A Podcast
About Childhood
This is a podcast about childhood! Join Jennifer McCarville, Founder and Director of Marvelously Made School, as she shares stories, insights, and valuable information about what we all can do to give children the childhoods they need. With more than three decades of experience learning from young children and educating teachers and parents, Jennifer brings passion, knowledge, and a firm commitment to understanding and supporting the way children are made to learn so that they can thrive. Listen in as we talk about how to Save Childhood - because childhood has changed but children have not!
Featured Episodes
In this episode of Save Childhood, we challenge the race against time in learning and advocate for a more deliberate, thoughtful approach to education. We explore how slowing down the pace can nurture deeper understanding, foster creativity, and help children develop a genuine love for learning.
In this episode, we’ll talk about what bullying really is, how to recognize the different forms it can take, and why it’s important to distinguish bullying from typical childhood conflicts or unkind moments. We’ll also offer guidance for parents who are trying to understand and support their children through the social ups and downs of growing up.
Today, we’re diving deep into the roots of the American education system. Where did it come from? Why was it designed the way it was? And what impact does that design still have on our children today? We’ll trace the path from one-room schoolhouses to modern testing culture—and ask the question: is this still the right model for childhood?
In this episode, we will unpack a growing cultural misconception—that toddlers can (or should) learn to read. Listen in to explore what reading is, why early instruction can do more harm than good, and how play, storytelling, and connection build the strongest foundation for literacy.
All Episodes
The Myth of Homework - Some children can have up to several hours of homework on any given night. Does homework really help? If so, how much is too much? Listen in as we discuss these questions and talk about the role homework should play in education.
Paying Attention - In the episode we are talking about the growing struggle children are experiencing when it comes to focusing on lessons in school and at home.
In this episode of Save Childhood, we challenge the race against time in learning and advocate for a more deliberate, thoughtful approach to education.
In this episode of Save Childhood, we break down why worksheets often fail young learners, turning curiosity into compliance and creativity into boredom.
It's that time of year again where we hatch chickens with the children. What an incredibly valuable experience for so many reasons!
In this episode of Save Childhood, we explore the deep connection between children and animals—and the powerful lessons we can learn from the natural world.
It's that time of year again where we hatch chickens with the children. What an incredibly valuable experience for so many reasons! Are you thinking about trying this at home or in your classroom or are you looking for tips and tricks to help you on your chicken journey? This is the episode for you.
Research shows that each generation of children is spending significantly less time outside involved in free play. Join us as we discuss the benefits of free play outside as well as how to set up your outdoor space for ultimate benefits.
Book Talks
In this episode of Save Childhood, we challenge the race against time in learning and advocate for a more deliberate, thoughtful approach to education. We explore how slowing down the pace can nurture deeper understanding, foster creativity, and help children develop a genuine love for learning.
In this episode of Save Childhood, we challenge the race against time in learning and advocate for a more deliberate, thoughtful approach to education. We explore how slowing down the pace can nurture deeper understanding, foster creativity, and help children develop a genuine love for learning.