Children are shaped by every relationship. Learn how each adult has the power to help children feel valued, noticed and safe with Ryan Tedesco.
When we think about the adults who shape children, we often picture family members and teachers. 
But children are paying attention to everyone. 
They notice who smiles at them. Who remembers their name. Who waves goodbye.
And who makes them feel safe.
In this episode, Rhonda Meyers sits down with Ryan Tedesco, a member of Heartfelt’s maintenance team and transportation staff, to explore the impact of the relationships children build with the adults they encounter every day.
Drawing from his experiences as a bus driver and volunteer firefighter, Ryan shares that trust forms through noticing — things, people, conversations — consistently.
[00:15:22] “One of the greatest privileges that I've ever had is when a parent says, ‘I trust you with my child.’ There's no greater gift to me than that.”
Whether he is helping a child buckle a seatbelt for the first time, asking about a treasured toy or listening after a difficult day at school, Ryan dedicates space for children’s needs and curiosity. For others to feel seen, you have to slow down.
[00:21:44] “Never pass up the opportunity when a child comes up to you and wants to know about something. Never pass that up. Your day is never too busy for a child. It never, ever is.”
Children remind us that every relationship matters, every interaction, and every person. 
And when a child grows up surrounded by adults who care, those moments become a part of who they are. And that's a real privilege.

More Than Maintenance: The Impact You Don’t Always See

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