Mindful Moment #8

Season 4, Episode 55 - Wrapping up Season 4

This season, host Laura Cady has had an incredible lineup of guests join her to talk all things early literacy. In our season finale, Laura takes a brief moment to reflect on these passionate early childhood professionals who shared simple strategies for integrating literacy into children's daily lives. We're looking forward to discussing themes of self-care into Season 5, where we'll focus on celebrating you and sharing joy. Until then, check out our program guide and blog, follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter—all of which you can find at stepuptoquality.ne.gov/resources

Mindful Moment #8

If you loved last week’s reset, you won’t want to miss another addition to your favorite self-care series! We’re continuing “Mindful Moments” this week with another 5-minute guided meditation led by Step Up to Quality Coach Specialist, Lynne Cook. Whether you have a few minutes to decompress after a long day or a brief window during your lunch break, this episode is the perfect tool to help you find calm in the middle of a chaotic schedule. Take a few minutes for you today. You’ve earned it!

Mindful Moment #7

Back by popular demand, we are continuing our “Mindful Moments” series with a new guided meditation led by Step Up to Quality Coach Specialist, Lynne Cook. While the work we do is incredibly rewarding, we know it can also be taxing. This episode is designed as a sanctuary for those moments when you need to pause and breathe. We encourage you to save this episode and revisit it whenever you need a quick mental reset. Sit back, take a breath, and enjoy.

Season 4, Episode 54 - Conversation vs. Interrogation

In this episode of Quality Time, host Laura Cady sits down with Michelle Rupiper and Brenda Saxe, two experienced Step Up to Quality coaches and Literacy Early Learning Guidelines (ELG) trainers. With decades of combined experience, Michelle and Brenda discuss why we need to move beyond "quizzing" children and start having genuine conversations. They share practical advice on narrating daily routines, using "big juicy words" to build vocabulary, and why there is simply "no app to replace your lap."

Season 4, Episode 53 - Celebrating Community Through Literacy

Today, we’re talking about early literacy and family engagement — and how innovation and leadership can spark new ideas in early learning settings. In this episode of Quality Time, host Laura Cady talks to Janelle Nissen, School Director at Educare Omaha at Indian Hill. Educare of Omaha is part of a national network dedicated to early childhood education, partnering with families and communities to ensure every child has access to high-quality early learning experiences. Janelle leads with creativity, heart, and a willingness to try new things — and we’re so excited to learn from her today.