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WEDNESDAY EARLY LEARNING 2020: Leading & Learning in the New Decade
12.02 | Integrating Mindfulness Practices into the Early Childhood Classroom
CKC | K2.2 C2
Heather Amick, Quality Coach, Early Learning Resource Center, Region 4
Research shows that mindfulness can increase productivity, reduce stress, improve workplace satisfaction, and lead to higher functioning teams. There is also growing evidence that mindfulness provides several benefits to early childhood professionals and students. This training will give participants an understanding of mindfulness as it relates to early childhood and the benefits that mindfulness practices can bring to the center and classroom culture. We will also look at how mindfulness helps to develop critical social-emotional skills such as emotional regulation in children and improves everyone’s overall mental, social, and emotional self-awareness.
12.03 | The Diverse Leader
CKC | D6.7 C1
Tracy Sammons-Venonsky, Director of Quality Assurance, Brightside Academy; Sharen Woodley, Regional Vice President, Brightside Academy
Stephen Covey once said, “Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.” In leadership, it is important to have a thorough understanding of the importance, value, and necessity of diversity, inclusion, and empathy and have an appreciation for the beauty of diversity in the work environment. We will explore diversity, inclusion, and empathy from a leadership perspective. Strategies on how to support a diverse and inclusive environment will be discussed.
12.04 | New Professional Standards: Early Educators & a University Credential Program
CKC | K6.5 C1
Shelly Haser, Education Professor and Early Childhood Program Coordinator, Robert Morris University; Susan Parker, Associate Professor Education, Robert Morris University; Joanne Thralls, Executive Director, The Red Balloon Early Learning Center; Dawn Ciminel, Infant & Toddler Coordinator, The Red Balloon Early Learning Center; Stephanie Weiss, Teacher’s Assistant, Crafton Children’s Corner; Judy Albenze, Executive Director, Crafton Children’s Corner
Highlights from the founding partnership program between Robert Morris University & two child care centers: Crafton Children’s Corner & Red Balloon Learning Center will be the focus. A small OCDEL grant was awarded to RMU to plan a 12-credit infant/toddler certificate program specifically for childcare educators. For many in the program, this was the first time taking college credit courses. During the presentation, the two child care directors will share their insights on forming the partnership, and the early childhood educators (program students) will dialogue on their struggles & successes during the program. Their reflections include being a part of a community of learners, personal empowerment/growth, & validation of their childcare work.
24 2020 Early Childhood Education Summit