcast, brought to you by the Children’s Foundation of Mississippi. Originally launched as a video series, we’re now expanding to podcasts, making it easier than ever to join the conversation about enhancing child well-being across Mississippi. Each episode connects you with thought leaders, experts, and organizations dedicated to supporting children and helping them thrive. Whether you’re at home, on the go, or anywhere in between, tune in for valuable insights, ideas, and resources to empower the next generation. Together, let’s make a difference—because for Mississippi to reach its potential, our children must reach theirs. https://childrensfoundationms.org/ [https://childrensfoundationms.org/]