Shaping Young Minds: Inside Early Years Education with Jamel Carly Campbell

Shaping Young Minds: Inside Early Years Education with Jamel Carly Campbell

From The International Book Show by Makonnen Sankofa

May 4, 2026 · 31 min

About this episode

The episode features a discussion on early years education with educator Jamal Carly Campbell, focusing on relationships, representation, and the importance of play-based learning.

In this episode of The International Book Show , host Makonnen Sankofa speaks with early years educator and author Jamel Carly Campbell. They discuss his consultancy Bleu Carrot and his books Building Positive Relationships in the Early Years and Olu’s Teacher , focusing on relationships, representation, and early childhood development. Jamel shares insights from over 20 years in education, highlighting the importance of play-based learning, strong adult–child connections, and greater diversity in early years settings. He also reflects on the need for a more inclusive curriculum and the lasting impact of early experiences on children’s lives. The conversation closes with practical encouragement for fostering a love of reading and using accessible resources to support children’s learning.

People in this episode

Host: Makonnen Sankofa

Guest: Jamal Carly Campbell

Topics covered

  • early years education
  • play-based learning
  • child development
  • diversity in education
  • inclusive curriculum

Keywords

  • early childhood education
  • play-based learning
  • diversity
  • inclusive curriculum
  • child development

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Bleu Carrot

Books & works: Building Positive Relationships in the Early Years, Olu’s Teacher

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