In this episode of The Forgotten ECE, host Jamie Wagler explores how before and after school programs across different centres and agencies can move from isolation to collaboration. Discover how community-wide connections can reduce burnout, increase impact, and create more consistent, meaningful experiences for children and educators alike.

Whether you’re in a school, a community space, or a rural centre, this episode offers practical strategies and inspiring ideas to help you build bridges—not silos.

What does before and after school care look like on Canada’s West Coast?

In this special episode of The Forgotten ECE, we journey to British Columbia to hear from Cayley Burton, a dedicated educator leading a vibrant school-age program in her community. As part of our cross-country series, Beyond the Bell, Cayley sheds light on the structure, challenges, and stand-out successes of school-age care in B.C.

From staffing ratios and provincial supports to the small, powerful moments that make this work meaningful, Cayley brings her lived experience to the forefront. Whether you're an ECE professional, policymaker, or advocate, this episode will deepen your understanding of how before and after school programs are shaped by place—and by the passionate people who make them thrive.

💡 Discover what makes school-age care in B.C. unique. 💬 Hear real stories from the frontlines of extended-day learning. 🌱 Be inspired by Cayley’s vision for a more inclusive and supported future in child care.

Cayley Burton is an Early Childhood Educator, advocate, researcher, writer, and consultant. Holding a Master of Education (MEd) in Early Childhood Education from the University of British Columbia (UBC), Cayley has collaborated with the Coalition of Child Care Advocates (CCCABC) and AutismBC on advancing public policy for child care and disability support systems that meet localized community needs. Cayley currently lives, works, and plays on the traditional, unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples in Richmond, BC, where she's worked in before/after school programs for the past 4 years. Cayley is honoured to be a guest on Miss Jamie's podcast!

Want to reach out to Cayley?

Email - ⁠cayleynburton@gmail.com⁠

Facebook - Cay Burton

LinkedIn - Cay Burton

Bluesky - ⁠@caylburto.bsky.social⁠

In this heartfelt and practical episode, we sit down with a life coach who specializes in guiding moms through the complex world of parenting school-age children while prioritizing their own well-being. We explore the personal journey that led her to this work, the challenges modern moms face, and why self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

From shifting mindsets around guilt and self-care to modeling emotional resilience, our guest offers empowering insights and actionable strategies for staying grounded amid the chaos of family life. We also dive into the everyday struggles moms encounter—like school stress, friendship issues, and big emotions—and how to know when extra support is needed. Plus, we talk about the importance of building a village, setting boundaries, and how partners and extended family can play a vital role.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just looking for a boost, this episode is a reminder that taking care of yourself is one of the best ways to take care of your kids.