Institute for Early Childhood Professionals: Renew, Reflect, Reignite

Morning Speaker: Dr. Andrew Campbell 

Cultivating Belonging in the Early Childhood Space – Educators are Essential

In this keynote, we will explore the vital role of cultivating belonging within early childhood spaces. As educators, fostering an inclusive environment not only supports children’s emotional and social development but also enhances their overall learning experience. We’ll discuss practical strategies for creating a sense of community, encouraging openness, fostering brave and safe spaces, and embracing differences. Additionally, it’s essential to recognize that as we nurture belonging in our students, we must also attend to our own. Remember, educators, to refresh and revitalize yourselves-self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity. Your well-being inspires and shapes the classroom atmosphere you create.

Afternoon Speakers:

Choose One of the Afternoon Sessions As your Selection 

Option One: Managing and Understanding Aggressive & Challenging Behaviours- Working with School Aged Children

This session is designed to support educators in effectively understanding and managing aggressive and challenging behaviours that may arise when working with school-aged children. Through interactive exercises, participants will have the opportunity to develop and practice strategies that promote positive behaviour management, foster emotional regulation, and create supportive learning environments.

Faciliated by: Phillip Nicho, Child and Youth Practitioner _________________________________________________________________________

Option Two: Caring and Responsive Relationships

Explore the foundations of relationships, how we show and receive care and design our world to cultivate caring and responsive connections. Using core elements from The Virtues Project, The College of Early Childhood Educators and Illuminating Care: The Pedagogy and Practice of Care in Early Childhood Communities, we will think, feel, play and reflect on this journey as humans. Come join this dynamic and safe space for considering the elements of care and connection.

Faciliated by: Shannon Speer, Professional Learning Consultant _______________________________________________________________________

Option Three: “Beyond Duty: The Heart of Everyday Care in Early Childhood Education”

In early childhood education, care goes beyond meeting basic needs-it shapes lifelong relationships and emotional well-being. This interactive session challenges educators to reflect on the human connection in their daily caregiving practices. Through engaging activities, real0life scenarios and personal reflections, participants will explore how biases (both conscious and unconscious) influence interactions with children. We will examine research-based insights on the long-term impact of responsive care and discuss practical, meaningful ways to integrate genuine connections. Educators will examine how small, daily interactions shape children’s sense of safety, belonging, and self-worth through a hands-on, reflective session.

Faciliated by: Cameile Henry, Strengthen Hands Resources _________________________________________________________________________

Option Four: Introduction to Circle of Security

Join us in an engaging session for educators, and they will begin to understand how their role of ‘being the hands on circle’ enhances the attachment between caregiver and child.

Faciliated by: ​​Jona Ombao-Appadu & Tatiana Ortiz​, ROCK _________________________________________________________________________

Option Five: Know Your Worth

Let’s unpack the negative thinking, and discuss valuable strategies to improve negative thoughts, build self-esteem, increase confidence, and take resilience to another level.

Faciliated by: Tammy Whelen, Mental Health Educator