47 minute read
General Session Keynote
Together, We Flourish! SponsoredbyCentralMichiganUniversity BallroomB/C/D,DeVos
Cheryl Priest, EdD, CAPP
CentralMichiganUniversityFacultyMember,AppliedPositivePsychology Practitioner,RetreatPlanner,StudyTour Facilitator,Speaker,Dreamer,Trainer,Advocate,Trailblazer
Flourishing doesn’t happen alone. We live in a shared existence AND at the same time, find ourselves feeling alone and longing for relationship and acceptance of others. There is an aching to be seen and to belong. If you desire deeper, high-quality connections - and also feel at a loss for “how to,” this conversation has the power to ignite a transformation in your life!
During this keynote session, we will explore strategies for increasing joy and well-being through the power that comes with a “we” orientation. Relationships are a pathway to flourishing. And I’ll let you in on a little secret. Your personal transformation has unlimited potential to ripple outward and touch others. When we gather and savor our shared experience, we will grow!
In this keynote, we will consider our education fallacies and teaching beliefs that truly hinder our mission as educators. We will review strategies that will encourage early education habits that can mold the way younger students begin to see themselves as learners.
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Workforce Development
Reconsidering How We Prepare Teachers Birth to Kindergarten
Governors, Concourse Level, Amway
Teacher preparation programs have had to adjust their programs to meet Michigan's changing teacher certification structure. In our session, we'll discuss what that looks like and the potential unintended consequences on the profession.
Kathryn Ohle, Grand Valley State University
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: All
Relationship Based Coaching - Making Connection a Priority Sponsored by Central Michigan University
Ford, Lobby Level, Amway
An insightful look into the process of creating, implementing, and adjusting relationship-based coaching models in a teaching lab setting from the perspective of the designer, coach, and coachee.
Alex Henry& Brooke Fullington, CMU Child Development and Learning Lab
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: Adult
Program Administration
Maximize the Impact of Your In-House Trainings!
Grand View, Conference Level, Amway
Are you a Director or Owner charged with holding training for your staff? Are you at a loss on what to do, or how best to do them? Come and find some supportive solutions!
Brooke Rains & Candy Sorensen, Child Care Network
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
Thursday,
Finding Ourselves in Michigan's Collective Early Childhood Action Plan
Winchester, Conference Level, Amway
Come explore the results of two years of needs assessment and strategic planning work as we dive into the Michigan Collective Early Childhood Action Plan. This interactive session will explore the priorities and strategies with the Plan and offer participants the opportunity to add their own strategies and inform future directions to help make Michigan the best state in which to raise a child.
Jonnie Taton, Amanda Stoel, Dr. Scott Koenigsknecht, Michigan Department of Education
CKCC: Family and Community Engagement Age Levels: All, Adult
Social Emotional
Fostering Independence and Handling Emotional Issues with Children
Berkey, Conference Level, Amway
Children go through emotional changes at home: illnesses, death, separation and divorce. Learn powerful tools for teaching responsibility and effective ways of managing energy that will help children grow and develop to be independent and motivated.
Namrata Carolan, Carolan Consulting
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: All
Infant and Toddler Care
Planning and Recall Time with Older Toddlers Sponsored by HighScope
Nelson, Conference Level, Amway
Not sure what to do with those older twos who have not quite moved out of toddlerhood and into preschool? Want to add planning and recall into your schedule but not sure where to start? In this session we will look at the signs of readiness for planning and recall, go over the "how to’s" for implementing them, and share concrete planning and recall strategies.
Danielle Grimaldo, HighScope Foundation
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Preschool
Age Levels: IT
The Art of Storytelling: Helping Children Become Storytellers Sponsored by Central Michigan University
Vandenberg B, Concourse Level, Amway
Through this interactive presentation, participants will have the opportunity to engage with various storytelling materials while learning new ways to incorporate storytelling in their preschool classroom.
Jacquelyn Weller & Susan Wassman, CMU Child Development and Learning Lab
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: PS
CLASS: A Framework for Building Connections and Strengthening Collaboration Sponsored by Teachstone
Learn about the CLASS as a framework for teacher-child interactions. During this session, we will discuss how CLASS serves as a framework to support effective interactions, continuous quality improvement, and teaching. We will also explore how Teachstone is bringing forward enhancements that make the tool more equitable to use, easier to access, and more impactful.
Sara Diamond, Kim Pold & Christina Nystrom, Teachstone
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Science Activities in a Faith Based Environment
Pullman, Conference Level, Amway
Age Levels: All
This session will focus on developmentally appropriate science activities with a direct linkage to Bible stories utilized in faith based environments. Participants will be encouraged to participate in and interact with experiments and activities
Nicole Beattie, Storytime with Ms Nicole
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Thursday, April 20
School Age
The Michigan State-wide Expansion of Text and Learn for Kindergarten (TALK): A Community and Research Partnership for Early Childhood Education Sponsored by HighScope
Heritage Hill, Conference Level, Amway
Learn about the Michigan state-wide expansion of TALK, a text message service that connects caregivers of young children to their libraries, including early findings from an evaluation conducted by HighScope.
Madeline Chimka, HighScope Research Foundation & Jodi Krahnke, Ypsilanti District Library
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: KP
Bob Books with VersaTiles and ConfiDice
Ottawa, Lobby Level, Amway
Bob Books offer repetition and fun stories to introduce important sight words. Partner that with our VersaTiles and ConfiDice and students can combine purposeful practice for a hands-on way of reviewing what they are learning in their Bob Books. Engage your beginning reader with a fun puzzle-like way to practice reading!
Angie Meredith, hand2mind
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Professionalism
Advocacy to Impact Improvements in Early Childhood
Ruby, Concourse Level, Amway
Presented by members of the Michigan AEYC Advocacy Committee. Often, early childhood professionals don't recognize their current role in advocating for improvements in early childhood and how critical it is. This session will cover the basics of advocacy on a local, state, and federal level. Participants will gain knowledge and skills that will better equip them to speak up on behalf of the children and families they serve.
Annette Sobocinski, Amy Moore, Child Care Network & Jolene Andriaschko, United Way for Southeastern Michigan
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: All 1:45pm - 3:00pm
Workforce Development
Tools to Support Your Course Quality and Impact
Vandenberg A, Concourse Level, Amway
Do your courses provide opportunities to learn, practice, and apply concepts and practices? Is content related diversity, equity, and inclusion addressed explicitly? Discover new tools and practices for accomplishing both in this session.
Camille Catlett, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: Adult
What It’s Like to Offer the BK Grade Band
Riverview, Lobby Level, Amway
This workshop will explore the benefits of offering the BK grade band certification as well as offer time to discuss how to increase interest and enrollment. We will define and describe the rigor of the standards and how that translates into a high quality ECE teaching workforce.
Jennifer Haeussler, Siena Heights University
CKCC: Professionalism
Age Levels: Adult
Thursday, April 20
Program Administration
Updates from the Office of Great Start Directors
Pantlind Ballroom, Concourse Level, Amway
Leadership from the Office of Great Start will provide updates on progress for the various program and policy initiatives engaged in across the areas of early childhood development, family education, child care, preschool, and Head Start.
Office of Great Start Directors, Michigan Department of Education
CKCC: Management Age Levels: IT, PS, KP, Adult
Social Emotional
The Power of the Story
Pearl, Concourse Level, Amway
Stories are important and it's important to understand that stories are not just books. Stories tell about who we are, what we need or provide an escape. Stories are the most powerful tool we have. Come learn how stories can be powerful, share your stories and learn how you can use your story
Heidi Friedel, Consultant
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: All
The Magic Wand: The Effective Moves any Teacher could use to Reduce Incidents in the Classroom
Imperial Ballroom, Lobby Level, Amway
Learn "Magical" effective strategies to build positive and secure relationships, learn differences between behavior vs. developmental stages, develop strategies and choices considering environment, schedules, and activities. Walk away with new positive guidance and self-regulation skills.
Sandra Ampudia, The Discovery Source & Elizabeth Villaverde, GSQ Western Resource Center
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Infant and Toddler Care
Essential Instructional Practices in Language and Emergent Literacy: Birth to Age 3 - Gestures
Thornapple, Conference Level, Amway
Gestures are hand and body motions used for communication, like pointing, waving, tapping fingers to your mouth to mean eat, or tracing a pretend tear down your cheek for sad. Children who use more gestures learn to talk earlier and use more words, which also supports their emergent literacy.
Chandra Cooke & Brittany Wright, Child Care Network
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT
Preschool
Inclusive Practices to Support Children with Disabilities in Preschool Programs
Atrium, Atrium Level, Amway
This session will provide information and resources on how to create a climate of individualized support to meet high expectations for children with disabilities in preschool programs. An introduction to free online inclusion modules, which are available to promote and support high-quality inclusive practices, will also be included in this session.
Jori Novak & Brenda Woods, Office of Innovative Projects
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: PS
A Balanced Approach: 10 Ideas to Incorporate Preschool Academics into Play
Ambassador West, Concourse Level, Amway
Incorporating academics into play is proven to help preschoolers learn more efficiently. Details of our favorite learning activities will be shared to help keep your classroom exciting while meeting kindergarten readiness expectations.
Kayleen Allred & Morgan Bechler, Little Minds Learning Academy
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Thursday, April 20
Everyday Opportunities for Math
Emerald B, Concourse Level, Amway
Children are born knowers and doers of math. What does math have in common with putting your blanket away after a nap? Everything! Join us to discover how you can support children's math learning through daily routines and activities when they're with you - and when they're at home!
Heather Lucas, Michigan Department of Education & Bonnie Bonifield, Miss Bonnie, LLC
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT, PS
Circle Time that Connects With What Really Matters
Plaza Boardroom A, Lobby Level, Amway
Community circle is a powerful process to talk about what really matters. This experiential session offers practice in helping children identify feelings and needs, experience self-empathy and empathy .
Heather Kindem, Breathing and Feelings & Needs Specialist
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: PS, KP
School Age
Fostering Creativity Across the Curriculum: Going Beyond A is for Alligator
Haldane, Conference Level, Amway
Creativity is an essential component of the classroom but is so often slighted or limited to being only a part of what happens in the art room. Broaden understanding about the creative process for those who work with young children.
Desiree Hickman, Sam Houston State University & Wykeshia Glass, North Carolina Central University
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Professionalism
Centering Equity in HOPEful Interactions
Kendall, Conference Level, Amway
Discover how the science of positive experiences drive healthy development, and how you can be an agent of change by promoting the HOPE framework and equitable interventions.
Michael Austin & Brook Albert, Early Childhood Investment Corporation
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult 3:15pm - 4:30pm
Center Stage: Your Thoughts Matter SponsoredbyCentralMichiganUniversity BallroomB/C/D,DeVos
Cheryl Priest, EdD, CAPP
Who do you bring to the “we?” Is there a limiting mindset that comes from negative self-talk, self-judgment, and by giving too much attention to “what’s wrong or what’s missing?” Your internal messengers- what you think, imagine, sense and feel guide the behavior that you and others see. Together, we will explore opportunities to soften self-judgment through micro-practices that incorporate self-compassion, self-respect and place more emphasis on “what’s great!” Loosen your attachment to these conscious and unconscious biases, and grow a sense of identity that is broader, more inclusive, and more interested in other people and relationships!
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
Workforce Development
Tips from an NAEYC Peer Reviewer
Winchester, Conference Level, Amway
This session will include helpful tips for those preparing for or thinking about their first NAEYC higher education accreditation site visit.
Jill Harrison, Delta College
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
Thursday, April 20
What’s Happening with Early Childhood at WMU? Sponsored by Western Michigan University
Pullman, Conference Level, Amway
The shift to grade bands for teacher education has been the impetus for creative restructuring of undergraduate majors and graduate degrees to provide early childhood professionals with a variety of paths toward working with young children (birth – age 8) and their families in a variety of settings and capacities. We’ll share for excellent professional preparation and invite you to share your vision for a flexible, comprehensive early childhood professional preparation path to undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Lori Farrer, Western Michigan University
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: Adult
Where the Rubber Meets the Road: Roundtable Discussions (Great Start to Higher Education, in collaboration with Michigan ACCESS)
Vandenberg A, Concourse Level, Amway
This session will feature organized discussions focused on commonly taught early childhood courses (e.g., child-familycommunity, infants and toddlers). Each roundtable will be led by a Michigan faculty member who has recently revised the course being discussed to support increased emphasis on inclusion and knowledge application. They will share information about the enhancements to the content and pedagogy, and theimpact the changes are having for students.
Danielle Savory, Lansing Community College
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: Adult
Social Emotional Let's Build Relationships
Ottawa, Lobby Level, Amway
Learn 6 steps to successfully encourage children's self control, interpersonal relationships, and problem-solving abilities, among other social and emotional skills.
Dawn Vandemark, Clinton County RESA
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Trauma-Engaged Practice and Fostering Resilience
Ruby, Concourse Level, Amway
Age Levels: PS, KP
So you're trauma informed - now what? Learn how to become trauma-engaged, understand the unique biology of trauma and resilience in early development, and walk away with practical tools for implementation in a variety of settings.
Brooke Aernouts, Family Futures
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: All, Adult
Young at Heart: Adult Learning Principles through the Lens of Play
Governors, Concourse Level, Amway
Adults need to play too! Join a conversation about bringing playful learning to grown-ups through a lens of family engagement and caregiver education. Come ready to play as we explore these principles with hands-on play invitations!
Meighan Taylor & Angela Aernouts, Play and Learn GRCC
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: IT, PS, Adult
Infant and Toddler Care
Art Smart - The Importance of Art in the Infant and Toddler Classroom
Vandenberg B, Concourse Level, Amway
Infants and toddlers require the same developmental and sensory experiences received from art as older children. Come explore how art aids in the development of the infant and toddler mind and creative ways to implement these experiences in the infant and toddler classroom.
Robin Meinicke, Starfish Family Services & Rachel Ellen Maria Burns, Wayne RESA
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT
Thursday, April 20
Preschool
Daily Outdoor Education in Michigan?: Shifting Attitudes & Expectations to Support Meaningful Outdoor Play
Heritage Hill, Conference Level, Amway
Explore how adult attitudes and expectations surrounding daily outdoor play influence the quality of children's outdoor learning. Additionally, learn how to create meaningful outdoor play opportunities by utilizing your space, materials, knowledge, and experiences.
Windy Carroll & Sara DeYarmond, Our Savior Lutheran School
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP
Documentation and Assessment
Berkey, Conference Level, Amway
In this interactive training we will discuss key components of documentation and assessment. You will learn about the why of documenting and assessing, the basics, how we assess different mediums, and explore where you are in the Documenter Experience stages.
Sarah Cooper, CLASS Consultant/Coach & Ashela Trevino, Ludington Early Childhood Center
CKCC: Observation, Documentation & Assessment Age Levels: PS
Data Detectives
Ford, Lobby Level, Amway
Teachers gather evidence on child development, searching for clues to uncover truths about students. The mystery is, what to do with this information? This course will provide tactics and resources for planning based on data.
Laura Ynclan & Cathleen Doonan, Kalamazoo RESA
CKCC: Observation, Documentation & Assessment Age Levels: IT, PS, KP
PLAN for Interactions
Ambassador East, Concourse Level, Amway
Quality interactions are built on four essential foundational skills. Learn about these foundational skills and how to incorporate them into every interaction you have with the children in your care.
Kathy Gilbert, KMG Research LLC
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance Age Levels: All
School Age
Notice and Wonder: Building Curiosity in Play
Grand View, Conference Level, Amway
This session focuses on how to promote curiosity and inquiry-based learning in early childhood classrooms. Participants will engage in playful learning opportunities that foster math and science learning through curiosity and inquiry.
Tracy Donohue, Central Michigan University
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Professionalism
Incorporating a Racial Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Lens Through Professional Development
Emerald A, Concourse Level, Amway
In this session, participants will discuss the importance of seeing all teacher's strengths and learning strategies to build on their learning and understanding through education and training with a racial equity, diversity, and inclusion lens.
Najwa Dahdah, Empowered Child Care Consulting, Inc. & Shannon Lockhart, HighScope
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Age Levels: Adult
5:00pm
6:00pm
8:00pm
8:30am - 9:45am
Workforce Development
Future PME Launch: How to Recruit Qualified Staff from High School CTE Programs
Emerald A, Concourse Level, Amway
Learn how high school career and technical education students are earning their CDA and MI-YDA credentials and can work in your program as young as age 16 to meet your staffing needs.
Candace Vinson, Lorraine Thoreson & Robin Zeiter, Michigan Department of Education
CKCC: Management Age Levels: Adult
Program Administration
The First Years of a Directorship!
Ambassador East, Concourse Level, Amway
This training will focus on "What I wish I knew?”, "What to do now?”, knowing your why, and running an effective staff meeting versus professional development training.
LaTonya Redfearn, Kids-R-Us Child Development Center, Inc.
CKCC: Management Age Levels: Adult
Homelessness and Early Childhood Education for Infants, Toddlers and Preschoolers - Making Every Moment Count
Ruby, Concourse Level, Amway
We will address the importance of intentional and impactful teaching of infants, toddlers and preschoolers experiencing homelessness. The largest percentage of children that enter homeless shelters are under the age of five. For early childhood educators the more traditional year with a child in a classroom is vastly different when working with children that are homeless. This session will provide insights into a high quality early childhood education program that is making a difference in the lives of young children and their moms that are homeless, and strategies to transfer to your program.
Elizabeth Grace, Alternatives for Girls
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT, PS
Social Emotional
Analyzing and Redirecting Challenging Behaviors in a Toddler Classroom
Grand View, Conference Level, Amway
Toddlers are at an age where they are learning about their big emotions. Many times, those big feelings become normal, but challenging behaviors in a classroom. In this session, we are going to become social scientists as we work to dissect what needs toddlers are trying to communicate with their behaviors. We will also be exploring different strategies to experiment with in the classroom to redirect them to more appropriate and safer behaviors.
Alicia Oldham, Starfish Family Services
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance Age Levels: IT
Classroom Environments
Nelson, Conference Level, Amway
High school students will present information about developmentally appropriate décor for classroom use. Information about how color impacts the learning will also be discussed.
Lindsey Arntson, DCTC High School Educational Careers Program
CKCC: Management Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Grief and Loss: What about the Children?
Winchester, Conference Level, Amway
This session will tackle the facts and myths about grief and loss - it is not just death that causes this. We will discuss the grieving process (for children and adults) and how we as the caring adults in those children's lives can help our children through this process. Resource for caregivers and families as well as children's literature resources will be available and shared.
Heidi Friedel, Consultant
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: All
Infant and Toddler Care
Literacy for Children Birth Through 3...What Does that Look Like?
Heritage Hill, Conference Level, Amway
Language and emergent literacy skills develop rapidly during the first 3 years. This session will share practices and ideas that support children in developing their skills.
Jill Tarrant, CACS Head Start and Early Childhood Programs
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT
Preschool
Loose Parts for Preschoolers
Governors, Concourse Level, Amway
Looking for ways to tap into children's natural sense of curiosity? Loose parts may just be the answer you have been searching for. Within a responsive learning environment, the use of loose parts strengthens creativity, problem-solving skills, divergent thinking, independence and critical thinking skills. Explore the theory and implementation of loose parts with Preschoolers in this interactive workshop.
Deborah Nerderman, ECE Program Solutions
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Setting Limits with Shared Control in the ECE Classroom
Ford, Lobby Level, Amway
Shocking but true, you can set limits in a preschool classroom while sharing control with the children. Gain an understanding of the "why" and "how to" of setting limits and sharing control with the children.
Kimberly Tiemann & Autumn Jervis, Gretchen’s House
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Age Levels: PS
Friday, April 21
Cooking in the Classroom
Vandenberg B, Concourse Level, Amway
Cooking in the classroom with children can provide many valuable experiences...math, science/technology, language, literacy and communication just to name a few. We will present/demonstrate some tried and true ideas you can use immediately as well as some new innovative ideas. Let's get in the kitchen together!
Rebecca Boss & Betsy Spiker, Heartfelt Impressions Learning Centers
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Building Individual Accommodations into the Preschool Daily Routine
Berkey, Conference Level, Amway
In the preschool program teachers work with children with a variety of developmental levels. To meet the individual needs of all children in the classroom, teachers often need to make accommodations. These can be added to the daily routine to make the preschool schedule meet the needs of all children.
Rachel Johns & Natasha VanSlambrouk, Preschool Teaching Professionals
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Using the New Early Childhood Standards of Quality for Birth to Kindergarten in Your Early Childhood Practice
Pullman, Conference Level, Amway
The Michigan State Board of Education approved new early childhood standards for early learning and program quality in November 2022. In this session, we’ll dig deep into how to use these standards in your early childhood practice – the examples, tips, suggestions, and reflection questions built in to support our work with children and families.
Bonnie Bonifield, Miss Bonnie, LLC & Richard Lower, Michigan Department of Education/Office of Great Start
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT, PS
Professionalism
Adventures in Networking: Building Your Early Childhood Career One Step at a Time
Ottawa, Lobby Level, Amway
Have you wanted to expand on your early childhood career and did not know where to start? Our field needs to retain and grow our future early childhood leaders. This training will cover what next steps you can take to expand your career in early childhood education including resumes, marketing yourself, job hunting, interviewing, and of course networking! Tips and resources will be shared so that you can make the most of your early childhood career.
Jolene Andriaschko, Strategic Education Consulting Solutions, LLC
CKCC: Professionalism
Age Levels: All
Friday, April 21
8:45am - 10:00am
Program Administration
Introduction to A Leadership Map
Atrium, Atrium Level, Amway
This fast-paced session will introduce you to the 5 Levels of Leadership method, a map to assess, plan, grow, and develop your leadership and influence skills. Whether you're a new leader or experienced, if you've never heard about the 5 Levels of Leadership, this is definitely a session for you! You'll have access to several tools and resources to guide your growth after the session. Bring your leadership questions!
Michelle Burkhard, Grow By1
CKCC: Management Age Levels: All, Adult
Educator Well-Being: A Tool for Recruitment and Retention
Imperial, Concourse Level, Amway
Staff retention and turnover are especially challenging now. Learn how you can lift up your current staff and attract new candidates by focusing on well-being! By learning a framework, as well as lots of tools, you will leave this session with ideas about how your organization can become a magnet for healthy educators.
Jennifer Moore, Moore Well-Being & Priscilla Lindsey, Prescott Elementary School
CKCC: Management Age Levels: All, Adult
Balancing It All From the Director's Desk to the Classroom
Kendall, Conference Level, Amway
Discover how to balance, manage and facilitate staff, roles, responsibilities and parent demands while maintaining and running a successful child care program.
Dr. Tangella Colston
CKCC: Management Age Levels: All
Expulsion Prevention: Determination, Skills and a Plan
Emerald B, Concourse Level, Amway
Preschool children are expelled at least three times more than school-aged children. Learn skills for challenging behaviors and ideas on which to build a plan and policies to prevent expulsion.
Elizabeth Villaverde, Great Start to Quality Western Resource Center & Allison Caledonis, Consultant & Trainer
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance Age Levels: IT, PS, KP
Social Emotional
Sharing the Calm: How Responsive Relationships Lead to Stronger Self-Regulation Skills sponsored by HighScope
Pantlind, Concourse Level, Amway
Shift your perspective about children in support of a new approach to classroom management. Explore strategies to establish an environment of shared control while developing student self-regulation skills.
Ashley Hoy & Patty Bruder, HighScope Educational Research
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Understanding Behavior From the Inside Out
Ambassador West, Concourse Level, Amway
Age Levels: PS
Behavior is communication. We tend to label behavior as good or bad. Behavior is the primary way children demonstrate what is happening in their autonomic nervous system. Changing our interactions contribute to children feeling safe, connected and belonging impacts behavior.
Gloria Sherman, Parenting and Teaching with G.L.O
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Age Levels: All
Preschool
Enhancing and Extending Outdoor Experiences Using Technology sponsored by Northern Michigan University
Haldane, Conference Level, Amway
During this workshop, participants will explore how to enhance exploration and discovery in the preschool outdoor learning environment, through meaningful integration of technology. Leaning on Principle #9 of NAEYC's (2022)
Developmentally Appropriate Practice, participants will walk away from the workshop unpacking biases towards technology and realizing the potential it has on whole child development, when used intentionally in the outdoor learning environment.
Cindy Basse, Northern Michigan University & Tammra Houseman, Bay College
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP
Biophilia Design
Vandenberg A, Concourse Level, Amway
Incorporating Biophilia Design by blending nature into Early Childhood spaces improves the health and wellness of everyone. Come hear practical and low cost ideas to enhance your indoor and outdoor space.
JaneAnn Benson, Grand Rapids Community College
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Reaching Higher with HighScope
Pearl, Concourse Level, Amway
Age Levels: All, Adult
Learn the benefits of High Scope and how to properly implement this curriculum in your classroom from Plan-Do-Review, to scaffolding and the importance of child-led play and child-guided lesson plans.
Amber Jones, West Bloomfield Preschool Academy & Kyle Lewandowski, Stepping Stones Daycare and Preschool
CKCC: Teaching & Learning
Age Levels: PS
Beyond the School Day: Using Events as a Stepping Stone for Family and Community Engagement
Thornapple, Conference Level, Amway
Join us to learn how our program used monthly events as the building block to establishing a successful culture of family and community engagement within our program.
Elizabeth Hampton & Emily Welanko, Heartfelt Impressions Learning Center
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: All
Kids
Don’
t Know They Can’t See Well
Riverview, Lobby Level, Amway
Eighty percent of learning occurs thru the visual system and less than 10% of kids have an eye exam before they start school. Over 25% of children have vision issues that are often undetected (and will pass a vision screening) which can result in delayed development, poor performance in school and social settings, and low self-esteem. Learn how to detect and help your students succeed.
Emily Aslakson, OD, MEd, FCOVD, FAAO & Alli Richardson, Michigan College of Optometry & Alli Richardson
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: All
Professionalism
Leveraging Teacher Voice to Support Future Instruction Transitions: Lessons from the 2020-2021 School Year
Plaza Boardroom A, Lobby Level, Amway
This presentation includes experiences from preschool teachers that navigated transitions between remote and in-person instruction during the 2020-2021 school year. Findings include recommendations for future transitions and remote instruction based on teacher experiences and perceptions.
Madeline Chimka, HighScope Educational Research Foundation & Chloe Reeble, University of Nebraska
CKCC: Management Age Levels: Adult
Friday,
10:15am - 12:00pm
General Session Keynote
Zen and the Art of Early Childhood sponsoredbyKaplanEarlyLearningCompany
BallroomB/C/D,DeVos
Richard Cohen, M.A.
Consultant,Coach,MotivationalSpeaker,Instructor
Many of us think of “early childhood” as more than a stage of development or a career choice. Join Richard as he shares his story and elicits the stories of his audience members. Laugh, cry and cheer as we reflect together on why we choose play, why we choose anti-bias work and why we choose to give young children meaningful learning experiences. What does it mean to place ourselves in positions of service? How do we balance our humanity and our professionalism in an ever-changing world? How are we community builders? Get ready for a keynote that will provoke your thinking, engage your emotions and nourish your spirit!
12:00pm - 1:00pm
Research & Practice Poster Session: Inclusive Practices in Early Childhood & Early Intervention
Ballroom B/C/D, DeVos
Presented in Partnership with the Michigan Division for Early Childhood
1:30pm - 2:45pm
Workforce Development
Looking for Knowledge on the CDA and MI-YDA Training and Credentialing Process? Come to the CDA and MI-YDA Boot Camp.
Ottawa, Lobby Level, Amway
Why reinvent the wheel? There are existing training resources available for supporting students obtaining their CDA and MI-YDA credentials. Presenters will share these resources and provide information about an opportunity for funding credential fees for CTE students.
Michigan AEYC Staff
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
Program Administration
How to Start a Child Care Business in Michigan & Financial Resources
Governors, Concourse Level, Amway
Caring for MI Future is a statewide effort to help child care entrepreneurs open 1,000 new or expanded child care programs by the end of 2024. This initiative, led by the Michigan Departments of Education and Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (MDE & LARA) is focusing on what entrepreneurs need most to open and expand child care businesses help finding and renovating space, startup funding, help recruiting staff, and support creating a business plan.
Mikki Godfrey, Our Strong Start
CKCC: Management Age Levels: Adult
Anishinaabe 101
Winchester, Conference Level, Amway
Your service area includes the Indigenous peoples of Michigan, the Anishinaabe. How much do you know about them? What implicit bias do you hold that we can address? What historical traumas have they experienced that lead to modern day barriers to outreach and care, and what are cultural protocols for a diverse group of people like the Anishinaabe?
Meredith Kennedy, Storyteller
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: All, Adult
Friday, April 21
Social Emotional
The Trauma Tree; Trauma Informed Care Part 1
Heritage Hill, Conference Level, Amway
We will review Erickson and Maslow and discuss the effect trauma has on brain development. We will also discuss the different types of trauma and ways to support young children in the classroom.
Michelle Smith, Starfish Family Services
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Age Levels: All
Mindfulness Mini-Retreat for the Early Childhood Professional sponsored by Central Michigan University
Ambassador East, Concourse Level, Amway
Do YOU have a habit of cultivating small, daily meaningful moments? Put on the brakes and gain focus! Carve out small spaces for self-care as a professional practice that renews creativity and revives work.
Cheryl Priest, Central Michigan University
CKCC: Professionalism
Age Levels: Adult
Sensory Awareness- Supporting Self Regulation Through Play
Ford, Lobby Level, Amway
Sensory awareness is for everyone, as all behavior is communication. Let's find ways to understand and support the children in our care. Using curiosity and movement, we will find ways to help children self-regulate through activities and tools (not toys).
Allison Caledonis, Trainer & Elizabeth Villaverde, Villaverde Consulting
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
The Importance of Social Emotional Learning
Pullman, Conference Level, Amway
Age Levels: All
Social-emotional learning is vital for students to learn crucial life skills, including the ability to understand themselves, develop a positive self-image, take responsibility for their actions, and forge relationships with the people around them. How do we teach these skills to our little ones?
Kyle Lewandowski, Michigan AEYC Student Member-at-Large
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Preschool
Propping Up Children's Literacy Experiences
Vandenberg B, Concourse Level, Amway
Age Levels: All
Explore the benefits of using props while reading books with young children. Through active engagement, learn how to select developmentally appropriate books, create usable props, and incorporate early childhood standards. There will be giveaways!
Margaret Mudge, Lowry Center for Early Childhood Education
CKCC: Teaching & Learning
Age Levels: IT, PS, KP
Great Start Toward Quality Inclusion: A Model and Resources for Including Each and Every Child
Grand View, Conference Level, Amway
Learn how one Michigan school district promoted preschool inclusion. Hear about the professional development, learn from educators who planned for and implemented high-quality inclusive practices in their classrooms, and get all the inclusion resources.
Camille Catlett, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute, UNC & Nicole Vandaele, Monroe County ISD
CKCC: Teaching & Learning
Age Levels: PS
Friday, April 21
Becoming Young Authors
Emerald A, Concourse Level, Amway
Children want to write. They want to write the first day they attend school. Before they went to school they marked up walls, pavements and newspapers with crayons, chalk, pens or pencils...anything that makes a mark. Writing is not a guided practice- it's free hand!
Seniqa Smith, Whole Child Community Center
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Sleep: Health and Wellness for Staff- Introducing Sleep Health Programs for Parents and Preschoolers
Ruby, Concourse Level, Amway
Sleep and routines are needed to build physical and emotional resilience. Learn how Pajama Program addresses this need, now part of CFOC national health guidelines, with its research supported, innovative sleep health programming, to help deliver "Good Nights for Good Days".
Ann Raftery, Pajama Program
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: PS, Adult
School Age
Literacy Stations for Young Learners
Nelson, Conference Level, Amway
Literacy stations are a great way to differentiate learning for all students in the classroom. This interactive session will focus on how to create, implement, and manage literacy stations without substantial preparation time.
Kirsten Cannon, Lakota Local Schools
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Professionalism
Cultural Competence and Why it is Important for the Success of the Program and Community
Berkey, Conference Level, Amway
In this session, participants will discuss the importance of cultural competence when practiced with intentionality to promote equality and bridge the gap in early childhood classrooms to ensure quality education and better serve programs and the community.
Felicitas Gonalez-Memberillo & Najwa Dahdah, Empowered Child Care
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance Age Levels: All 1:45pm - 3:00pm
Program Administration
Yours, Mine and Ours - Connecting with Families and Students
Pearl, Concourse Level, Amway
This session will explore ways to connect to families and students and maintain that connection throughout the school year. We will discuss why a secure connection is important for early school success and how to transfer that connection at the end of the year or when the child moves on.
Lisa Clarke, St. Clair County RESA
CKCC: Management Age Levels: All
Partnering with Parents of Color
Plaza Boardroom A
Learn ways in which educators and parents can partner for the best interest of the child. We’ll provide educators with information on how to engage with people from various communities in effective ways. The session will also highlight the EPIC model of the two generational approach used by ELNC.
Shawna Smith, Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Social Emotional Friday, April
Classroom Practices for Teaching Multilingual Learners
Haldane, Conference Level, Amway
In this training, learn classroom practices for teaching Multilingual Learners (MLLs). Topics will include research on school readiness development, language, math, literacy, and social emotional skills, as well as small group learning. Additionally, there will be a concentration on language and early literacy skills for MLLs that will cover focusing on the home language in the classroom, developing vocabulary, phonological awareness, word recognition, print knowledge, and early writing. You will leave this training with the skills and knowledge to assist the MLLs in your classroom to have a successful head start in their education.
Jolene Andriaschko, Strategic Education Consulting Solutions, LLC
CKCC: Teaching & Learning
Age Levels: PS
Supporting Self-Regulation Development for Preschool and Kindergarten Children: An Overview of Early Findings from HighScope's Investing in Innovation Project sponsored by HighScope
Vandenberg A, Concourse Level, Amway
This presentation provides an overview of and findings from HighScope's Investing in Innovation (i3) Project that provided training and coaching to preschool and kindergarten teachers in Michigan to support children's self-regulation development.
Fernando Andrade & Madeline Chimka, HighScope Educational Research Foundation
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Sensory; It's Not Just Sand and Water
Pantlind, Concourse Level, Amway
Age Levels: PS, KP
Explore methods to support sensory seeking students in your classroom through play, problem solving, and curriculum.
Alexandra Schenk & Alaina Yancy, Gretchen’s House
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Infant and Toddler Care
Infant and Toddler Outdoor Environments
Kendall, Conference Level, Amway
Age Levels: IT, PS
Taking Infants and toddlers outdoors can be challenging. Let's discuss ways to have an enjoyable and engaging outdoor experience. We will share pictures and examples of creative and simple ways to enhance the experience.
Sheila Johnson & Jenny Maynard, Wayne Oakland Macomb Resource Center
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Preschool
Loose Parts for Preschoolers
Imperial, Lobby Level, Amway
Age Levels: IT
Looking for ways to tap into children's natural sense of curiosity? Loose parts may just be the answer you have been searching for. Within a responsive learning environment, the use of loose parts strengthens creativity, problem-solving skills, divergent thinking, independence and critical thinking skills. Explore the theory and implementation of loose parts with Preschoolers in this interactive workshop.
Deborah Nerderman, ECE Program Solutions
CKCC: Teaching & Learning
Age Levels: PS
Pre-K Classroom Arrangement - Creating an Intentional Learning Environment
Thornapple, Conference Level, Amway
Learning how to set up an intentional Pre-K Learning Environment and how the Learning environment is an essential to the growth and development of children.
Felecia Wodarski, Great Start to Quality
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: PS
Friday, April 21
Supporting Children with Special Needs Through Imbedding IEP Goals into the Daily Routine sponsored by HighScope
Emerald B, Concourse Level, Amway
In this session participants will learn strategies for embedding IEP goals and scaffolding on children's learning throughout the day while staying true to active learning and developmentally appropriate practices.
Shannon Lockhart, HighScope Foundation
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: PS
They've Got the Whole World in Their Hands: Geography for Young Children
Riverview, Lobby Level, Amway
Are you wondering how to introduce geography to young children? This presentation will provide examples of materials you can use to help present this topic in a developmentally appropriate way. Using a "parts to whole" framework, we will start with our planet and move to our continent, country, state, and city to help children understand their place on Earth. This workshop will cover ways to learn about the elements of the earth (land, air, water), land and water forms, and mapping. You will learn songs to sing and activities that refine small motor skills and visual-spatial relationships through hands-on learning experiences.
Nancy Guartofierro, Stepping Stones Montessori School and Chaminade University of Honolulu
CKCC: Teaching & Learning
Age Levels: PS, KP
Professionalism
A Conversation with the Governor’s Office
Ambassador West, Concourse Level, Amway
Join Michelle Richard, Senior Education Policy Advisor to Governor Whitmer, to learn about current Early Childhood initiatives; followed by a Q & A.
Kirsten Charneskey, Michigan AEYC Advocacy Chair & Michelle Richard, Early Childhood Policy Advisor for Governor Whitmer
CKCC: Professionalism
Age Levels: All
How to Effectively Use Your Coaching & Mentoring Tools
Atrium, Atrium Level, Amway
This fast-paced session will help you understand how the tools of coaching and mentoring can be used to increase your leadership effectiveness, help others get their work done, and lower your stress level. You'll learn the difference between these two tools and when to use them with which person you want to lead.
Michelle Burkhard, Grow By 1, LLC
CKCC: Professionalism
Age Levels: All
Friday, April 21
3:15pm - 4:30pm
Center Stage: Cultivating the Creative Learner
BallroomB/C/D,DeVos
Cultivating the Creative Learner
Richard Cohen, M.A.
Get ready for a very nontraditional, interactive presentation filled with dancing, singing, playing, laughter and thoughtprovoking ideas about creativity, imagination and wonder. We’ll look at what’s happening in our brains and spirits as we create. We’ll explore how to encourage young children’s creative thinking and problem-solving. We’ll take a look at inspiring early childhood environments and activities and consider how to implement these ideas in our own spaces.
Workforce Development
MiRegistry: What Will You See in 2023?
Vandenberg B, Concourse Level, Amway
Track your growth, reach your potential. Join the MiRegistry team in this session for best practices, FAQ's, and new system features for members and trainers.
Carlie McKinney, MiRegistry
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
The Early Childhood Educator Apprenticeship Training Program- How it works
Vandenberg B, Concourse Level, DeVos
During this workshop, participants will learn how to implement the components of an apprenticeship and where there is funding to pay for training costs.
Dick Bulkowski, Steepletown
CKCC: Management Age Levels: Adult
Program Administration
Quality Education and the Health of Young Children: What Really Matters?
Governors, Concourse Level, Amway
The health of young children is foundational to quality early care and education. But what aspects of health are important and should be prioritized in Michigan's child cares and preschools? An experienced expert panel debates!
Brooke Rains, Child Care Network & Andrew Hashikawa, Michigan Medicine, University of Michigan
CKCC: Health, Safety & Nutrition Age Levels: All
The Early Childhood Director's Guide to Solving Everyday Challenges
Haldane, Conference Level, Amway
As a Program director you will wear multiple hats and as part of your role at the center you may feel alone when you face issues and situations with children, staff, and parents. Well, you are not alone. We will examine real-world issues experienced at actual child-care centers and outline how to avoid mistakes, oversights, and incidents as much as possible by developing policies and procedures and by implementing staff training to reduce the risk.
Thomasa Bond, Child Care Licensing
CKCC: Management Age Levels: Adult
Social Emotional
What On-Site Observation Tool is Right for Me?
Grand View, Conference Level, Amway
Learn about options for On-Site Observation in the newly reimagined Great Start to Quality. Gain insight on CLASS, ERS, and SEL PQA. Feel empowered in making the observation tool choice that is right for you.
Jennifer Rountree & Kristen Howard, Early Childhood Investment Company
CKCC: Management Age Levels: IT, PS, SA
Friday, April 21
The Trauma Tree: Trauma Informed Care Part 2
Heritage Hill, Conference Level, Amway
After a review of trauma and ACEs in session 1, we will discuss ways to build relationships with children and families and practical ways to mitigate the effect of trauma in the classroom.
Michelle Smith, Starfish Family Services
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance Age Levels: All
Infant and Toddler Care
Rest Time Follies
Berkey, Conference Level, Amway
During this presentation, participants will gain knowledge on how to create an environment that facilitates a peaceful and calm vibe while providing tools and comfort to assist children in achieving this goal during rest time.
Jodi Sarkella & Brooke Rains, Child Care Network
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Preschool
Supporting Children with Disabilities or Suspected Delays in Inclusive
Ottawa, Lobby Level, Amway
Child Care Settings
In this session you will learn how to refer and support children, from birth through the age of five, with developmental delay(s) and/or disabilities to thrive in inclusive child care settings.
Jennifer Koenigsknecht, Early On Michigan & Laura Goldthwait, Michigan Department of Education
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: IT, PS
Including Parents in the Classroom
Emerald A, Concourse Level, Amway
Discover the benefits of including parents in your classroom. We’ll share a variety of ways you can involve parents in your programming.
Andrea Kitchner & Beverly Hayhurst, Somerset Academy Troy
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: IT, PS
Outsmart the Wiggles: Big Body Play for Learning Success
Ambassador East, Concourse Level, Amway
When kids wiggle and can't control their bodies, it is hard for them to learn. Movement helps kids sit still/attend. Through physical activity, kids learn self-regulation and build key strengths so when it is time to learn, they can. This session includes games that can be used immediately.
Preston Blackburn, Pivot to Play/Pop, Hop & Rock
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: All
Children's Literature: Using Books Everywhere and for Everything!
Nelson, Conference Level, Amway
This presentation will include books on a wide range of subjects such as Social-Emotional, STEAM, Diversity and Inclusion. We will explore the multiple ways books can build the foundation for a safe space and fuel a passion for learning and literacy in early childhood.
Becky Garske, Consultant & Paula Spencer, Mott Community College
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Friday, April 21
Y5s / Kindergarten Transition Ideas
Ruby, Concourse Level, Amway
How can we help our preschoolers and their families successfully move on to elementary school? Learn about activities to assist staff, families, and children with this important transition and formulate your center's Y5s/Kindergarten Transition Plan.
Denise Swanson, The New Standard- GSRP
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP
Supporting Curriculum Through Community Walks
Winchester, Conference Level, Amway
Our class took weekly walks for a whole year. We visited community parks, nature areas and the neighborhood. Walks supported and enhanced learning across multiple learning domains. Now the walks are a regular part of each school year. Learn how you can use community walks to support learning in your preschool program.
Joyce Neyer, Isabella Child Development Center
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
4:30pm - 5:30pm
Exhibit Hall Closing Party Sponsored by Zumbini
Ballroom A, DeVos
Visit the Exhibit Hall before closing to place your final bid in the Silent Auction (by 5pm), visit vendors, win from Whimsicality and Michigan AEYC, enjoy a snack, music and cash bar.
Saturday, April 22
7:00am - 10:30am Registration & Badge Pickup
8:30am - 10:00am
10:15am - 2:00pm Workshops
10:15am - 4:15pm Zumbini Instructor Training sponsoredbyZumbini VandenbergB,Amway(pre-registrationrequired)
10:30am - 4:30pm Coaching Academy final session
Governors,Amway(closedevent-pre-registrationrequired)
8:30am - 10:00am
General Session Keynote
You Are Not Alone: Solutions to Daily Challenges
sponsoredbyNorthernMichiganUniversity
AmbassadorBallroom,Amway
Dr. Thomasa Bond
Author,Consultant,ChildCareLicensing
As a caregiver and provider, you are required to wear multiple hats and as a result you may feel alone when you face issues and situations with children, staff, and parents. Well, you are not alone. Together, we’ll examine real life challenges experienced in actual settings and outline how to avoid mistakes, oversights, and incidents as much as possible by learning how to proactively address issues before they occur.
10:15am - 11:30am
Social Emotional
Communicating With Your Team
Pearl, Concourse Level, Amway
This training looks at how to communicate with your team effectively and strategies for communicating in ways that will promote active supervision and engagement with children.
Julie Sizemore, RESPECT Care Teaching
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
Young at Heart: Adult Learning Principles through the Lens of Play
Pantlind, Concourse Level, Amway
Adults need to play too! Join a conversation about bringing playful learning to grown-ups through a lens of family engagement and caregiver education. Come ready to play as we explore these principles with hands-on play invitations!
Meighan Taylor & Angela Aernouts, Play and Learn GRCC
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: IT, PS, Adult
Infant and Toddler Care
Turning your "No" into "Yes": Activities to Redirect Challenging Behaviors in Your Learning Environment
Atrium, Atrium Level, Amway
Participants will learn new activities to help redirect challenging behaviors for all ages.
Jenny Maynard, Leaps and Bounds Family Services
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
Age Levels: All
Saturday, April 22
Preschool
Knowledge of Self and Others: Going Beyond Paper and Pencil Self-Portraits
Haldane, Conference Level, Amway
How can we meet the needs of all learners? What if children aren't ready to draw or write? Come find out how you can incorporate self-portraits into your lesson plans throughout the year, while keeping it fun and engaging for all students with the use of non-standard, open-ended materials.
Jennifer Stortini, Dearborn Public Schools GSRP
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Planning for Extending of Instruction: Creating Standards-Based Checklists with Developmental Continuum or Learning Trajectories in Mind
Vandenberg A, Concourse Level, Amway
Participants will create their own checklists based on standards. Then, discuss the role of their checklists in helping with intentional identification of extension points in their scaffolding of children's development and learning.
Martha Baiyee, Eastern Michigan University
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: All
Playing with Purpose!: Crafting Child-led Centers that Leverage Play as a Vehicle for Standard-Aligned Learning
Imperial, Lobby Level, Amway
Play is a powerful instructional method for PreK that leads to rigorous learning for students across all backgrounds and abilities. For teachers, it can be a challenge to balance standard-driven benchmarks and specific learning objectives with opportunities for child-led play. This session takes a closer look at center time to explore ways that teachers can intentionally craft opportunities for child-directed play that hits on key early learning concepts and skills. Learn easy to implement strategies that guide student inquiry and cultivate meaningful play experiences with standard-aligned outcomes.
Debby Spitzer, Hand2mind
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP
My Favorite Family Tradition: A Year-Long Family Engagement Project
Thornapple, Conference Level, Amway
Traditions represent a child's unique family unit and are a part of a child's unique family culture. Families visited the classroom communities and shared their favorite home traditions within a year-long, documented project.
Julie Burns-Ross, Teacher
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: PS
Initial Conversations With Parents About Autism Spectrum Disorder
Riverview, Lobby Level, Amway
If you've ever struggled with the thought of starting a conversation with parents about their child showing signs of autism, come hear from people in the autism community, as well as specialists who work with autistic children, and even a parent of an autistic child.
Katie Slajus, Somerset Academy
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: All
Home Based Care
Meal Planning With Children...Can It Be As Easy As Ordering Pizza?
Kendall, Conference Level, Amway
During this session, providers will discover meal planning techniques and quick preparation tips. Ideas will be shared on how to include children and engage families with every day menus, and a discussion on creating a cookbook.
Carrie Brock, Early Childhood Discovery House, LLC & Jill Tarrant, CACS Head Start and Early Head Start Programs
CKCC: Health, Safety & Nutrition Age Levels: All
Saturday, April 22
Strategies to Improve Work/Life Balance for Home Based Programs
Emerald B, Concourse Level, Amway
In this session, we will talk about identifying areas impacting and discuss strategies to improve work life balance and reduce the burden of business operations for home-based child care providers.
Liz Fuss & Tina Blanchard, Child Care Network / Great Start to Quality Southeast Resource Center
CKCC: Management Age Levels: All
Professionalism
Maximizing Empathy, Minimizing Distress: A Conversation on Student Support and Teacher Wellbeing
Plaza Boardroom A, Lobby Level, Amway
Join us in a conversation around compassion fatigue, empathetic distress, and burnout. How do we care for students while prioritizing our wellbeing? How can we navigate relationship building and student support without experiencing compassion fatigue?
Margaret Petix & Dr. Katie Sloan, Central Michigan University
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: All
10:30am - 11:45am
Program Administration
Recruit, Prepare, and Support Parent Leaders for Success
Ottawa, Lobby Level, Amway
How are you implementing the policies you established for authentic parent leadership? What are some best practices for recruiting parents? Who should you recruit? Who should do the recruiting? How could they recruit? Let the parents of Mitten Mommas address how to build the support and programming to recruit, prepare and support Family Leaders for success.
Meredith Kennedy & Mia Hawthorn, Mitten Mommas
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: All
Level Up with Great Start to Quality
Nelson, Conference Level, Amway
Learn about Great Start to Quality's new Quality Improvement Recognition System. GSQ staff will walk you through how to achieve a new quality level in the new QRIS.
Dana Frederick & Melissa Mosley, Early Childhood Investment Corporation
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: All
Infant and Toddler Care
Promoting and Supporting Inclusive Care for Infants and Toddlers
Berkey, Conference Level, Amway
This session will provide information and resources on how to create a climate of individualized support to meet high expectations for children with disabilities in infant and toddler education programs. An introduction to free online inclusion modules, which are available to promote and support high-quality inclusive care, will also be provided.
Brenda Woods & Jorri Novak, Office of Innovative Projects/Early On Training and Technical Assistance
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: IT
Preschool
Where the Arts Come Into Play; Intro 101
Grand View, Conference Level, Amway
An introduction to the Theory of Multiple Intelligence, recognizing how each child learns in his/her own way. We will present successful activities incorporating children's literature with Music, Movement and Dramatic play.
Todd Greenbaum, Neighborhood Child Care Consultants
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Saturday, April 22
Leaping into Literacy
Heritage Hill, Conference Level, Amway
Join us as we leap into a fun filled, intentional discussion focusing on Early Literacy development and instructional practices. This training will provide childcare professionals with interactive, hands-on activities to add to your learning environment.
Kelly Pyle & Felicia Wodarski, Great Start to Quality
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Mindful Kids: The Art of Practicing Mindfulness in Early Childhood Programs
Emerald A, Concourse Level, Amway
This training focuses on mindfulness in early childhood education. Gan an understanding of what mindfulness is, why it is important, and strategies to incorporate it into classrooms, with individual and group activities.
Deborah Nerderman, ECE Program Solutions
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: PS
The Formula for Best Math Practices
Pullman, Conference Level, Amway
An overview of best practices to set preschool-aged children up for mathematical success- getting back to the understanding of math concepts and not the memorization of math.
Brittany Wright & Jessica Bustos, Child Care Network
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
School Age
Thick Conversations During Play to Enhance Learning Sponsored by Central Michigan University
Ford, Lobby Level, Amway
Play is an integral part of children's learning. This session focuses on facilitating thick conversations to reinforce and extend children's learning. Participants will examine thick conversations and explore ways to incorporate them within children's play.
Megan Matson & Lauren Westra, Central Michigan University
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Home Based Care
Family Game Night
Ruby, Concourse Level, Amway
Family Game night for all! Incorporate games into your classroom or that can be used as a family night to show parents how to interact with children at home.
Kristin Carrick-Myers & Stephanie Robison, The Houghton Lake United Methodist Church Preschool/GSRP
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: PS
CLASS: A Framework for Building Connections and Strengthening Collaboration Sponsored by Teachstone
Winchester, Conference Level, Amway
Learn about the CLASS as a framework for teacher-child interactions, with a focus on family child care and group home settings. During this session, we will discuss how CLASS serves as a framework to support effective interactions, continuous improvement, and teaching. We will also explore how Teachstone is bringing forward enhancements that make the tool more equitable to use, easier to access, and more impactful.
Sara Diamond, Kim Pold & Christina Nystrom, Teachstone
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance Age Levels: All
Saturday, April 22
12:30pm - 1:45pm
Social Emotional
Peace, Not Pieces: Building Relationships Within the School Walls
Plaza Boardroom A, Lobby Level, Amway
Do adults need Positive Emotional Development and Learning Skills (PEDALS)? We will learn the steps to building strong relationships and creating an atmosphere of peace and not pieces for the children in our care.
Tonya Reeves, PEDALS
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
Infant and Toddler Care
Language and Literacy for Infants and Toddlers
Riverview, Lobby Level, Amway
We have all heard that reading and talking with infants and toddlers is important, but have you ever wondered how and why? This workshop will provide you with background knowledge and practical tips you need to start creating a quality language and literacy-rich environment for the infants and toddlers in your care.
Christine Britton, ECE Program Solutions
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT
Preschool
Pairing Picture Books with STEAM
Haldane, Conference Level, Amway
Bridging the gap to bring literacy and STEAM together! Picture books open the door to children's imaginations, and that is just the beginning. Take learning to the next level and extend with STEAM!
Renee Reid & Jennifer Stortini, Dearborn Public Schools
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: All
Rough and Tumble Play: Learning Your Limits
Pantlind, Concourse Level, Amway
This presentation focuses on how rough and tumble play can be introduced into both child cares and schools in way that fosters gross motor, fine motor, and social-emotional development. These activities are often shut down immediately by teachers, but are developmentally appropriate and can be a great learning experience for both children and teachers.
Andrew Jones, Little Seeds Child Development Company
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: IT, PS, KP
My Class is Coding! Play-based Technology in the Classroom
Imperial, Lobby Level, Amway
Skills associated with coding are common to many taught in preschool. Early coding skills support sorting, classifying, recognition of shapes and sets. Learn how to add coding to your curriculum and all without a computer.
Kathy Gilbert, KMG Research
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
Hey, Mural! Building Classroom Community
Kendall, Conference Level, Amway
Learn how preschoolers reflected classroom community by creating a mural inspired by Hey Wall! by Susan Verde. Be inspired by this visual representation of community using literature as a springboard. Mural will be presented.
Kathryn Maisonville & Kathleen Pernick, Detroit Country Day School
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Saturday, April 22
Differentiation: A Big Word Made Easy
Thornapple, Conference Level, Amway
Gain a better understanding of what differentiation means, how assessment plays a role, and leave with ways to easily incorporate differentiation into classroom activities and learning centers.
Alayna Bialick & Marija Pasalic, Somerset Academy
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
School Age
How to Succeed and Communicate Effectively with the Most Challenging Personalities - How to Get Along When You Don't Get Along
Emerald B, Concourse Level, Amway
True family and school collaboration is what we all strive to accomplish, but sometimes personalities and disagreements over how best to educate children create roadblocks to our success. How do you rebuild a trusting relationship when that trust has been broken? What are the most common barriers to collaboration? What is our role, and how do we move forward successfully?
Cheryl Levine & Beth Kohler, Special Education Mediation Services
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: All
Home Based Care
A Home Provider's Guide for Using Children's Play Schemas to Plan Materials and Activities
Pearl, Concourse Level, Amway
Have you ever felt frustrated that you've bought a great new piece of equipment for your children, but they just want to play with the box? Do you have children who are always throwing things, climbing on things, or hiding little things they find in their pockets? This session will offer some insight into the meaningful purpose of those types of behaviors and help end power struggles.
Becky Stoessner, Head Start for Kent County
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: All
Professionalism
Avoiding Burnout - The Importance of Self Care for Child Care Providers
Vandenberg A, Concourse Level, Amway
Self care is a hot topic and navigating burnout is an even bigger topic. We will talk about what self care looks like in child care and how you can implement it regularly.
Julie Sizemore, RESPECT Care Teaching
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
CDA from A to Z
Atrium, Atrium Level, Amway
Participants will be provided an overview of the CDA credentialing process. The scholarship eligibility and potential cost requirements will also be outlined. We will also discuss the application process with the Council for Professional Recognition, and the required documents needed to submit a T.E.A.C.H. Scholarship application. Other scholarships we offer at T.E.A.C.H. will also be outlined. We will also provide some resources and websites to help support attendees through the CDA process.
Michigan AEYC
CKCC: Professionalism Age Levels: Adult
Saturday, April 22
12:45pm - 2:00pm
Program Administration
The First Years of a Directorship!
Ambassador East, Concourse Level, Amway
This training will focus on "What I wish I knew?”, "What to do now?”, knowing your why, and running an effective staff meeting versus professional development training.
LaTonya Redfearn, Kids-R-Us Child Development Center, Inc.
CKCC: Management Age Levels: Adult
Social Emotional
Stop the Tantrums
Berkey, Conference Level, Amway
We can only say, "STOP" so many times before we lose our marbles! There is a plethora of research out there that shares why your child may be having tantrums, and how exactly to go about stopping them. Learn how you can use super practical and easy-to-follow steps to minimize these tantrums, lower your stress level, and regain control of your home.
Jenna Young, Behavior Therapist & Parent Coach
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance
The Classroom Family Sponsored by HighScope
Ford, Lobby Level, Amway
Age Levels: IT, PS
An intentional focus on diversity and inclusion. This session will delve into strategies for educators to represent the families in their classrooms to ensure an equitable, diverse, and inclusive experience for all.
Jessica Logan, HighScope Research Foundation
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement
Infant and Toddler Care
Perfect Playthings for Infants and Toddlers
Nelson, Conference Level, Amway
Age Levels: PS
Choosing perfect playthings for infants and toddlers helps them explore their world and will stimulate their curiosity, develop coordination, lets them express themselves, and helps them build on what they already know!
Sheila Johnson, Great Start to Quality Wayne Oakland Macomb Resource Center
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: IT
Preschool
Where the Arts Come Into Play; DIY Workshop 201
Grand View, Conference Level, Amway
As a follow up to Intro 101, we will provide materials, storybooks and supplies for participants to create an activity on a chosen book that applies to one or several Multiple Intelligence through the Arts.
Todd Greenbaum, Neighborhood Child Care Consultants
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
It Takes a Village: How Your Program Can Help Families Grow Their Tribe
Heritage Hill, Conference Level, Amway
Join us to learn how you can use your program to help families and children build life-long connections that provide support and stability.
Emily Welanko & Elizabeth Hampton, Heartfelt Impressions Learning Center
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: All
Saturday, April 22
Meaningful Connections in the Classroom
Emerald A, Concourse Level, Amway
Meaningful connections between you and your students helps them experience greater growth in the classroom. Gain knowledge about their development to help make those connections.
Jessica Westness, St. Paul’s Preschool
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: IT, PS
Totally Integrated STEM
Ambassador, Concourse Level, Amway
STEM is not 4 subjects; it is a state of mind and a set of habits of mind. Play, sing, dance, read and measure with us in a totally new approach.
Dr. Juliana Texley, JASON Learning
CKCC: Observation, Documentation and Assessment Age Levels: All
Meaningful Math and Sensory Science
Ruby, Concourse Level, Amway
Learn creative ways to make math and science experiences more interactive in your learning environment for your preschool aged children.
Felicia Wodarski & Kelly Pyle, Great Start to Quality
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
The Power of a Name: Using Children's Names to Foster a Sense of Community
Winchester, Conference Level, Amway
Participants will discuss the various ways that they foster a sense of community in their early childhood settings. They will leave with a ready to use strategy on how to tap into children's names in achieving the goal of creating a positive and caring sense of community.
Martha Baiyee, Eastern Michigan University
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: All
School Age
They're Children's Books: What Are We So Afraid Of?
Sponsored by Central Michigan University & Northern Michigan University
Ottawa, Lobby Level, Amway
Children's books are being challenged in schools and libraries across the country. In this session, participants will explore the affordances children's books provide in providing justice and equity in early childhood.
Tracy Donohue, Central Michigan University & Kristen White, Northern Michigan University
CKCC: Teaching & Learning
Age Levels: PS, KP, SA
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On-Demand Only
Love of Literacy Bringing Books to Life
Inspire a love of literacy in children by equipping early childhood educators and parents with the tools to bring classic children's books to life through an event called Book Days: an event combining a theatrical experience with themed activities.
Kassi Kincaid, Book Days
CKCC: Child Development Age Levels: PS
Track: Preschool
Are You Asking the Right Question? Supporting Higher Order Thinking Skills in Young Children
Let’s be intentional in the use of questions and vocabulary. This training will provide information to embed in daily routines to support higher-order thinking skills, and language competence.
Sandra Ampudia, The Discovery Source
CKCC: Interactions & Guidance Age Levels: IT, PS
Track: Preschool
Dando Apoyo al Desarrollo de las Funciones Ejeuctivas en la Primera Infancia (dual-language session)
Supporting the Development of Executive Function in Early Childhood Sponsored by HighScope
During this session, participants will reflect on executive functions and how these impact behavior in preschool.
Karen Murillo, HighScope Educational Research Foundation
CKCC: Teaching & Learning Age Levels: PS
Track: Preschool
Tips for Engaging Fathers in the Early Education Process
This interactive workshop will highlight resources for early childhood educators to help them effectively recruit, engage, and equip the fathers. Father involvement in early education is directly connected to academic achievement. This presentation will overview tips, best practices, and strategies for involving fathers in educational development.
James Worthy, National Responsible Fatherhood Clearinghouse
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: Adult Track: Professionalism
ACEs, The Brain and Behaviors: How Teachers Can Change Children's Learning Outcomes
This workshop will focus on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), their impact on development, and how teachers can make a difference in preschool children's learning outcomes via trauma-informed practices. Strategies to support children's social-emotional and cognitive learning will be presented through activities and discussions.
Dr. Wanda Spalteholz, Macomb County Head Start
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: PS, Adult Track: Social Emotional
Estrategias de Apoyo para Familias, Niños y Niñas Bilingües (dual-language presentation)
Supportive Strategies for Dual Language Families and Children Sponsored by HighScope
In this dual-language session, participants will gain an insight on the importance of creating spaces for dual language children, as well as supportive interactions for families.
Karen Murillo, HighScope Educational Research Foundation
CKCC: Family & Community Engagement Age Levels: IT, PS, KP Track: Social Emotional
Atrium Level: Lower Level
Atrium
Below Wolfgang Puck Restaurant (use Atrium, Lower Level, Amway Hotel Stair)
Lobby Level: First Floor
Imperial Ballroom
Ottawa
Gerald R. Ford Ballroom
Riverview
Plaza Boardroom
Concourse Level: Second Floor
Ambassador Ballrooms Governors’ Room
Emerald A and B Vandenberg A and B
Pearl Pantlind Ballroom
Ruby Imperial Mezzanine
Conference Level: Third Floor
Berkey
Grand View
Haldane
Heritage Hill
Kendall
Nelson
Pullman
Thornapple
Winchester
