Before Behavior Comes Connection: The Trust First Approach

What if the key to changing children’s behavior isn’t control—but trust? In this episode of Early Childhood Chapters, host Emily Garman is joined by Dr. Deborah Bergeron and Rhonda Conn-Parent, coauthors of Trust First, to explore how a trust-centered approach can transform classroom behavior, relationships, and learning outcomes. Instead of viewing behavior as something to fix, this conversation reframes it as valuable information. You’ll hear practical strategies for shifting your mindset, building stronger connections with children, and creating a classroom culture where trust drives everything. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or caregiver, this episode offers a fresh, research-informed perspective you can apply right away. Learn more about Trust First, available now from Gryphon House.