Friday, March 13, 2026

8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. – Opening and General Session
Conference Welcome, Announcements and Wolf Trap Warm Up

Arts Integrated Strategies for Early Learners (Dance)

Presenter: Valerie Branch, Master Teaching Artist, Wolf Trap

Start your day by exploring the fundamental elements of dance with Wolf Trap Master Teaching Artist, Valerie Branch. Discover how these elements connect to a variety of curricular and developmental goals. Engage in interactive, hands-on experiences in arts integration that support early learners.

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Exhibit Hall Open
Concessions available from 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.

9:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Professional Development Coffee Chat: Educators and Directors

Join other directors and educators to discuss issues related to Professional Development for the profession.

9:45 – 10:45 a.m. – Concurrent Workshops

VQB5 in Action: Insights and Updates to Virginia’s Unified Measurement and Improvement System
Presenter: Kris Meyers

Through the Virginia Quality Birth to Five System (VQB5), we are gaining valuable insights into the quality of teacher-child interactions and the use of curriculum across diverse early childhood settings in the Commonwealth. This session will provide an update on what we are learning from the first years of VQB5 implementation, including trends in quality ratings, CLASS data, curriculum use, and the impact of improvement supports. Participants will also hear about what’s ahead for VQB5, including proposed updates to the VQB5 Guidelines for 2026-2027. This session is ideal for early childhood leaders, administrators, educators and improvement partners who want to stay informed and inspired by Virginia’s efforts to elevate quality across birth-to-five settings.

Describe key findings from VQB5 implementation related to teacher-child interactions and curriculum use across Virginia.
Understand how data from VQB5 is being used to inform continuous quality improvement at the site, regional, and state levels.
Learn about upcoming changes and priorities for VQB5, including new supports, resources, and proposed guidelines for programs and educators.
Engage in discussion to help continually strengthen Virginia’s efforts to measure and improve the quality of children’s early childhood experiences.

9:45 – 11:15 a.m. – Concurrent Workshops

Creating a Culture of Safety in Early Childhood Programs
Presenter: Andy Roszak

This session explores how early childhood programs can foster a strong culture of safety. Using real-life examples and practical strategies, participants will learn how to improve emergency preparedness, enhance communication, and reduce risks for children, staff, and families. Attendees will leave with actionable tools to immediately strengthen safety in their programs.

Identify at least three common safety and security risks specific to early childhood and preschool programs.
Describe two developmentally appropriate strategies for conducting safety drills with young children.
Explain how to balance openness and family engagement with effective access control and visitor management.
Develop an action step plan for embedding safety practices into their program’s culture and daily routines.

From Read Alouds to Rich Math Tasks
Presenter: Kateri Thunder

We are learning about the role of rereading to develop reading comprehension so that we can leverage read alouds for deep mathematical problem solving with our youngest learners.

Explain the goals of multiple reads and the importance of rereading for reading comprehension.
Identify possibilities for rich math and STEM tasks within children’s literature.
Leverage learners’ interests and curiosities during read alouds to capture and cultivate rich mathematical problem solving.

Mealtime = Learning Time
Presenter: Julie Poole, Nimita Sheth

Mealtime is more than just a chance to feed children—it’s an opportunity to support their growth, learning, and social development. In this interactive training, participants will actively explore the nutritional and developmental needs of infants and young children through engaging discussions and hands-on activities. Together, we will practice strategies for planning balanced, varied meals and snacks, experience the benefits of Family Style Meal Service, and discover fun, practical ways to bring nutrition into lesson plans and curriculum. Participants will leave with ready-to-use tools and ideas to bring back to their classrooms and programs.

Develop an understanding of the unique nutritional needs of infants and young children.
Learn effective strategies for implementing Family Style Meal Service.
Explore practical approaches for supporting and accommodating picky eaters.
Gain tools and ideas for incorporating nutrition into lesson plans and curriculum.

Planting Seeds to Foster Environmental Stewards for a Better Tomorrow
Presenter: Tarneshia Evans

“If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder, he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement, and mystery of the world we live in.” This quote by Rachel Carson highlights the important role that adults must have to nurture children’s sense of wonder about the natural world. In this session we will explore how early childhood environmental education (ECEE) has the potential to inspire children’s lifelong learning and love of nature and their affinity for taking care of it.

How can we encourage adults to not pass their“biphobia” to children?
What are the outcomes of positive adult interactions in nature with children?
What ECEE resources support the five components of environmental education (awareness, knowledge, attitude, skills, and participation)?

Play-Based Math and Science in the Early Childhood Classroom
Presenter: Laurie Tucker

This session will cover many of the formal concepts under the math and science umbrellas, defining the concepts in terms of their meaning in our EC classrooms and providing examples of the types of activities and materials that can be used to explore those concepts in a play-based manner. The information and ideas presented are appropriate for infants through preschool-aged children, and connections will be made to CLASS and Va-ELDS. Participants will leave the session with ideas that can be easily implemented in any classroom.

Gain a better understanding of formal mathematics and scientific concepts.
Be provided with ideas of materials and activities that can be used to teach these concepts in a play-based manner.
Gain new perspectives on the mathematical and scientific language that they are already using in the classroom.
Learn how to create a math- and science-rich environment with math and science throughout the classroom.

Sparking Curiosity and Learning through the Project Approach
Presenter: Ginny Vitiello

Every child deserves an education that sparks their curiosity, helps them feel like capable problem-solvers, and promotes a love of learning! For pre-k through third grade teachers, though, it can be tricky to balance rigorous academic demands with the goal of educating the “whole child”. The Project Approach uses deep investigations, sometimes lasting weeks, to bridge this gap, by engaging children in rigorous learning while supporting curiosity, motivation, autonomy, problem-solving, and persistence. Using classroom video and hands-on activities, this session will explore how teachers can use the Project Approach to spark children’s curiosity and promote learning across developmental domains. We will discuss core components of the Project Approach – the key ingredients that set it apart from traditional instruction – and review how these core components engage children in higher-order thinking. We will also discuss how specific types of teacher-child interactions can promote children’s curiosity and engagement in learning. Attendees will leave with a stronger understanding of how to implement the Project Approach and foster curiosity in their classrooms.

Understand the core components of the Project Approach and why they uniquely support curiosity and learning.
We will accomplish this by discussing the teaching practices (and student practices!) involved in the Project Approach and how they align to research on the cognitive science of learning. By the end of this session, participants will be able to ident
We will use real classroom video to identify and observe these practices in authentic education settings, and we will use role-plays to practice specific skills.
Opportunities to foster curiosity arise naturally within project-based teaching but can be applied to traditional instruction as well! Teachers will leave with concrete ideas for incorporating these practices into their teaching.

The Importance of Child Engagement in Play and Learning
Presenter: Alan Guttman

This workshop focuses on the importance of child engagement in play and learning. In this interactive session you will learn how to define and recognize when children are genuinely engaged with adults, peers, and materials in sophisticated play and learning. Join us as we view, analyze, and discuss videos of children engaged in daily activities to broaden and deepen your understanding of how best to support and promote child engagement in your program.

Learn how to define, identify, and rate the types and levels of child engagement.
Learn why and how the assessment of child engagement can be used as an indicator of program quality.
Learn strategies for promoting and sustaining high levels of child engagement in programs.

What’s Your State? Understanding the Link Between Brain States and Behavior
Presenter: Heidi Condrey

Many educators and parents are unaware of the relationship between brain-body states, behavior, and learning. Explore the Conscious Discipline neurodevelopmental brain state model and gain valuable insight into how brain-body states dictate behavior in children and adults. Participants will discover how to recognize brain-body states and strategies for helping adults and children achieve the optimal brain-body state for learning.

Learners will explore the concept that all behavior is communication.
Learners will identify the three brain states.
Learners will be able to describe the perception and skill associated with each state.
Learners will explore helpful strategies to to achieve the optimal state for learning.

When the UnWelcome Mat is Out: Coaching Through Resistance
Presenter: Jaye Harvey

Coaching is designed to be a supportive and natural part of professional development, tailored to meet the individual needs of teachers. In practice, however, some early childhood educators are resistant to coaching. Join your colleagues to explore the root causes of resistance and how coaches can respond.

Participants will describe teacher behaviors that may indicate resistance to coaching.
Participants will consider reasons for resistance and challenges to implementing effective early childhood practices.
Participants will explore coaching strategies to address resistance.

Noon – 1:00 p.m. – Lunch & Learn General Session

Drop The Anchor: Staying Grounded in the Classroom
Presenter: Mina Handy

In this keynote, Mina will provide you with practical tools to calm your bodies and minds, build or maintain resilience, and regain a sense of control. When educators learn what feels soothing, steadying and comforting to their nervous systems in times of heightened stress, they will be better equipped to teach their students the habit of accessing these small practices in all moments and integrate them into their daily procedures, routines and transitions. As children incorporate anchoring into their daily routines, they may discover greater resilience, emotional regulation and a transformed response to life’s challenges. We all have the power to change our mind, and in doing so, we will change our life.

1:15 – 2:15 p.m. – Concurrent Workshops

ABCs of Safe Sleep
Presenter: Rebecca Toohey

In this training, The ABCs of Safe Sleep, we will be looking at the Updated 2022 American Academy of Pediatrics (or AAP) Recommendations for Reducing Infant Deaths in the Sleep Environment. Today’s discussion will focus on safe sleep habits for newborns, exploring and empowering participants to follow safe sleep guidelines, how interactions keep infants safe, and connecting participants to safe sleep resources. Please keep in mind that the information shared today applies to infants; children who are 0-12 months in age.

Identify safe sleep practices for infants.
Empower participants to follow safe sleep guidance.
Discuss how interactions keep children safe.
Connect participants to resources about safe sleep.

Best Practice in (PROCESS) Art!!
Presenter: Christen Johnson

This session will address the needs and structure of teaching young children ART CONCEPTS and VOCABULARY, which is SO MUCH MORE than putting materials on a table. It starts with Art Appreciation, and learning Art Vocabulary, continuing with Demonstrations of Art Techniques, expanding into Creating Art, and culminating with Sharing & Describing Art. Participants will learn strategies for engaging children in discussing art, creating 2 and 3D art as a process that may last for 10 minutes or 3 days, and sharing their process and preception of art they have created.

The participants will study art vocabulary.
The participants will practice engaging others in art discussions.
The participants will observe others sharing their perceptions of art and further their discussions.
The participants will share their experiences with ‘art centers’.

Choosing to Give Children Choices
Presenter: Shirley Smith
As children develop a sense of autonomy, they often need to assert themselves when given an adult command. We can help children to be successful by offering two positive choices. Learn how to focus on the behavior you want to see, state limits and effectively offer choices.

Become aware when to use choices based on a child’s brain state.
Practice the skill of offering two positive choices.
Practice setting limits with Visual Rules with Two Positive Choices.

Culturally Responsive Classrooms: Reimagining Family Engagement
Presenter: Caitlin Wood

Creating strong partnerships with families is essential in the early childhood classroom. This session explores practical ways to involve families while also integrating culturally responsive practices into daily routines and classroom culture. Participants will reflect on their own practices and discover ways to elevate family voices in a way that honors children’s cultural identities, home languages, and lived experiences. Participants will leave with actionable ideas and concrete strategies, such as rethinking communication tools to designing inclusive learning invitations, that can help strengthen family partnerships and create culturally responsive and inclusive learning environments.

Reflect on current practices and how they are or are not working towards culturally responsive family engagement.
Identify ways to authentically involve families as partners in learning (ways that work for your specific center or classroom!).
Create actionable steps to plan for inclusive family engagement.

From Chaos to Calm: Inexpensive, Readily Available, Easy to Implement Tools to Still the Wiggles
Presenter: Preston Blackburn

Will demonstrate that ample time for physical play during the school day can bring joy back into learning. As an inexpensive, readily available, apolitical, easy-to-implement, and powerful tool, physical movement fills the ever-widening gap between Maslow’s and Bloom’s, which is making school no fun and learning hard. This session will show that our sedentary culture is crippling the learning process and can be upended with more physical play in the classroom that will settle children’s bodies and brains and prepare them to learn.

The presenter will show how physical literacy is the linchpin for a child’s learning and how it is causing an ever-widening gap between what Maslow and Bloom’s making school hard.
The presenter will show how sedentary behaviors reduce executive brain function and increase self-regulatory challenges.
Using games and play, the presenter will apply the principles outlined in an easily digestible format.

Once Upon A Time…Storytelling and the Art of Literacy
Presenter: Zamora Logan

Once Upon a Time…Storytelling and the Art of Literacy is a 60-minute lecture that delves into how oral storytelling and shared book reading serve as the cornerstone for literacy development in children from birth to age five. We’ll explore the purposeful role of stories in supporting language acquisition, vocabulary growth, narrative thinking, and social-emotional connections, and review the research linking early story experiences to stronger literacy outcomes.

Learn how storytelling nurtures SEL in young children.
Design story-rich learning environments.
Explore key elements of effective storytelling.
Practice oral storytelling techniques.
Develop strategies to align storytelling with family engagement.

The Science & Math of Art
Presenter: Paula Corbett Simmons

Learning experiences are not limited to one discipline. When art happens, many times, so does science! When art is created, many times, math is part of the process! Extend learning opportunities by exploring how to connect art activities to other subjects. Many activities and instructions for how to do them will be presented.

Discover art opportunities to extend leading in the classroom.
Discover opportunities to develop children’s observational skills.
Identify opportunities to develop children’s vocabulary.
Learn scientific processes and how to apply them in art activities and identify mathematical principals and formulas and how to apply them in art activities.

Unlocking Engagement: Strengths-Based Strategies for Inclusive Preschool Classrooms
Presenter: Meg Druga

In inclusive preschool settings, promoting autonomy is essential for enabling young children to take an active role in their own learning. This session explores how educators can harness each child’s strengths, preferences, and interests to enhance engagement, and build an inclusive, supportive environment where every learner can thrive. By embracing the uniqueness of each child’s abilities and needs, educators can design personalized, strength-based learning experiences that boost child development including social and emotional growth. Participants will gain actionable strategies to nurture autonomy and self-determination skills, equipping young learners to confidently explore, make choices, and develop independence. This approach not only enhances individual success but also fosters a culture of inclusivity where every child feels valued, capable, and empowered to thrive!

Identify guiding principles of inclusive preschool environments and explain how promoting autonomy supports student engagement and participation.
Examine the roles of choice-making, self-efficacy, and self-regulation in fostering autonomy, and apply strategies that use children’s strengths, preferences, and interests to enhance learning.
Design strength-based, inclusive learning experiences by developing actionable plans that incorporate adaptations, modifications, and supports to nurture independence and self-determination in young children.

Updates From the VDOE on Health and Safety Issues and Requirements for 2026
Presenter: Amy Rathbun

The Director of the VA Department of Education’s Office of Child Care Health and Safety will share what’s happening in the world of regulations and Code related to health and safety in child care.

To afford child providers the opportunity to hear firsthand information on proposed and finalized regulations and Code of Virginia sections, changes to OCCHS policies and procedures, and technology updates for 2026.
To afford VDOE leadership the opportunity to clear up any potential misunderstanding or confusion related to proposed or finalized changes to health and safety requirements.
To afford child care providers the opportunity to hear from the Director of Child Care Health and Safety.

2:30 – 3:30 p.m. – Concurrent Workshops

Beyond Wages: Building Affordable Benefits Packages for Child Care Programs
Presenter: Lauren Small

Attracting and retaining qualified early childhood professionals requires more than competitive wages. This session explores practical and affordable benefit options child care programs can offer to support staff well-being, satisfaction, and retention. Participants will learn about common benefit strategies—such as health care alternatives, retirement planning, paid time off, and nontraditional benefits—and how thoughtful benefits packages contribute to a professional, sustainable, and supportive workplace culture.

Identify the key components of an employer-sponsored benefits package commonly offered in child care programs.
Evaluate affordable benefit options and strategies that align with the size, budget, and goals of their program.
Develop a plan to strengthen or enhance their current benefits package, including effective communication strategies for prospective and current employees.

Cultivating Fine Motor Skills: Creative and Effective Learning Experiences
Presenter: Carrie Scruggs

After establishing clear learning goals, educators can design innovative and engaging experiences that nurture each child’s development. This session focuses on objectives related to fine motor skill and equips educators with practical, play-based strategies to foster fine motor growth in young children. Participants will explore hands-on activities and adaptable approaches to support every learner’s progress in this essential developmental domain.

Identify fine motor objectives that are developmentally appropriate for preschoolers to achieve before kindergarten entry.
Explore a variety of engaging learning experiences for preschool and pre- kindergarten children that promote fine motor development.
Develop strategies to individualize fine motor skill goals and support diverse learners within the classroom.

Plug In and Power Up: Unlocking the Power of the Virginia Shared Services Network
Presenter: Sharon Howell

Ready to supercharge your child care business? Don’t miss this energizing session on the Virginia Shared Services Network—the go-to web-based resource designed exclusively for ECE and child care professionals. Discover how this secure, password-protected knowledge hub can streamline your daily operations, slash administrative time, and open the door to high-impact tools for quality improvement, technical assistance, and professional development. Whether you’re a center director or a family child care provider, you’ll leave this session powered up with practical strategies to maximize your impact and connect with a supportive community. Don’t miss your chance to plug in, level up, and make every minute count for your program and the children you serve!

Describe the key features and benefits of the Virginia Shared Services Network as a secure web-based resource for ECE and child care professionals.
Identify ways the Network platform can streamline daily operations and reduce administrative workload in child care programs.
Access and utilize tools within the Network that support quality improvement, technical assistance, and professional development.

Preschool Learning in Virginia: Trends, Insights, and Action Steps
Presenter: Marie LaMonica-Sarro, Michele Burke, Ginny Vitello

Participate in an in-depth look at data from the Virginia Kindergarten Readiness Program (VKRP) and the Virginia Language & Literacy Screening System (VALLSS) to better understand emerging trends in preschool learning for 3- and 4-year-olds across the Commonwealth. This session will explore how teachers, leaders, and families can use these tools to inform classroom practices and support individualized learning for young children.

Participants will learn how to connect assessment insights with high-quality curriculum implementation and discover how to use the Virginia ECE Resource Hub to access tools and supports that help tailor instruction to meet each child’s needs. We’ll also discuss the critical connection between CLASS® data and learning outcomes, highlighting how understanding the relationship between classroom interactions and child development can empower educators to make meaningful improvements for both children and teachers.

Whether you’re a classroom educator, coach, or program leader, this session will provide actionable strategies and resources to help you turn data into impact for children.

Review VKRP and VALLSS data to explore early learning trends in Virginia.
Explore?how to use the Virginia ECE Resource Hub to access tools and supports that enhance curriculum implementation and individualize instruction based on assessment data.
Explore how to use the Virginia ECE Resource Hub and other resources to support learning, enhance curriculum implementation, and improve school readiness.

Technology with Purpose: When Screens Cannot Replace the Heart
Tecnología con Propósito: Cuando las Pantallas No Pueden Sustituir al Corazón
Presenter: Gloria Salazar

“In the preschool classroom, technology can open wonderful doors to learning or close them if used without intention. Today screens sing, tell stories, and teach colors, but they can also, without us noticing, quiet the voice, gestures, and living presence of the teacher. This talk is an invitation to rediscover the true purpose of educational technology: not as a substitute, but as a creative ally that expands children’s experiences without dimming the glow of human connection. We will reflect on how to integrate digital resources without losing the essence of contact, emotion, and real interaction, ensuring that technology serves play, exploration, and curiosity, not replacement.We will explore when, how, and why to use it with clear pedagogical intention, so that every digital tool becomes a means to enhance active learning, emotional communication, and imagination. Because technology can brighten the classroom, but the most powerful light is still the one that shines from the teacher: her presence, her love, and her passion for teaching.
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En el aula de preescolar, la tecnología puede abrir maravillosas puertas al aprendizaje o cerrarlas si se utiliza sin intención. Hoy en día, las pantallas cantan, cuentan historias y enseñan colores, pero también pueden, sin que nos demos cuenta, silenciar la voz, los gestos y la presencia viva del profesor. Esta charla es una invitación a redescubrir el verdadero propósito de la tecnología educativa: no como sustituto, sino como un aliado creativo que amplía las experiencias de los niños sin atenuar el brillo de la conexión humana. Reflexionaremos sobre cómo integrar los recursos digitales sin perder la esencia del contacto, la emoción y la interacción real, asegurándonos de que la tecnología sirva al juego, la exploración y la curiosidad, y no como sustituto. Exploraremos cuándo, cómo y por qué utilizarla con una intención pedagógica clara, de modo que cada herramienta digital se convierta en un medio para mejorar el aprendizaje activo, la comunicación emocional y la imaginación. Porque la tecnología puede iluminar el aula, pero la luz más poderosa sigue siendo la que emana del profesor: su presencia, su amor y su pasión por la enseñanza.”

Reflect on the true role of technology in early childhood education, understanding both its potential and its limits within the learning process.
Recognize when and how technology adds value, avoiding its use as a replacement for human connection or the teacher’s active role.
Design learning experiences that integrate digital and physical elements, supporting play, exploration, and emotional expression.
Apply clear pedagogical criteria to select and use technological resources with intention and educational purpose.
Reaffirm the value of the teacher’s body, voice, and presence as the most powerful pillars of any meaningful learning experience.
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Reflexionar sobre el verdadero papel de la tecnología en la educación infantil, comprendiendo tanto su potencial como sus límites dentro del proceso de aprendizaje.
Reconocer cuándo y cómo la tecnología aporta valor añadido, evitando su uso como sustituto de la conexión humana o del papel activo del profesor.
Diseñar experiencias de aprendizaje que integren elementos digitales y físicos, favoreciendo el juego, la exploración y la expresión emocional.
Aplicar criterios pedagógicos claros para seleccionar y utilizar los recursos tecnológicos con intención y finalidad educativa.
Reafirmar el valor del cuerpo, la voz y la presencia del profesor como los pilares más poderosos de cualquier experiencia de aprendizaje significativa.

What We Say Matters: How Language Shapes Early Learning and Behavior
Presenter: Shauna King

Young children are constantly ‘downloading’ the world. Much of this they learn through language and how we speak to them. Brain science and research confirms that children’s neural pathways are strengthened or weakened by the words they hear daily. This interactive session will explore the neuroscience of language and learning, focusing on how adult words and tone shape children’s social-emotional growth, attention, and behavior. Participants will discover practical, developmentally appropriate strategies for intentional language to build trust, foster self-regulation, and enhance learning. The workshop will guide early childhood and primary grade professionals in shifting from reactive language to proactive, brain-friendly communication.Through real examples, reflection, and practice, educators will leave with actionable strategies they can use immediately to create positive, engaging, and supportive learning environments.

Explain how language impacts early brain development, self-concept, and behavior regulation, citing current neuroscience research.
Identify common adult language patterns that unintentionally escalate conflict or disengagement in young children.
Apply strategies for replacing reactive or negative phrasing with intentional, affirming language that promotes attention, cooperation, and emotional safety.
Demonstrate at least two language shifts that align with brain-based practices to increase children’s engagement and resilience.

2:30 – 4:00 p.m. – Concurrent Workshops

Avoiding Teacher Burnout
Presenter: Amy Clay

Many teachers enter the teaching profession with high hopes, only to receive a huge reality check. This session will offer advice on how to avoid teacher burnout and keep doing what you love- impacting the lives of so many beautiful children in a positive way. Teachers will receive advice on how to effectively implement specific strategies in order reduce stress levels and nurture the investment you’ve made in your career choice.

Connecting with students
Getting organized & school/work balance
Setting goals & getting support
Staying healthy / Reigniting your passion & activism

Communicating with Co-workers: Stop Gossiping and Start Finding Solutions
Presenter: Mandy Lloyd

Children learn how to build strong, positive relationships with others by observing the adult relationships around them. It is essential for adults who work with children to model positive problem-solving skills. In this Conscious Discipline session, participants will learn specific strategies for managing their emotions and communicating assertively with co-workers.

Participants will understand the importance of connection with co-workers and how that impacts communication.
Participants will practice how to calm their bodies and choose calming thoughts when triggered by what a co-worker says or does.
Participants will role-play problem-solving using assertive language.

Emergency Preparedness and Response in Early Childcare Settings
Presenter: Misty Jewell

This session will focus on practical Emergency Preparedness and Response in an early childcare setting. This session will be Virginia specific based on the VA State Licensing and Subsidy Standards. We will outline the different emergency preparedness plans for evacuation, shelter-in-place, and lockdown and strategies that will help keep their children safe in emergency situations.

Emergency Preparedness requirements for early childhood programs operating in Virginia.
How to identify threats that face your program -The importance of having an Emergency Preparedness plan and how to create one specific to your early childhood program.
The differences between evacuation, shelter in place, and lockdowns, and when to implement each procedure.
Essential supplies to have on hand -How to effectively communicate with children, families, and staff during and after an emergency.

The Journey Is the Masterpiece: Discovering the Joy of Process Art
Presenter: Danielle Ganze

This workshop aligns with the CLASS® framework, supporting teachers and caregivers in enhancing Emotional Support, Classroom Organization, and Instructional Support. Participants will explore how process art values children’s ideas, emotions, and choices; practice creating predictable, engaging art spaces; and discuss strategies for sustaining attention and reducing behavior challenges. The hands-on portion models effective feedback cycles, open-ended questioning, and vocabulary use to deepen children’s analysis, prediction, and connection-making through creative exploration.

Define process art and explain how it differs from product-based art.
Identify at least three ways process art supports physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development at any age.
Describe how process art can be adapted to support inclusive practices for children with special needs.
Evaluate existing classroom practices and plan to better align those practices with a process-focused approach.

4:15 – 5:15 p.m. – Concurrent Workshops

Building Caring and Joyful Connections
Presenter: Navia Quan

Discover how everyday moments can become powerful opportunities to nurture trust and build strong emotional bonds with infants and toddlers. In this interactive training, participants will explore the importance of caring and joyful interactions in supporting brain development, social-emotional growth, and early learning. Through real-life examples, videos, and playful strategies, you’ll learn how to infuse routines with connection, use everyday materials to engage young children, and create environments where relationships thrive. Whether you’re rocking a baby to sleep or sharing a silly song during lunch, this session will inspire you to be more intentional, responsive, and joyful in your caregiving. Come ready to sing, reflect, and celebrate the incredible impact of your everyday interactions.

Define caring and joyful connections and the importance they play in the development of infants and toddlers.
Discover the use of everyday materials to create engaging opportunities for infants and toddlers
Discuss ways to incorporate playfulness into interactions during routines and activities.

Calm and Connect: Pathways to Cooperation and Learning
Presenter: Marina Santos

Explore how adult self-awareness, emotional regulation, and intentional relationship-building create environments that support young children’s impulse control, cooperation, and emotional growth. Using Conscious Discipline’s transformative practices, participants will examine how adult composure and perception shape children’s behaviors and how authentic connections wire the brain for impulse control and willingness. Attendees will leave with practical, real-world scenarios, language mantras, and applications they can immediately implement in their classrooms to foster calmer, more connected learning environments.

Understand the impact of adult self-awareness on young children’s behavior and emotional development.
Demonstrate strategies for emotional regulation to model calm and constructive responses in the classroom.
Apply intentional relationship-building techniques that promote children’s impulse control, cooperation, and willingness to learn.
Translate Conscious Discipline practices into real-world scenarios, using practical examples and applications for daily classroom routines.

Embracing Diversity to Build a Strong Classroom/School Community
Presenter: Kristi Snyder

Early childhood educators have a unique opportunity to help shape how children learn to listen and respect each other. In this session, we’ll talk about what diversity means, anti-bias education, and how we can create an environment where children learn to respect themselves and each other. We’ll provide opportunities to consider classroom books and materials. We will also provide time for participants to reflect on their own personal experiences with diversity and share ways they celebrate the children and families in their programs.

Participants will gain a deeper understanding of diversity/anti-bias education.
Consider how to evaluate materials and books.
Share strategies for celebrating diversity in your classrooms/programs.

Fine Motor Skills…Write Out of the Box!
Presenter: Marianne Gibbs

Fine Motor Skills…Write Out of the Box! NAEYC presenter and national early childhood speaker, Dr. Marianne Gibbs, presents engaging hands-on presentation on the fine motor development of young children 3-6 years old. This session contains essential, rarely addressed, information for educators of ALL young children, which supports pencil grasp, pre-writing, and scissor skill development. Session is fun and fast-paced. Activities and techniques are ready to use in the classroom or home tomorrow!

Learners will be able to immediately implement classroom activities and positional strategies to appropriately develop fine motor skills to support future, efficient handwriting in young children.
Learners will be able to accurately assess and facilitate efficient pencil grasp development of young children.
Learners will be able to immediately implement techniques to support effective positioning for scissor skill development.

From Concern to Confidence: Navigating Common Childhood Illnesses Together
Presenter: Caitlin Weaver

Early childhood educators (ECEs) are crucial in the health and well-being of children, yet many face challenges when responding to common childhood illnesses and concerns. The “Coffee Chat” project was created to bridge the gap between early childhood educators and medical professionals through accessible,
collaborative learning. What began as virtual, discussion-based conversations has grown into an in-person, station based, game style learning experience. The sessions promote participation, practical problem solving, and peer collaboration in addressing common childhood conditions, including illness, trauma and behavioral concerns. Participants will leave equipped with the knowledge to combat common childhood illnesses and confidence to approach conversations with medical professionals about ongoing issues.

Identify common childhood fever and cough presentations and recognize red-flag symptoms.
Apply appropriate response strategies for managing illness concerns in early childhood settings.
Communicate effectively with families and healthcare professionals regarding child health concerns.
Access and use reliable medical resources to support health-related decision-making.

Maximizing Learning, Minimizing Cost: Budget-Friendly Tools for Young Minds
Presenter: Bethany Britt

This hands-on workshop will explore creative, low-cost ways to support early learning in family childcare settings. Participants will learn how to make engaging, age-appropriate learning materials using affordable or recycled items. We will cover how to align homemade tools with developmental goals, encourage curiosity, and create meaningful learning experiences—without breaking the bank. Attendees will leave with practical ideas, sample materials, and a resource list to inspire learning every day on a budget.

Find and repurpose affordable or recycled materials to support early learning.
Make simple, engaging learning tools that match the developmental needs of young children (6 weeks–4 years).
Connect homemade activities with early learning goals like language, motor, social-emotional, and problem-solving skills.
Build meaningful learning experiences without spending a lot of money.

Navigating the Journey: Supporting Families of Children who are Neurodivergent
Presenter: Rachel Waff

This professional development session is designed to equip educators with the skills to support families through the journey of neurodiversity and early childhood. Emphasizing the importance of recognizing and celebrating daily achievements, we’ll shift the focus from challenges to progress. Educators will learn strategies to build strong, trusting relationships with families during positive times, ensuring a solid foundation for when difficult conversations arise. The session will also focus on strength-based learning and encouraging educators to view children’s behavior through a sensory lens rather than as misbehavior. Additionally, participants will explore ways to embrace and incorporate sensory preferences within the classroom and community, fostering a more inclusive environment for all children.

Explore strategies to strengthen trust and build meaningful partnerships with families through open and supportive communication.
Learn how to apply strength-based approaches that highlight children’s growth and abilities.
Identify ways to recognize and support children’s sensory preferences to create inclusive learning environments.

Play as Brain-Building: Supporting Social-Emotional and Cognitive Growth in Early Childhood
Presenter: Aliyah Taylor

This interactive session explores how intentional play supports young children’s brain development, social-emotional skills, and learning readiness. Participants will learn strategies to design play-based experiences that are developmentally appropriate, culturally responsive, and inclusive of all learners. Key topics include the connection between play and executive function, self-regulation, problem-solving, and equity in early childhood settings. Educators will leave with practical tools to foster social-emotional growth, support diverse learners, and create engaging, brain-building play environments.

Explain how different types of play support brain development, executive function, and social-emotional growth.
Implement play-based strategies that promote self-regulation, problem-solving, and social skills in young children.
Design play experiences that are culturally responsive and inclusive of diverse learners.
Reflect on and adapt classroom practices to ensure equitable, developmentally appropriate learning opportunities.

STREAMin3 Provocation: Sparking Curiosity Through Hands-On Learning
Presenter: Becca Carter, Katie Karr

This session will guide participants through a STREAMin3 Provocation, providing a hands-on, interactive experience that models the thoughtful integration of Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Art, and Math in early childhood classrooms. Participants will actively engage with materials and strategies used in provocations, exploring how intentionally designed learning experiences can spark curiosity, encourage experimentation, inspire inquiry, and promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills in young learners. In addition, attendees will discuss ways to observe and document children’s learning, reflect on their own facilitation techniques, and consider how these provocations can be adapted to support diverse developmental needs and classroom environments.

Identify the key components of a successful STREAMin3 provocation.
Plan and facilitate provocations that foster exploration, creativity, and problem-solving.
Reflect on how provocations can support creativity, inquiry, and cross-curricular learning in early childhood classrooms.

Tinker, Think, Thrive: Building Executive Function Skills Through STEM Exploration
Presenter: Autumn Shaffer

This session explores how STEM experiences can strengthen executive function skills such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, and self-regulation. Focusing on easy-to-implement activities and everyday interactions, educators will gain practical strategies and hands-on ideas to foster the development of executive function skills within STEM experiences.

This session explores how STEM experiences can strengthen executive function skills such as working memory, cognitive flexibility, and self-regulation.
Focusing on easy-to-implement activities and everyday interactions, educators will gain practical strategies and hands-on ideas to foster the development of executive function skills within STEM experiences.

4:15 – 5:45 p.m. – Concurrent Workshops

Building Careful and Joyful Connections
Presenter: Navia Quan

Define caring and joyful connections and the importance they play in the development of infants and toddlers.
Discover the use of everyday materials to create engaging opportunities for infants and toddlers.
Discuss ways to incorporate playfulness into interactions during routines and activities.

Navigating the Journey: Supporting Families of Children who are Neurodivergent
Presenter: Rachel Waff

Explore strategies to strengthen trust and build meaningful partnerships with families through open and supportive communication.
Learn how to apply strength-based approaches that highlight children’s growth and abilities.
Identify ways to recognize and support children’s sensory preferences to create inclusive learning environments.