In this training, participants will explore the essential building blocks of a successful ECE program, focusing on relationships, professionalism, and a culture of openness and support. They will learn how to cultivate trust among staff, families, and children while setting clear expectations and fostering collaboration. The training will emphasize the importance of a shared vision, ethical decision-making, and strategies to create an inclusive and nurturing environment. Participants will reflect on their roles as educators and leaders in shaping the foundational values of their program.

Throughout my twelve years dedicated to working directly with children with disabilities or those who are neurodivergent and their families, I’ve acquired a multitude of invaluable lessons. These lessons have served as guiding lights, steering me forward when I felt the inclination to turn left, right, backward, or even succumb to the force of gravity in frustration. This training offers a personal glimpse into my journey as a teacher within and beyond inclusive settings. Participants can expect to gain insight into the core of my commitment to inclusion, which permeates my roles as an author, researcher, professor, and father.

While the term “family-centered services” is widely recognized in the profession, I’ve come to realize over the years that it falls short when aiming to cultivate authentic relationships with families. The issue lies in how family-centered services often depict families as a distinct entity detached from the classroom. The undeniable reality, however, is that children are perpetually connected with their families, and conversely. In this training, we explore the concept of a “child in the context of family-centered services,” emphasizing the significance of this subtle mindset shift. Participants will gain access to new tools and resources designed to foster environments where teachers can establish meaningful connections with every family, working collaboratively to provide the optimal care and education for each child.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act have expanded rights for individuals with disabilities. They guarantee access to education. They also break down societal barriers. Despite their positive impact, these laws do not inherently foster belonging or compassion. They serve more as temporary measures to alleviate exclusion. They do not address the root causes of exclusion. This training underscores the importance of these legal frameworks and advocates for a compassionate approach to drive societal change towards genuine inclusion beyond policy reliance.

Keeping good directors, assistant directors, teachers, teaching assistants, and support staff can be tough for many programs. If these folks aren’t around, the program can’t keep going—it’s like a ship without a captain and crew. Some private programs might not accept kids with disabilities because they say they don’t have enough resources. Many people believe the main issues are employee compensation or how skilled they are. There is truth to this belief. However, this training will show that those things are just symptoms of a bigger problem: not having strong leaders. In this training, you’ll learn about five forms of leadership. These forms not only keep programs afloat but also help them move forward on the mission toward the vision. You will also get tools and tips to make leadership better in your school or program

This training draws from a rich blend of contemplative wisdom, neuroscience, and emotional intelligence to help educators cultivate inner stillness amidst the demands of the classroom. This interactive session explores how mindfulness, self-awareness, and presence can transform daily challenges into opportunities for calm. Through guided meditation and reflective practices, participants will learn to regulate emotions, foster resilience, and create a more peaceful learning environment. Rooted in the understanding that calm teachers create calm classrooms, this training offers practical tools to nurture both personal well-being and the social-emotional growth of young children