Eliminating Isolation in This Crazy World with Maureen Thompson
Kris welcomes Maureen “Mo” Thompson, M.Ed., founder of the Rocky Mountain Kids Club, for the first live interview. Mo talks with Kris about creating a mobile learning space by outfitting her RV, how we can break barriers between children and adults, and how to help children embrace their weirdness. Mo discusses how reducing isolation might positively impact gun violence and how it’s up to the community to help children that have nowhere else to turn. It’s a powerful and insightful episode that is much needed in today’s world.
Key Takeaways:
[11:41] A statement stuck with Maureen early on that she has always embraced in her career: “Kids are not available to learn unless they are emotionally stable.”
[12:31] Maureen talks about creating a mobile meeting space during the pandemic, and how that has helped bring her fun and learning to more kids.
[16:31] We are all weird, and as adults, we can help children know that they are not alone.
[17:12] Parents should teach their children to invite the weirdos and when someone asks if they can join you, the answer is always yes.
[26:41] Maureen talks about her own challenging times in life and navigating loss. It’s important to ask for help and realize that we are all going through something.
[27:39] In today’s job market, employers are looking for adaptability and emotional intelligence.
[28:50] Kris and Maureen discuss the Sandy Hook Promises’s Start with Hello movement to teach empathy and reduce feelings of isolation, which in turn can reduce violence.
Quotes:
- “We’re all weird, right? I’m weird, you’re weird. Everybody is weird. Even as adults we can admit that we’re struggling with these uncomfortable feelings.” — Maureen [16:31]
- “Invite the weirdos.” — Maureen [17:12]
- “When someone asks if they can join you, the answer is always yes.” — Maureen [18:56]
- “You have to push through those challenging times.” — Maureen [26:41]
Sponsored By:
ChildCare Education Institute (CCEI)
Use code CCSC5 to claim a free course!
Mentioned in This Episode:
The Child Care Success Company
The Child Care Success Academy