News & Insights

When They’re Little, S1 Ep 2

| Last Updated: | Podcasts
Fact Checked By: Kristina Ryan, MSW, LISW-S

In Season One, Episode Two of Let’s Talk About it With OhioGuidestone, the focus turns to one of the most important, and often overlooked, stages of mental health: When They’re Little.

In this episode, host Derek Rader sits down with Kristina Ryan, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Supervisor at OhioGuidestone, to explore why ages zero to six play a critical role in emotional development.

Kristina Ryan talks to Derek Rader about when they're little

Tantrums, big feelings, and sleepless nights are often brushed off as “just part of being little.” But what if these early moments are actually shaping how children learn to regulate emotion, respond to stress, and build a sense of safety? Derek and Kristina unpack what’s really happening beneath the surface of early childhood behaviors and why early support can make a lifelong difference.

Their conversation offers meaningful insights for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone who works with young children, helping us better understand how to support mental health when they’re little.

Watch or listen right here, then follow Let’s Talk About It With OhioGuidestone on your favorite podcast platform to stay connected to every episode.

Kristina Ryan

Kristina Ryan, MSW, LISW-S

Clinical Supervisor

Kristina Ryan, MSW LISW-S, is a Clinical Supervisor with OhioGuidestone. She brings over 12 years of experience in the field of Social Work. The majority of her direct practice experience with clients had a focus on early childhood, serving children from birth to age six and their families. She is a Certified PLAY Project Consultant and a rostered Child-Parent Psychotherapist. Kristina has a passion for sensory-inclusive interventions, the long-term impact of pre-verbal trauma on brain development, and the role of healthy co-regulatory relationships during the early years of development. In addition to her supervisory work, Kristina is a Clinical Fellow with the Institute of Family & Community Impact. Outside of her professional role, she enjoys sourdough baking and is actively involved in philanthropic efforts that support the professional growth and educational advancement of women.