In this powerful season finale of Teach & Learn, Dr. Cristi Ford speaks with Isabelle C. Hau—Executive Director at Stanford and author of Love to Learn—about the urgent need to prioritize relational intelligence (RQ) in education.
They discuss:
☑️ How academic readiness is incomplete without relational flourishing.
☑️ Neuroscience and social science research showing that human connection is essential for learning and lifelong success.
☑️ The importance of early childhood development and how relationships shape brain growth.
☑️ Societal shifts—like smaller families, increased screen time, and age segregation—that are shrinking children's circles of connection.
☑️ The role educators and technology can play in rebuilding and expanding those relational circles.
☑️ Practical strategies for educators, parents, and school leaders to foster deeper relationships in classrooms and communities.
☑️ The need to redefine assessments and rethink teacher training to prioritize relational intelligence.

Isabelle C. Hau is a visionary leader who is dedicated to transforming the way we nurture and educate our children. As executive director of the Stanford Accelerator for Learning, she leverages brain science and technology to champion innovative, effective, and inclusive learning solutions. She is also the author of “Love to Learn: The Transformative Power of Care and Connection in Early Education”.

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Class dismissed.

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