What’s the Difference? Culturally Responsive Teaching & Learning in Early Childhood Education

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Asking and Answering Difficult Questions About the Impact of Racism in Early Childhood Education: Panel Discussion, Part III

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Recorded on Thursday, March 21, 2024 | 1-2 PM ET

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Synopsis:

We further our discussion on how early childhood educators can handle the critical issue of racism with young children, families, and program staff with a panel discussion that explores various aspects of racism in early childhood education, including the impact of a diverse early childhood workforce. Join us for expert perspectives on this critical topic and practical tips that you can take away for your early childhood program!

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Presenter(s): Tonia Durden Ph.D., Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC, Danielle Fuentes Johnson

Preparing Multilingual Learners for Kindergarten

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Recorded on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 | 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Early childhood educators have the important job of facilitating the transition to kindergarten for children and their families. As practitioners, we work with children and families to help them understand the culture of education as it relates to the process of kindergarten preparation. This webinar will examine best practices for preparing multilingual children for school, both socially and academically. Attendees will gain tools and learn practical tips for helping all children successfully make the entrance to kindergarten based on ideas from the presenter's books Dual-Language Learners: Strategies for Teaching English and Ready for Kindergarten: A Tool Kit for Supporting Children and Families (Second Edition).

Objectives:

  • Examine best practices for preparing multilingual learners for kindergarten.
  • Explore strategies that will support multilingual children and their families as they transition to kindergarten.

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Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A.

Addressing Young Multilingual Learners’ Challenging Behaviors

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Recorded on Thursday, November 9, 2023 | 1:00 – 2:00 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Young children may exhibit challenging behaviors when they have difficulty expressing their feelings or if their needs aren't met. This webinar will discuss reasons multilingual learners may exhibit challenging behaviors in early childhood settings, identify strategies for preventing them, and examine modifications that may eliminate these behaviors.  

Objectives:

  • Examine challenging behaviors multilingual learners exhibit in early childhood settings and identify ways to support these children and meet their social-emotional and learning needs.
  • Discuss culturally responsive teaching strategies to help educators better support young multilingual learners with challenging behaviors.
  • Explore sign language as a second language that facilitates and encourages language development for all children.

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Presenter(s): Alana Dresden

Inclusive Learning Experiences that Support Multilingual Learners in an Early Childhood Environment

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Recorded on Tuesday, October 17, 2023 | 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Young children have different learning styles, experiences, and abilities that affect their language learning. Educators must create inclusive early childhood learning environments that support language acquisition for all multilingual learners, including those with special needs. This webinar will discuss strategies that will help educators design learning experiences that meet the needs of diverse learners in early childhood settings.

Objectives:

  • Explore appropriate classroom experiences that create an enriching learning environment for dual language learners (DLLs)/multilingual young children from birth to Pre-K.
  • Examine strategic grouping practices to use when working with dual language/multilingual learners to create an inclusive classroom culture that meets the needs of all children.
  • Develop an understanding of diversity and inclusion practices that help early childhood educators be sensitive and responsive to multilingual children’s cultural and linguistic needs.

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Presenter(s): Alana Dresden

Building Relationships with Young Multilingual Learners and Their Families

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Recorded on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 | 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A.

Assessing Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Programs

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Recorded on June 15, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Alana Dresden

Key Elements of Supporting Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Environments

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Recorded on May 23, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Alana Dresden

Factors That Affect Second Language Acquisition in Early Childhood

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Recorded on April 19, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Alana Dresden

Understanding the Need for Supporting Dual Language Learners in Early Childhood Environments

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Recorded on March 22, 2023; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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. 

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Presenter(s): Alana Dresden

Techniques for Honoring the Home Language of Dual Language Learners

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Recorded on Tuesday, December 6, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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. 

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Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A.

Multilingual Classrooms: Supporting Young Dual Language Learners’ English Language Development

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Recorded on Wednesday, November 9, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A.

The Essential Elements of Teaching Dual Language Children and Supporting Their Families in the Learning Process

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Recorded on Wednesday, October 5, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A.

12 Essential Steps to Planning a High-Quality Program for Dual Language Learners

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Recorded on Wednesday, September 21, 2022; 1:00–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Angèle Sancho Passe, M.A.

Responding to Overt Cultural/Racial Discrimination in Early Childhood Programs: Questions and Answers

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Recorded on Wednesday, June 15, 2022; 1-2 PM ET

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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.   

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Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC

Increasing Awareness of Privilege: Advancing Racial/Cultural Equity and Inclusion in ECE

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Recorded on Thursday, May 19, 2022; 1-2 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC

Promoting Healthy Racial/Cultural Identities in/for Minority Children: Advancing Equity and Inclusion in ECE

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Recorded on Thursday, April 21, 2022; 1–2 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC

Be the Change you Want to See: Are you Ready to Advance Equity and Inclusion in ECE

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Recorded on Wednesday, March 23, 2022; 1–2 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC

Teaching Racial-Cultural Empathy and Challenging Discrimination in Early Childhood

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Recorded on Wednesday, December 8, 2021; 1–2 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Children as young as preschool age show racial preferences and prejudice. Early childhood educators have the unique opportunity to cultivate racial-cultural empathy and challenge discrimination before and during this prime age.

We highly recommend attendees watch our previous webinar, “Healing from Racial and Cultural Discrimination,” which focuses on the impact of trauma from racial-cultural discrimination during early childhood, and relational strategies to promote healing.  

In this webinar we will delve deeper into teaching racial-cultural empathy and inclusive practices for early childhood programs. 

Objectives:

  • Understand the importance of promoting racial-cultural empathy and challenging discrimination during early childhood to promote racial and cultural awareness among young children.
  • Become familiar with the components of teaching racial-cultural empathy in early childhood education programs, including knowledge of inter-group differences, awareness of biases, and social-emotional skills to overcome prejudice and practice solidarity. 
  • Identify program-wide inclusive policies and family engagement practices that challenge discrimination and propel the development of racial-cultural empathy.

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Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC

Let’s Start Normalizing Inclusion & Diversity: Creating Equitable Access, Participation, and Supports for Children of Diverse Backgrounds

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Recorded on Tuesday, November 16, 2021; 1–2:30 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Mira Williams, Ph.D.

Supporting Language Development in Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Children

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Recorded on Wednesday, October 20, 2021; 1–2:30 PM ET

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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. 

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Asking and Answering Difficult Questions About the Impact of Racism in Early Childhood Education: Panel Discussion, Part II

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Recorded on Wednesday, September 22, 2021; 1–2:30 PM ET

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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!

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Presenter(s): Tonia Durden Ph.D., Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC, Mira Williams, Ph.D.

A Framework for Using Literature with Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Young Children

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Recorded on Wednesday, June 23, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:30 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs, Rozemarijn Gesquiere

Best Practices to Cultivate Partnerships with Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Families in Early Learning Programs

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Recorded on Tuesday, May 18, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:30 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Navine Fortune Ed.D.

Healing from Racial and Cultural Discrimination in Early Childhood

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Recorded on Thursday, April 22, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:00 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC

Effective Culturally and Developmentally Appropriate Practices to Support Early Learning

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Recorded on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 – 1:00 PM ET–2:30 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Rochelle Pleasant

Asking and Answering Difficult Questions About the Impact of Racism in Early Childhood Education: A Panel Discussion

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Recorded on Tuesday, March 16, 2021 - 1:00 PM ET–2:00 PM ET

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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!

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Presenter(s): Tonia Durden Ph.D., Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC, Mira Williams, Ph.D.

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Early Childhood Teaching: From Easing Stress To Increasing Engagement

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Engaging Communities: Developing and Nurturing Collaborations and Partnerships to Transform Early Learning Experiences

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Recorded on Wednesday, December 9, 2020; 1:30 PM ET–2:30 PM ET

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Synopsis:

We’ve all heard the saying, “it takes a village to raise a child.” Early learning programs can benefit tremendously from their “village” by forming partnerships and exploring funding and family support resources in their local community. Discover practical reasons for building local relationships and tips for collaborating with partners to benefit your program!

Objectives:

  • Explore probable partners in your community that can help promote positive innovation for children and families.
  • Acquire tips to network and cultivate conversations that lead to successful collaborations.

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs

Impact of Stress on Young Children’s Learning and Development: What Do We Need to Know?

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Recorded on Tuesday, November 17, 2020; 1:00 PM ET – 2:00 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Childhood stress is common across all cultures and socioeconomic groups. Life-changing events in a young child’s life can lead to stress. This webinar will familiarize early childhood educators with stressors in the lives of young children and offer developmentally appropriate tools to help children manage their own stress.

Objectives:

  • Recognize the link between brain development and stress to establish realistic learning goals for young children.
  • Understand the “Window of Tolerance” to provide a safe and developmentally appropriate environment.
  • Acquire strategies to support young children as they develop healthy coping mechanisms.

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Presenter(s): Mary Braxton

Special Event with Rae Pica! Active Learning in the Time of COVID-19

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Recorded on Tuesday, November 10, 2020; 1:00 PM ET - 2:30 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Rae Pica

Tap into The Power of Emotional Intelligence to Resolve Conflicts in Early Learning Programs

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Recorded on October 15, 2020; 1:00 PM ET – 2:00 PM ET

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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. 

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Stacey Park

A Unifying Framework to Empower Early Childhood Educators

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Recorded on September 22, 2020; 1:00 PM ET – 2:30 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Rosemary Kendell, Ph.D., Tre Maxie

Rekindle Your Passion: Self-Care Practices for Early Childhood Educators

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Recorded on Thursday, June 4, 2020; 1-2:30 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Early childhood educators strive to meet the needs of the children and families they serve and tend to neglect their own well-being. However, practicing self-care is important to provide high-quality programs to young children and their families.  Join this webinar to rekindle your passion and to discover the red flags of burnout, strategies to develop a self-compassionate state-of-mind, and tips to prevent burnout.

Objectives:

  • Understand self-care and signs of burnout to establish protective elements to meet the daily challenges of the job.
  • Recognize the major sources of stress and potential burnout to address your specific needs.
  • Envision self-care practices and create a self-compassionate mindset to cultivate health and well-being.

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Presenter(s): Diana Bermudez, Ph.D, LPC

Supporting Young Dual Language Learners' Growth in English Language Skills

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Recorded on Tuesday, May 12, 2020; 1-2:30 PM ET

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Synopsis:

As early childhood educators develop diverse classrooms, many often struggle with nurturing the language acquisition of their multilingual learners. This webinar provides strategies to support teachers and families in encouraging home language growth.

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.

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Presenter(s): Marsha Chan

The Power of Family-Teacher Conferences in ECE: Understanding the Key Aspects

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Recorded on Wednesday, April 22, 2020; 1-2:30 PM ET

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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. 

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Carrie Scruggs

Educating Families About Developmentally Appropriate Practices

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Recorded on Tuesday, April 7, 2020; 1:30 - 2:30 PM ET

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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.

 

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Presenter(s): Rae Pica

Fostering Cultural Sensitivity and Raising Diversity Awareness in Early Learning Programs

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Recorded on Tuesday, December 10, 2019; 1-2:30 PM ET

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Synopsis:

The Census Bureau has projected that by 2020 half of the population of young children in early learning programs and schools will come from diverse backgrounds. Therefore, it is of high-priority that early childhood educators meet the needs of children coming from differing cultural backgrounds. The programs that acknowledge the diversity of the children and families they serve also understand the benefits of promoting cultural awareness. In this webinar, educators will reflect upon questions and explore strategies to incorporate cultural sensitivity and awareness into their curriculum and daily activities with young children.

 

Objectives:

  • Discover the impact of your unconscious biases on your interactions and relationships.
  • Explore strategies for developing an inclusive program that embraces all children and families.
  • Assess approaches to diversify environment, activities, and interactions to become a culturally responsive educator.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Key Strategies for Successfully Creating a Productive Early Childhood Classroom

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Recorded on Wednesday, November 13, 2019; 1-2:30 PM ET

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Responding to Childhood Trauma: Building Resiliency in Our Children

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Recorded on Wednesday, October 23, 2019; 1:30-2:30 PM ET

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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:

  1. Acquire facts of childhood trauma and its impact on brain development.
  2. Learn about typical traumas young children experience and how to identify signs of trauma.
  3. Obtain strategies to prevent or minimize trauma and its triggers to support young children in the classroom setting.

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Presenter(s): Mary Braxton, Toni Cacace-Beshears

Child Abuse & Neglect: Understanding Mandated Reporting and Strategies to Support Abused Children

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Recorded on Thursday, September 19, 2019; 1-2:30 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Child abuse and neglect is a disturbing social problem that exists in our society and yet these incidences have been increasing at an alarming rate. The lasting effects of child abuse and neglect impact children's ability to learn and their emotional state.   Furthermore, the effects of child abuse and neglect are not limited to the child who has been abused but extends to the child’s family. The role of early childhood educators is to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment for all children in their care thus, each plays a significant role in preventing and responding to allegations of child abuse and neglect. Join this important webinar offering to learn about your significant role as a mandated reporter and gain a deeper understanding on this sensitive issue. Learn effective strategies for working with abused children and supporting their families.

Objectives:

  1. Obtain information on types of child abuse and some behavioral indicators prevalent during the child protection process.
  2. Understand how mandated reporting can prevent imminent risk of serious harm to a young child.
  3. Gain strategies to meet the needs of abused children and support their families.

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Presenter(s): Alan Guttman, Carrie Scruggs, Toni Cacace-Beshears

Must-Have Resources to Guide Challenging-Behavior Management

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Recorded on Wednesday, April 24, 2019; 1:30-2:30 PM ET

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Synopsis:

Guidance and management of challenging behaviors is one of the most sought-after topics in early childhood education. Developing guidance and intervention strategies can be complex, and we simplify it for you. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, so we will showcase some of the best resources available on this topic that you can tailor to your classroom needs. For example, some resources we’ll highlight are age specific and others aligned to certain challenging behaviors. We assure you that all resources will be helpful in your work with young children.

Objectives:

  • Acquire trending resources to support challenging-behavior management in early childhood classrooms.
  • Learn new intervention strategies for the classrooms.
  • Identify resources best suited for specific circumstances in YOUR classroom to promote positive behavior.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Top 10 Winning Strategies for Managing Stress in Early Childhood Education

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Recorded on Tuesday, March 26, 2019; 1 - 2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

10 Tips to Stay Organized in Demanding Early Learning Programs

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Recorded on Wednesday, February 20, 2019; 1:30 - 2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Making Connections: Professional Journeys That Will Empower You!

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Recorded on Thursday, January 17, 2019; 1 - 2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

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Leadership Series: Be Inspired!

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Designing Strategic Personalized Professional Learning Plans

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Recorded on Thursday, December 6, 2018; 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Christy John, Ph.D.

Solve 5 Common Relationship Barriers Through Effective Communication Approaches

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Recorded on Thursday, November 8, 2018; 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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Synopsis:

Building positive relationships is an important aspect of a leader’s work. Interactions with all stakeholders – families, community members, board members, and staff – occur daily in early childhood programs. Learn easy to implement, effective communication approaches to nurture and build trusting relationships.

Objectives:

  • Understand common reasons for the existence of relationship barriers.
  • Learn effective communication approaches to nurture and build positive relationships with your stakeholders.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Lauren Small

Look Beyond Recruitment: Successful Retention Strategies to Reduce Staff Turnover!

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Recorded on Tuesday, October 9, 2018, 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Donna Patton, MaryEllen Lyles

Early Childhood Education Workforce: Exploring the Trends and the Power to Change

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Recorded on Thursday, September 20, 2018, 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Navine Fortune Ed.D.

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Physical Development and Movement Experiences Series

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Creating Engaging Play and Natural Environments for the Early Years - Birth through 5

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Recorded on Tuesday, May 22, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Movement & Children with Special Needs

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Recorded on Thursday, April 19, 2018, 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears, Gauri Shirali-Deo

Inside, Outside, Upside-Down: Connecting Movement to Teaching & Learning

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Recorded on Wednesday, March 14, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Facilitating Movement to Promote Motor Development

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Recorded on Tuesday, February 13, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

Early Brain and Motor Development through Movement

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Recorded on Thursday, January 18, 2018, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Toni Cacace-Beshears

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Family Engagement Series

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Super Moms and Super Dads! Recognizing the Extraordinary Needs of Single Parents and Engaging Them in Early Childhood Programs

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Recorded on Tuesday, December 12, 2017, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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Synopsis

Parenting in today’s families’ looks different than it did a generation ago. Today, there are nearly 13.6 million single parents raising over 21 million children in the United States. In fact, many Early Childhood Programs serve more children from single parent households than that of traditional households. Join us to discover ways to offer support and to engage single moms and single dads in Early Childhood Programs.

 

Objectives: 

  • Identify the four most common reasons that people become single parents.
  • Learn some strategies to support single parents. 

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs

Creating a Supportive Environment for Children with Incarcerated Parents and their Families

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Recorded on Thursday, November 9, 2017, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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.

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs

Supporting and Engaging Teen Parents in Early Childhood Settings

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Recorded on Thursday, October 12, 2017, 1:30-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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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. 

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs

Serving the Unique Needs of Diverse Families in Early Childhood Programs

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Recorded on Wednesday, September 20, 2017, 1:00-2:30 PM Eastern Time

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Synopsis

Early childhood programs serve children that come from a variety of family structures including: families made up of grandparents with guardianship, foster parents, military members, and LGBT families.  Understanding the dynamics of different family structures and their unique needs can help early childhood educators create an environment that is welcoming, fosters learning, and supports all children and their families. During this webinar, we will examine strategies to embrace the different family structures served by early childhood programs. 

 

 

Objectives:

  • Understand the unique circumstances of families and implement strategies to engage diverse families. 
  • Learn strategies to support the distinctive needs of the diverse populations in your early childhood program. 

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs, Kamna Seth, Suad Hooper

How Do I Connect With My Families?: Remembering and Celebrating Diversity

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Recorded on Wednesday, May 24, 2017, 2-3 PM Eastern Time

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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

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs

Learning Extensions: Collaborating with Community Partners and Families to Enhance Your After-School Program

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Recorded on Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 2-3 PM EST

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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

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs

Hand-in-Hand: Collaborating with Families of Children with Special Needs

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Recorded on Thursday, February 23, 2017, 2-3 PM EST

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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

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Presenter(s): Gauri Shirali-Deo, Kamna Seth

Fatherhood 201: Collaborating with Your Community to Support Fatherhood Engagement Activities

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Recorded on Tuesday, January 24, 2017-2-3 ET

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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

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs, Daryl Carter

Engaging and Empowering Fathers 101

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Recorded on June 15, 2016

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Synopsis

While there is a consensus that fathers should be engaged in early childhood education, early childhood programs typically run into challenges when trying to engage dads.

Objectives

• Strategies to engage fathers, model parental skills, and offer tips on sharing information on child development 
• Ideas to increase attendance by fathers at trainings, support groups, and family engagement activities. 
• What the data tell us about the importance of engaging fathers.

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Presenter(s): Carrie Scruggs, Daryl Carter

Building the Foundation for Engaging Families- Relationships with Infant and Toddler Families

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Recorded on March 26, 2016

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Synopsis

Building a foundation of trust and communication is key while working with families who have infants and toddlers. This session will offer strategies for building strong family relationships right from the start and approaches for sharing resources to educate infant/toddler families on typical child development. 

Objectives

• The importance of educating families; offering support with child development and social-emotional information. 
• Strategies to communicate with families of infants and toddlers, including providing them parental resources

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Presenter(s): Bev Schumacher, Carrie Scruggs, Kamna Seth

Reaching the Engagement Level-Working with Families of Young Children

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Recorded on October 28, 2015

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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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Presenter(s): Bev Schumacher, Kamna Seth

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Meeting the English Language Needs of Early Childhood Educators and Families

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Recorded on Thursday, April 27, 2017, 7-8:30 PM EST

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Synopsis:

Throughout the United States an increasing number of nonnative early childhood educators care for young children. Cultural and linguistic diversity form a substantial part of the American heritage and should be embraced in early childhood programs for the benefit of children. This presentation will help you consider the necessary language skills and strategies needed to enable nonnative speakers of English to be successful. We will look at where to start and how to build English language skills through continuous and sustained instruction.

Objectives:

  • Identify practical skills needed by nonnative speaking early childhood educators and families to listen, speak, read, and write in English on the topics of early childhood care, education, and child development.
  • Explore various strategies to promote English language proficiency among nonnative speaking early childhood educators and families.
  • Discover established curriculum and materials specifically designed for increasing the English language proficiency among nonnative speaking early childhood educators.

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Presenter(s): Julaine Rosner, Marsha Chan

Power IS in the Numbers - Using Child Assessment Data to Drive Decisions Regarding Enhancing Program Quality and Ensuring Positive Early Learning Outcomes

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Recorded on March 18, 2016

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Synopsis

More and more programs are now required to shift to a more “data-driven” decision making culture. In other words, programs are expected to use data in even more meaningful ways to plan and make decisions. 

Objectives

  • Discuss recent trends on data driven decision-making 
  • Discover the importance of data
  • Explore strategies for collecting data on children you serve

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Presenter(s): A. Ruth Okoye, Ed.D., Kamna Seth

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