Mini Maestros - Thrive 0 to 5

• Mini Maestros Interviews Kristy Forbes | Celebration of Neurodivergence

  Welcome to another episode of Mini Maestros Thrive 0-5 Today, we are excited to welcome Kristy Forbes, an Australian-based autism and neurodiversity support specialist with extensive national and international experience. Kristy combines professional expertise with personal lived experience. Her background includes roles as an educator across all levels, an integration aide, and a childhood behavioural and family support specialist. Academically, she holds degrees in Political and Social Sciences, Education, and Literature, Film, and Art. Diagnosed as autistic, ADHD, and with Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA), Kristy is also a parent to four neurodivergent children with diverse profiles, including non-speaking autism, apraxia, dyspraxia, Tourette’s syndrome, and PDA. Her unique perspective as an individual, parent, and professional enables her to deeply understand and support neurodivergent families. Kristy’s work is marked by empathy and compassion, shaped by her personal experiences with adversity, including leaving school at fifteen, facing addiction, family violence, homelessness, and becoming a parent at eighteen. These experiences inform her approach to parenting and support, emphasising the importance of valuing each individual’s unique experience. In this episode, Kristy will share insights on the misunderstood experiences of neurodivergent individuals, her work in the PDA space, and her strategies for addressing PDA-related trauma and burnout. Her commitment to fostering understanding and support for neurodivergent communities offers invaluable insights for parents, educators, and professionals. So, sit back, relax, and join us for an enriching conversation with Kristy Forbes on Mini Maestros Thrive 0-5. To learn more, see Kristy’s website: kristyforbes.com.au

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• Mini Maestros Interviews Whistle & Trick | Sparkle and Cheekiness

  Welcome, dear listeners, to another enchanting episode of Mini Maestros Thrive 0-5 podcast! Today, we're in for a treat as we explore the whimsical world of a dynamic duo turning children's music into a playful wonderland. Meet Esther and Maddy, the creative minds behind the kid's band, Whistle and Trick, based in the vibrant city of Melbourne. Childhood friends with a knack for mischief, Esther and Maddy's musical journey started in their goody-goody high school choir days. Now, reunited as the creators of Whistle and Trick, they're bringing their love for children's music to life. Hailing from families of singer-songwriters, music teachers, and orchestral musicians, Esther and Maddy's musical roots run deep. Their diverse backgrounds led them to perform in bands worldwide, but their hearts always had a soft spot for working with children. With careers in music education, the duo naturally gravitated towards crafting fun songs for kids and Whistle and Trick was born. As big kids themselves, they explore the wacky wonders of life through various musical styles and instruments, inspired by the Teeny Tiny Stevies and Dan Sultan's "Nali and Friends." So, buckle up for a journey into the wild musical brains of Whistle and Trick – where sparkle and cheekiness abound. To learn more or join their mailing list check out their website: https://www.whistleandtrick.com/

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• Mini Maestros Interviews – Sandi Phoenix | The Phoenix Cups

  Discover a game-changing episode of Mini Maestros Podcast Thrive0-5 as we sit down with Sandi Phoenix, the visionary mind behind Phoenix Support. Uncover the transformative power of her framework, The Phoenix Cups, which has not only revolutionised how staff approach children's behaviour but has also reshaped team dynamics. Sandi's approach provides a fresh perspective on understanding and responding positively to differences and conflicts, fostering harmony within teams. Widely recognised as a speaker, coach, mentor, and Professional Development Facilitator in the education and care sector, Sandi brings a wealth of knowledge. Join us in this episode to delve into her insights, shaped by her Bachelor of Psychological Science and post grad studies in psych and neuroscience, as we explore the mind of the founder of the Phoenix cups. Don't miss this engaging conversation that promises to elevate your understanding and approach to early childhood education. More Info: https://www.phoenix-support.com.au/sandiphoenix Do the Quiz Here: https://www.phoenix-support.com.au/phoenix-cups

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• Nat Bartsch | Lullabies Traversing Classical & Jazz

  Welcome to another episode of Mini Maestros Thrive 0 to 5. I'm thrilled to introduce you to an extraordinary guest who has redefined the boundaries of music, Nat Bartsch. Nat Bartsch, a two-time ARIA-nominated Australian pianist and composer, is renowned for her enchanting and contemplative musical creations. Her compositions seamlessly traverse a spectrum from neoclassical to jazz, weaving influences from the likes of Arvo Pärt, Debussy, Nils Frahm, and Sigur Ros, among others. Her artistic journey explores not just genres, but emotions and experiences, resulting in a diverse array of albums that touch hearts across the world. With eight albums under her belt, Nat's music resonates in deeply personal moments, from the birthing suite to the final hours of life. Her transformative compositions have provided solace and connection to people from all walks of life, thanks to her lullabies that soothe babies, accompany labouring mothers, and offer comfort to those navigating mental illness and grief. Nat's innovation doesn't stop at her music. She established her own record label, Amica Records, a haven for genre-blurring, compassionate music. Her dedication to pushing artistic boundaries is evident in her collaborations with a range of acclaimed artists, from Grigoryan Brothers to Teeny Tiny Stevies. Through her remarkable journey, Nat challenges conventions, effortlessly straddling classical and jazz realms. She's a true pioneer, breaking new ground and inspiring us to embrace creativity without limits. In this episode, we delve into Nat's artistic evolution, her unique compositions, and the power of music to heal and connect. Stay tuned for a wonderful conversation with the extraordinary Nat Bartsch, right here on Mini Maestros Thrive 0 to 5. If you want to catch one of Nat's live shows she has a couple of upcoming gigs on September 20th at Montsalvat. She’s playing Hope in the evening, and a lullaby show for families in the afternoon. Here are the links: Family show: https://www.montsalvat.com.au/whats-on-1/2023/9/20/lullabies-nat-bartsch Hope: https://www.montsalvat.com.au/whats-on-1/2023/9/20/hope-nat-bartsch And to learn more about Nat or to buy her music, you can head over to her website is: https://www.natbartsch.com/ https://www.instagram.com/natbartsch/ https://www.facebook.com/natbartschpiano

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• Mini Maestros Interviews Susie Davies-Splitter | Sing Sing Sing!

  In this episode, you'll meet Susie Davies-Splitter, a music educator, composer, and co-founder of Welcome to Music, a wonderful collection of resources for children, teachers, and parents. Susie has created and performed countless songs, musicals, and choral works that are loved and used worldwide, including many of the songs in the Mini Maestros program. You'll hear about her musical journey, her enthusiasm for music education, and her advice for making music fun and engaging for everyone. Don't miss this inspiring conversation with Susie Davies-Splitter, who champions the importance of singing for both adults and children alike. LINKS Susie & Phil's Website Susie & Phil's YouTube Channel Susie and Phil offer a membership program for educators that includes various professional development courses in the fields of Early Childhood and primary education. They also teach how to play the ukulele. Learn more here. 

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