About the Conference Cancelled or Full Sessions:
Continuing Education Credit:
Last minute cancellations will be posted outside the session rooms. It is unavoidable that some of your chosen sessions will be full. We recommend that you have at least two alternates chosen in advance for each session time. A Breakout Session Planner is included for your convenience. In fairness to all participants, saving more than one seat in a session will not be allowed if that session begins to fill up. Please respect “Session Full” signs, as sitting on the floor is a violation of Fire Safety Codes.
The Early Childhood Winter Conference is approved for 6.0 hours of continuing education credit for teachers. Certificates have been included in your conference program.
Lunch:
Lunch will be served continuously between 11:30 a.m and 1:45 p.m in the Gymnatorium. Participants are free to eat at any time during that period. One lunch and drink (soda or bottled water) per person, please. Please do not take lunches into session rooms. Exhibits:
A variety of exhibits are open in the Exhibit Hall, located in the KBC’s Great Room, beginning at 7:00 a.m. and most will remain for a short time after the conference ends. A directory of exhibitors is in your conference bag. Please take time to visit the Exhibit Hall as these vendors help support the conference and keep registration fees low.
Evaluation Forms:
Your comments are essential to planning! Please take the time to complete the evaluation form located in your conference bag after each session and bring it to the Closing Session at 3:15 p.m. in the Gymnatorium. We will be giving away lots of great door prizes!!! You may also drop it in the boxes provided throughout the facility or turn it in to the presenter of your last session. Please use the full session code or title. (Example: Mathematics 01 – Ma01 should be written in the four boxes provided.) Help Desk / Lost and Found:
Visit the Help Desk near the Aquarium on the first floor or near the Promenade Room on the second floor at any time during the conference if you have a question or need help. Please check both the Help Desks for lost items. Items found during the conference and not claimed will be taken to HCDE and kept for one week. Call 713-696-8223.
Table of
Contents Conference Schedule............................................................................................ 2 Keynote and Featured Speakers...................................................................3-7 Breakout Sessions I-IV.................................................................................. 8-16 Acknowledgements.............................................................................................17 Map of the Facility........................................................................................18-19 Advertisements.....................................................................................................20 Notes..................................................................................................................21-22 Certificate of Attendance.................................................................................23
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Conference Schedule 7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Registration
8:30 a.m.
Opening Session Gymnatorium
10:15 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
Breakout Session I
11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Breakout Session II
12:45 p.m. –1:45 p.m.
Breakout Session III
2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Breakout Session IV
3:15 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Closing Session
West Entrance Hall The Great Room
Exhibits
Keynote Address: Dr. Marianne Gibbs Promoting Academic Readiness through Improved Sensory and Motor Skills
Breakout sessions and Exhibits Special Bilingual Keynote Address: Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan Making Connections: Language and Vocabulary Development for Dual Language Learners
Breakout sessions and Exhibits or Lunch
Breakout sessions and Exhibits or Lunch
Breakout sessions and Exhibits
see program Promenade
see program Gymnatorium
see program Gymnatorium
see program Gymnatorium
Door Prizes for Evaluations!!!
*
Lunch will be served continuously between 11:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. in the Gymnatorium. Participants are free to eat at any time during that period.
The lunch area will be closed after 1:45 p.m.
Please do not take lunches into session rooms.
2 | Conference Schedule
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Keynote Speakers Dr. Marianne Gibbs, OTR Promoting Foundations for Future Academic Success Right from the Start!
This expanded session supports all educators PK-2 in their quest to develop the whole child from the inside-out. Sensory-based issues are on the top of most teachers’ minds as they impact many children with and without special needs in their educational settings. Of course, the topic of motor skill development flows naturally from an understanding of sensory challenges and just happens to be my specialty as an occupational therapist.
Gymnatorium – 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Also by Marianne Gibbs…
Breakout Session #IS02 Errorless Learning...Who Knew? The Connection Center 11:30 a.m.
Bilingual Keynote Speaker Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan Making Connections: Language and Vocabulary Development for Dual Language Learners
The population of dual language learners continues to increase in communities across our nation. Educators must be prepared to meet their language and learning needs. Making connections within and across languages in an efficient and effective manner to support language and vocabulary development will be discussed in this session by one of the state’s best-known experts in second language acquisition. Participants will understand the research and evidence-based strategies for helping these students to achieve excellence in the early years.
Breakout Session # KNO1 Promenade Room 10:15 a.m. Also by Dr. Cárdenas-Hagan…
Breakout Session #LL07 Making Connections: Language and Vocabulary Development for Dual Language Learners – Continuing the Discussion Room 2113 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
3 | Keynote Speakers
Featured Speakers
How to Handle Hard-to-Handle Children Dr. Marlyn Appelbaum, Appelbaum Training Institute (ATI) ATI’s mission is to make a difference in the lives of children each and every day. ATI has direct contact with over a million educators making an impact by making our world better through the lives of children. SESSION NO.
BE03 | Behavior Management
Lyrics to Literacy: Playful Connections between Singing & Early Literacy
Help Your Students Become Citizen Scientists! Lisa Felske,
Songs & Activities for the Musically Hopeless Stephen Fite,
HCDE Instructional Support
Melody House, Inc.
Morph a song into a picture book: VOILA! The bridge is built. Meet an awardwinning author/illustrator on an upbeat romp with sign language, puppets, props, choreography and novelty. Cross the midline! Call and response! Patterns and sequence! Brain development! Laughter!
Come and learn about citizen science projects that allow your students to participate in authentic scientific research. All you need for most projects is a digital camera and an internet connection, and many have apps for a smartphone. Example projects include Bug Guide, Project Squirrel, Creek Watch and BudBurst Buddies.
Feeling a little lost when it comes to using music as part of your curriculum? Are you uneasy about actually singing along with the kids? Join Stephen as he shares fun and exciting ideas that will make your time with music and movement in the classroom meaningful for your children, as well as you.
SESSION NO.
SESSION NO.
SESSION NO.
SH04 | Science/Health
FM02 | Fine Arts/Motor
Debbie Clement, Rainbows Within Reach
AUDIENCE
FM01 | Fine Arts/Motor
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2
AUDIENCE
and Technology
TIME
PK, K, 1
AUDIENCE
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2
11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.
TIME
K, 1, 2
TIME
ROOM
12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
TIME
10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Promenade
ROOM
12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
ROOM
Hang Time High School
ROOM
Hang Time Mid-High
4 | Featured Speakers
AUDIENCE
2115
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Featured Speakers
Pack Your Bags and Passport! Explore the World with Us! Kathy Flores & Jill Charrier
Simple Technology Ideas for Teachers Matt Gomez,
iPads for Early Learners Joan Gore & Janet Corder,
Attention Differences in the Early Childhood Setting Susan MacHugh,
Aldine ISD
Plano ISD
J2 Training
The Singing Bag Solution
In this session participants will be shown examples of how to incorporate continents and countries into their lessons and classroom centers. Examples of ways to enrich and integrate world studies into math, writing, dramatic play and science will be included.
Explore fun ways to enhance learning and foster creativity with technology. Come see real world technology lessons and how to easily incorporate tech tools and apps in your classroom. Matt will also share how global connections lead to learning in his classroom.
Young learners love to use iPads to play “games�, but how can they be used for instruction?
Te05 | Technology
Come and explore the developmental disorder of self-control called ADHD and brainstorm effective classroom management strategies. Learn how to make curriculum adjustments, increase incentives, maintain a strong relationship with parents and develop problemsolving techniques for young children. Receive valuable resource information.
AUDIENCE
SESSION NO.
SESSION NO.
IC05 | Integrated Curriculum
AUDIENCE
PK, K, 1 TIME
10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. ROOM
2117
SESSION NO.
Te07 | Technology AUDIENCE
PK, K, 1, 2 TIME
10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. ROOM
2233 Hang Time College
You will be amazed at the things even your tots can do when given the chance to use iPads to create and learn. Walk away with ideas that can be used immediately. SESSION NO.
K, 1, 2 TIME
12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. ROOM
2233 Hang Time College
Be01 | Behavior Management AUDIENCE
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 TIME
10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. ROOM
1420
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
5 | Featured Speakers
Featured Speakers
Wizard Wednesday Science Fun Kalin McSweeney,
Encouraging Creative and Critical Thinking Dr. Pam Schiller
Humble ISD Learn fun, exciting hands-on science for kids of all ages. These weekly experiments for your class may seem like magic and wizardry, but are based on sound scientific principles. Your students will develop a love of science and begin learning many TEKS.
This presentation is based on current research and Bloom’s Taxonomy with a modern perspective. This information is used as a springboard for helping children develop critical and creative thinking skills. Our job is providing the opportunity. This session is filled with suggestions.
SESSION NO.
SESSION NO.
SH06 | Science/Health AUDIENCE
PK, K, 1, 2 TIME
12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. ROOM
1420
10 Centers to Compose and Decompose to 10 Nicole Shanahan and Kristen Allen, HCDE
Teaching is My Bag Al Stewart, A. Stewart Consulting
TIME
Ma04 | Mathematics
During this session participants will be introduced to instructional ideas, suggestions, and activities using “bags”. The participants will take an active part in a number of activities to promote critical thinking in mathematics, language, spelling, and other content areas through the use of bags. How many different kinds of bags can you name? Or do you call them “sacks”?
12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
AUDIENCE
SESSION NO.
IC02 | Integrated Curriculum AUDIENCE
PK, K, 1, 2
ROOM
1430 ELC
Composing and decomposing is an important concept in the new TEKS for kindergarten and first grade. Participants will experience ten centers that enable independent practice so students can master these skills. Other grade levels are also welcome. SESSION NO.
K, 1
IC06 | Integrated Curriculum
TIME
10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. ROOM
2112
AUDIENCE
PK, K, 1, 2 TIME
12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. ROOM
Hang Time Mid-High
6 | Featured Speakers
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Featured Speakers
Neurodevelopment and Early Childhood Trauma Diane Vines, ChildTrauma Academy The focus of this session will be on defining childhood trauma, how trauma impacts neurodevelopment, and how that impact affects behavior, and discussion of behavioral indicators of trauma. Treatment options will be discussed. SESSION NO.
SE03 | Social/Emotional AUDIENCE
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 TIME
12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. ROOM
2111
Creative Writing: How to Inspire Children to use their Imagination Melissa M. Williams, Read3zero Literacy Foundation In a world full of technology, it can be hard to encourage children to proactively use their imagination on paper. Learn specific creative techniques to get on a child’s psychological level in order to break through boredom, open up visual awareness and inspire brainstorming skills and story/character development, all while building self-esteem through reading and writing. SESSION NO.
LL03 | Language and Literacy AUDIENCE
1, 2 TIME
10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. ROOM
Hang Time High School
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
7 | Featured Speakers
Breakout Sessions Breakout Sessions Key
Be – Behavior / Classroom Management FM – Fine Arts / Motor IC – Integrated Curriculum IS – Instructional Strategies LL – Language / Literacy
KN - Keynote SS – Social Studies Ma – Mathematics Te – Technology SE – Social / Emotional Development PI - Parent Involvement SH – Science / Health SN - Special Needs
KN01 Making Connections: Language and Vocabulary Development for Dual Language Learners
The population of dual language learners continues to increase in communities across our nation. Educators must be prepared to meet their language and learning needs. Making connections within and across languages in an efficient and effective manner to support language and vocabulary development will be discussed in this session by one of the state’s best known experts in second language acquisition. Participants will understand the research and evidence-based strategies for helping these students to achieve excellence in the early years. Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan, Valley Speech Language and Learning Center
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Language / Literacy Promenade Room
PK, K, 1, 2 Bilingual / Dual Language 10:15 a.m.
Be01 Attention Differences in the Early Childhood Setting
Come and explore this developmental disorder of self-control called ADHD and brainstorm effective classroom management strategies. Learn how to make curriculum adjustments, increase incentives, maintain a strong relationship with parents and develop problem-solving techniques for young children. Receive resource information that will become an invaluable tool for your continuing educational journey. Susan MacHugh, The Singing Bag Solution
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Behavior Management Room 1420
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Be02 How to Create a Well-Managed Classroom
In this session, participants will be exposed to the four functions of human behavior in order to identify the functions related to the student’s behavior so they can create a well-managed classroom for learning opportunities to occur for all students. Jennifer Crawford, Crawford Strategies
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Behavior Management Room 1113
Be03 How to Handle Hard-to-Handle Children
When you attend this lively and energetic session with Dr. Maryln Appelbaum, you walk away motivated with successful proven strategies for the toughest children in your classroom. You receive strategies to improve classroom behavior, handle emotional issues like anger and help those students you teach who have ADHD, ASD, ODD, and more in this jam-packed session. Dr. Maryln Appelbaum, Appelbaum Training Institute
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Behavior Management Promenade Room
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 11:30 a.m. and 12:45 p.m.
Be04 Love and Logic Teaching for Early Childhood and Beyond
Want to learn how to stay in control of your classroom, teach your students to be responsible and enjoy teaching with energy left over at the end of the day? Join us for an overview of the Love and Logic way. Pam Newman, HCDE Special Schools
Audience: Time:
PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
8 | Breakout Sessions
Behavior Management Room 2115
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Breakout Sessions Be05 Striving for High Quality Environments through Best Practices
Come and learn best practices in the creation of high quality learning environments for young children. The presentation provides implementation strategies for effective space and furnishing, program structure, teacher-child interactions and classroom activities. Kenneth Lee Powers, Neelu Tajani, Quan Huang and Amanda Rutter, University of Houston Doc. Prgm.
Audience: Time:
PK, K 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Behavior Management Room 2116
Be06 Teach More and Discipline Less
Do you have a desire to teach more and discipline less? How do effective teachers prevent misbehaviors and increase the probability that learning-and-discipline will occur? Learn how exemplary teachers have a well-filled bag of tricks to draw from. Spencer Hansen, Rio Bravo Ministries
Audience: Time:
PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Behavior Management Room 1115
FM01 Lyrics to Literacy: Playful Connections between Singing & Early Literacy
Morph a song into a picture book: Voila! The bridge is built. Meet an award-winning author/illustrator on an upbeat romp with sign language, puppets, props, choreography and novelty. Cross the midline! Call and response! Patterns and sequence! Brain development! Laughter! Debbie Clement, Rainbows Within Reach
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Fine Arts/Motor Hang Time High School
PK, K, 1 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
FM02 Songs & Activities for the Musically Hopeless
Feeling a little lost when it comes to using music as part of your curriculum? Are you uneasy about actually singing along with the kids? Join Stephen as he shares fun and exciting ideas that will make your time with music and movement in the classroom meaningful for your children, as well as you. Stephen Fite, Melody House
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Fine Arts/Motor Hang Time Mid-High
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
FM03 Teaching the Curriculum through Classical Music
Classical music offers a wide variety of opportunities to teach the curriculum. Teachers will learn about ways to link classical music to the curriculum, research appropriate classical music pieces, and how to listen to music with purpose and enjoyment. Dr. Carolyn Wade, University of Houston
Audience: Time: IC01
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Fine Arts/Motor Room 1145
Brain Smart: Strategies for Brain-Friendly Classrooms
Discuss and demonstrate the importance of play, laughter, senses and language in a brain-friendly classroom. Share brainfriendly ideas and activities. Kristina Troutman, Francheska Robles, Rose Avalos, and Paula Campbell, Young Learners School
Audience: Time: IC02
PK 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Integrated Curriculum Room 1142
Encouraging Creative and Critical Thinking
This presentation is based on current research and Bloom’s Taxonomy with a modern perspective. This information is used as a springboard for helping children develop critical and creative thinking skills. Our job is providing the opportunity. This session is filled with suggestions. Dr. Pam Schiller
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Integrated Curriculum Room 1430 ELC
PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
9 | Breakout Sessions
Breakout Sessions IC03
Energizing Your Early Childhood Curriculum
Join us for a hands-on workshop focusing on STEM activities. All teachers will gain access to the Offshore Energy Center’s Playing with Petroleum Kit with free “door-to-door” delivery. The kit contains an array of books with correlating activities aligned to the TEKS. Doris Tomas and Joy Sloan, Offshore Energy Center
Audience: Time:
PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Integrated Curriculum Room 1112
IC04 Igniting Student Investment
Frustrated with students falling short of their potential? Learn how to familiarize students and families with specific academic goals and cause achievement to sky rocket. Strategies, resources and prizes! Ashleigh Franco, KIPP Explore Academy/UH
Audience: Time: IC05
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Integrated Curriculum Room 1143
Pack Your Bags and Passport! Explore the World with Us!
In this session, participants will be shown examples of how to incorporate continents into their lessons and classroom centers. Examples of ways to enrich and integrate world studies into math, writing, dramatic play and science will be included. Kathy Flores and Jill Charrier, Aldine ISD
Featured Speakers
Audience: Time:
Integrated Curriculum Room 2117
IC06
PK, K, 1 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Teaching is My Bag
During this session, participants will be introduced to instructional ideas, suggestions and activities using “bags.” The participants will take an active part in a number of activities to promote critical thinking in mathematics, language, spelling, and other content areas through the use of bags. How many different kinds of bags can you name? Or do you call them “sacks”? Al Sewart, A. Stewart Consulting
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Integrated Curriculum Hang Time Mid-High
IC07
PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Pretending Can be More than Just Playing House!
Pretending can be more than just playing house! Join us to learn ways to transform your pretend and learn centers to match your themes. Learn ways to engage students in areas of curriculum such as: vocabulary, social skills, fine motor, math and more. Trang Vo and Diane Offord, Garland ISD
Audience: Time: IC08
PK 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Integrated Curriculum Room 1112
Tips and Tricks for Everyday Teaching
Come and see new tips and tricks to implement in your classroom. The K-Crew will cover daily routines, smooth transitions, making math really “count”, technology tips and lots more! Teachers will leave this session excited and ready to put these ideas into practice. Participants are encouraged to bring their iPads, iPhones and other “Smart” devices. Bonnie Jackson and Shelley Vaughn, The K-Crew
Audience: Time: IC09
PK, K, 1 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Integrated Curriculum Room 2111
Using Science Themes to Teach Math, Literacy and Science Objectives
This workshop demonstrates the connections that can be made between science, math and literacy objectives using developmentally appropriate science themes and hands-on purposeful activities. Kathy Heath and Kay Houston, Kaplan
Audience: Time:
PK 10:15 a.m.
10 | Breakout Sessions
Integrated Curriculum Connection Center 28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Breakout Sessions IC10
Workstations in the Early Childhood Classroom
This session introduces participants to ways to implement effective workstations in the classroom. ELA and math stations are discussed. Classroom setup, station management, differentiation, and student work products will also be addressed. Laura Vedas, Houston ISD
Audience: Time: IS01
PK, K 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Integrated Curriculum Room 1113
Effective Co-Teaching Strategies in the Prekindergarten Classroom
Co-teaching is a common practice used in different educational settings; two examples are special education and prekindergarten classrooms. This session is a research-based approach demonstrating the different models of co-teaching. It will provide educators with different co-teaching techniques as well as behavior management techniques. Luz Acosta and Adriana Luque, Young Learners School
Audience: Time: IS02
PPCD, PK and Special Needs 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Instructional Strategies Room 1135
Errorless Learning…Who Knew?
This session by our keynote speaker, involves significant self-reflection and interaction using a strategy for reflective learning called Errorless Learning. The session engages learners in a meta-cognitive approach to assessing their own teaching strategies and shares a new way to evoke children’s esteem during the process of acquiring academic mastery. Like no other, this session is full of surprises for you about you! Dr. Marianne Gibbs, OTR/L, Write Out of the Box
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Instructional Strategies Connection Center
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 11:30 a.m. only
LL01 Building a Reading Foundation in Spanish for ELL and SLL Students
Estrellita is a supplemental, phonics-based, accelerated Spanish reading program. An overview of the Estrellita programs will include K-1, Pre-Kinder, and Games and Activities components. Participants will gain step-by-step awareness of how to teach Spanish reading to students in pre-k through first grade using auditory, visual and kinesthetic modalities. Diana Garcia Marion, Estrellita, Inc.
Audience: Time:
PK, K, 1, 2 and Bilingual/Dual Language 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Language / Literacy Room 1134
LL02 Building a Strong Literacy Foundation
As the gateway to success in every subject area, literacy is the single most critical step on the path to college and career readiness. The ability to read and interpret increasingly complex texts across all subject areas is essential for all students. The presenter will share his expertise on the importance of building a solid foundation in literacy as the ultimate strategy for assuring sustainable school improvement. Ernesto Rodriguez, Scholastic Education
Audience: Time:
K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Language / Literacy Room 1421
LL03 Creative Writing: How to Inspire Young Children to Use Their Imagination
In a world full of creative technology, it can be hard to encourage children to proactively use their imagination on paper. Learn specific creative techniques to get on a child’s psychological level in order to break through boredom, open up visual awareness and inspire brainstorming skills and story/character development, all while building self-esteem through reading and writing. Melissa Williams, Read3Zero Literacy Foundation
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Language / Literacy Hang Time High School
1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
11 | Breakout Sessions
Breakout Sessions LL04 Delay May Not Equal Disability
This session will focus on what to look for before you make a referral for special education testing. Is it a delay or a disability? Learn effective early intervention strategies for struggling students and improve your Tier 1 and 2 RtI efforts. Rebecca Mendoza, Garland ISD
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 and Special Education 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Language / Literacy and Special Needs Room 1136
LL05 It’s in Your Hand! Creating Strong Readers in Young Children
Participants will explore hands-on, engaging instructional strategies that promote literacy in young readers, including second language learners. During this interactive workshop, educators will participate in an examination of: young children’s language acquisition, factors influencing beginning literacy skills, developmentally appropriate reading intervention strategies and how to create inviting reading centers. Eleanor Rem, It’s in Your Hand: A Seven Step Method to Teach Fundamentals of Reading and Writing
Audience: Time:
K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Language / Literacy Room 2114
LL06 Jump into Literacy with Hopscotch Dual Language Instruction
Hopscotch is two delightful programs to develop literacy and language – SIL in Spanish, LIS in English. It includes engaging books that are culturally relevant and reflect the everyday lives of young children (written by Texas teachers!), language-appropriate instructional sequence, follow-up practice activities and writing. Rebecca Carranza, Pacific Learning
Audience: Time:
K, 1, 2 and Bilingual/Dual Language 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Language / Literacy Room 1144
LL07 Making Connections: Language and Vocabulary Development for Dual Language Learners – Continuing the Discussion
The population of dual language learners continues to increase in communities across our nation. Educators must be prepared to meet their language and learning needs. Making connections within and across languages in an efficient and effective manner to support language and vocabulary development will be discussed in-depth in this continuation of the morning bilingual keynote session by one of the state’s best known experts in second language acquisition. Participants will receive more information on evidence-based strategies for helping these students in primary grades. Dr. Elsa Cárdenas-Hagan, Valley Speech Language and Learning Center
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Language / Literacy Room 2113
PK, K, 1, 2 Bilingual/Dual Language 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
LL08 Que Divertido es el Lenguage! How Fun is the Language!
In this session you learn fun and innovative Spanish Language Arts activities to implement in your language arts work stations. These activities will supplement your exciting bilingual programs. Cinthya Bustamante Ramirez, Yvette Lopez and Lili Batiz, Aldine ISD
Audience: Time:
PK, K and Bilingual/Dual Language 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Language / Literacy Room 1115
LL09 Starting Out the ”Write” Way
Use your favorite theme to introduce beginning writers to research and the conventions of print. This guided writing activity will be modeled step-by-step, and will motivate your students while assisting with paragraph format, spacing, revising and editing. Deborah Flowers and Rebecca Yearout, Creative Curriculum Solutions
Audience: Time:
K, 1 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
12 | Breakout Sessions
Language / Literacy Room 1145
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Breakout Sessions LL10 Think Literacy
Using techniques from Guided Reading, presenters will tell you how to read-aloud with high level questions and improve comprehension. You’ll also learn how to signal students to speak in discussions and sentence cues teachers can use to model thoughtful discussion. Monique Ellisor and Nichole Trahan, Houston ISD
Audience: Time:
K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Language / Literacy Room 1144
Ma01 Early Money Matters: Hands-On Financial Literacy for Learners
Uncover the secrets of how to help your students become a financial whiz. The new financial literacy TEKS will be taught through exciting, hands-on activities and real world application. Learn how to make spending, savings, and sharing financial concepts that are easy for anyone to understand and use. Allison MacDonald, Children’s Museum of Houston
Audience: Time:
PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Mathematics Room 2112
Ma02 Fifty Fun Math Activities
Come and explore 50 different activities that celebrate numbers, graphing, shapes, estimation, sorting, probability and more. It will be a session full of fun ideas that can be implemented on Monday. Dr. Bonnie Barrett, Garland ISD
Audience: Time:
PK, K 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Mathematics Room 1133
Ma03 Moving Forward with Math TEKS
Confused about how to implement the math TEKS in your pre-k classroom? Join us as we connect the dots to show the alignment of the TEKS to PreK using appropriate hands-on manipulatives and effective strategies for implementation. Math becomes relevant, yet fun for your students. Kay Houston and Kathy Heath, Kaplan
Audience: PK Time: 12:45 p.m.
Mathematics Connection Center
Ma04 10 Centers to Compose and Decompose to 10
Composing and decomposing is an important concept in the new TEKS for kindergarten and first grade. Participants will experience ten centers that enable independent practice so students can master these skills. Other grade levels are also welcome to attend and explore these centers as ideas that can be adapted or used as-is for differentiation. Kristen Allen and Nicole Shanahan, HCDE
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Mathematics Room 2112
PI01
K, 1 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Parent Involvement: Honoring Cultural Differences
This session challenges us to accept that there are many right ways to raise children. We will discuss: a framework for understanding differences, ways to communicate across cultures, and diversity issues. Let’s appreciate and respect our differing perspectives, attitudes, and beliefs as we work with parents! !
Diane Goyette, Early Childhood Specialties
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Parent Involvement Room 1134
13 | Breakout Sessions
Breakout Sessions SE01 Boost Brain Potential with I Love You Rituals
Interactive connections strategies that boost brain potential, encourage cooperation and caring, promote learning and literacy, increase attention, decrease power struggles and build bonds of unconditional love will be shared. Jillian Schertle and Jeanette Arndt, Briarmeadow Charter School
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Social/Emotional Development Room 1430 ELC
SE02 Collaborative Teaming for Professional Development
Are you struggling with adapting what you learned in teacher training to your particular classroom? Do you find yourself alone, isolated, and overwhelmed in professional development? Learn how to form a collaborative teacher team that will create a ripple effect in your school to generate professional dialogue and enhance teacher morale. Tzu-Ying Ho, University of Houston
Audience: Time:
K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Social / Emotional Development Room 1142
SE03 Neurodevelopment and Early Childhood Trauma
The focus of the session will be on defining childhood trauma, how trauma impacts neurodevelopment, and how that impact affects behavior as well as discussion of behavioral indicators of trauma and treatment options. Diane Vines, The ChildTrauma Academy
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Social / Emotional Development Room 2111
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
SH01 “Brain Matters”
Brain matters have boggled the human brain for a long time. This session will provide new scientific information about brain development as well as brain-smart classroom strategies that early childhood professionals can use in classrooms right away! Mushira Shamsi, Wharton County Junior College
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Science / Health Room 2113
SH02 Earth Science for Preschool
Have you observed students examining rocks, watching clouds or being fascinated by the wind? Children are naturally curious about the earth. Come learn how to build upon spontaneous experiences and lay the foundation for success in science classes. Leave with more than 25 activities to share immediately. Kendolyn Cooper Pope, Faith Lutheran Day School
Audience: Time:
PK, K 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Science / Health Room 1114
SH03 Easy Magical Science IV
Fun, entertaining and above all easy science experiments that capture your students’ imagination and best of all attention. Mark Shepherd, Song Solutions
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Science / Health Room 1133
SH04 Help Your Students Become Citizen Scientists!
Come and learn about citizen science projects that allow your students to participate in authentic scientific research. All you need for most projects is a digital camera and an internet connection; and many have apps for a smartphone. Example projects include: Bug Guide, Project Squirrel, Creek Watch and BudBurst Buddies. Lisa Felske, HCDE Instructional Support Services
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Science / Health Room 2115
K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
14 | Breakout Sessions
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Breakout Sessions SH05 Sensational Science!
Don’t mind getting a little messy? Join us to explore fun, age-appropriate, and simple science activities that can be done in a variety of settings. The activities will address multiple pre-k guidelines for novice and veteran teachers alike. Jeanetta Denman, Maria Gonzales, and Diana Morales, Aldine ISD
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Science / Health Room 2117
SH06 Wizard Wednesday Science Fun!
Learn fun, exciting, hands-on science for kids of all ages. These weekly experiments for your class may seem like magic and wizardry, but are based on sound scientific principles. Your students will develop a love of science and begin learning many TEKS. Kalin McSweeney, Humble ISD
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Science / Health Room 1420
SN01
PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Improving Visual-Motor Integration Skills to Improve Reading Achievement
Research has shown that optimal visual-motor integration skills are important in a child’s ability to become a successful reader. Understanding a child’s visual-motor integration ability can assist educators in accurately determining reasons for a child’s decreased reading skills and provide appropriate intervention to address the specific problem area. In this session, learn more about visual-motor integration and intervention strategies to improve a student’s visual-motor integration ability in order to improve reading. Dr. Turquessa Francis, OTR, Houston Community College
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Special Needs Room 1136
Te01 Aprende Aprenda: The Magic of Learning
Aprende Aprenda and The Magic of Learning are complete and easy to use, interactive software programs designed to develop the linguistic abilities of English and Spanish speaking students. The exercises are simple and aid students in developing their capacity to read and write. Lessons are focused on initial sound (including initial vowel sound), initial syllables, high frequency words, vocabulary, sentences and reading comprehension for both languages. Graciela Figueroa, Aprende Aprenda LLC
Audience: Time:
PPCD, PK, K, 1, 2 and Bilingual/Dual Language 12:45 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Technology Room 1135
Te02 Be SMART – Build Your Own Activities Using a Smart Board
Participants will be shown how to build self-checking activities for their SMART Board. We will also look at some lessons and activities available to download and use now. Kristina DeBrock and David DeBrock, Leon ISD
Audience: Time:
PK, K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Technology Room 2114
Te03 Digital Storytelling: A Powerful Tool for Learning across Subjects and Grade Levels
By fusing the age-old tradition of sharing stories with cutting-edge technological tools, digital storytelling holds the potential to enhance student engagement and learning in a variety of classroom settings, from kindergarten and beyond. Attend this session to learn more about this powerful classroom tool. Katie Alaniz, University of Houston and River Oaks Baptist School
Audience: Time:
K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Technology Room 2116
15 | Breakout Sessions
Breakout Sessions Te04 How Handwriting and Technology Go “Hand-in-Hand”
Technology can be embraced and used to enhance handwriting skill development. This session identifies the importance and benefits explicit handwriting instruction, provides multisensory strategies to help children build handwriting skills, and provides hands-on, developmentally appropriate teaching strategies to enhance handwriting instruction with current technology. Cindy Brill, COTA/L, Handwriting Without Tears
Audience: Time:
PK, K 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Technology and Fine Arts /Motor Room 1114
Te05 iPads for Early Learners
Young learners love to use iPads to play “games”, but how can they be used for instruction? You will be amazed at the things even your tots can do when given the chance to use iPads to create and learn. Walk away with ideas that can be used immediately. Joan Gore and Janet Corder, J2 Training
Featured Speakers
Audience: Time:
Technology Hang Time College / 2233
K, 1, 2 12:45 p.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Te06 Pinterest: The Reinvention of Searching for Teaching Resources
Just imagine not constantly searching for materials because they are all at your fingertips and ready to go at the touch of a button. Pinterest now offers a stockpile of materials, untapped by the educational community. Pinterest and partner, Edutopia, are offering a wealth of teaching resources for all subjects. Accessing these items has never been easier. Let’s get ready to enhance productivity! Shayla Joiner-Ford, University of Houston
Audience: Time:
PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Technology Room 1143
Te07 Simple Technology Ideas for Teachers
Explore fun ways to enhance learning and foster creativity with technology. Come see real world technology lessons and how to easily incorporate tech tools and apps in your classroom to integrate curriculum. The presenter will also share how global connections lead to learning in his classroom. Matt Gomez, Plano ISD
Featured Speaker
Audience: Time:
Technology Hang Time College / 2233
PK, K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
Te08 Supporting Digital Kids in the Early Childhood Years
The purpose of this session is to assess the very real risks and best practices in building digital citizenship skills in early childhood learners. The most modern research indicates that early exposure to digital and online resources can increase a student’s attitude and success towards educational technologies, but there are inherent risks involved. David McGeary and Lynnice Hockaday, HCDE Technology
Audience: Time:
K, 1, 2 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.
16 | Breakout Sessions
Technology Room 1421
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Acknowledgements I
n a world full of technology, it can be hard to encourage children to proactively use their imagination on paper. Learn specific creative techniques to get on a child’s psychological level in order to break through boredom, open up visual awareness and inspire brainstorming skills and story/character development, all while building selfesteem through reading and writing.
Harris County Department of Education Staff
Debra Anderson, Early Childhood/Special Educ. Specialist, Winter Conference Coordinator Diane Wardlow, Early Childhood Assistant Dr. John Sawyer, Superintendent Dr. Linda Pitre, Celes Harris and Jesus Amezcua, Asst. Superintendents HCDE Communications and Public Information Division HCDE Facilities Division
2013 Conference Planning Committee Members
Catalyst Educational Initiatives Children’s Museum Houston Clear Creek ISD Fort Bend ISD/Ft. Bend Head Start (retired) Frog Street Press Galena Park ISD (retired)/Texas A&M Univ. Houston ISD Houston ISD (retired)/HCDE Humble ISD (retired) La Porte ISD Ripley House Charter School Lee College
Anissa Robinson Mary Ellen Salas Dr. Dana Biddy Frances Schneider Maria Nevarez-Solis Sandra Sandoval Ali Oliver and Axina Zepeda Susan Gubitz Mary Peterson Vickie Gentile and Linda Hyde Stephen Gonzales Marlene Morgan
Special thanks to Ms. Toni Williams and the events staff of the Kingdom Builders’ Center and our conference sponsors.
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
17 | Acknowledgements
Facility Map
1421 1110
Main Parking
1130
THE PARTY ROOM
1140
VICTORY PREP ACADEMY
THE CONNECTION CENTER
PLAYTIME WITH NOAH
1420
GYMNASIUM/ MULTIPURPOSE AREA
18
THE ELC 1430
THE GREAT ROOM
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Facility Map
HANG TIME COLLEGE 2233
HANG TIME (MID HIGH)
HANG TIME (HIGH SCHOOL)
DANCE STUDIO
THE PROMENADE ROOM
THE KBC
SECOND LEVEL
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
19
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28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
Notes
28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
21
Notes
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28th Annual R.T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
HCDE DEPARTMENT
OF
www.hcde-texas.org
COUNTY
EDUCATION
CEU Credits- 6.0 (Provider #10-10000)
PDAS Links: I, II, Ill, IV, V, VI, VIII
Winter Conference Coordinator
Debra Anderson
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Participant
January 25, 2014
28th Annual R. T. Garcia Early Childhood Winter Conference
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