Family Engagement Fridays Podcast by ELV
Join hosts Jennifer Garcia Rosendo, Colleen Roahrig, and Sue Kansteiner as they sit down with leading organizations dedicated to supporting families during the critical early years. Whether you’re searching for Colorado-specific resources or national programs, this podcast is your go-to guide for trusted information.
Each episode delivers expert advice, practical tips, and actionable tools to help parents and caregivers navigate challenges like early childhood education, nutrition, health and wellness, and social-emotional development. Our guests share proven strategies and programs designed to give your child the strongest start in life.
Episodes
169 episodes
137: Encouraging Independence and Confidence
In this episode, Julie Mendenhall explores the concept of helicopter parenting—what it means, how to recognize the signs, and the impact it can have on children's growth and development. Julie discusses practical ways parents can step back whil...
136: A Safe and Fun Fourth of July for Families
As Colorado communities navigate wildfire conditions, poor air quality, and changing holiday celebrations, families may be wondering how to celebrate the Fourth of July safely with infants and toddlers. In this special episode of Family Eng...
135. Men's Mental Health
In honor of Men’s Mental Health Month, this episode features Darnell Anthony, MSW, LSW (Grand Junction, CO) sharing valuable insight on the importance of mental wellness for men. He discusses strategies and services available to help men meet t...
134: Dads Matter (What the Data Shows)
In this special Father’s Day episode, we take a closer look at what the research really says about fathers and their impact on young children. While dads are often overlooked, the data tells a powerful story—engaged fathers play a critical role...
133 Common Car Seat Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)
In honor of National Safety Month, we’re focusing on one of the most important ways to protect young children—car seat safety. In this episode, we’re joined by Megan Chapman, Early Learning Ventures’ Early Head Start Health and Safety Co...
Replay: Tiny Wings and Curious Things
In honor of the dawning summer we are playing one of our favorites!Get ready to explore the miniature world of bugs with Vail Shoultz-McCole and Colleen Roahrig! In this episode, we’re diving into the fascinating lives of insects and how...
132 Grief Isn’t Just About Loss: Coping with Emotional Overload in Today’s World
In this episode, Licensed Professional Counselor Barb Kamlet shares expert insight on how grief, stress, and emotional overwhelm are impacting families in today’s uncertain world. Many parents and caregivers are experiencing anxiety, exhaustion...
Replay: Splash Safely: Water Safety with Kids
Send us Fan MailIn honor of Water Safety Month we are replaying this oldie but goodie. Join Christie Caster from the Western Colorado Red Cross as she share...
131: Children's Chores
In this episode, Julie Mendenhall and Colleen Roahrig share practical strategies for getting children involved in household chores. Learn why age‑appropriate responsibilities are important for building independence, confidence, and a sense of b...
130 A Pep Talk for Mothers
In this special Mother’s Day episode, we offer a heartfelt reminder for moms of young children: you are doing better than you think. Parenting can feel overwhelming, but your presence, love, and everyday moments matter more than perfecti...
129- Nutrition and Eating Habits for Children
In this episode, Jess shares practical guidance on how to introduce solid foods to babies and build healthy eating habits from the very beginning. She offers easy, realistic strategies to encourage children of all ages to try a variety of foods...
128. From Waste to Wellness: How “We Don’t Waste” Brings Recovered Food to Our Communities
What happens to perfectly good food that would otherwise go to waste? In this episode, we’re joined by Caroline from We Don’t Waste, an organization transforming surplus food into meaningful community nourishment across Colorado.Caroline...
127- The Importantance of Well Child Visits
Jessica King PA talks about the importance of your child’s “Well Child Visits”. You will learn what you can do to prepare for these appointments, what you can expect to discuss, and questions that you could and should be asking. You will learn ...
126 Screen Time Struggles? A Mental Health Expert Breaks It Down
Are screens stealing your child’s attention? In this eye‑opening episode, mental health therapist Elizabeth Clark, who works directly with students and families in Mesa County’s SD51, breaks down the real impacts of excessive technolog...
Replay Measles
In light of the recent measles cases confirmed here in Colorado, including a rare breakthrough infection in a vaccinated individual, we’re re‑releasing one of our most relevant conversations. In this episode, Colleen Roahrig sits down with Heid...
125: Getting More Out of Your Pantry: Smart Storage, Zero‑Waste Cooking & Budget‑Friendly Hacks
Unlock the secrets to stretching your groceries, reducing food waste, and creating delicious meals with what you already have! In this episode, Jennifer sits down with Caroline from We Don’t Waste to e...
Replay: Toddler Sleep Struggles? Let’s Talk Solutions with the Pyramid Model
March 1st was Baby Sleep day which highlights the importance of healthy sleep for infants and their families, preceding World Sleep Day. In honor of Baby Sleep day we are replaying this heartwarming episode, we’re joined by Robin Levy, a ...
124 Dealing with being overwhelmed- Julie Mendenhall
Who has not been overwhelmed at certain times in life? It is a normal human feeling. The important thing is recognizing the feelings of being overwhelmed and how to address those feelings. Julie will share some ideas and strategies to help you ...
Replay: Oral Health Basics
In this episode, we sit down with Kim Wolff from Healthy Child Care Colorado to talk through the five basics of oral health every family should know. Kim covers why baby teeth matter, why wat...
123- How Cavities Form & How to Prevent Them
In honor of Dental Awareness Month, Brittany Williams, RDH, breaks down how cavities form and what parents can do to prevent them. Cavities are the most common chronic childhood disease, affecting kids across communities every day. Even though ...
122 Who Owns The Problem?
In this episode, Julie Mendenhall talks about how parents can tell who is responsible for solving a problem—the parent or the child. She explains that unsafe behaviors like hitting are the parent’s problem to solve, while feelings and emotions ...
121 Building a Dental Home: Early Oral Health Tips for Young Children
In this episode of Family Engagement Fridays, we talk with Nikki Weaver from Kids In Need of Dentistry (KIND) about the importance of early dental care for babies and toddlers. Nikki explains when ...
120: Understanding Elopement and Safety in the Autism Community
Join Ariana DeAngelis from The Autism Project as she discusses essential strategies for keeping both children and adults safe within the Autism community. In this episode, Ariana explains what elo...