What’s the Difference? Culturally Responsive Teaching & Learning in Early Childhood Education
Building Relationships with Young Multilingual Learners and Their Families
Recorded on September 20, 2023 | 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
We know that teaching multilingual children is multifaceted, and that language is vital to communication and building relationships. And yet, ease of language is a challenge when multilingual children and families need to be fluent in English to engage in classroom. This webinar will examine teaching techniques that promote inclusion and a sense of belonging, resulting in better learning outcomes for children and deeper engagement with families. The presenter will share ideas from her book Dual-Language Learners: Strategies for Teaching English, and participants will gain practical tips and valuable tools they can use in their work with young children and their families.
Objectives:
- Examine how building relationships with dual language/multilingual learners and their families results in inclusion and belonging.
- Explore techniques that will help build stronger reciprocal engagement and create meaningful, caring relationships.
Assessing Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Programs
Recorded on June 15, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Alana Dresden View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Assessment is critical in early childhood programs that serve dual language learners (DLLs). An accurate and valid assessment of DLLs’ overall development is vital to the enhancement of educational services and of the program itself. This webinar will discuss the importance of child assessment in all areas of a high-quality ECE programs, including environment, teaching, and learning.
Objectives:
- Understand the purpose of assessing DLLs in early childhood environments.
- Understand the components of effective assessments for DLLs in early childhood.
- Identify appropriate methods of assessing DLLs.
Key Elements of Supporting Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Environments
Recorded on May 23, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Alana Dresden View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Research shows that a planned approach to supporting dual language learners (DLLs) in ECE programs is essential. During this webinar, the presenter will help participants examine the key elements necessary to fully support DLLs in early childhood classrooms.
Objectives:
- Examine and appreciate the importance of solid program structure and staff contribution to a shared vision in supporting dual language learning.
- Understand how the family and community inclusion model contributes to the success of DLLs.
- Identify steps necessary to plan a program that supports DLLs.
Factors That Affect Second Language Acquisition in Early Childhood
Recorded on April 19, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Alana Dresden View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Many factors affect how a young child learns a language - specifically, a second language. These factors are both intrinsic and extrinsic and have a profound influence on language development. Every child has a unique way of interpreting and processing information into successfully learning a second language. This webinar will discuss the factors that affect second language acquisition in dual language learners with the goal of giving educators a better understanding of how to support these learners in early childhood settings.
Objectives:
- Explore and examine the various factors that influence second language acquisition in early childhood to help educators better support young children’s language acquisition.
- Develop an understanding of the importance of utilizing parentese to help infants learn a language.
Understanding the Need for Supporting Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Environments
Recorded on March 22, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Alana Dresden View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
As the number of young children simultaneously learning more than one language grows in the United States, it’s important for early learning programs to understand the need to support dual language learning - not only for children’s academic success in later years, but also to strengthen ties to their communities. Join this webinar to learn more about the needs of dual language learners (DLLs) in early learning programs and to identify strategies to meet those needs.
Objectives:
- Understand why there is a need for dual language learning support in early childhood education in the United States so that early learning programs can prepare their educators to enhance experiences for DLLs.
- Define dual language learners and identify ways to meet their needs in early childhood programs.
- Explore the phases of language development and identify DLLs’ coping strategies to better support children learning more than one language simultaneously.
Techniques for Honoring the Home Language of Dual Language Learners
Recorded on Tuesday, December 6, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Dual language learning is multifaceted. Both monolingual and bilingual educators must intentionally support and honor the home language of dual language learners (DLLs) as they acquire English language skills. The presenter will provide helpful, practical tips and tools from her book, Dual Language Learners: Strategies for Teaching English (Birth to Grade 3), to help you honor and support the home languages of all children in your classroom.
Objectives:
- Understand that both monolingual and bilingual early childhood educators can support home languages for all children to help them reach their full potential.
- Explore techniques to support and honor home languages in multilingual classrooms to facilitate positive child outcomes and the educational success of all children.
Multilingual Classrooms: Supporting Young Dual Language Learners’ English Language Development
Recorded on Wednesday, November 9, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Learning a second language is cognitively and socially demanding. Therefore, educators must be intentional in using techniques that support children’s second language development while promoting their language skills. This webinar will provide you with helpful strategies in both areas. The presenter will share ideas from her book Dual Language Learners: Strategies for Teaching English (Birth to Grade 3), including practical tips and valuable tools that you can use as you continue your work with young children and their families.
Objectives:
- Understand that learning a second language is a demanding cognitive and social task, a crucial step toward meeting children’s language needs.
- Explore techniques for essentials like environment, curriculum, teaching, and home-school connection to support English or other second language learning to achieve positive language development outcomes.
The Essential Elements of Teaching Dual Language Children and Supporting Their Families in the Learning Process
Recorded on Wednesday, October 5, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Educators must understand how children learn language, find ways to honor home languages, and promote the learning of second languages to properly support dual language learners (DLLs). They also must support families’ goals and collaborate with them. During this webinar, we’ll explore ideas for supporting the development of children's first and second languages. The presenter will share ideas from her book Dual-Language Learners: Strategies for Teaching English (Birth to Grade 3).
Objectives:
- Understand the development of first and second languages in young children so you can provide a stimulating linguistic environment that supports DLLs’ language development.
- Discover techniques for using language in the classroom to support DLLs’ language acquisition.
- Acquire strategies for supporting families of DLLs to help their children become bilingual.
12 Essential Steps to Planning a High-Quality Program for Dual Language Learners
Recorded on Wednesday, September 21, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Teaching children who are dual language learners is multifaceted. It means helping young children learn English language skills, honoring their home languages, engaging families, supporting educators, and planning resources. This webinar will provide you with a thoughtful 12-step plan for designing a high-quality program that supports dual language learners. The presenter will share ideas from her book Dual-Language Learners: Strategies for Teaching English (Birth to Grade 3) and discuss practical tips and valuable tools that you can use in your work with young children and their families.
Objectives:
- Understand what defines a high-quality program for dual language learners (DLLs), a critical step in planning to enhance your program to meet the needs of diverse learners.
- Explore steps for planning a quality program that meets the needs of DLLs.
- Acquire strategies for self-assessment to ensure your early childhood program is ready to support the optimal development and learning of DLLs.
Responding to Overt Cultural/Racial Discrimination in Early Childhood Programs: Questions and Answers
Recorded on Wednesday, June 15, 2022; 1-2 PM ET
Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
In addition to our efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in early childhood education, we must prepare ourselves to respond to incidents of overt racial/cultural discrimination that still happen in our programs and our communities. This webinar will equip you with dos and don'ts when responding to incidents of racism in your community. Learn how to handle the stress of racial remarks from the parents in the classroom and what to do when kids say intentionally and unintentionally racist comments to their peers.
Dr. Bermudez will answer questions about overt racism that participants have asked in previous webinars. Please bring your thoughts and questions about overt discrimination for additional discussion in real time.
Objectives:
- Reflect on how overt racial/cultural discrimination is manifested in early childhood programs and in our communities.
- Learn how to manage incidents of overt racial/cultural discrimination in early childhood programs and our communities in order to promote equity and inclusion and minimize race-based traumatic stress.
- Discuss further thoughts and questions about overt racial/cultural discrimination in real time.
Increasing Awareness of Privilege: Advancing Racial/Cultural Equity and Inclusion in ECE
Recorded on Thursday, May 19, 2022; 1-2 PM ET
Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Unequal privilege is one of the pillars that sustain racial and cultural inequity. Early childhood educators working toward racial/cultural equity and inclusion must understand the dynamics between privileged young children and underprivileged peers and adults within the context of both homogeneous and diverse programs. This webinar will provide strategies and resources for increasing young children’s awareness of racial/cultural privilege and practices to promote solidarity and empathy with others from underprivileged backgrounds.
Objectives:
- Understand how privilege based on race and culture permeates through inequity of resources and opportunities in an effort to develop culturally competent educators.
- Reflect on the impact of young children’s privilege on their relationships with peers and adults within the context of both homogeneous and diverse ECE programs to increase awareness of the myriad of emotions children could express.
- Identify strategies and resources for increasing young children’s awareness of racial/cultural privilege and practices that promote solidarity and empathy with others from underprivileged backgrounds.
Promoting Healthy Racial/Cultural Identities in/for Minority Children: Advancing Equity and Inclusion in ECE
Recorded on Thursday, April 21, 2022; 1–2 PM ET
Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC Synopsis:
Cultural and racial identity are at the root of relationships and emotional wellbeing, particularly for minority children. Promoting a healthy racial/cultural identity is essential for preventing discrimination and enhancing equity and inclusion in early childhood education practices. This webinar will deepen participants’ understanding of the development of positive racial/cultural identity, awareness of implicit bias, and strategies and resources to embed equity and inclusion in early childhood education practices.
Objectives:
- Understand the importance of developing a positive racial/cultural identity and its impact on the emotional wellbeing of minority children.
- Reflect on how early childhood educators’ racial/cultural identity and implicit biases affect relationships with minority young children and their families and the delivery of inclusive services.
- Identify strategies and resources for promoting healthy racial/cultural identity in an effort to prevent discrimination and enhance equity and inclusion in early childhood education practices.
Be the Change you Want to See: Are you Ready to Advance Equity and Inclusion in ECE
Recorded on Wednesday, March 23, 2022; 1–2 PM ET
Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
Racism and discrimination diminish the quality of education and the social-emotional wellness of young children and have life-long consequences. Our journey to ensure equity and inclusion in early childhood education starts with improving the social-emotional competencies of early childhood educators. This webinar is an opportunity to increase your awareness of and develop skills related to managing your racial/cultural assumptions, stereotypes, and prejudices in relationships with young children and their families.
Objectives:
- Understand the pervasiveness and impact of racism and discrimination in early childhood education.
- Reflect on your racial/cultural assumptions, stereotypes, and prejudices and how these interfere in relationships with young children and their families.
- Identify strategies and resources for managing one’s implicit biases with the goal of making early childhood education practices more equitable and inclusive.
Let’s Start Normalizing Inclusion & Diversity: Creating Equitable Access, Participation, and Supports for Children of Diverse Backgrounds
Recorded on Tuesday, November 16, 2021; 1–2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Mira Williams, Ph.D. View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
Racism and ableism are not usually addressed in early learning programs, but they should be! Educators must use teachable moments to address diversity and differences in ability as they create learning environments and develop curricular approaches that reframe our beliefs and norms in early childhood programs. Join our webinar to gain an understanding of intersectionality and its impact on equity and inclusion in early childhood special education.
Objectives:
- Acquire an understanding of racism, ableism, and how they intersect to become more culturally responsive while working with young children and avoid drawing conclusions based on the dominant cultural beliefs and norms in the classroom.
- Understand the key tenets of inclusion—access, participation, and supports—to offer all children in early learning classrooms equitable opportunities to learn.
- Develop an action plan for at least one next step to engage in the inclusion process in your education role.
Supporting Language Development in Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Children
Recorded on Wednesday, October 20, 2021; 1–2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Language development in early years is crucial for a child’s success in school and life. As early learning programs become increasingly culturally and linguistically diverse, it’s important that early childhood educators be equipped to support dual language learners (DLLs). This webinar will cover some key elements of language acquisition among DLLs and ways to create a supportive learning environment.
Objectives:
- Discover the importance of home language acquisition and its impact on English language learning to support the unique needs of DLLs.
- Learn about language acquisition in both a first and second language to understand that second language acquisition is a complex process.
- Explore techniques for creating a positive and literacy-rich environment to support DLLs.
Asking and Answering Difficult Questions About the Impact of Racism in Early Childhood Education: Panel Discussion, Part II
Recorded on Wednesday, September 22, 2021; 1–2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Tonia Durden Ph.D., Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC, Mira Williams, Ph.D. View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
We continue our conversation about how early childhood educators can handle critical issues of racism with young children, families, and program staff with a panel discussion that explores various aspects of racism in early childhood education. Early childhood educators will leave with tools and strategies to handle classroom and program situations involving racism with sensitivity and care. Join us to gain expert perspectives on this important topic!
A Framework for Using Literature with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Young Children
Recorded on Wednesday, June 23, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs, Rozemarijn Gesquiere View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Children's literature is a fantastic resource for helping children make real-world connections in culturally and linguistically diverse early childhood classrooms. Using diverse books with classroom activities influences young children’s perceptions about diversity and helps them accept differences that exist in society.
Objectives:
- Examine diversity standards that early learning programs can adopt to honor and respect children and families from diverse cultures.
- Learn to identify and use culturally and linguistically relevant children’s literature in the classroom to provide a global perspective.
- Explore culturally and linguistically diverse books and ready-to-use engagement ideas to foster critical conversations about racial and ethnic differences.
Best Practices to Cultivate Partnerships with Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Families in Early Learning Programs
Recorded on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Navine Fortune Ed.D. View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
Early learning programs can generate better outcomes for children by adopting a proactive approach to supporting and partnering with culturally and linguistically diverse families. Join this webinar to acquire strategies to strengthen relationships with families from diverse backgrounds.
Objectives:
- Understand the value and importance of dynamic family partnerships with diverse families to diminish prejudice and enrich program community.
- Identify techniques to support and engage culturally and linguistically diverse families to improve home-to-program connections.
- Acquire partnership strategies to address race, cultural differences, and similarities of humankind to avoid any communication pitfalls and build strong family-program partnerships.
Healing from Racial and Cultural Discrimination in Early Childhood
Recorded on Thursday, April 22, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
The process of internalizing empathy and social discrimination occurs at an early age. Early childhood educators play an important role in helping children thrive in a society where racial and cultural biases exist. Join this session to learn relational strategies to cultivate cultural and racial empathy in young children.
Objectives:
- Understand the occurrence of and address individual biases about racial and cultural discrimination in interpersonal relationships.
- Recognize the impact of discrimination on young children while supporting diverse groups of children and families.
- Acquire developmentally appropriate relational strategies, including cultural empathy, to promote healing of trauma triggered by racial and cultural discrimination.
Effective Culturally and Developmentally Appropriate Practices to Support Early Learning
Recorded on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Rochelle Pleasant View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
Children form their cultural identities in their early years, making it essential that early childhood educators develop the skill set to work effectively across cultures. By ensuring that developmentally appropriate practices are also culturally and linguistically sensitive, educators can better support children from diverse backgrounds. Join this webinar to establish a knowledge base for developing successful culturally and linguistically inclusive programs.
Objectives:
- Explore cross-cultural competence to enhance communication with young children from diverse cultures.
- Discover tips to embed culture and children’s language in early childhood classrooms to help children value diversity.
- Gain an opportunity to reflect on one's own values and attitudes to improve teaching strategies.
Asking and Answering Difficult Questions About the Impact of Racism in Early Childhood Education: A Panel Discussion
Recorded on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 - 1:00 PM ET–2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Tonia Durden Ph.D., Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC, Mira Williams, Ph.D. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
With renewed dialogues about racism intensifying nationally, how should early childhood educators handle this critical issue with young children, families, and program staff? This panel discussion will explore various aspects of racism in early childhood education. Early childhood educators will leave with tools and strategies to handle situations involving racism in their classrooms and programs with sensitivity and care. Join us and gain expert perspectives on this important topic!
Early Childhood Teaching: From Easing Stress To Increasing Engagement
Special Event with Rae Pica! Active Learning in the Time of COVID-19
Recorded on Tuesday, November 10, 2020; 1:00 PM ET - 2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Rae Pica View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Don’t let the pandemic keep you from offering your learners developmentally appropriate experiences! Join Rae for this 90-minute webinar as she presents the rationale for active learning and provides ideas for active learning experiences across the curriculum—whether you're teaching virtually or in the classroom!
Objectives:
- Understand the rationale for active rather than passive learning for young children, who are experiential learners that acquire information through all of their senses.
- Realize that active learning and developmentally appropriate practices are possible in both virtual and in-person classrooms.
- Discover the many opportunities to promote strong beginnings by using active learning in the content areas of art, emergent literacy, math, science, and social studies.
Tap into The Power of Emotional Intelligence to Resolve Conflicts in Early Learning Programs
Recorded on October 15, 2020; 1:00 PM ET – 2:00 PM ET
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Stacey Park View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Conflicts in the workplace are inevitable, but emotionally intelligent program administrators and leaders can effectively use communication to help defuse and resolve difficult situations. This webinar will help you tap into your own emotional awareness and identify techniques to help you find effective solutions to conflicts at work.
Objectives:
- Gain an understanding of emotional intelligence and its impact on communication and conflict resolution
- Acquire proven techniques to reinforce your emotional intelligence to help you communicate effectively and manage conflicts in the workplace.
A Unifying Framework to Empower Early Childhood Educators
Recorded on September 22, 2020; 1:00 PM ET – 2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Rosemary Kendell, Ph.D., Tre Maxie View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Professional growth and learning help early childhood educators expand their skillset and knowledge, which ultimately impacts a child’s success. This webinar will discuss strategies and steps educators can take to achieve enhanced professional growth and will offer insight into the NAEYC-led Power to the Profession (P2P) initiative. P2P offers a unified framework for educator roles and responsibilities that are aligned with qualifications and compensation. A unifying framework for the ECE field will create robust and cohesive standards, competencies, and qualifications.
Objectives:
- Understand the Power to the Profession initiative, which strives to establish a unifying framework for the field of early childhood education.
- Identify ways early childhood educators contribute to their individual professional growth.
- Gain strategies to inspire professional growth that will allow you to offer high-quality learning environment to young children.
Supporting Young Dual Language Learners' Growth in English Language Skills
Recorded on Tuesday, May 12, 2020; 1-2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Marsha Chan View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Identify strategies to encourage maintenance of a child's home language. Gain tips to scaffold communication with young language learners to develop language skills intentionally. Explore classroom activities to support the first and second language acquisition of young children. Learn activities for families of dual language learners to help build their fluency and confidence.
Objectives:
- Identify strategies to encourage maintenance of a child's home language.
- Gain tips to scaffold communication with young language learners to develop language skills intentionally.
- Explore classroom activities to support the first and second language acquisition of young children.
- Learn activities for families of dual language learners to help build their fluency and confidence.
The Power of Family-Teacher Conferences in ECE: Understanding the Key Aspects
Recorded on Wednesday, April 22, 2020; 1-2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Carrie Scruggs View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
Family-Teacher Conferences are an integral part of the teaching and learning cycle in early childhood education because they offer an incredible opportunity to receive and share information to foster the home-school link. However, many early learning programs continue to struggle to develop productive conference procedures. This webinar is packed with tips and tools to help program teachers and administrators plan and organize as they prepare for and conduct cyclical meaningful conferences with families of young children.
Objectives:
• Learn about Family-Teacher Conference requirements in high-quality early learning programs.
• Discover strategies for purposeful and productive Family-Teacher conferences.
• Explore ideas for family inclusion to establish reciprocal relationships.
Educating Families About Developmentally Appropriate Practices
Recorded on Tuesday, April 7, 2020; 1:30 - 2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Rae Pica View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
The two high priorities in early childhood education are to implement developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) and to effectively communicate with families. However, the top priority for families is their child’s success in school. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that families served are aware of the basics of DAP. This webinar will provide methods of communication and resources available to help families understand the link between DAP, early learning, and child outcomes.
Objectives:
- Understand and overcome the objections and concerns of early childhood educators as programs communicate with families- the vital stakeholders in early childhood education.
- Consider the impact of misinformation with which families struggle as they develop sensitive communication for a gradual shift in their perception.
- Discover resources and methods of communication with families to help them understand the linkage between developmentally appropriate practices and child outcomes.
Key Strategies for Successfully Creating a Productive Early Childhood Classroom
Recorded on Wednesday, November 13, 2019; 1-2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
As research indicates children learn at a rapid pace in their early years, it is crucial to offer a productive learning environment. A well-organized classroom that includes developmentally appropriate space, materials, activities, expectations, and interactions encourages young children with a developed set of skills to negotiate the tools provided and get along with their peers. This webinar will offer some key success strategies and guidance methods to create a secure and positive classroom environment to enhance the learning experience.
Objectives:
- Learn successful strategies to create a child-friendly and productive learning environment to support healthy development.
- Explore methods of direct and indirect guidance to meet the needs of young children during routines and transitions.
- Consider the impact of interactions with young children at play to enrich overall learning.
Responding to Childhood Trauma: Building Resiliency in Our Children
Recorded on Wednesday, October 23, 2019; 1:30-2:30 PM ET
Presenter(s): Mary Braxton, Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
Traumatic experiences not only impact young children emotionally but they also impact their ability to learn. Trauma is a risk factor for nearly all behavioral health disorders. Early intervention can assist in reducing the impact and in many cases help children recover from traumatic experiences. Early childhood educators can play a vital role in their recovery. This webinar will offer some facts related to the impact of early childhood trauma on a young child’s brain development, some guidance and strategies to support young children thus helping to prevent or minimize trauma.
Objectives:
- Acquire facts of childhood trauma and its impact on brain development.
- Learn about typical traumas young children experience and how to identify signs of trauma.
- Obtain strategies to prevent or minimize trauma and its triggers to support young children in the classroom setting.
Top 10 Winning Strategies for Managing Stress in Early Childhood Education
Recorded on Tuesday, March 26, 2019; 1 - 2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Are you stressed? Do you stress about things like, work, home, and family? If so, you’re not alone! Join this webinar and a community of like-minded ECE experts, teachers, and peers. Stress is not an event…..stress is our reaction to an event. Stress can motivate you to achieve great things! But in excess, stress can be overwhelming. Learn about the indicators and strategies to combat educator stress to help increase your engagement (both personally and professionally) while working with young children. The outcomes will benefit you – and therefore your students, their families, your program, and your community.
Objectives:
- Understand the adverse effects of educator stress.
- Manage stress to increase engagement.
- Identify stress indicators.
- Learn Strategies to cope with stress.
10 Tips to Stay Organized in Demanding Early Learning Programs
Recorded on Wednesday, February 20, 2019; 1:30 - 2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Managing an early learning program or a classroom is demanding. Are you as organized as you want to be? Are you ready for your next task or feel you’re always playing catch‐up? This webinar will provide 10 tips to stay organized and save you time.
Objectives:
- Understand the impact of staying organized in your demanding environment.
- Learn organizational techniques to be more efficient throughout your busy day.
- Discover time‐management strategies to accomplish tasks faster.
Making Connections: Professional Journeys That Will Empower You!
Recorded on Thursday, January 17, 2019; 1 - 2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout | Supplemental Materials
Synopsis:
This webinar will feature four impactful professional journeys in the field of early childhood education. These stories will manifest the benefits of every day challenges we encounter in our own professional journeys in the field over time.
To read additional professional journeys, please click on the "Supplemental Materials" link.
Objectives:
- Explore varied professional journeys in early childhood education.
- Acquire guidance from professional journeys of your peers to benefit your own journey.
- Gain information associated with ECE career path.
Leadership Series: Be Inspired!
Designing Strategic Personalized Professional Learning Plans
Recorded on Thursday, December 6, 2018; 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Christy John, Ph.D. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Professional learning plans should not be created with a one‐size‐fits‐all approach. Each early childhood educator has different goals and learning needs. Join us to learn tips to develop strategic and systematic personalized professional learning plans for early childhood educators!
Objectives:
- Learn Strategies to establish short and long term learning goals for early childhood educators.
- Discover ways to design personalized professional learning plans that includes trainings, coaching, and mentoring, to help refine the teaching skills.
Look Beyond Recruitment: Successful Retention Strategies to Reduce Staff Turnover!
Recorded on Tuesday, October 9, 2018, 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Donna Patton, MaryEllen Lyles View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Early learning programs experience high turnover, therefore, tracking and managing staff retention rate should be a best practice for early learning program leaders. Understanding turnover and being informed of the value to track retention rate, and to apply successful retention strategies to manage staff turnover benefits early learning programs. Program leaders see positive results that save time, money, and ensures stability.
Objectives:
- Discover the difference between staff turnover and staff retention.
- Establish the true cost of turnover.
- Explore multiple successful staff retention strategies.
Early Childhood Education Workforce: Exploring the Trends and the Power to Change
Recorded on Thursday, September 20, 2018, 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Navine Fortune Ed.D. View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Keeping up with the efforts to advance early childhood education as a professional field of practice, during this webinar we will explore current trends in the early childhood education workforce. Participants will be apprised of a national initiative - Power to the Profession - and how the initiative is gaining momentum to change societal perception of early childhood educators.
Objectives:
- Update on the Power to the Profession Initiative.
- Explore trends impacting the early childhood education workforce.
- Discover ways to advocate for Early Childhood Educators.
Physical Development and Movement Experiences Series
Creating Engaging Play and Natural Environments for the Early Years - Birth through 5
Recorded on Tuesday, May 22, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Children benefit greatly from outdoor classrooms that are full of natural experiences. Come outside with us as we share practical ideas for developing engaging outdoor learning environments. And, discover ways to facilitate natural experiences year-round by bringing the outdoors into your classroom.
Objectives:
- Understand the importance of outside play for developing the whole child.
- Discover the difference between outside play and natural environments.
- Explore strategies to add natural aspects into the outside and inside play areas.
Movement & Children with Special Needs
Recorded on Thursday, April 19, 2018, 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Gauri Shirali-Deo View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Physical movement is crucial for all children, but it can be especially beneficial for children with special needs. Does your early childhood program proactively encourage participation by children of all abilities? Learn specific adaptations to provide a supportive environment for children of all abilities to participate in physical movement. Take away strategies include a five-step plan for inclusion to promote physical activity for children with special needs.
Objectives:
- Understand the benefits of providing movement experiences that are inclusive for all children.
- Learn specific adaptations and strategies to include children with special needs in movement activities.
Inside, Outside, Upside-Down: Connecting Movement to Teaching & Learning
Recorded on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
Let's Move! is a trending topic in education. One of the outcomes of this initiative is to educate early childhood educators on the essentials of planning movement experiences for children. The focus of this webinar is to examine the connection between 21st Century Learning Skills to movement activities during lesson planning.
Objectives:
- Explore strategies to increase the connection of physical activity to 21st Century Skills.
- Understand ways to continuously support the development of children through planning.
Facilitating Movement to Promote Motor Development
Recorded on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
When children are asked to move (i.e., walk, run, sidestep, slide, jump, roll, hop, etc.) we challenge them to develop motor skills, help facilitate movement, and teach new vocabulary. During this webinar we will take a closer look at basic movement and the motion of body parts as we explore early learning activities that support physical development.
Objectives:
- Understand the three different patterns of physical development during the first five years of a child’s life.
- Discover strategies to facilitate movement and enhance vocabulary as you move with children.
Early Brain and Motor Development through Movement
Recorded on Thursday, January 18, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis:
You may be aware that movement is significant for each child’s physical health, but have you ever considered the connection between motor development and healthy brain development? During this webinar we will explore the critical benefits of movement activities, analyze recommended guidelines, and provide examples of how to implement physical health policies in early childhood programs.
Objectives:
- Examine the connection between brain development and movement activities for young children.
- Consider young children’s perception about movement.
- Explore developmentally appropriate guidelines for movement activities.
- Understand the progression of movement activities.
Family Engagement Series
Creating a Supportive Environment for Children with Incarcerated Parents and their Families
Recorded on Thursday, November 9, 2017, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis
Throughout the United States children are growing up without the support of their incarcerated parent(s). When these children attend early childhood programs, educators need to consider and support their emotional needs. In addition programs need to obtain and provide resources to guide their families. During this Webinar we will discuss how incarceration affects child development and discover ways to support children, their guardians, and in some cases their incarcerated parents.
Objectives:
- Examine statistical information and research relating to the effects of incarcerated parents on childhood.
- Understand the effects of incarceration on school performance.
- Discover tools and strategies for supporting the social and emotional needs of children with an incarcerated parent.
Supporting and Engaging Teen Parents in Early Childhood Settings
Recorded on Thursday, October 12, 2017, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis
Many Early Childhood Programs in the United States serve children of teenage parents. In order to meet the needs of these children, early childhood programs must consciously provide support to their young parents. During this Webinar we will look at the challenges facing teen parents and discover strategies to guide effective teen parenting.
Objectives:
- Learn ways to engage teen parents in daily communication and goal setting.
- Consider ways to support teen parents in your early childhood program.
- Discover strategies to guide teen parenting.
How Do I Connect With My Families?: Remembering and Celebrating Diversity
Recorded on Wednesday, May 24, 2017, 2-3 PM Eastern Time
Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis
Are you prepared to engage families from diverse communities? Do you know how to create an inviting environment for all children and their families in your program so everyone will benefit? Join us to learn strategies to make all your families feel welcome and respected.
Objectives
- Discuss suggestions for engaging diverse families
- Learn strategies to embrace opportunities to share diverse customs
- Discover ways to celebrate diversity in your center as an integral part of your early childhood program
Learning Extensions: Collaborating with Community Partners and Families to Enhance Your After-School Program
Recorded on Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 2-3 PM EST
Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis
Although school-aged programs in many Early Childhood Centers have the highest enrollment and generate the most revenue, many educators feel overwhelmed when planning, observing, assessing, and reporting on the needs of the children in their school-aged classroom. Learn how early childhood educators can work with community partners to create school-aged programs that are extensions of the school day and provide enrichment opportunities on non-school days.
Objectives
- Discuss ideas for after-school program teachers to collaborate with community partners to develop engaging enrichment opportunities
- Learn strategies that support the use of the teaching cycle in the school-aged classroom
- Discover free and low-cost enrichment ideas for after-school classrooms
Hand-in-Hand: Collaborating with Families of Children with Special Needs
Recorded on Thursday, February 23, 2017, 2-3 PM EST
Presenter(s): Gauri Shirali-Deo, Kamna Seth View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis
Many early childhood educators feel unprepared to work with families of children with special needs. Discover the tools you need to support these families as they navigate the early intervention system. Learn to develop a partnership with families to enhance the development of their child.
Objectives
- Discuss strategies to help families adjust to a diagnosis
- Learn ideas to support families during early intervention services
- Discover techniques for handling difficult conversations with families related to their child's development and progress
Fatherhood 201: Collaborating with Your Community to Support Fatherhood Engagement Activities
Recorded on Tuesday, January 24, 2017-2-3 ET
Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs, Daryl Carter View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis
By popular demand, the Source For Learning offers more on the topic of Fatherhood Engagement. If you enjoyed our previous Webinar on Engaging and Empowering Fathers, you won’t want to miss this!
The success of Fatherhood Programs in early childhood settings depends on the support of the local community. Learn how your early childhood program can impact the success of Fatherhood Programs by engaging other programs, businesses, and political leaders in the process.
Objectives
- Discuss guidelines for engaging community partners and local businesses to support fatherhood programs
- Learn Strategies for approaching local representatives to seek their support for fatherhood engagement opportunities
- Share ideas that encourage community support and collaboration of fatherhood engagement activities
Reaching the Engagement Level-Working with Families of Young Children
Recorded on October 28, 2015
Presenter(s): Bev Schumacher, Kamna Seth View Recorded Webinar | Handout
Synopsis
Engaging families in meaningful ways is an important component of any early childhood program. Listening to families –and investing time in them to provide guidance and opportunities to lead –can create conditions that facilitate engagement. This makes it imperative that programs review and improve their family engagement strategies.
Objectives
• Discuss the importance of on-going communication to serve and engage families effectively
• Learn strategies to implement formal and informal methods to communicate with families
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