Creating a Positive Work Environment (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

Learn about the early childhood Work Environment and some related tools and ideas for creating or maintaining a positive, and productive organization climate. Identify the impact of the work environment in the broader early childhood program; link leadership actions to the various dimensions of a positive and productive environment; and develop awareness of specific policies…

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Choosing Early Childhood Curriculum: An Overview and Discussion (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

In this interactive session, participants will discuss the nature of curriculum and will explore the essential elements of a high quality early childhood curriculum. Strategies and considerations for selecting a curriculum will be presented. Throughout the session, participants will have opportunities to ‘meet’ various early childhood curricula and discuss the strengths and opportunities each presents.…

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Challenges in Feeding Young Children in Child Care (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

An estimated 25% of typically developing young children and up to 35% of children with neurodevelopmental disabilities experience feeding problems such as poor feeding because of organic causes or highly selective food behaviors. Problems with feeding may lead to significant negative nutritional, developmental and psychological issues such as failure to thrive, impaired parent/child interaction and…

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Authentic Observation (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

In this interactive, two hour session participants will be introduced to child observation and the tools of objective observation. Participants will discuss the rationale for child observation, will practice observation techniques and will discuss ways in which to use observation information to individualize care and learning environments.

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The Biological Impacts of Homelessness (06/18/24 - 07/11/24)

When a child experiences homelessness it effects their brain and emotional development. This series based course will explore key aspects of healthy emotional development including establishing secure attachments and the impact of homelessness. We’ll look at what research tells us about supporting emotional development and secure attachments in children who have experienced homelessness.

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Assessment: Deepening Your Practice (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

Explore a variety of methods of creating interactive assessment documentation such as portfolios and Learning Stories. Utilize assessment documentation to increase child engagement and learning. Examine methods for actively engaging families in the assessment and goal setting process.

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Assessment: An Overview (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

Consider the importance of using assessment in early childhood settings. Explore the steps of the authentic assessment cycle and how to embed them in your practice. Compare the ideas discussed with the best practice recommendations from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).

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Active Supervision: What Else is in the Home (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

Meets the Family Child Care provider annual supervision training requirement. This training curriculum will assist participants to assess and outline possible hazards throughout the entire home; act on and eliminate hazards using suggested resolutions and resources for additional information; learn to identify “hot spots” in the home; and develop a plan for regular review of…

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Active Supervision: School-Age Children (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

Meets the Family Child Care provider annual supervision training requirement. This training curriculum focuses on the supervision of school-age children in a mixed age group setting. The training will identify factors in the environment that affect supervision: identify and evaluate how activities may increase supervision of school-age children; and discuss how relationships may affect supervision,…

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Active Supervision: Provider Self-care and Privacy (06/16/24 - 09/30/24)

Meets the Family Child Care provider annual supervision training requirement. This training curriculum will define MN DHS Rule 2 Licensing standards and best practices regarding supervision in family child care settings; identify the effects of provider stress/depression on supervision of and interaction with children; and identify appropriate self-care and privacy strategies that promote effective supervision…

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