How Do We Become Our Child's First Teachers?

No manual. No instructions. Just you and your baby. From the moment we leave the hospital, we step into the most important role we’ll ever play—our child’s first teacher.

In this episode, Dr. Debby Mitchell joins the conversation to unpack what it truly means to be your child’s first teacher. Together, we explore real-life strategies you can use at home to ignite learning through everyday moments.

Dr. Debby introduces the powerful CAPE method—Challenge, Analyze, Produce, Evaluate—as a hands-on way to guide children through discovery and problem-solving. Whether you’re asking big questions you don’t have the answers to (and that’s okay!), learning can happen everywhere.

Embracing your child’s curiosity and asking questions with them might be the best lesson of all.

Tune in, take notes, and join us on our mission to raise the next generation of innovators—starting right at home.

How Do We Become Our Child's First Teachers?

Dr. Debby Mitchell is a retired professor from the University of Central Florida’s College of Education and a leading voice in STEM education and child development. With decades of experience, she specializes in creating developmentally appropriate activities that support children's wellness and learning. Dr. Mitchell has co-authored books and resources with Marnie to help parents and educators guide high-energy kids with confidence. Her work empowers caregivers to become their children’s first and most impactful teachers.

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Forestieri is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/