ESSENTIAL PIECES CONFERENCE · Essenal Pieces Conference, April 27 AECEA Member registra on opens on January 30, 2019 Public registra on opens on February 6, 2019 1 9 Mount Royal

AECEA Annual Conference Essen al Pieces Connec ng Professionals; you are an essen al piece

Student’s Day, April 25

Leader’s Day, April 26

Essen al Pieces Conference, April 27

AECEA Member registra on opens on January 30, 2019

Public registra on opens on February 6, 2019

19

Mount Royal University

Roderick Mah Centre for

Con nuous Learning

4825 Mount Royal Gate SW

Calgary, Alberta

Early Learning & Child Care

ESSENTIAL PIECES

CONFERENCE

Connecting Professionals

E A R L Y L E A R N I N G & C H I L D C A R E

E S S E N T I A L P I E C E S C O N F E R E N C E

A P R I L 2 5 , 2 0 1 9

F I R S T

A N N U A L

S T U D E N T S

D A Y

AGENDA8:00 AM -

9:00 AM

Welcome / RegistrationCoffee and light refreshments

9:00 AM -

9:15 AM

AECEA Board Welcome & Opening Ceremonies

10:00 AM -

10:30 AM

Break

9:15 AM -

10:00 AM

Keynote Presentation

10:30 AM -

12:00 PM

Breakout Session A

12:00 PM -

1:00 PM

Lunch

1:00 PM -

2:00 PM

Breakout Session B and Cracker Barrels

2:15 PM -

3:15 PM

Breakout Session C and Cracker Barrels and Grad Panel

2:00 PM -

2:15 PM

Break

3:15 PM -

4:00 PM

Wrap up and Door prizes

K E Y N O T EL I N E

P E R R O N

Line Perron i s the Executive

Director for Early Childhood

Development Support

Services and supports

organizat ions and

professionals who work in

relat ionship based practice .

Line has been teaching and

faci l i tat ing for 30 years and

has spent the last 3 years

helping organizat ions

incorporate trauma informed

principles into their practice .

I N D I G E N O U S W A Y S O F K N O W I N G , T H E T R U T H A N D R E C O N C I L I A T I O N C O M M I S S I O N I M P A C TO N P R A C T I C E

Amber Clark & Brye Robertson

Presenter will provide an overview of the TRC calls to action and Indigenous Ways of Knowing. Together with participants in this engaging and interactive session we will co-construct how our understanding might impact our practice. Participants will leave the session with an increased awareness of the TRC along with Indigenous beliefs, values and practices that might influence the role and image of the CYCC/ELCC practitioner.

Session A 10:30am - 12:00pm

U S I N G B R A I N S C I E N C E T O I N C R E A S E O U R R E S I L I E N C ET O S T R E S S

Line Perron

When you are the “tool of your trade”, ensuring you stay well and healthy is aresponsibility you owe the children you work with and those you live with. In this workshop, we will explore how stress shows up and work on developing an individual health and wellness plan to support us through those tough moments. Participants will walk away with their own plan to support physical and mental health. This is an interactive session.

F O S T E R I N G A P O S I T I V E I D E N T I T Y : P R E P A R I N G O L D E R S C H O O L - A G E D C H I L D R E N F O R T R A N S I T I O N

Michael Watts

It is well documented that the transition from elementary school to junior highschool can be challenging for some older school-aged children. This lecture willhelp participants understand the benefits of fostering positive identity amongst transitioning school-aged children. Dynamics such as mental and emotionalhealth, sleep routine, physical activity level, and proper diet will be incorporated into the lecture.

Session A 10:30am - 12:00pm

H O W T O J O U R N E Y I N T O T H E E A R L Y L E A R N I N G A N D C H I L D C A R E F R A M E W O R K F O R A L B E R T A

Linda Sutherby & Brenda Sauvé

This workshop will provide a review of the Alberta Early Learning and Child Care Framework concepts and, through discussion and interactive activities, consider how it can inform early childhood educator practice.

Session B 1:00pm - 2:00pm

S T U D E N T S A N D N E W G R A D U A T E S E M B R A C I N G A D V O C A C Y

Dr Susan Garrow-Oliver

Together with the workshop participants we will investigate the role of the ECE professional in advocacy work. ECEs advocate daily as they provide quality care and meaningful learning opportunities for young children. How do ECEs take advocacy beyond the playroom/program? We will explore different forms of advocacy, along with some key social justice issues worth advocating for. This will be an interactive and collaborative learning experience as we share stories, knowledge and ideas. Participants will also be encouraged to continue the conversation beyond theworkshop/conference as we investigate further opportunities for this.

Session B 1:00pm - 2:00pm

I N C L U S I V E P R A C T I C E – T H E P O W E R O F R E L A T I O N S H I P

Linda O’Donoghue

During this interactive workshop, participants will discover many strategies and pedagogical approaches for successful inclusive practice in the early childhood setting. The power of relationship will be considered and how relationship with the child and family guides inclusive practice. Stories from families who have experienced inclusive settings in early childhood will be shared. This workshop will allow educators to reflect on their professional practice to empower their work with all children and families. Conversations on how to support each child, to foster their learning and growth, will be facilitated.

Session C Speakers and Grad Panel 2:15 pm - 3:15 pm

B A S I C S T E P S T O E N H A N C E Y O U R P R A C T I C E O F R E L A T I O N S H I P S W I T H F A M I L I E S

Heather Pollard

7 basic steps to enhance your practice of relationships with families. These steps will remind you of ways to connect with families to increase engagement.participants will hear about these 7 steps and also engage in discussion of how to build on each step and come up with actions to make it happen in future workplace.

G R A D P A N E L

Katelyn HamiltonMyrieme El Gour Shamiza Mohamed

I N D I G E N O U S L I T E R A T U R E F O R C H I L D R E N

Amber Clark & Brye Robertson

We will read a children's book that helps to spread knowledge and awareness about Indigenous peoples and culture. We will also have an interactive activity that will be based off of the book, that both children and educators can participate in.

E X P A N D Y O U R C R E A T I V I T Y A N D I M A G I N A T I O N T H R O U G H S C I E N C E

Joey Tan & Amy Pham

Come and expand your creativity & imagination through science experiments!

M E S S Y P L A Y W I T H T O D D L E R S

Bev Conlon & Lyndsay Gordon

This cracker barrel session will focus on sensory/messy activities for toddlers. During this sessionwe will talk about the benefits of sensory play, tips for handling the messier activities and providea few take home resources/recipes.

Cracker Barrels Group A 1:00pm-2:00pm & 2:15pm - 3:15pm

L E A R N I N G T H R O U G H P L A Y : L O O S E P A R T S

Jeninna Calderon & Chelsey Mcnally

This workshop will inspire you on how to incorporate the magic of loose parts when working with children. Here you will be able to explore your inner child and enable to expand your imagination and creativity as the child’s co-learner, co-imaginer, and co-researcher.

S E N S O R Y B O T T L E S 1 0 1

Marysa Harris & Karuna Gill

Come learn about the benefits of sensory play and the impact sensory bottles have on the overall development of a child.Fun tips and ideas will be provided about how to create meaningful sensory bottles, types of materials to use as well as a demonstration.

L E T ’ S M O V E O U R B O D I E S A N D B R A I N S

Linda Fosu & Dina Mendoza

We will be setting up different activity stations where the students will be able to explore possible ideas of how to engage children physically and mentally.

Cracker Barrels Group B 1:00pm-2:00pm & 2:15pm - 3:15pm

About the Speakers

A M B E R C L A R K

Amber Clark is a third year Bachelor of Child Studies student Majoring as a Child and Youth Care Counsellor. Amber is a member of Berens River First Nation in Manitoba. She is proud of her Scottish and Indigenous heritage and intends to advocate for Indigenous rights after she completes her education. Amber keeps herself busy as Speaker of the Student Governing Board, student member of the Bachelor of Child Studies Advisory Committee, and panel member of the Student Conduct Board.

B R Y E R O B E R T S O N

Brye Robertson is a proud Indigenous woman of Inuit and Scottish descent, who grew up in Fort Smith, N.T. Brye is finishing up her third year of her Bachelor of Child Studies degree at Mount Royal University, majoring in Early Learning and Child Care. Brye is striving to be a strong and resourceful advocate for Indigenous children while also helping to introduce Indigenous culture and content into early learning classrooms. Brye looks forward to becoming an active member of Calgary's early learning community.

B R E N D A S A U V É

Brenda Sauvé is faculty at Mount Royal University and been in the ECE field for many years. She has been involved in many parenting initiatives andcontinues as a partner with the Curriculum Framework.

L I N D A S U T H E R B Y

Linda Sutherby is an associate professor in the Bachelor of Child Studies at Mount Royal University. She has been involved in the field of early learning and child care for many years in various capacities such as elementary teacher, owner and director of a preschool and child care centre, a member of many professional associations, and a presenter at numerous conferences. She has been privileged to participate in the Alberta Early Learning and Care Framework as a member of the advisory committee, a co-facilitator, a pedagogical partner and leader in several phases of the pilot.

M I C H A E L W A T T S

Michael is a Medical Social Worker/Therapist at the Alberta ChildrensHospital Pediatric Centre for Weight and Health. Michael is also Contract Faculty within the Department of Child and Youth Studies /Social Work at Mount Royal University and within the Faculty of Social Work, The University of Calgary. Michael is trained as a therapist and his areas of expertise include at-risk youth, mental health, individual, group andfamily therapy, and psychosocial issues related to adolescents and families impacted by Type 1 diabetes, chronic asthma, sleep disturbances and weight and health issues.

D R S U S A N G A R R O W - O L I V E R

Susan is an Associate Professor at Mount Royal University teaching in the Bachelor of Child Studies and has been connected and active in the ECE profession in Alberta for over 25 years. Susan’s MA andPhD work focused on the topics of communities of practice, advocacy and leadership in the ELCC profession.

L I N D A O ’ D O N O G H U E

Linda O'Donoghue has been an instructor in the Early Childhood Education and Development program since 2007. Linda holds a Diploma in Early Childhood Education with a specialization in Special Needs Education, a Bachelors degree with Distinction in Child and Youth CareStudies, and a Masters degree in Education specializing in Curriculum,Teaching, and Learning. Linda has worked in a variety of settings including preschools, child care centres, after school care programs, and elementary schools. Her research article, "Moving Onward: Reflections and Re-interpretations of the Reggio Approach" was published in Canadian Children in May 2011.

H E A T H E R P O L L A R D

Child Development Lab Coordinator at the Child Development Lab with the Department of Child Studies and Social Work at Mount Royal University has over 30 years’ experience in the Early Childhood field. She has worked with children for many years with a passion for inclusion. She was also a contract instructor at Mount Royal University in the Department of Child Studies and Social Work and involved in Phases of the Alberta Curriculum Framework Pilot Project. As Child Development Lab Coordinator she supports faculty/student education and day to day running of the Lab.

CAMPUS MAP

S PO N SO R S

Bursaries are available, if interested please email Dr. Susan Garrow Oliver at [email protected]

We want to thank all of our sponsors, supporters and numerous other donors for making AECEA's First

Annual Student conference a success !

Bursaries are available, if interested please contact Dr. Susan Garrow Oliver at [email protected]

S PO N SO R S

Gandour Halal Meats & Deli

S PO N SO R S

8 AECEA Annual Conference Essen al Pieces Connec ng Professionals; you are an essen al piece

Leader’s Day Agenda— Friday April 26 8:00‐9:00 Breakfast & networking

8:30‐9:00 The Alberta Family Wellness Ini a ve: Can one story change

everything to improve outcomes for children and families?

9:00‐9:30 Welcome from AECEA &

AECEA’s Policy Infographic

9:30‐10:00 Faces of leadership

10:00‐10:30 Networking

10:30‐12:00 Panel discussion

Applying the Different Faces of Leadership

12:00‐1:15 Lunch

1:15‐3:15 Advancing AECEA’s Policy and Professionalism—facilitated

discussion

3:15‐3:45 Final thoughts

Leader’s Day Agenda


WELCOME There is something for everyone! Including educators working in child care, family dayhomes, school age

care, preschool, and early interven on programs, along with ELCC students, ECE leaders and administrators.

We are pleased that you will be joining us as “you are an essen al piece”!

EP Conference Agenda— Saturday April 27

7:45‐8:30 Registra on & breakfast

8:30‐9:00 Elder blessing & gree ngs from the AECEA Board

9:00‐10:00 Keynote presenta on

10:00‐10:15 Mental health break

10:15‐11:45 Breakout sessions A

11:45‐12:45 Lunch/Networking/AECEA Award of Dis nc on/Conversa on

Cafes

1:00‐2:30 Breakout sessions B

2:30‐2:45 Networking

2:45‐4:15 Breakout sessions C

4:15‐4:30 Closing remarks


Daily Schedule

Sign-in & Breakfast 7:45‐8:30

Welcome Remarks 8:30‐9:00

Keynote Presenta on 9:00‐10:00

Mental Health Break 10:00‐10:15

Breakout Sessions A 10:15‐11:45 Advoca ng for an

Integrated Approach

to Early Childhood

Development

Building Your

Yoga Toolbox

Strategies for

Early Language

and Literacy in

Daily Prac ce

Crea ng

Responsive

Play

Environments

for Children

Blueprints

for Success

Engaging

with "Flight"

in School Age

Care

AECEA

Workforce

Plan

Inclusive

Prac ce: The

Power of

Rela onship

Lunch/Networking/AECEA Award of Dis nc on/

Conversa on Cafes 11:45‐12:45

Breakout Sessions B 1:00‐2:30 Outdoor

Sensory

Garden

Project

Nature

Programming

is Emergent

Curriculum

Making

Friends with

PAL—Part 1

Building

Posi ve

Parent

Interac ons

Working

with Families

The Safe

Third Space:

How to

Support

Children with

Excep onal

Needs

More than

Words: Using

Nursery

Rhymes to

Support Child

Development

Risk:

Bu erflies

in your

Belly

Using ‘Flight’ to

Create

Documenta on

and Learning

Stories

Inclusion &

our Image

of the Child

Networking 2:30‐2:45

Breakout Sessions C 2:45‐4:15 Making

Friends

with PAL—

Part 2

Programming

for OOSC

The ABCs of

Self Care

Indigenous

Ways of

Knowing

Embracing

Advocacy

Language and

Speech

Development

in Young

Children

Inclusive

Play me for

Preschoolers

with Special

Needs

Playful

Acquisi on of

Fundamental

Literacy

Meal me

Struggles to

Meal me

Success

Closing Remarks 4:15‐4:30


We Are Warriors Presented by: Marc Ba le

“Tomorrow's ba le is won during today's prac ce”

‐ Samurai Maxim

In an age where we are inundated with research of how to build be er brains and create smarter children,

we may be forge ng that a child is much more than a cogni ve system; they are a whole human being. We

forget that our duty is to be one of the many people in their life that will help guide them in their journey

towards discovering who they are.

We will explore how we can take the ancient principles of the Warrior Code, a code used by Apache Warriors

to Medieval Knights to the Samurai of Japan and apply them to our work with children. Not as means to fight

wars, but as a means to truly understand oneself and grow.

Marc Ba le is an ECE Instructor at Red River College in Winnipeg.

Marc has degree in sociology and a diploma in Early Childhood Educa on (ECE) from Durham College.

Marc first worked at Toronto’s Children Services, then at the child care centre at Durham College. For six

years, he taught ECE at Northwest Community College in B.C. Marc’s work is Inspired by the emergent curric‐

ulum, which builds on the children’s interests, and in incorpora ng a more ar s c approach to child care

programs.

Keynote Speaker


Saturday April 27 Session A 10:15-11:45 1. Advoca ng for an Integrated Approach to Early Childhood Development Connec ng Research Data and

Informa on to Community Efforts

Alberta’s many child‐serving sectors and it’s wealth of exis ng exper se in private, public and non‐profit realms

provide the founda on to create an integrated approach to ECD. The current body of work by the Government of

Alberta concerning ECD is managed and administered in silos. Deliberate integra on and coordina on across all

government ministries will benefit children during this most cri cal period of brain development. This session will

highlight the recent posi on paper, the link to exis ng ECD community work and help par cipants to see their role in

this important advocacy work. Through lecture and discussion style we will share specific tools and strategies that

par cipants can use in their advocacy efforts.

Presented by Phil Carlton and Krista Carter: Phil is a former educator of 39 years, former Director of United Way of

Calgary's Children's Ini a ve Upstart, one of original collaborators for First 2000 Days Network. Krista has been an

Early Childhood Educator for the past 23 years and is currently working as a community connector to link, align, and

leverage the efforts of the early childhood development sector.

2. Building Your Yoga Toolbox

Do you have students with special needs and/or are English language learners? Are you looking for playful and

engaging ways to support common learning goals? Join us for this interac ve session and explore yoga tools that build

self‐regula on, speech and language, gross motor, and social skills. You will walk away with ideas and resources that

you can begin to incorporate in your classroom tomorrow! Come build your yoga toolbox today!

Presented by Sarah Perri : Sarah is an early childhood educator with a passion for children's physical and mental

health. A graduate from the University of Alberta, Sarah is also a cer fied children's yoga and medita on teacher, with

experience teaching music, movement and mindfulness for over 10 years.

3. Strategies for Early Language and Literacy in Daily Prac ce

Learn why daily reading and talking is essen al to language and literacy development, especially for children aged 0‐5

years. Gain knowledge about current research in the field of literacy. Understand how to embed opportuni es for

reading and language development in your se ng and the importance of engaging families.

Presented by Dr. Sharon Walker: Sharon is a speech‐language pathologist and holds a doctorate in educa on. She

oversees the early years ini a ves and research at Calgary Reads. She is passionate about language and literacy for

young children, their families and their caregivers.


Saturday April 27 Session A 10:15-11:45 4. Crea ng Responsive Play Environments for Children

How do we go beyond simple space arrangement to provide both indoor and outdoor learning environments that are

welcoming and encourage children’s natural disposi ons of curiosity, explora on and communica on? Carefully

designed environments consider the elements of me, space, materials, and par cipa on (Makovichuk, 2014) to invite

children to engage in authen c choices, problem solving, inves ga ng, and discovering. In this workshop we will

consider how to carefully design responsive play environments for children that are reflec ve of their linguis c,

cultural, and familial backgrounds; provoke and inspire wonder, curiosity, inquiry and crea vity; are engaging to the

senses; promote children’s independence, responsibility, and par cipa on; and provide spaces for children to connect

with other children, adults, and community. Responsive environments encompass the values of coopera ve play, large

muscle ac vi es, high drama, messy play, the sounds of childhood, working through conflict and the importance of

family engagement (Cur s, 2001).

Presented by Linda Sutherby and Brenda Sauve: Linda is an associate professor in the Bachelor of Child Studies at

Mount Royal University. She has been involved in the field of early learning and child care for many years in various

capaci es such as elementary teacher, owner and director of a preschool and child care centre, a member of many

professional associa ons, and a presenter at numerous conferences. She has been privileged to par cipate in the

Alberta Early Learning and Care Framework as a member of the advisory commi ee, a co‐facilitator, a pedagogical

partner and leader in several phases of the pilot. Brenda Sauvé is also faculty at Mount Royal University and been in

the ECE field for many years. She has been involved in many paren ng ini a ves and con nues as a partner with the

Curriculum Framework.

5. Blueprints for Success

The aim of this session is to provide par cipants with an all encompass approach of using mul ple methods of

observa on and documenta on to ensure the success of each individual children. Par cipants will also benefit from

working in small groups to learn how to implement the cover the material presented based on a simulated situa ons.

Presented by Nancy Lahance and Susan Ammeter: Nancy is from Quebec and moved to Calgary 23 years ago. She is a

dedicated director at Calgary French & Interna onal School Daycare for the last 6 years and has been working with

children for over 15 years. Here's an interes ng fact: in addi on to the love of working with children, she studied and

prac ced as a Registered nurse for 4 years. She also is a proud mother of two daughters: Cloey (2nd year university)

and Maya (grade 7). Susan is the director of the Before and A er School Program at Calgary French & Interna onal

School. She is commi ed to providing children with a play based learning environment that is fun, safe and allows each

child to flourish while exploring their interests. With 32 years experience Susan has been instrumental in the

development of several childcare programs for children aged 2 ‐ 12 years old and is a member of the Calgary School

Age Directors Associa on and the Na onal A erschool Associa on.

6. Engaging with “Flight” in School Age Care

In this workshop we will explore, through the lens of Flight: Alberta’s Early Learning and Care Curriculum, three

essen al components of school age care: responsive environments, reciprocal rela onships and co constructed

curriculum. Tricia and Dawn will engage you with examples of prac ce and stories from the field that illustrate what it

means to work within a school age care community that honours children as mighty learners and ci zens.

Presented by Tricia Lire e and Dawn Eagles: Tricia is a long‐ me faculty member in the Early Learning and Child Care

program at MacEwan University in Edmonton and a member of the curriculum framework development team. Dawn

has been involved with school‐age care in many different roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she is the assistant

director at Garneau A er School Care Centre in Edmonton.


Saturday April 27 Session A 10:15-11:45 8. AECEA Workforce Plan

During this engaging session AECEA will share with participants a well-researched and comprehensive 10-year framework that strategically looks at advancing early learning and child care (ELCC) to a profession.

Be part of the conversation, share your experiences, and see what part you have, as an early childhood educator (ECE),

in systemic change. AECEA values Alberta's ELCC workforce and looks forward to engaging with as many ECE's as

possible.

Presented by Dr. Susan Garrow–Oliver & Manna Middleton: Susan is an Associate Professor at Mount Royal

University teaching in the Bachelor of Child Studies and has been connected and ac ve in the ECE profession in Alberta

for over 25 years. She is also on the AECEA Board of Directors. Susan’s MA and PhD work focused on the topics of

communi es of prac ce, advocacy and leadership in the ELCC profession. Manna is the current AECEA Board Chair, she

believes in the future success for Alberta’s children and wants to ensure the best opportuni es for children and

educators are happening in our province. She believes in the mission set by AECEA and its na onal partners at CCCF

and will adhere to all it stands for. Her prior experience in running Bee Hive Child Care Centre alongside drawing from

her experience working on projects and boards in rural Alberta such as the Child Care Directors' Associa on of

Southwest Alberta and County of Lethbridge Early Child Mapping Project is what drives her passion to be involved in

AECEA.

9. Inclusive Prac ce: The Power of Rela onship

During this interactive workshop, participants will discover many strategies and pedagogical approaches for successful

inclusive practice in the early childhood setting. The power of relationship will be considered and how relationship

with the child and family guides inclusive practice. Stories from families who have experienced inclusive settings in

early childhood will be shared. This workshop will allow educators to reflect on their professional practice to empower

their work with all children and families. Conversations on how to support each child, to foster their learning and

growth, will be facilitated.

Presented by Linda O'Donoghue: Linda has been an early childhood educator since 1992 and an instructor at Bow

Valley College, in the early learning and child care program, since 2007. Linda holds a Diploma in Early sentences)

Childhood Educa on with a specializa on in Special Needs Educa on, a Bachelor's degree with Dis nc on in Child and

Youth Care Studies, and a Master's degree in Educa on. Linda has worked in a variety of se ngs including preschools,

child care centres, a er school care programs and elementary schools.


Saturday April 27 Session B 1:00-2:30 1. Outdoor Sensory Garden Project

This workshop will outline the Leadership Prac cum Project of building an outdoor sensory garden. The workshop will

discuss how each age group can benefit from the garden as well as an overview of how it came to frui on. An

overhead PowerPoint slide will be used to display all content.

Presented by Ruth Arne and Karina Gill: Ruth and Karina are 3rd year students in the Child Studies degree and work

at the Mount Royal University Child Care Centre as early childhood educators.

2. Nature Programming is Emergent Curriculum

Par cipants can expect a brief lecture followed by a hands‐on outdoor experience. They will discover how nature

programming follows emergent curriculum, and how programs can incorporate the broader community to scaffold on

children's’ interest and promote risky play learning experiences.

Presented by Melissa Pearce: Melissa is the Director (9 years) of Grizz Kidz OSC. She finished the forest and nature

school Canada prac oners course in Revelstoke B.C. She is passionate about educa ng adults about the benefits of

outdoor play, and modelling it for her team, and program children.

3. Making Friends with PAL: Using your Online Accredita on Site Effec vely ‐ PART 1

In this session, par cipants will be using computers to learn how to navigate through the AELCS’ Program Accredita on

Library (PAL) site. Par cipants will complete different processes of the accredita on cycle, from entering surveys

results, working in the Self‐evalua on workbook, to genera ng and upda ng a QEP. Charlene will also provide ps and

tricks to using the site from how to add a contact, how to upload documents, create folders, add users’ and use the

HELP site.

Presented by Charlene Ellison: Charlene is the Out‐of‐School Site Visit Coordinator and is responsible for coordina ng

site visits for out‐of‐school care programs, as well as training validators with AELCS. She also manages and maintains

the program online accredita on system (PAL).


Saturday April 27 Session B 1:00-2:30 4. Building Posi ve Parent Interac ons Working with Families

Format: interac ve with par cipatory ac vi es, video, take away resources, follow up commitment on behalf of ELCC

& Community Development as well as par cipant. Building Posi ve Parent Interac ons: building the gap between

home and school begins with establishing strong communica on, which is essen al for ensuring op mal holis c

growth in children. Strong communica on strengthens children's social skills, improves problem solving skills, and

overall behavior as they feel valued and cared for. Learn how to approach families, build posi ve rela onships, and an

understanding of mutual expecta ons. Focus on Outcomes for Families. Benefits: making the rela onship building

process fun and inclusive within your program, building your own response to difficult situa ons presented by families,

building your own approach when ini a ng conversa on with families, learning to document concerns and researching

resources to ensure confidence during conversa ons, understanding goal plans for next steps, understanding

vulnerability and accep ng difficult conversa ons through reflec on. Par cipants will come away with addi onal

confidence while building that professional appearance.

Presented by Cody Topp and Chris e Scarle : Cody is the Owner & Operator of TOPP KIDS Out of School Clubs & ELCC

& Community Development. Chris e is an ELCC Professional Development Coordinator. ECE & Leadership graduate

with 24 years experience in the field.

5. The Safe Third Space: How to Support Children with Excep onal Needs

When working with children with excep onal needs, rela onship is paramount to achieving ground for influence of the

child's life. Without knowing where the child comes from or knowing where they or their caregivers want to end up,

educators can not reach the child in a meaningful way. This session is a discussion around how programs can work with

families to create a safe third space for children to feel a sense of belonging. We will discuss what that looks like in

prac ce, and the difference it can make in the lives of children and their families.

Presented by Stacey Burridge & Nicole Homick: Stacey is the Youth Community Facilitator with Topp Kids Before and

A er School Care Program. Stacey has worked with children, youth, and families for over fi een years. Stacey believes

that community and rela onships are paramount when working with children in a meaningful way. Nicole is an Early

Childhood Educator who has worked with children and families in various capaci es for over ten years. Nicole believes

that a founda onal prac ce of rela onship is key to building confidence competence and a sense of belonging in

children. When children feel good about themselves they do be er in all aspects of their lives.

6. More than Words: Using Nursery Rhymes to Support Child Development

For this interac ve and playful session, Ginger Mullen draws on her recently‐published research ar cle, “More Than

Words: Using Nursery Rhymes and Songs to Support Mul ple Domains of Child Development” (h ps://

journals.uvic.ca/index.php/jcs/ar cle/view/17841). Par cipants learn several rhymes and songs, which

Ginger contextualizes within domains defined by the Early Development Instrument. Then, they work in small groups

to apply their own crea vity and knowledge to a set of rhymes. Come Monday morning, par cipants will have new

materials to share with their children, as well as a deeper understanding of their versa lity and developmental

benefits.

Presented by Ginger Mullen: Ginger has been delivering oral rhyme and storytelling programs for young children and

their families for more than twenty years in libraries, schools, preschools, daycares, and community organiza ons.

With an M.A in Children’s Literature, she has been involved in the early childhood community as an Instructor (MRU,

SAIT,UBC), a Program Facilitator for Families Ma er, Early Learning Coordinator for Lead Founda on, and a Teacher‐

Trainer for the Parent‐Child Mother Goose Program™.


Saturday April 27 Session B 1:00-2:30 7. Risk: Bu erflies in your Belly

Think about how you learned what your limits were or how far could you push your body and as a result pain ng a

different image of yourself. How did you learn to nego ate with friends and say ‘no’ to things you were uncomfortable.

How did you learn to take a chance on your ideas or your crea vity? If everything is learned through experience then

many of you learned these valuable skills through taking a risk. Yet we are bubble‐wrapping our children and shielding

them from the risks that we par cipated in; blinding ourselves to the consequences of these ac ons. This workshop

will explore the kinds of risk in children’s play, what they learn from it and how we can allow children to risk safely.

Presented by Marc Ba le: Marc is an ECE Instructor at Red River College in Winnipeg. Marc has degree in sociology

and a diploma in Early Childhood Educa on (ECE) from Durham College. Marc first worked at Toronto’s Children

Services, then at the child care centre at Durham College. For six years, he taught ECE at Northwest Community College

in B.C. Marc’s work is Inspired by the emergent curriculum, which builds on the children’s interests, and in

incorpora ng a more ar s c approach to child care programs.

8. Using ‘Flight’ to Create Documenta on and Learning Stories

In this session, each par cipant will come with 1‐3 photos that they would like to create documenta on for. We will

work together to create a piece of documenta on or learning story that reflects the key concepts of ‘Flight’ (Alberta’s

Early Learning and Care Framework). In doing so, we will explore how our role as an Early Learning and Child Care

Educator (as described in ‘Flight’) supports crea ng documenta on as a co‐learner, co re‐searcher and co‐ imaginer of

possibili es.

Presented by Ka e Sharp & Cayla Boe cher: Cayla is an educator at Jasper Place Child and Family Resource Centre.

She graduated from the Grant MacEwan Early Learning and Child Care program in 2014. She is currently working on

comple ng her bachelors in child and youth care through the University of Victoria. She recently spent 8 months

running a day home through the Child Development Dayhome Agency. She has experience working with all ages,

however, most of her career she has worked with preschool aged children. She has presented in the past at both the

Grant MacEwan and Essen al Pieces Conference. Ka e is an educator at Jasper Place Child and Family Resource

Centre. She graduated from the Grant MacEwan Early Learning and Child Care program in 2011. She is currently

working with preschool aged children, however, most of her career she has worked with toddlers. She has done many

presenta ons in the past at the Grant MacEwan Child Care Conference.

9. Inclusion and our Image of the Child

It is easier to maintain an image of the child as a mighty learner and ci zen when thing are going well, but when

children use challenging behavior, we o en find ourselves falling back into old habits. We will talk about reframing

behavior though the curriculum Framework.

Presented by Lea Blust: Lea has been working with Young children with diverse abili es for a decade and is passionate

about providing opportuni es for all young children to thrive .


Saturday April 27 Session C 2:45-4:15 1. Making Friends with PAL: Using your Online Accredita on Site Effec vely ‐ PART 2

In this session par cipants will be using computers to learn how to navigate through the AELCS’ Program Accredita on

Library (PAL) site. Par cipants will complete different processes of the accredita on cycle, from entering surveys

results, working in the Self‐evalua on workbook, to genera ng and upda ng a QEP. Charlene will also provide ps and

tricks to using the site from how to add a contact, how to upload documents, create folders, add users’ and use the

HELP site.

Presented by Charlene Ellison: Charlene is the Out‐of‐School Site Visit Coordinator and is responsible for coordina ng

site visits for out‐of‐school care programs, as well as training validators with AELCS. She also manages and maintains

the program online accredita on system (PAL).

2. Programming for OOSC

HOW TO: School Age Programming

Inspire Students to PLAY, GROW, LAUGH & LEARN.

In this fun and informa ve session, learn how to incorporate a broad range of focus areas in your School Age Program

including S.T.E.A.M. programming, Mul ‐culturalism, leadership, ci zenship, youth development, arts and expression,

physical literacy, Social & Emo onal Literacy and so much more!

A er this session, your team will not walk into the program empty handed ever again‐ bringing with them ac vi es

with meaning and purpose!

Presented by Cody Topp and Chris e Scarle : Cody is the Owner & Operator of TOPP KIDS Out of School Clubs & ELCC

& Community Development. Chris e is an ELCC Professional Development Coordinator. ECE & Leadership graduate

with 24 years experience in the field.

3. The ABCs of Self Care

As early childhood educators, we put a lot of physical, mental and emo onal energy into our work each and every day

to ensure that our students are supported and well cared for. But what happens when your energy is running low? In

this interac ve session we will prac ce the ABCs of Self‐Care, and learn how modelling these simple strategies in the

classroom can benefit you and your students too! Come take some me for yourself… you deserve it!

Presented by Sarah Perri : Sarah is an early childhood educator with a passion for children's physical and mental

health. A graduate from the University of Alberta, Sarah is also a cer fied children's yoga and medita on teacher, with

experience teaching music, movement and mindfulness for over 10 years.


Saturday April 27 Session C 2:45-4:15 4. Indigenous Ways of Knowing: Enhancing Early Learning with Indigenous Pedagogy

This session supports teachers as they strive to apply Indigenous founda onal knowledge in their classrooms and

communi es. Ideas and resources on Indigenous language, rela onships, histories, world views and pedagogies for

early learning classrooms will be explored. In addi on, ideas will be shared for cross‐curricular projects and

experien al learning that support Indigenous ways of knowing while simultaneously enriching classroom experiences

for all learners.

Presented by Lois Maplethorpe: Lois has been teaching at Red Deer College for the past two and a half years. She

comes from the K‐12 system where she was an elementary generalist for 10 years. Lois has found her passion, among

books, early learners and families.

5. Embracing Advocacy

Together we will inves gate the role of the ECE professional in advocacy work. ECEs advocate daily as they provide

quality care and meaningful learning opportuni es for young children. How do ECEs take advocacy beyond the

playroom/program? We will explore different forms of advocacy, along with some key social jus ce issues worth

advoca ng for. This will be an interac ve and collabora ve learning experience as we share stories, knowledge and

ideas. Par cipants will also be encouraged to con nue the conversa on beyond the workshop/conference as we

inves gate further opportuni es for this.

Presented by Susan Garrow‐Oliver: Susan is an Associate Professor at Mount Royal University teaching in the Bachelor

of Child Studies and has been connected and ac ve in the ECE profession in Alberta for over 25 years. Susan’s MA and

PhD work focused on the topics of communi es of prac ce, advocacy and leadership in the ELCC profession.

6. Language and Speech Development in Young Children

Have you wondered how and when language and speech skills develop? What is typical for certain ages and what is

concerning? How you can help children in your se ng develop their communica on skills? This session is for you. We

will review the basics of language and speech development in young children and how you can help them grow their

communica on skills. We will also discuss what to do if you have a child in your se ng with communica on delays.

Presented by Dr. Sharon Walker: Sharon is a speech‐language pathologist and holds a doctorate in educa on. She

oversees the early years ini a ves and research at Calgary Reads. She is passionate about language and literacy for

young children, their families and their caregivers.


Saturday April 27 Session C 2:45-4:15 7. Inclusive Play me for Preschoolers with Special Needs

This workshop gives par cipants ideas on how to adapt play experiences both in the early learning environment and in

the community to best meet the needs of children with atypical developmental needs. Par cipants will explore various

ac vi es that promote areas of development such as fine motor, gross motor, language, and emo onal development.

Handouts will be provided and photos will be encouraged.

Presented by Marjorie Cole: Marjorie has extensive experience in the early childcare field. In addi on to her work with

KDS in early interven on, Marjorie is involved in many early learning ini a ves, is an early learning instructor for Bow

Valley College and Red Deer College, and consults with Crea ve Childcare Consul ng. Marjorie is also a recent board

member to the Interna onal Play Associa on ‐ Canada. Marjorie loves to be involved in work that is valuable to the

way children learn and that recognizes the value of play in their lives.

8. Playful Acquisi on of Fundamental Literacy

This interac ve session (lecture and discussion) demonstrates purposeful, playful incorpora on of elementary

language and literacy skills development within the inclusive early learning space. The five fundamental skills of

language/literacy (vocabulary, phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, and comprehension) are presented, along

with current, prac cal, research‐based ac vi es for immediate classroom use to enhance playful literacy acquisi on

for young learners.

Presented by Nancy Espetveidt & Sue Christensen: Nancy taught kindergarten for 10 years before earning her

Master’s Degree specializing in Leadership in Language and Literacy. She now enjoys guiding future early childhood

educators in her role as an instructor at Bow Valley College. Sue is an SLP with over 30 years of experience in

educa on, community health and private prac ce. Sue has worked extensively with FNMI students with specific focus

on language/literacy.

9. Meal me Struggles to Meal me Success

Join a die an to learn how to create a posi ve meal me environment, introduce new foods, and cope with meal me

struggles. You will leave with prac cal ideas for your child care se ng, and ps and resources to share with colleagues

and families.

Presented by Theresa Reige & Louise Seguin: Theresa and Louise are Public Health Die ans with Alberta Health

Services. They are passionate about promo ng healthy ea ng environments in ELCC, to help raise healthy kids


CONFERENCE RATES

Last day to register is April 19, 2019

Register by February 28, 2019 to receive early bird rates

Leader’s Day (April 26) AECEA Professional Member Rate $100

Leader’s Day (April 26) Non‐Member Rate $150

Leader’s Day (April 26) Student Rate $80

Early Bird Rate Regular Rate

Essen al Pieces Conference (April 27) AECEA Professional

Member Rate

$165 $195

Essen al Pieces Conference (April 27) Non‐Member Rate $215 $245

Essen al Pieces Conference (April 27) Student Rate $80 $80

Registra on

Complete registra on online at h ps://aecea.ca/essen al‐pieces‐conference‐2019.

Each session has a capacity limit, so register early to avoid disappointment.

Once payments are processed a receipt will be issued and EMAILED to the PAYEE. Please

ensure current email informa on is included when registering.

Registra on is transferrable if you cannot a end, however you must contact the AECEA

office to do so prior to April 19, 2019—transfers will not be completed a er April 19.

Authorized credit card payments only.

AECEA Associate Members do not qualify for the discounted conference rate. To purchase

an AECEA Professional Membership, go to h ps://aecea.ca/membership/webform/

professional‐or‐student‐membership.

Contact [email protected] with any ques ons you may have or to transfer a registra on.

Student’s Day (April 25) $30


Venue and Parking Map

h p://www.mtroyal.ca/AboutMountRoyal/Transporta onParking/ParkingMaps/


Cancella on Refund Policy

All cancella on requests must be received by April 12th, 2019 to receive a par al refund.

No refunds will be made for requests received a er April 12th, 2019. Refunds are subject to a

50% cancella on fee. Refunds will be issued in the same form payment was made. Please allow

up to four weeks for processing.

Photo/Video Disclaimer

Photos and/or videos recording of the conference and par cipants may be used for future con‐

ference promo onal materials. Media presence at the conference is expected. Par cipants

should be aware that their images may be recorded for media broadcast purposes.

For out of town guests:

Grey Eagle Hotel and Casino

3777 Grey Eagle Drive, Calgary, Alberta T3E 3X8

For Rates & Reserva ons call: (403) 385‐3777

Vendors and Non Profit Available in the

Main hall


A conference of this magnitude and caliber does not happen without the hard work of a group of

dedicated volunteers. The Associa on of Early Childhood Educators of Alberta would like to thank

all the following volunteers:

Katelyn Hamilton—MRU Child Care Centre

Jessica MacKay—Calgary and Region Family Day Homes

Maria Valen —MRU Child Care Centre

Tami Vick— Student Care

Nicole Homick—Families Ma ers

Amanda Rice—Lead Founda on

Jody Galasso—Child Care Licensing

Susan Garrow‐Oliver—MRU Faculty

Ryan Sabourin—School Age Care Directors Associa on of Alberta

Sandra Pallister—Davar Child Care Society

Cheryl Kinzel—Bow Valley College

Ronni Candelora—MRU Child Care Centre

Student’s day

Xiaoli (Lily) Zhang—MRU Student

Humaira Hydari—MRU Student

Yordanos (Jordan) Bariagabir—MRU Student

Morgan Bird—MRU Student

SPECIAL THANK YOU TO:

The Mount Royal University Child Care Centre

The Mu art Founda on

BVC & MRU student volunteers


Our Sponsors

Documents

ESSENTIAL PIECES CONFERENCE · Essenal Pieces Conference, April 27 AECEA Member registra on opens on January 30, 2019 Public registra on opens on February 6, 2019 1 9 Mount Royal