Events
Hands-On Events That Inspire Professional Growth
Discovery Professional Learning is driven by the passion to deliver professional development experiences for early learning professionals that enhance the inspiring work they do.
We have six core values that anchor the work we do; curiosity, reflection, collaboration, emergent practice, sustainability, joy.
Not only do we deliver these values through our in-person and virtual training programs, Discovery Professional Learning also holds curated events where we provide inspiring, Nature-Based, comprehensive professional development opportunities for all levels of educators, executives and program administrators.
Check out some of our upcoming, and past, events
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On Solid Ground Autism Services
Outdoor Playground ConsultationProviding a tailored outdoor playground consultation. This project focuses on creating a safe, inclusive, and engaging outdoor space that supports sensory integration, motor development, and meaningful play experiences for children on the autism spectrum. Our approach prioritizes accessibility, therapeutic value, and natural play elements to meet the unique needs of the children and staff.
Two Pre-recorded Webinars
CDRCP- Building a Values-Driven Recruitment and Retention Strategy - 2 Part series.
- Values-Led Staffing: Purposeful Recruitment and Retention for a Mission-Driven Culture
In these pre-recorded webinars, participants will delve into values-led staffing practices that align recruitment and retention efforts with a mission-driven culture. Attendees will learn how to implement purposeful strategies to attract individuals who share the organization's values, fostering a committed and engaged workforce that supports long-term success and organizational goals. All participants will be provided a reflection guide and leaders guide to support their success.
Pedagogical Consultation
Borden Family Resource CentreDiscovery Professional Learning is offering specialized pedagogical consultation services tailored to Borden Family Resource Centre’s leadership. These services aim to support and enhance the team's pedagogical approaches and practices within licensed childcare settings. Through personalized consultations, Discovery Professional Learning collaborates with BFRC to foster effective communication strategies, implement innovative systems and structures, and cultivate a strong workplace morale. By leveraging expertise and evidence- based practices, we will empower the team to optimize their educational impact and ensure positive outcomes for children, families, and educators.
Building the Foundations: The Role of Educators in Play-Based Learning
IN PERSON 7:00 - 8:30 PMCDRCP
Struggling to balance meaningful play with managing behaviors? This session will help you create a play-based learning environment that feels purposeful and engaging—without feeling overwhelmed. Learn how to use observation and thoughtful environment design to guide behavior, support curiosity while meeting learning goals, and effectively document children's growth. Walk away with practical strategies to foster rich, child-led play while maintaining balance and intention in your teaching.
Reframing Risk in Early Learning: Fire, Tools, and Ropes in Child Care
IN-PERSON 7:00 - 8:30 PMCDRCP
This session explores the benefits of introducing managed risks in early childhood settings through the use of fire, tools, and ropes. Participants will gain insights into how these elements can support children's development, resilience, and problem-solving skills, while also learning strategies for ensuring safety and fostering responsible risk-taking.
“How can I be a leader while being a supervisor” VIRTUAL Series
District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration Board This three-part series is for early childhood leaders. We will explore how to lead from our values and intentions and the role this plays in cultivating workplace culture. We will use HDLH and pedagogical principles to explore professional values and address burnout. Learn practical strategies to nurture a community of deep pedagogical practice. Discover how to define pedagogy and align it with your values to guide your work effectively.System Wide Professional Learning Day
District of Parry Sound Social Services Administration BoardWe are thrilled to be leading both the keynote and breakout session for an inspiring Professional Learning Day in partnership with the District of Parry Sound.
This full-day event is designed to align with Ontario’s Pedagogical Framework and support educators in deepening their connection to meaningful, values-driven practice. Morning Keynote: Cultivating Pedagogical and Passionate Cultures – How Pedagogy Can (re)Ignite Our Spark. This interactive keynote blends storytelling and theory to explore how personal values and pedagogical purpose fuel passion and innovation in early learning settings.
Afternoon Breakout Session: Embracing Our Roles – A Reflective Journey in Play, Equity, and Truth and Reconciliation. This hands-on session invites educators to reflect on their unique roles in fostering inclusive environments and supporting Truth and Reconciliation through play-based learning. Participants will engage in interactive stations and collaborative reflection, leaving with new insights and tools to guide their practice. Together, these sessions offer a powerful opportunity to inspire, connect, and reimagine the future of early learning.
--- PAST EVENTS ---
We were pleased to host these events and seminars over the last several years.Growing Wild: A FREE 1 hour Masterclass to Embracing Nature-Based Education
7:00-8:00pm EST (Virtual)Feeling Overwhelmed? Stuck Indoors? Struggling with Engagement & Behavior? ...You’re not alone. Many educators feel drained by increasing demands, challenging behaviors, and the struggle to keep children engaged in a world of screens and structured schedules. But what if the solution wasn’t more worksheets or stricter routines—but more nature?Research shows that nature-based education reduces burnout, improves focus and behavior, and enhances well-being for both educators and children. Imagine fewer power struggles, fewer restless learners, and more curiosity, joy, and connection. This free webinar will show you exactly how to integrate outdoor learning into your practice—without extra prep, expensive materials, or pushback from administrators. Learn simple, effective ways to bring the benefits of nature into your teaching while still meeting curriculum requirements and regulations.
Building the Foundations: The Role of Educators in Play-Based Learning
6:30-8:00pm (Virtual) | Dufferin CountyStruggling to balance meaningful play with managing behaviors? This session will help you create a play-based learning environment that feels purposeful and engaging—without feeling overwhelmed. Learn how to use observation and thoughtful environment design to guide behavior, support curiosity while meeting learning goals, and effectively document children's growth. Walk away with practical strategies to foster rich, child-led play while maintaining balance and intention in your teaching.
Environments that Provoke Wonder, Joy, and Awe Part 1
Chatham-KentThis two-part series will explore the crucial aspects of creating a responsive learning environment regardless of location and budget. We’ll explore the many factors that contribute to fostering engagement among children. We’ll explore various educational philosophies and understand how to align our practice with what children and educators deserve. We will envision desired spaces and how this can promote the values of HDLH. We will dig deeper into the practical implementation of environmental design. We’ll explore strategies for adapting environments to meet diverse needs and budgets, emphasizing creativity and resourcefulness. Participants will refine their understanding of engaging children and optimizing learning spaces through interactive discussions and hands-on activities. We’ll address challenges and share insights, empowering educators to create environments that foster growth, collaboration, wonder, and awe.
Strengthening Revenue and Enrollment through Vision-Driven Marketing: Defining YourNiche and Living Your Values
CDRCPThis session will explore how child care organizations can strengthen revenue and enrollment by leveraging vision-driven marketing strategies that define their unique niche and authentically reflect their core values. Participants will gain insights into aligning marketing efforts with organizational vision to attract the right audience and create lasting connections. Through practical examples and strategic guidance, attendees will learn how to craft compelling messages that resonate with prospective families and stakeholders, while building a reputation that supports sustainable growth and community engagement.
Environments that Provoke Wonder, Joy, and Awe Part 1
Chatham-KentThis two-part series will explore the crucial aspects of creating a responsive learning environment regardless of location and budget. We’ll explore the many factors that contribute to fostering engagement among children. We’ll explore various educational philosophies and understand how to align our practice with what children and educators deserve. We will envision desired spaces and how this can promote the values of HDLH. We will dig deeper into the practical implementation of environmental design. We’ll explore strategies for adapting environments to meet diverse needs and budgets, emphasizing creativity and resourcefulness. Participants will refine their understanding of engaging children and optimizing learning spaces through interactive discussions and hands-on activities. We’ll address challenges and share insights, empowering educators to create environments that foster growth, collaboration, wonder, and awe.
Building a Values-Driven Recruitment and Retention Strategy - 2 Part Series
CDRCPSession 2: Values-Led Staffing: Purposeful Recruitment and Retention for a Mission-Driven
Culture
In the second session of this series, participants will delve into values-led staffing practices that align recruitment and retention efforts with a mission-driven culture. Attendees will learn how to implement purposeful strategies to attract individuals who share the organization's values, fostering a committed and engaged workforce that supports long-term success and organizational goals.
Building a Values-Driven Recruitment and Retention Strategy - 2 Part Series
CDRCPSession 1: Aligning Vision and Values for Lasting Impact on Recruitment and Retention
In this first session of the two-part series, participants will explore how aligning organizational vision and values can create a strong foundation for successful recruitment and retention strategies. Through practical insights and discussion, attendees will learn how to attract and retain top talent by fostering a workplace culture that reflects their core values and supports long-term employee engagement.
Tilt towards Connection
Borden Family Resource CentreA virtual series that has fostered connection, purpose, and relationships within the child care team at Borden Family Resource Centre. Through online virtual modules and in-person gatherings that "tilt towards connection," we have co-constructed meaning from our experiences and brought the community together around a shared, larger mission. This series is intended to support the organization’s morale, relationships, communication, and to springboard 2025’s strategic priorities.
Tilt towards Connection
Borden Family Resource CentreA virtual series that has fostered connection, purpose, and relationships within the child care team at Borden Family Resource Centre. Through online virtual modules and in-person gatherings that "tilt towards connection," we have co-constructed meaning from our experiences and brought the community together around a shared, larger mission. This series is intended to support the organization’s morale, relationships, communication, and to springboard 2025’s strategic priorities.
Evaluating Budgets Based on Auspice
CDRCPParticipants will be introduced to budgeting for licensed child care in commercial centres. We will discuss Key Financial Metrics and Budgeting Components and Address Challenges in For-Profit Child Care Budgeting. This presentation is designed to cover the critical aspects of budgeting in a for-profit child care program while allowing for participant engagement and practical application.
Two Day Conference
Early Childhood Development Association (ECDA) of PEIDiscovery Professional Learning will present an engaging keynote on “A Pedagogy of Hope” aimed to illuminate the transformative power of cultivating a pedagogy of hope in early childhood educational settings. Grounded in the belief that education is not merely about imparting knowledge but nurturing resilient spirits, the keynote delves into strategies for fostering hope amidst adversity. Drawing on interdisciplinary research and practical insights, it explores how educators can instill optimism, resilience, and a growth mindset in learners, and themselves. By embracing inclusivity, empathy, and innovative teaching methods, participants will discover how to create supportive learning environments that inspire hope and empower children, families, and colleagues to navigate challenges with courage and determination. This keynote will draw on the inspirational 50-year history of the ECDA to highlight how we can “stand on the shoulders of giants” to propel early education further in PEI. Through this keynote, we will inspire those to embark on a journey of educational enlightenment and empowerment.
Karen Eilersen and Jessica Holder will present the following interactive, hands-on, breakout sessions as part of the professional learning days:
- Reigniting the Spark in Pedagogical Leadership
- The Six Pillars of Being a Nature-Based Educator in any Environment
- Eliminating the Sentence in Child Care: “You can’t do that with children”…How We Offer Fire, Tools, and Ropes in Early Learning Settings.
- Operating from a Place of Values: Making Business Decisions That Align With Your Ethos
We Are Stronger Together Conference
Simcoe CountyAt the We Are Stronger Together conference, Discovery Professional Learning facilitated a reflective breakout session for educators, exploring their roles in fostering equity and advancing Truth and Reconciliation through play and intentional practice. Participants engaged in interactive stations to uncover their unique gifts, examine the purpose of their work, and reflect on the role of play in promoting inclusion and belonging. The session culminated in a collaborative creative project, leaving a lasting artifact to inspire continued dialogue and growth in equity and decolonizing practices within the community.
Revenues and Expenses
CDRCPIn this session, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of revenues and expenses, learning how to effectively analyze them and their critical role in financial management. Through practical insights and examples, attendees will develop the skills needed to interpret financial data, make informed decisions, and apply best practices in managing their organization's finances. This session is designed to enhance financial literacy and support strategic planning for sustainable growth.
Outdoor Professional Learning Day
Sunshine Children’s CentreDiscovery Professional Learning will facilitate a full-day outdoor conference at Discovery Childcare Centre that will provide educators/leaders inspiration and an understanding as to how our pedagogical values and our personal “why” are the roadmap to reigniting our professional and personal spark. We will provide an interplay of theory and practice that is relevant to those working in all early learning contexts within your specific context and landscape. These ideas will be relevant and meaningful to act as a springboard for cultivating individuals to feel a sense of value and well-being.
Karen Eilersen and Jessica Holder will present the following interactive, hands-on, breakout sessions as part of the professional learning day:
- The Why/How/What of Nature-Based Learning
- Rituals and Routines that Grow a Connection to Place (Exploring Nature Art and the Core Routines for Nature Connection)
- We Are All Leaders…Now What? How to Foster a Culture of Deep Pedagogical Practice.
Dufferin Early Learning Symposium
Dufferin CountyAt the Dufferin Early Learning Symposium, Discovery Professional Learning facilitated a reflective session for 250 educators, focusing on equity, Truth and Reconciliation, and the transformative power of play. Participants explored their unique contributions to the field, reflected on the purpose of their work, and examined how play fosters inclusion and belonging. Through interactive stations and a collaborative creative project, educators left with deeper insights and tangible artifacts to inspire ongoing equity-focused dialogue and decolonizing practices within their communities.
Branching Out Conference
Simcoe County. Georgian College (Orillia Campus)Discovery Professional Learning facilitated a full day conference for 150 ECE students, educators, and leaders from across Simcoe County. The day focused on Outdoor Pedagogy, Truth and Reconciliation, and Mentorship, with further connections to How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years. Participants engaged in professional experiences that cultivated relationships, community, and belonging. The event highlighted how mentorship can be supported through pedagogical and leadership practices, offering relevant insights for professionals at all stages of their careers, from students to directors.The conference emphasized co-learning and contributed to advancing the goal of “growing the number of qualified staff in the early years and child care workforce to increase access to high-quality licensed child care for families” (County of Simcoe, CCW 2022-020, Schedule 1).
Cultivating Pedagogical and Passionate Cultures Series
Early Childhood Development Association (ECDA) of PEIThis engaging virtual professional learning series focused on cultivating pedagogical and passionate cultures within early learning and care settings. This series aims to empower educators with the knowledge, strategies, and tools necessary to create vibrant, intentional, and pedagogical learning environments that foster both effective teaching practices and a genuine passion for learning among children and educators. Through interactive sessions, participants will explore various aspects of pedagogy, values-driven practices, child engagement, and teacher well-being, all aimed at creating a culture of pedagogical thinking and enthusiasm in education.
Dates:
- Wed. September 18, 2024
- Wed. October 9, 2024
- Wed. October 23, 2024
- Wed. November 13, 2024
- Wed. November 27, 2024
- Wed. December 4, 2024
How Can I be a leader while being a supervisor?
CDRCP-Peel RegionThis three-part series is for early childhood leaders. We will explore how to lead from our values and intentions and the role this plays in cultivating workplace culture. We will use HDLH and pedagogical principles to explore professional values and address burnout. Learn practical strategies to nurture a community of deep pedagogical practice. Discover how to define pedagogy and align it with your values to guide your work effectively.
Environments that Provoke Wonder, Joy, and Awe
CDRCP-Peel RegionThis two-part series will explore the crucial aspects of creating a responsive learning environment regardless of location and budget. We’ll explore the many factors that contribute to fostering engagement among children. We’ll explore various educational philosophies and understand how to align our practice with what children and educators deserve. We will envision desired spaces and how this can promote the values of HDLH. We will dig deeper into the practical implementation of environmental design. We’ll explore strategies for adapting environments to meet diverse needs and budgets, emphasizing creativity and resourcefulness. Participants will refine their understanding of engaging children and optimizing learning spaces through interactive discussions and hands-on activities. We’ll address challenges and share insights, empowering educators to create environments that foster growth, collaboration, wonder, and awe.
Virtual Communities of Practice
Dufferin CountyDiscovery Professional Learning fosters the values, skills and dispositions of mentorship through a virtual meeting place for educators to gather and share ideas. This virtual space cultivates a sense of belonging and community amongst all educators in Chatham-Kent. It responds to the desire of feeling like we are a part of a bigger mission and community that is responsive to the needs of our time and context. Educators will engage in topics meaningful and important such as diversity, equity, and inclusion and create critical spaces for thought.
Virtual Meeting Dates:
- June 20, 2024
- October 3, 2024
- November 14, 2024
Understanding Professional Friendships and Communities of Practice
Dufferin CountyUsing the research from Dr. Diane Kashin we will help you find easy, attainable solutions to burnout, low morale, and feeling overwhelmed that will contribute to a community of belonging, well-being, engagement and expression. These sessions will be filled with networking, interactive learning, and opportunities where we will explore the ways we can build a community of mentorship, communities of practice, and practice. What does it mean to be a professional friend and why is it important? This workshop is relevant to educators and leaders who are struggling to find ways to create a cohesive community within any early childhood setting. If you feel overwhelmed and burnt out, these ideas will help you find new strategies to support reflective practice and bring belonging, well-being, engagement and expression into each and every day.
April 2024 Cohort: Nature-Based Educator Course
OnlineOPEN TO THE PUBLIC
This 12 month, fully online course is designed to provide participants with the theory, skills, and practicum opportunities to be equipped with the necessary skills to safely operate a Nature-Based program in many early learning settings.
The components of this course include:
- Online, learn at your own pace modules
- Research-based assignments
- Hands-on practicum requirements
- Real-time feedback from facilitators on all course components and assignments
What is Pedagogy and Pedagogical Documentation?
Borden Family Resource CentreA comprehensive half-day professional learning session tailored for Borden Family Resource Services focusing on "What is Pedagogy and Pedagogical Documentation?" This session delves into the core concepts of pedagogy, exploring its theoretical underpinnings and practical applications within early childhood education. This session will provide insights into pedagogical approaches that foster optimal learning experiences for children. Moreover, the session equips attendees with strategies for effective pedagogical documentation, empowering them to observe, assess, and reflect on children's learning journeys. Through interactive discussions and hands-on activities, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of pedagogy's role in nurturing children's development and promoting meaningful learning experiences.
Pedagogical Consultation
Andrew Fleck Children’s Services Home Child Care Consultant Leadership TeamDiscovery Professional Learning is offering specialized pedagogical consultation services tailored to the Andrew Fleck Children's Services Home Child Care Consultant Team. These services aim to support and enhance the team's pedagogical approaches and practices within licensed home-based childcare settings. Through personalized consultations, Discovery Professional Learning collaborates with Andrew Fleck Children's Services to foster effective communication strategies, implement innovative systems and structures, and cultivate a strong workplace morale. By leveraging expertise and evidence-based practices, we will empower the team to optimize their educational impact and ensure positive outcomes for children, families, and educators.
Diving into Communities of Practice
Chatham-KentUsing the research from Dr. Diane Kashin we will help you find easy, attainable solutions to burnout, low morale, and feeling overwhelmed that will contribute to a community of belonging, well-being, engagement and expression. These sessions will be filled with networking, interactive learning, and opportunities where we will explore the ways we can build a community of mentorship, communities of practice, and practice. What does it mean to be a professional friend and why is it important? This workshop is relevant to educators and leaders who are struggling to find ways to create a cohesive community within any early childhood setting. If you feel overwhelmed and burnt out, these ideas will help you find new strategies to support reflective practice and bring belonging, well-being, engagement and expression into each and every day.
January 2024 Cohort: Nature-Based Educator Course
OnlineOPEN TO THE PUBLIC
This 12 month, fully online course is designed to provide participants with the theory, skills, and practicum opportunities to be equipped with the necessary skills to safely operate a Nature-Based program in many early learning settings.
The components of this course include:
- Online, learn at your own pace modules
- Research-based assignments
- Hands-on practicum requirements
- Real-time feedback from facilitators on all course components and assignments
Mentorship Communities of Practice
County of Chatham-KentDiscovery Professional Learning fosters the values, skills and dispositions of mentorship through a virtual meeting place for educators to gather and share ideas. This virtual space cultivates a sense of belonging and community amongst all educators in Chatham-Kent. It responds to the desires of feeling like we are a part of a bigger mission and community that is responsive to the needs of our time and context. Educators will engage in topics meaningful and important such as diversity, equity, and inclusion and create critical spaces for thought.
Tilt Toward Connection
Andrew Fleck Children’s Services, Home Child Care Consultant Team (Ottawa)A virtual series that has cultivated connection, purpose, and relationships for the EarlyON community with Andrew Fleck Children’s Services. We have used online virtual modules and Zoom gatherings that “tilts towards connection” to co-construct meaning in our experiences and connect the community to a bigger mission.
NOVEMBER COHORT: Nature-Based Educator Course
OnlineOPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
This 12 month, fully online course is designed to provide participants with the theory, skills, and practicum opportunities to be equipped with the necessary skills to safely operate a Nature-Based program in many early learning settings.
The components of this course include:
- Online, learn at your own pace modules
- Research-based assignments
- Hands-on practicum requirements
- Real-time feedback from facilitators on all course components and assignments
System-Wide Professional Learning Days
The Early Childhood Development Association (ECDA) of Prince Edward IslandKeynote: Cultivating pedagogical and passionate cultures. How pedagogy can (re)ignite our spark.
An interactive and engaging keynote presented by two facilitators: Karen Eilersen (RECE, Forest School Practitioner, Director Discovery Child Care, Co-founder Discovery professional learning) and Jessica Holder (RECE, BSc, Forest School Practitioner, Pedagogical Leader Discovery Child Care, Co-founder Discovery Professional learning.)
This keynote will include a powerpoint presentation and an interactive storytelling approach that will provide educators inspiration and an understanding as to how our pedagogical values and our personal why is the roadmap to reigniting our professional and personal spark. We will provide an interplay of theory and practice that is relevant to those working in all early learning contexts within your specific context and landscape. These ideas will be relevant and meaningful to act as a springboard for cultivating individuals to feel a sense of value and well-being.
Breakout #1 (Facilitated by Jessica Holder)
The lessons we learn from pedagogy. How can we lead with pedagogy in all that we do?
Breakout #2 (Facilitated by Karen Eilersen)
How transforming our cultures can impact how we ALL experience workplace well-being and support recruitment and retention.
Breakout #3 (Facilitated by Karen Eilersen):
Connecting with outdoor play and its relationship to resilience for adults and children.
Breakout #4 (Facilitated by: Jessica Holder)
We are all leaders…now what? How to foster well-being in a world of overload
SEPTEMBER COHORT: Nature-Based Educator Course
OnlineOPEN TO THE PUBLIC.
This 12 month, fully online course is designed to provide participants with the theory, skills, and practicum opportunities to be equipped with the necessary skills to safely operate a Nature-Based program in many early learning settings.
The components of this course include:
- Online, learn at your own pace modules
- Research-based assignments
- Hands-on practicum requirements
- Real-time feedback from facilitators on all course components and assignments
Full Professional Learning Day
Andrew Fleck Children’s Services- In-person Professional Learning Day with keynotes, breakout sessions, and documentation studies.
- This day will provide educators with opportunities to deepen their understanding of Pedagogy, the processes of pedagogical documentation, The values of “How does learning happen?”, play based and inquiry based learning, and the role of the child, educator, environment, and materials.
Pedagogical Consultation
County of St.Thomas-Elgin- As pedagogical consultants we will use protocols and leadership prompts to guide the group conversations to the desired outcomes, and support the project lead to translate this into a clear vision of mentorship for 2023 and beyond.
- Our research based pedagogical consulting will support the project lead, “To work collaboratively with Children’s Services, the Discovery/Advisory group and child care organizations. They will build and nurture effective and collaborative networks and relationships with communities of practice, colleagues, and stakeholders to organize focus groups, gather data, develop resources, and lead collective learning communities towards the development of a strategic mentoring plan.” (Spriggs, 2023).
Virtual Communities of Practice
County of Lambton & Chatham-Kent- Discovery Professional Learning will use this space to foster the values, skills and dispositions of mentorship through a virtual meeting place for educators to gather and share ideas. This virtual community of practice is accessible 24/7 to all educators to ask questions and share ideas.
- A place to reconceptualize what it means to be in a community of practice. This virtual space cultivates a sense of belonging and community amongst all educators in Sarnia-Lambton and Chatham-Kent. It responds to the desires of feeling like we are a part of a bigger mission and community that is responsive to the needs of our time and context. It allows us to engage in topics meaningful and important such as diversity, equity, and inclusion and create critical spaces for thought.
Deepening Pedagogical Practices Series
Simcoe Childcare Services, Innisfil-
In person and virtual professional development series for all educators and leaders at Simcoe Childcare Services with a specific focus on growing pedagogical skills and understanding how our values impact our work.
This series is intended to grow a shared and deepened understanding of:
- What is Pedagogy? & Processes of pedagogical documentation,
- Exploring Values Driven work & Values of HDLH
- Exploring Image our image of the child (and play)
- Exploring role of the educator, environment & materials
System wide PL day AM and PM Breakout sessions
County of Chatham-Kent- Our Interactive breakout sessions will allow educators to understand the “why” of nature based pedagogy and the connection it has to educators and children's mental health and resiliency.
- We will create a space for educators to connect these ideas to their programs and How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s pedagogy for the early years. We will create supporting opportunities to make connections to personal and professional values and the ways this can derive new meaning in their work, their personal well-being and belonging.
- Topics will include:
- Igniting the Spark for Nature Based Learning. Understanding the why, how, and what of getting outside…Regardless of your location, budget and resources and,
- Using environmental education to save and heal the planet. How to create an inclusive and sustainable program with children from infants to school age.
How can I be a leader while being a supervisor? - Series
The Early Childhood Development Association (ECDA) of Prince Edward Island-
Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of virtual learning encounters. We will examine the paradigms and discourses that contribute to our beliefs around leadership in the early learning sector. Through this cyclical model participants will have the opportunity to reflect, discuss, challenge and practice new skills.
Topics will include:
- Leading From Values and Intention and Cultivating Culture,
- Understanding Accountability and Compliance through the lens of Pedagogy,
- Deepening our understanding of Pedagogical Leadership.
How can I be a leader while being a supervisor? Series
County of Lambton & Chatham-Kent- Participants will have the opportunity to engage in a variety of virtual learning encounters through a social constructivist lens. We will examine the paradigms and discourses that contribute to our beliefs around leadership in the early learning sector. We will think alongside leaders, examine new perspectives, and reflect on our aspirations in Early Years Programs.
- Through this cyclical model participants will have the opportunity to reflect, discuss, challenge and practice new skills.
- Topics will include:
- Leading From Values and Intention
- Cultivating Culture
- Understanding accountability and Compliance
- Pedagogical Leadership
Deepening Pedagogical Practices Series
Andrew Fleck Children’s ServicesThis series is intended to grow a shared and deepened understanding of:
- Pedagogy,
- Processes of pedagogical documentation,
- The values of “How does learning happen?”
- Play based and inquiry based learning
- The role of the child, educator, environment, and materials.
How does learning happen 101 series
County of Lambton & Chatham-Kent- A virtual series for educators and leaders to reorient themselves with the values of HDLH and consider the ways that this can be (re)woven into our practice.
- This will create a co-constructed space for early learning to understand the foundations of the pedagogical framework and how it can derive meaning and belonging in their day to day practice as a new or second career educator.
- This series will help leaders in their pursuits of training and supporting educators with the values of HDLH.
Virtual Professional Learning 2023 Kick Start Event
County of Lambton & Chatham-Kent- Virtual professional learning event to cultivate relationships, community, and belonging. This event is intended to share the values and desires of the professional learning work of the 2023 year within the County of Lambton and Chatham-Kent. We will weave in values of mentorship into the event.
- Creating spaces to understand our role in the bigger mission of professional learning and creating more livable futures through early learning professional learning encounters.
Professional Learning Day: Cultivating a culture of wellness. How do the values of HDLH and nature based education support a thriving and sustainable society?
District of Thunder Bay- System wide professional Learning day. How do the values of nature based education support a thriving and sustainable society?
- Keynote session will allow educators to understand the “why” of nature based pedagogy and the connection it has to educators and children's mental health and resiliency.
- We will create a space for educators to connect these ideas to their programs and How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s pedagogy for the early years.
- Two interactive breakout sessions that will overview: Connecting with outdoor play and its relationship to resilience for adults and children and we are all leaders…now what? How to foster well-being in a world of overload.
Outdoor Winter Conference
Simcoe County-
An in person full day conference for educators to think about the skills and dispositions of mentorship.
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This full day will consist of key-notes about the power of mentorship, small group facilitated breakout sessions, and small group hands-on experiences for educators to think about mentorship in new ways.
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This day will connect educators together and connect themselves to the ideas and values of Nature Based education.
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This work will be sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
Play-Based & Emergent Curriculum
Simcoe County-
A community of new educators engaging in thinking with play based and emergent pedagogies. Creating a space to understand the short and long term possibilities for their work in the field. Creating allyship with other new educators and creating a space for educators to learn and cultivate an understanding of their identity as an educator. This entry level offering will support people new to the field or those transitioning from other careers and will support leaders in their orientation practices.
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This work will be sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
Reigniting the Spark in Pedagogical Leadership
Simcoe County-
Creating spaces for educators working in a leadership capacity or aspiring leaders looking to enhance their pedagogical sensibilities. Using critical reflection to reignite the spark in ourselves so we can lend that to others. Creating conditions for participants to generate new ways of working with meaningful pedagogies that respond to our context and derive new meaning in their work.
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This work will be sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
Tilt Toward Connection
Andrew Fleck Children’s Services, EarlyON (Ottawa)- A virtual series that has cultivated connection, purpose, and relationships for the EarlyON community with Andrew Fleck Children’s Services. We have used online virtual modules and Zoom gatherings that “tilts towards connection” to co-construct meaning in our experiences and connect the community to a bigger mission.
Making Meaning of Mentorship Conference
Simcoe County-
An in person full day conference for educators to think about the skills and dispositions of mentorship.
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This full day consisted of key-notes about the power of mentorship, small group facilitated breakout sessions, and small group hands-on experiences for educators to think about mentorship in new ways.
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This work was sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
Ongoing Mentorship Communities of Practice
Dufferin County- Discovery Professional Learning has used this space to foster the values, skills and dispositions of mentorship through a virtual meeting place for educators to gather and share ideas. This virtual community of practice is accessible 24/7 to all educators to ask questions and share ideas.
- A place to reconceptualize what it means to be in a community of practice. This virtual space cultivates a sense of belonging and community amongst all educators in Dufferin County. It responds to the desires of feeling like we are a part of a bigger mission and community that is responsive to the needs of our time and context. It has allowed us to engage in topics meaningful and important such as diversity, equity, and inclusion and create critical spaces for thought.
- This work will be sponsored by Dufferin County as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
Image of the Child/Image of the Educator Modules
Dufferin County-
Educators across Dufferin County have registered and completed learn at your own pace modules that provide opportunities for critical thinking, reflection, and generating new practices that align with the goals and desires outlined in How Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the early years.
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This work was sponsored by Dufferin County as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
Bringing Program Statements to life and Rethinking Annual Reviews
Simcoe County-
A virtual series that had 2 online learn at your own pace modules and two virtual Zoom sessions.
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A co-constructed space for leaders to reconsider the systems and structures we use to cultivate engagement and belonging in early learning programs. What could new structures and systems look like that cultivate a sense of community and belonging through our program’s guiding documents?
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Supported leaders to navigate ways to co-construct their center’s Program Statement with their team.
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Supported leaders to navigate ways to breathe life into their foundational documents in new and innovative ways.
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Supported leaders in understanding the values and bigger mission that anchors their work and the ways to anchor their systems in a values driven approach.
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This work was sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
Ongoing Mentorship Communities of Practice
Simcoe County-
Discovery Professional Learning is facilitating virtual communities of practice for ECE students, New grads, multi-gen educators, growing leaders, and pedagogical leaders within Simcoe County.
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Discovery professional learning is using a virtual platform to cultivate mentorship relationships amongst the community so that we have stable and sustainable conditions for all.
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These spaces are accessible 24/7 for educators to login and connect with others, build relationships, and a sense of community within this context.
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This work will be sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
How Does Learning REALLY Happen?
Simcoe County-
A virtual series provided for educators in Simcoe County to reflect upon emergent curriculum, their image of the child, image of the educator, critically examining space, and ethical pedagogy.
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This series had five online learn at your own pace modules and ten virtual Zoom sessions that allowed educators to think critically together about their pedagogical practices and set intentions to mobilize new desires into their work.
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This work was sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
How Can I Be a Leader while Being a Supervisor? (Leadership Series)
Simcoe County-
A virtual series to support educators and leaders to grow values driven leadership and mentorship skills and dispositions.
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This series covered the topics of: Leading from a place of vision and values, our collective roles in cultivating culture, thinking critically about accountability and compliance, and understanding the personal journey of pedagogical leadership.
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This virtual series consisted of four online learn at your own pace modules and eight virtual gatherings. These spaces allowed for educators to take theory and reflect with their practice, generate new protocols and practices to support a thriving pedagogical culture, and grow their mentorship skills and dispositions.
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This work was sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
How Does Learning Happen 101
Simcoe County-
A virtual series provided for new educators across Simcoe County to reflect deeply about Ontario’s Pedagogy for the early years: How Does Learning Happen?
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This series had 5 readings and 5 virtual gatherings where educators could gain comfortability, passion, and excitement with this guiding pedagogical framework. This series gestured us towards seeing the ways in which this values driven document can guide us in living well together.
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This work was sponsored by the County of Simcoe as part of the Workforce Mentorship Strategic Funding.
CNCP Annual Conference: Connecting with Outdoor Play and It’s Relationship with Resilience for Adults and Children
Community Network of Child Care Programs-Greater Toronto Area- Two hour in-person breakout session presented for their annual conference for 250-300 educators working in the Greater Toronto Area. Our breakout session will be a part of their larger goals of resilience and mental health for children and educators.
- Our focus will be on the ways that outdoor play connects to How Does Learning Happen? and connects to supporting children with moving through stress and developing resiliency.
Studying Environments - In collaboration with Ellen Brown
Bayview Glen Independent School (Greater Toronto Area)- In collaboration with Ellen Brown we presented a virtual study tour and examination of our Nature-Based values, ethos, and environment. We created a virtual presentation for educators to examine alternative ways that we can co-create environments with children.
My Role In Cultivating An Ecological Identity
Community Network of Child Care Programs- Greater Toronto AreaThe Why/How/What of Nature Based Pedagogy
EarlyON Simcoe County- To cultivate a sense of confidence, competence and community among early childhood leaders in order to effectively lead a team of educators and maintain compliance within a licensed child care setting.
- Used online learning modules, virtual community of practice, thinking ally (mentoring pairs), and online discussion support groups. These groups were together on a seven-month journey to grow their skills specifically to Natured-Based Education.
Three Part Nature Based Series
Canada Wide: Play Outdoors Magazine- Three-part series focusing on Cultivating an Ecological Identity, Mud Kitchens, and Gardening with Children.
- These virtual, interactive workshops focused on the skills and dispositions necessary for intentional outdoor learning through storytelling, small group conversations and hands-on experiential opportunities. Participants explored what is meant by the values that drive Nature-Based pedagogy. We created conditions for educators to critically examine their spaces and consider adaptations using pedagogical tools and examine core routines for nature connection including rituals and routines that evoke Nature connection.
How Can I Be A Leader While Being A Supervisor?
Simcoe County- To cultivate a sense of confidence, competence and community among early childhood leaders in order to effectively lead a team of educators and maintain compliance within a licensed child care setting.
- Used online learning modules, virtual community of practice, thinking ally (mentoring pairs), and online discussion support groups. These groups are together on a seven-month journey to grow their leadership capacities.
How Does Learning Really Happen? How Do We Think About Learning
Simcoe County- Throughout the year, participants had the opportunity to engage in a variety of virtual learning encounters through a social constructivist lens. We examine theories, paradigms and discourses that exist within the Early Learning Sector. Through this work we held a strong image of educators that see themselves as optimistic critical thinkers.
- Comprised of online learning modules, virtual community critical dialogue, pedagogical documentation studies, and community fireside gatherings with community contributors (ie. An artist to visit our work on environments-offering in their perspectives to our work).
Skills and Dispositions for Intentional Outdoor Play
Simcoe County- Hybrid online community of practice with interactive modules and Zoom meetings to support educators in their pedagogical approaches to outdoor play and our roles in cultivating an ecological identity.
Navigating a Pandemic: Reimagining Our Programs in COVID Times
Discovery Child Care Staff- Month long in person training for Discovery Child Care educators to re-enter programs after a six-month closure.
- Reimagined organization with new values, pedagogical aspirations, and regulations.
Tilt Towards Connection: Our Experiences in COVID Times
Simcoe County- Online community of practice hosted for educators to engage in pedagogical ways of being.
- Supported professionals as they reimagined programs through the time of COVID.
Embracing the Wonders of Winter Conference (100 Educators)
Simcoe County- Hosted at Discovery Child Care Centre
- Full day conference outside connecting to HOW programs can flourish outside regardless of the weather
- Key Note address
- Engaging, hands on experiences for educators
The Wonder's of Fall Conference (100 Educators)
Simcoe County- Hosted at Discovery Child Care Centre
- Key Note Address
- Full day four-part interactive sessions
- Connection with our Local Barrie Native Friendship Centre
Joy of Childhood Conference (100 Educators)
York Region- Hosted at Discovery Child Care Centre
- Key Note Address
- Small-group interactive breakout sessions
