The University of Arizona Global Campus Invites You To:
- Participate in high-quality virtual professional development sessions centered on relevant topics in the early childhood world
- Engage with thousands of other professionals, families, and learners
2024 Early Childhood Education Virtual Conference
This engaging conference is free, virtual, and open to anyone interested in early childhood education. You will hear innovative and experienced professionals presenting on topics that will motivate, encourage, and inspire you with ideas and research in the field of Early Childhood Education. There will be dynamic keynote speakers to headline the conference!
The following tracks will be offered:
- Behavior Management
- Technology and Digital Media
- Teaching and Instructional Practices
- All Things Early Childhood
- The Early Childhood Classroom
- Administration and Professionalism
- Special Accommodations
- Play in the Early Childhood Classroom
Kickoff Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. (PT)
All session times are in Pacific Time
Today, we stand at the confluence of neuroscience and education, armed with knowledge that has the power to transform how we teach, learn, and grow. In this exploration, we'll delve into the developing brain's intricate landscape, revealing how neurobiology and early experiences intertwine to shape young minds. We'll distinguish between the myths and realities of brain-based learning, emphasizing practical strategies for emotional regulation, sustained attention, and stress resilience. Our journey will bridge cutting-edge neuroscience with hands-on educational practices, offering a blueprint for nurturing the full potential of every child in the early years of learning. Join me to explore the brain's untapped potential, unraveling the insights that will empower the next generation to flourish.
Day 1 - Tuesday, September 10, 2024
Reinforcement is an essential strategy for managing children’s behavior in the classroom setting. Positive reinforcement is a valuable approach that offers numerous benefits in a preschool classroom. By utilizing this strategy, teachers can create a supportive and motivating environment for young learners. This presentation will discuss the benefits and techniques of this approach. It will also explain the correct use of reinforcers, strategies for finding the best ones, and the unique differences in each child’s needs.
This session will explore some of the general behavior and disruptive situations that may occur in an early childhood educational setting. You will learn to recognize issues that can create mental stress for students and how to try to combat them and navigate through them. You will also learn the importance of getting children to recognize their feelings and equip them with some tools to help them respond to what they are feeling instead of reacting in a disruptive manner.
In recent years, mindfulness has been a topic of significant research. In the classroom, mindfulness asks students to look at life from a different viewpoint and become more aware of things around them. Mindfulness, practicing gratitude, and helping children learn the art of being thankful in your classroom community is essential. As children begin to appreciate people, things, learning, and experiences, it produces a range of outcomes; generally, kids are more kind. This session will provide strategies to incorporate these things in your early childhood community and personally.
This session will explore the effective classroom management tool of songs for transitions and interactions with children. Throughout the session, examples and strategies will be shared, and the power of music will be explored. Attendees will be given tools for successful transitions and purposeful interactions with their students.
This session will focus on the strategies and skills required to maintain a safe and orderly classroom environment.
Children are more tech-savvy than ever at younger and younger ages. Screen time in homes, schools, and daycares has increased exponentially over the last several years. The amount of research on the effects of screen time on children’s developing brains, and even our fully developed adult brains, is well-documented and often overwhelming. This presentation narrows the focus to the effects of too much screen time on oral language and literacy development and offers resources for educators, as well as families. It asks how we can balance the benefits of technology with more traditional learning opportunities that allow children to be technology-relevant and, at the same time, engaged, aware members of a classroom community.
Overview: In the ever-evolving landscape of early childhood education, the role of screen-based media has become a pivotal aspect of children's daily lives. The session "Parental Perception of the Influence of Screen-Based Media" delves into the crucial intersection of technology, parental perceptions, and early childhood development. Session Objectives: This enlightening session aims to achieve several key objectives: 1. Dispel Misconceptions: Unravel the common misconceptions parents hold about the influence of screen-based media on their young children's literacy skills. 2. Digital Natives vs. Digital Immigrants: Explore the contrasting perspectives of digital natives (children) and digital immigrants (parents/educators) regarding screen-based media and its impact on early literacy. 3. Effects of Extended Hours: Examine the potential adverse effects of prolonged screen time on the cognitive development and literacy skills of preschoolers. 4. Research Findings: Share the latest research findings on parents' perceptions of the effects screen-based media has on 3 to 5-year-olds' literacy skills.
We are leading a novel collaboration with Pixar Animation Studios to adapt the Disney/Pixar film Inside Out into a socia—emotional learning program called InsideU. InsideU is a cost-free, web-based application designed for 6–12-year-olds that includes online learning modules on emotional awareness and regulation. InsideU employs the conceptual model of Entertainment Education and includes a series of episodes that are interactive, choose your-own-adventure stories. This presentation will review the history of the InsideU program, a live demonstration, and preliminary findings from an open trial conducted in partnership with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Metro Denver.
Most of us have heard the term “influencer” in the last half- decade. But very few educators consider us one of them. Have you ever thought about why? Social Media influencers and teachers have one thing in common: both are expert content creators, adept at grabbing and keeping an audience’s attention. The medium is different, but the goal is often the same: keep your audience engaged and help them understand a new idea. How teachers do this—and how much time it takes—really depends on the tools available to you, and how expert you feel about using the tools. Good news: the tools that used to be just for influencers are now also built for the classroom. In this session, we will: - Define the concept of Communication Design, and how teachers and influencers have been perfecting the craft all along! - Uncover some lesser-known applications for AI, like the easy-to-use “Picasso in your pocket” that helps bring images to life—even for little kids! - Show that teaching new concepts doesn’t require learning new tools.
Planning activities for young children requires intentional design. Learning is a process that should be focused on the journey toward reaching developmentally appropriate goals. Your lesson plans can be goal-focused and enjoyable for each of the children in your care. Discover how backward design and an understanding of the assessment cycle connect learning goals, assessment, and lesson planning. Learn how to create a path for young children that will help them take each step toward mastering skills that will serve them well for a lifetime.
In early childhood education, cultivating 21st-century learners involves a multifaceted approach. While following a curriculum is an essential aspect of education, it is not sufficient to foster a child's learning and development. Rather, it is important to prioritize the child's perspective on learning, their attitude toward it, and their overall approach to learning. These factors are crucial in shaping the child's future success, as they influence how they view the learning process and how they approach challenges. To effectively cultivate 21st-century early learners, educators must focus on developing skills such as critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication. These skills are essential for success in the modern world, which is increasingly complex and interconnected. Additionally, educators must create a positive learning environment that fosters curiosity, exploration, and a love for learning. This can be achieved through activities such as hands-on learning, play-based learning, and project-based learning. Ultimately, the goal of cultivating 21st-century early learners is to shape their view on learning itself. By promoting a growth mindset and encouraging children to view challenges as opportunities for learning and growth, educators can help children develop a lifelong love for learning. This session will provide insights on how to effectively cultivate 21st-century early learners and shape their view on learning, setting them up for success in the future.
Caregivers often want to help their children become better readers but do not always know how to do so. As a Reading Specialist, the one question I received over and over throughout my career was, "How do I help my child learn to read?" Let's explore some easy ways that parents can support their child's reading development at home without stress.
Boosting a child’s vocabulary is easy as teaching them to like cake! Children are natural wordsmiths. Give them some good words, and they’ll put them to good use. This lively session introduces some of the big words in Colette’s new book, Colossal Words for Kids. You’ll see how children as young as seven can master all kinds of interesting words quickly and effortlessly. Who’d ever want to say second to last when instead you could say... PENULTIMATE?!
Many early childhood educators and parents are familiar with Montessori through Montessori materials in Montessori classrooms. While Montessori’s didactic materials are integral to supporting this approach to learning, Montessori pedagogy is grounded in the belief that children are capable of self-directed learning and that the role of the adult is to facilitate this process. These Montessori principles extend beyond the use of materials and can be applied to other early childhood spaces. This workshop will explore Montessori principles such as respect for the child (and their autonomy), the prepared environment, and the adult-child relationship. Participants will learn how these principles can be implemented in non-Montessori spaces. Participants will learn about the benefits of incorporating Montessori principles into teaching, promoting independence, self-motivation, and self-esteem in children. This workshop is designed for early childhood educators, administrators, and parents interested in learning more about Montessori pedagogy and how it can be applied in non-Montessori environments.
Many of us are aware that 90% of a child’s brain develops in the first 5 years of life. In the busyness of the classroom, have we considered the connection between brain development, the learning environment, and the early childhood teacher in our aim to support well-being? In this presentation, we will unpack Dr. Murray’s original Brain-SET Environments Formula to explore what, why and how to set up a learning environment that promotes brain development and well-being. We will discuss the harmony needed between the Survival, Emotional and Thinking (SET) parts of the brain to support positive learning and skill development. This knowledge will initiate personal reflections on individual contexts. Further discussion related to well-being, furniture placement, open-ended materials, teacher input and playfulness will factor into the development of an action plan. This will be based on Brain-SET’s three Pillars of Design and the 16 Design Elements.
Examples of Brain-SET classrooms from across the world, interactive discussion and activities will guide participants to identify practical classroom design ideas, and small but significant environmental changes that can be implemented immediately. Dr. Murray’s mantra of “A Calm Brain is a Thinking Brain” will be used frequently throughout the session to highlight the relationship between brain development, classroom well-being, and the development of 21st-century skills.
In this dynamic presentation, we delve into the art and science of activating and engaging young learners in the early childhood education (ECE) setting. By exploring innovative strategies, practical techniques, and evidence-based approaches, educators will gain valuable insights into transforming their classrooms into vibrant hubs of active learning. Through real-world examples, participants will leave equipped with actionable strategies and a renewed enthusiasm for igniting the spark of curiosity and engagement in their young learners, setting them on a path towards lifelong learning success.
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| Sara McBryde | Amy Johnson |
This session will provide information regarding prominent children’s literature authors and how the books they wrote influence early childhood education. The focus of the session will highlight how children’s literature can support learning of various topics, including phonics, diversity, social-emotional learning, and character qualities. Author information and how their books can enhance instruction will be discussed.
When children are hurt, our first instinct is to make them feel better. Often, we offer platitudes and distractions that overlook the reality of their experience. Do we really think that’s a helpful way to respond, or is it simply what we learned, and we’ve never stopped to think about doing it differently? Telling children, they’re “okay” when they don’t feel okay is not a helpful message. It doesn’t change what they’re feeling; it just contradicts their inner reality and teaches them that they can’t trust what they’re feeling. In this session, we’ll talk about what we can say and do instead to meet children in their experience, to validate it, and to help them learn ways to cope with difficult circumstances so they can begin to feel okay. When our messages to children “match” what they’re experiencing, and also reinforce in them a sense of self-worth and efficacy, we help them develop resilience. Our goal is not simply for children to be “okay” in the moment, but for them to feel capable and equipped to help themselves be okay when they encounter challenges.
Day 2 - Wednesday, September 11, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. (PT)
Hans Selye (1950, as cited in American Institute of Stress, n.d.), a man known for his contributions to developing an understanding of the physiological aftermath of dysregulated stress, dedicated his most influential work to his wife, saying “she understood that I cannot and should not be cured of my stress but merely taught to enjoy it” (para. 4). Stress is our constant companion but can take on the characteristics of the bully on the playground, challenging our physical, emotional, cognitive, and spiritual wellbeing and robbing us of our ability to be present at home and at work. Framed within a holistic stress management paradigm, this presentation invites each of us to reimagine the playground of our stressed-out lives by identifying techniques, built from theory and evidence, to begin creating a teacher’s toolbox of strategies to transform that stress bully into a sidekick.
This session will discuss providing supportive environments through positive, caring relationships with children and their families, creating aesthetically pleasing natural environments that support children’s social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development, and honoring and including family and community culture in the classroom community.
Why are child and teacher interactions so important? Child and teacher interactions are important because not only do they help the child grow, but they also help the child engage in the classroom. When a teacher is able to connect with a child. They’re able to help them cognitively develop, along with socially and emotionally develop. There are several opportunities to engage with a child from birth all the way up to school-age. In the session, I will give you different ways to engage with children of all ages, and how to make learning fun for them.
In this presentation, we will delve into creating an exciting and dynamic art program for your early childhood classroom. This session will explore the transformative power of the Creative Trio: This includes process art, developmentally appropriate crafts, and making a truly exciting art center. The Creative Trio fosters creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in young learners. You will gain insights into the importance of offering process art and developmentally appropriate crafts that encourage children to express their individuality while honing fine motor skills and fostering a sense of accomplishment. You will learn to uplevel your art center by incorporating diverse materials and techniques and cultivate an environment where artistic exploration thrives.
Academic conversations have changed engagement in the classroom. Engaging in academic conversations encourages students to think critically, analyze information, and evaluate different perspectives. Academic conversations provide students with opportunities to enhance their language skills. Through discussions, students learn to articulate their thoughts, express ideas clearly, and use academic vocabulary, which is essential for academic success. Participating in academic conversations requires students to actively engage with the material. Academic conversations often involve collaboration among students, which fosters a sense of community in the classroom, encourages peer-to-peer teaching and learning, and helps students develop teamwork and communication skills.
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| Dr. Shelli Henehan | Ronnette Haynes |
Explore strategies for keeping yourself professionally and personally safe in your workplace. This topic is incredibly timely, as we live in a world where educators are scrutinized consistently, thus living and working in a "fishbowl." This presentation will encourage high levels of participation as you will reflect on professionalism from the application process to interviewing for the early childhood position and functioning as a true professional in the workplace. We will focus on the importance of keeping children safe while emphasizing the need for personal safety.
In the world of social media and technology, engaging in and showing yourself as a professional is essential. In this session, you will learn ways to engage and create a professional presence on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook platforms.
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| Dr. Stephanie Heald | Dr. Tisha Shipley |
Attendees will be introduced to the UAGC Early Childhood Center in this session. The UAGC ECE Center has the most up-to-date access to a timeless learning community where early childhood professionals can engage in professional development, connect with other educators, and feel a sense of belonging in the broader community. You will walk away from this session with high-quality professional development opportunity resources that support the ongoing development of your career.
This session underscores the idea that teaching the whole child is essential for effectively educating students with special needs in early childhood education. Furthermore, the session will review the concept of the whole child approach and its significance in supporting the growth and learning of students with special needs. Participants will explore the importance of taking a holistic approach to teaching and supporting children with diverse abilities. By the conclusion of this session, participants will investigate strategies to effectively teach students with special needs by addressing aspects of a child's development, including physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and behavioral domains. By recognizing and addressing the complexities of each child's development and creating inclusive and supportive learning environments, all stakeholders of a child's development can help them reach their full potential and thrive in the classroom.
"The world as we created it is a process of our thinking. It cannot be changed without changing our thinking." – Albert Einstein
This session will address the needs teachers face with students exhibiting aggressive behaviors. As educators, we have encountered some difficult situations in our classrooms. At that moment, you need actions, interventions, and strategies that work for the student at hand, fellow peers, and, just as importantly, YOU! Please consider joining Dr. Ballard-Barkett's session as we connect with resources to use in ("real-time") class settings as we shift from bad choices to good choices among the children we serve. These resources give a variety of perspectives to move your class body in a more positive direction, including reaction strategies and prevention. This session challenges you to do more than talk about change; you must "Be the Change."
Embracing loose parts play into your setting is exciting but with this can also come the fears of the mess and constant moving about of items. In this session, you’ll develop a loose parts play mindset that will take the not so boring theory and connect it to your practice in ways that will create more opportunities for child led learning that involves deep engaged play. You’ll learn the 4 strategic and practical steps that will support you to embrace child-led learning and how the theory of loose parts play will support you to plan & respond to the many interests of children.
In today's world, where academics often overshadow the value of play, it's time to shift the narrative and embrace the impact of play on children's development. Step ahead of the skeptics and join Carla Ward in "Unlocking the Power of Play: Understanding How Children's Play Shapes Their Brains." Through an in-depth exploration, participants will uncover the relationship between play and brain development in children. Carla will guide attendees through the neuroscience behind play. Discover how play stimulates neural pathways, enhances cognitive function, fosters creativity, and nurtures emotional wellbeing in young minds. Gain insights into creating supportive environments that cultivate optimal play experiences, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and growth. From imaginative play to engaging in physical activities, participants will uncover play's diverse and far-reaching benefits for children's holistic development. This session is for anyone passionate about empowering children and advocating for their wellbeing. By attending "Unlocking the Power of Play," participants will arm themselves with the knowledge and tools to champion the cause of play in their communities and beyond. Deepen your understanding of the power of play and embark on a journey towards fostering holistic development in children. Together, let's unlock the boundless potential of play and pave the way for a brighter future.
Providing risky play opportunities in early care and education settings is essential for a child's overall development and can provide internal cues to a child that prevent serious injury. Examining the difference between risky and hazardous play can assist practitioners in reframing risky play as a developmental necessity and recognizing its contributions. This session includes ideas for including risk in playgrounds but will be viewed as "acceptable or the illusion of risk" for children.
We know that young children gain great value from learning and playing outside but many educators struggle with how to create meaningful and effective outdoor spaces that are not just extensions of the classroom but are classrooms! In this session, we will explore the importance of outdoor learning spaces in promoting holistic child development. The presentation will focus on practical strategies for designing and implementing engaging outdoor environments that foster curiosity, exploration, and learning among young children. Participants will learn about the numerous benefits of outdoor play and learning, including physical health, cognitive development, social-emotional skills, and environmental awareness. We will discuss key principles for designing outdoor learning spaces, such as incorporating natural elements, providing a variety of sensory experiences, and creating opportunities for different types of play and exploration. We will discover how curricular goals can be integrated into outdoor classrooms to enhance learning across various domains, including literacy, math, science, and the arts. Strategies for ensuring safety while also allowing children to engage in age-appropriate risk-taking and adventurous play will be addressed. And the importance of incorporating sustainable practices and promoting environmental stewardship in outdoor learning spaces, such as composting, gardening, and wildlife observation will be discussed. This presentation will provide early childhood educators with practical ideas and inspiration for creating outdoor spaces that support children's holistic development and ignite their curiosity and love for learning.
Certification and Licensure Terms and Conditions: An online degree from UAGC does not lead to immediate teacher licensure in any state. If you want to become a classroom teacher, contact your state’s education authorities prior to enrolling at UAGC to determine what state-specific requirements you must complete before obtaining your teacher’s license. The University of Arizona Global Campus graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a state-by-state basis that will include one or more of the following: student teaching or practicum experience, additional coursework, additional testing, or, if the state requires a specific type of degree to seek alternative certification, earning an additional degree. None of UAGC online education programs are accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), which is a requirement for certification in some states. Other factors, such as a student’s criminal history, may prevent an applicant from obtaining licensure or employment in this field of study. All prospective students are advised to visit the Education Resource Organizations Directory (EROD) and to contact the licensing body of the state where they are licensed or intend to obtain licensure to verify that these courses qualify for teacher certification, endorsement, and/or salary benefits in that state prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s policies and procedures relating to licensure as those policies are subject to change.