Episode 10: Transforming Infant Room Practice - Reimagining Infant Care Through Respectful Relationships

In this episode, our Pedagogical Coach Fiona Veld-Brown is joined by educator Shaila Martinez of Gowrie NSW Erskineville who shares new perspectives on infant education and what it means to truly see babies as capable, competent and active participants in their own learning.

Drawing on her own professional journey, Shaila shares how her practice transformed after being introduced to the RIE® Principles and the Educaring® Approach. She reflects on the challenges; mindset shifts and moments of discovery that encouraged her to rethink long-held assumptions about babies' care and their learning.

Together, Fiona and Shaila unpack the reflections and turning points that reshaped Shaila’s work with infants. They discuss the questions that guided the design of infant learning environments, the importance of slowing down and observing, and the simple yet powerful ways educators can make respectful choices that support infant agency.

This episode offers both practical insights and thoughtful reflection for educators looking to strengthen their understanding of infants and create learning experiences grounded in respect, connection and trust.

Join Shaila and Fiona as they invite us to slow down, tune in and reimagine what infant education can feel like, together.

 

Host:  Michelle Richardson

Guests:  Fiona Veld-Brown & Shaila Martinez

Recommended audience: Aimed at educators and teachers working with children aged between birth and 2 years, at any stage of their professional career, and who are looking for inspiring and innovative stories of practice change to enhance care and learning for infants and 2-year-olds.

 

Links: 

• Education Hub Gowrie NSW Education Hub
• Professional Learning Calendar 2026 Online Flipbook
• Thought Leadership Blog: Democracy Begins in the Early Years Democracy begins in the early years

 

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