Tuesday, June 21, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. With a hands on approach, participants will learn how to use the scientific process, including content language to engage their students in science experiments that encourage prediction, observation, analysis and executive brain function. A material list will be sent with confirmation of registration. Participants will complete and observe science activities and discussion of what is learned through each activity. (Trainer: Aimee Alderman, Education Consultant) Age Focus: Toddler/PreK Register

Thursday, July 7, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Two of the greatest ways for teachers to support children’s cognitive development are to support children in making plans and following through on their intentions and to support children in solving problems they encounter in play. You will learn strategies for supporting children at their current level of development and gentle extensions to support continued development. (Trainer: Shari Williams, The Family Conservancy) Age Focus: PreK Register

Tuesday, July 12, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Sportscasters describe what is happening during a game just as teachers can describe their own actions and the actions of children in order to expand children's language. Dictionaries provide multiple ways to understand the meaning of words, just as teachers can use several words and phrases to support a child's understanding of a new word or concept. In this session we will practice using these strategies throughout the day and design a…

Tuesday, July 26, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Research tells us that the interactions teachers have with the children in their care can have a huge impact on their development and learning. Many teachers have heard that open-ended questions are beneficial, but they have limited information on the many important ways that questions and conversations can be used to more fully support children's cognitive thinking. This session will focus on techniques such as repeating and extending what children say, asking…

Thursday, August 11, from 6 - 9 p.m. This virtual session will introduce the ASQ:SE-2 tool. Participants will have the chance to use selected questionnaires, score and review their completed ASQ:SE-2, and practice interpreting the results. Identify communication techniques that build more trusting relationships with parents. Learn when and how to make referrals for additional assessments. (ASQ Trainer: Gayle Anderson, The Family Conservancy) Age Focus: All Ages Register

Thursday, September 1, from 6:30-8:30 pm As a child care provider, one of the most important responsibilities you have is to make sure children are safe while riding in a vehicle. In this session, you will learn basic vehicle passenger safety, how to select and use car seats appropriate for children in your care, and additional resources on child passenger safety. (Trainer: Gayle Anderson, The Family Conservancy) Age Fodus: All Ages Register

Thursday, October 13, from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Everyone experiences loss and the accompanying grief. Families are often faced with the loss of a loved one, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, death of an infant or child, a parent, grandparent, or close friend and not everyone knows what to do or say. This session is designed to provide information and resources so early educators can provide support to families facing what seems to be the overwhelming burden of loss. Emphasis will…