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Learn more about the 2025 Ignite! Early Childhood Champion Awards.
Visit our Read To Succeed Professional Development page here for all recorded webinars and trainings.
2025 Nashville Early Childhood Education Conference
The Ignite! Conference supports Early Childhood Educators with resources to enhance their understanding of child development and early education issues and help them provide rich, meaningful educational experiences for all children and families in their care.
Register for the virtual conference sessions from July 22-23.
Conference Sessions
The 2025 Ignite! Purpose and Intention Conference is packed with great learning opportunities. Expand the drop-downs to learn more about each presenter and their program/organization.
July 22
All sessions via zoom.
Session 1A: Vivacious Vocabulary for Little Learners
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Presenter: Dr. Rachel Peay Cornett, Assistant Director at Lipscomb University
Session Description: Join Dr. Rachel Peay Cornett for an engaging session on “Vivacious Vocabulary.” This presentation emphasizes the critical role vocabulary plays in literacy, comprehension, and overall academic success. The session begins with an exploration of vocabulary’s dual nature—receptive and expressive—and its significance in language development. Participants will learn about effective strategies for vocabulary instruction, such as activating prior knowledge, incorporating explicit and implicit teaching methods, and understanding the interconnectedness of vocabulary with reading comprehension. The presenters will share research-backed insights, including models such as Scarborough’s Reading Rope and the Simple View of Reading, to illustrate how vocabulary breadth and depth contribute to proficient reading. Attendees will engage in practical activities like word sort exercises and contextual learning, designed to foster a deeper understanding of vocabulary application in diverse subjects and grade levels. Moreover, the session will address common challenges educators face with vocabulary teaching and provide actionable recommendations for enhancing instruction. Participants will leave with a wealth of resources, including links to slides, instructional materials, and ongoing support to ensure that vocabulary instruction is both engaging and effective. This presentation aims to inspire educators to reflect on their vocabulary practices and implement small changes that yield significant outcomes in their students’ literacy journeys. Embrace the joy of vocabulary and learn how to make it a vibrant part of your classroom experience! Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Lipscomb University
Session 1B: Creating Meaningful Learning Experiences: The Kolb Cycle
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Presenter: Olga Koldej, Soft Skills Trainer, Business Coach, Consultant
Session Description: Unpack Kolb’s Learning Cycle! This hands-on session empowers educators to use experience-based learning. Discover how Experience, Reflective Observation, Conceptualization, and Active Experimentation boost development both in children and adults. You will explore how to create educational situations—moments where learning naturally occurs rather than being directly taught. Practical strategies to enhance learning, improve engagement, and create dynamic, experience-based lesson plans will be provided. Don’t miss this chance to elevate your teaching! Registration link.
Session 2A: All Day, Every Day: Effective Strategies for Embedding Social-Emotional Instruction Throughout the Day
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Presenters: Alexandria Boddie, Behavioral Consultant and Carolyn Bass, Program Director
Session Description: This session will provide participants with a brief overview of the Pyramid Model Framework and an opportunity to reflect on their current practices around building social-emotional skills with children in their care. Participants will also learn to identify key skills to build resiliencies for all children and provide effective strategies to implement the teaching of social-emotional skills throughout the day. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Ready. Set. Grow. TN Voices Early Childhood Program provides support for educators and caregivers. The program offers training, consultation services, and technical assistance. These services are available at no cost for early childhood centers, preschools, and elementary schools supporting children from birth to 8 years old across the state of Tennessee. Find them at https://tnvoices.org/programs/early-childhood/
Session 2B: Unlocking Potential: Using the Pyramid Model to Support Children with ADHD and Autism
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Presenter: Mandy McDermott, Training and Technical Assistance Coordinator
Session Description: Ready. Set. Grow! is here to support you as you navigate challenging behaviors, specifically with children who may have ADHD or Autism (ASD). Did you know that children with Autism are 10 times more likely to be suspended or expelled from school programs than their peers? In children with ADHD, we see that number jump up to 33 times more likely than their peers! This training will discuss how to take a needs-based approach to common behavioral challenges that can occur for children with ADHD or ASD. Our goal is to give educators and early childhood professionals tools to support the children in their care with practical strategies for preventing challenging behaviors, promoting positive ones, and responding to challenges when they occur. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Ready. Set. Grow, TN Voices Early Childhood Program provides support for educators and caregivers. The program offers training, consultation services, and technical assistance. These services are available at no cost for early childhood centers, preschools, and elementary schools supporting children from birth to 8 years old across the state of Tennessee. Find them at https://tnvoices.org/programs/early-childhood/.
Session 3A: How to Beat Burnout: Preventing Burnout in Early Childhood Education
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Presenter: Fiona Hoehn, M.Ed., Mental Health Training Coordinator
Session Description: This presentation will discuss the history and symptoms of workplace burnout, why burnout happens to educators, and how school and educational leadership can create an environment to prioritize well-being and reduce burnout in their employees. Some strategies to reduce employee burnout, such as self-care, coping skills, and organizational-level change, will be highlighted. This presentation will also encourage school leadership to advocate for systemic changes that support work-life balance and mental health for their employees. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Mental Health America of the MidSouth is an educational, non-profit organization providing vital resources to Middle and West Tennessee. Our goal is to provide the right help at the right time to individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Find them at https://mhamidsouth.org/.
Session 3B: Engaging Read-Alouds for Children Aged 0-3
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Presenters: Karen Bentall, Technical Lead of Literacy and Libraries
Session Description: This session will demonstrate how to build relationships with students through expressive read-alouds and provide examples of books to read for fun, community-building, and social/emotional learning. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Room to Read was founded in 2000 on the belief that World Change Starts with Educated Children®. Room to Read develops children’s foundational literacy skills, as well as life skills that promote gender equality. We nurture these essential skills in children by training and coaching educators, creating quality learning materials and spaces, strengthening education systems, and delivering programs directly and with partners – all while honoring the dignity of every child. Committed to accelerating learning outcomes for more children, more quickly, we have benefited more than 50 million children across 28 countries. Room to Read envisions a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality, where all children have room to read, learn, and grow. Visit us at www.roomtoread.org.
July 23
All sessions via zoom.
Session 4A: Let’s Get MNPS K-Ready!
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Presenters: Mariechelle Bonifacio, MNPS Early Learning Community Outreach Coordinator and Fanita Cameron, MNPS Pre-K Professional Development Coordinator
Session Description: Learn about the Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) kindergarten registration process and kindergarten readiness family resources that you can share with families you support. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Metro Nashville Public Schools – Early Learning Department, https://www.earlylearning.mnps.org.
Session 4B: A Functional Approach to “Problem Behavior” in Early Childhood
Time: 9:00 – 10:30 a.m.
Presenters: Claire Winchester, PhD, BCBA-D
Session Description: Challenging behavior is one of the most difficult parts of teaching young children—but every behavior tells us something. In this practical, supportive session, early childhood educators will learn how to look beneath the surface of problem behavior to understand what a child is trying to communicate. Participants will explore the basic functions of behavior and walk away with simple, classroom-friendly strategies for prevention and response. Grounded in social-emotional learning and behavior analytic principles, this session is designed to build confidence, reduce frustration, and support positive outcomes for all classrooms and all children. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Growth Early Childhood Behavior Coaching (www.growth-ecbc.com) is an organization dedicated to bridging the gap between research and reality in early childhood by providing collaborative, research-backed behavior support to families, teachers, service providers, and organizations.
Session 5A: Leading with Wellness: Overcoming the Four Os to Sustain Yourself and Your Leadership
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Presenter: Annie Paraison, Cultural Architect and Wellness Consultant
Session Description: Effective leadership requires more than strategy and vision—it demands sustainability. This session explores the Four Os—overworked, overwhelmed, overburdened, and overextended—and their impact on personal well-being and leadership effectiveness. Through interactive discussions and exercises, participants will reflect on their own experiences, develop awareness of how stress affects decision-making and team dynamics, and brainstorm self-care practices that support long-term leadership success. Together, we will shift from burnout culture to leadership practices rooted in balance, resilience, and holistic wellness. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Love Before ALL
Session 5B: HOPE: Healthy Outcomes from Positive Solutions
Time: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Presenters: Flor Abarca, Responsive Environment Coordinator, B.A., IECMH-E, and Sarah Judkins, Child Welfare Sector Coordinator, MSW
Session Description: Join us for practical guidance in implementing a strengths-based approach that identifies, celebrates, and promotes access to key Positive Childhood Experiences critical to the health and thriving of all children. We will review the research behind Positive Childhood Experiences, how that research led to the development of the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) Framework, and what individuals can do to create a village that prioritizes equitable access to the Four Building Blocks of HOPE to promote resilience for all children. Whether you’re a direct service provider, prevention partner, educator, or community organizer, come learn about how you can use the HOPE framework in the work you do to support the children and families in your community. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Association of Infant Mental Health (AIMHiTN) is dedicated to providing resources and education to professionals who work with children, prenatal to age 6. Our goal is to help support healthy relationships between children and their caregivers, promote positive interactions, and provide information about early childhood development that will help children thrive. Visit them at www.aimhitn.org/.
Session 6A: Restorative Family Relationships
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Presenter: Mychal Mills, Konscious Youth Development and Service Co-Founder
Session Description: This session explores how the principles of restorative practices can deepen connection, healing, and communication within families. Grounded in love, accountability, and empathy, we’ll reflect on the impact of trauma and disconnection—and uncover ways to restore trust, build emotional safety, and nurture intergenerational healing. Whether you’re an educator, caregiver, or community worker, this conversation invites us to reimagine family as a sacred space for transformation. Registration link.
Session 6B: : Utilizing the Strategies of Honeycomb Hypothesis in an Early Childhood Classroom
Time: 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.
Presenter: Michelle Wyatt, Ed.D., Site Director at The Acorn School, NSCC Adjunct Instructor
Session Description: This presentation explores the application of the Honeycomb Hypothesis to create a more integrated, engaging, and effective learning environment for young children through nature play. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: The Acorn School provides early childhood care and education to children ages six weeks to six years old. Open to children of Vanderbilt faculty, staff, and students, the Acorn School is operated by Vanderbilt University’s Child and Family Center and is licensed by the Tennessee Department of Education. https://www.vanderbilt.edu/acorn/.
July 24
Pre-conference session in-person at United Way of Greater Nashville.
Session 1: The Right Stuff for Effective Professional Development (PD): Strategies That Support Your Learners Being Able to Show What They Can Do
Registration
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m.
Location: UWGN Lobby
Session
Time: 9:00 a.m. – Noon
Location: UWGN Rooms 101/102/103
Presenter: Camille Catlett
Session Description: The responsibilities of faculty and PD providers seem to expand daily as expectations to address inclusion, culturally responsive practices, and individualizing for each child and family in their sessions mount. This presentation will highlight new and effective tools and strategies for integrating multiple new and evidence-based practices into existing courses and PD sessions. Participants will discover how to use personas to address both context and individual differences, along with resources that support multiple components, ranging from family engagement and inclusion to literacy and STEM. Registration link.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: The UNC Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) was founded in 1966 by a small group of scientists who had a vision—to conduct research that would make a difference in children’s lives, support families, and inform public policy. Since its inception, FPG has recognized that every child deserves a safe, healthy, and stimulating childhood. And for more than half a century, our work has been dedicated to making this experience a reality for all children. We continue that work today with the below strategy statements shaping and guiding us along the way.
July 25
All sessions in-person at Nashville State Community College.
Keynote
Time: 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.
Location: C-210
Presenters: Mary Jo Huff
Session Title: Storytelling, Songs, and Smiles: Tools for Transformative Teaching
Session Description: Join nationally recognized early childhood educator and storyteller Mary Jo Huff for an inspiring, laughter-filled session that brings learning to life through the magic of storytelling, music, and joyful connection. This keynote will explore how simple, engaging tools, songs, and a positive classroom atmosphere—can spark imagination, build language, and create meaningful relationships with young children. Through interactive demonstrations, Mary Jo will share how to:
- Use storytelling and puppetry to enhance comprehension, vocabulary, and listening skills.
- Incorporate songs and rhythm to support transitions, routines, and literacy concepts.
- Build a classroom culture of joy and connection, where children feel seen, heard, and ready to learn.
Rooted in brain-based research and decades of classroom experience, this session is packed with practical strategies you can use immediately, plus a few surprises from Mary Jo’s legendary story bag. Be ready to sing, move, laugh, and leave recharged with tools to teach from the heart.
Mary Jo Huff is a multi-award-winning teaching artist, author, storyteller, songwriter, and early childhood educator. She shares her passion and humor with audiences ranging from preschoolers and families to professional educators. With over 30 years of experience, Mary Jo connects language and literacy through stories, music, puppets, and props. Her educational workshops target standard-based curriculums, and she engages her audience in hands-on, easy-to-duplicate ideas. Puppets, props, and playful tales open the door for everyone interested in sharing a story. She can be contacted at maryjo@storytellin.com or Storytellin’ Time at http://www.storytellin.com.Session 1A: The Power in Our Collective Voice: Strategies for Effective Advocacy in Early Childhood Education
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: S-117
Moderator: Amy Gore, Policy and Research Director at ThinkTennessee
Session Description: Early childhood educators know that state and local policies, programs, and regulations have an immense impact on the work they do and the families they serve. Come discuss with our panel of experts how advocating together can help ensure state and local leaders understand the needs of early childhood education providers as well as the solutions that can allow us to grow and thrive! Panelists include: Micha Lynn Johnson, Early Embrace Project Director at Raphah Institute; Natalie Schilling, Policy and Advocacy Associate at AWAKE; Melanie Shinbaum, Executive Director at Nashville Early Education Coalition.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: ThinkTennessee is a nonpartisan, results-oriented think tank that uses research, engagement, and advocacy to build a state where all Tennesseans are civically engaged and economically secure. We believe our state does better when informed voters trust and participate in our democracy and workers can access good jobs, build wealth, and share in our robust economy.
Session 1B: Empowering Educators: Effective Strategies for Early Childhood Classrooms
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: S-208
Presenter: Janice Shelton, M.Ed, Instructional Coach
Session Description: In this session, I will explore strategies for strengthening classroom components such as schedules, routines, and small/whole groups that lead to a positive classroom environment. Participants will learn actionable steps to develop effective key practice, promote children’s engagement, and maintain expectations during transitions.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: St. Mary Villa
Session 1C: Math Tells a Story
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: S-113
Presenter: Marie Preptit, Program Coordinator- Bringing Books to Life!
Session Description: Math is not all about numbers! You can use fun books to teach many math concepts, including spatial skills, patterns, numbers, shapes, and more. We’ll share interesting and engaging lesson and activity ideas for infant/toddler through early elementary ages, as well as great math picture books you’ll want to add to your classroom.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Bringing Books to Life! – Nashville Public Library. BBTL inspires future readers by modeling joyful and intentional shared early literacy experiences to those who love and care for children.
Session 1D: Story & Puppet Play: Building Language and Literacy One Story at a Time
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: S-118
Presenters: Mary Jo Huff
Session Description: Light a fire in a child’s imagination using stories, puppets, music, and props. Find a natural way of sharing ideas that help children develop oral communication skills, auditory discrimination, listening, creativity, and visual discrimination. When a story comes to “THE END,” it should be the beginning of an expanded conversation, a continuation of the experience. This workshop will be EDUCATIONAL BRAIN FOOD for everyone.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Storytellin’ Time at https://www.storytellin.com.
Session 1E: HOPE: Healthy Outcomes from Positive Solutions
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: S-104
Presenter: Flor Abarca, Responsive Environment Coordinator, B.A., IECMH-E and Sarah Judkins, Child Welfare Sector Coordinator, MSW
Session Description: Join us for practical guidance in implementing a strengths-based approach that identifies, celebrates, and promotes access to key Positive Childhood Experiences critical to the health and thriving of all children. We will review the research behind Positive Childhood Experiences, how that research led to the development of the HOPE (Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences) Framework, and what individuals can do to create a village that prioritizes equitable access to the Four Building Blocks of HOPE to promote resilience for all children. Whether you’re a direct service provider, prevention partner, educator, or community organizer, come learn about how you can use the HOPE framework in the work you do to support the children and families in your community.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Association of Infant Mental Health (AIMHiTN).AIMHiTN is dedicated to providing resources and education to professionals who work with children, prenatal to age 6. Our goal is to help support healthy relationships between children and their caregivers, promote positive interactions, and provide information about early childhood development that will help children thrive. Find us at https://www.aimhitn.org/.
Session 1F: Glass Slipper Leadership: Transforming Culture, People, and Success
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: S-112
Presenter: DeeAnne Miree, Principal
Session Description: True leadership—whether in schools, classrooms, or organizations—is about transformation. Glass Slipper Leadership uses the beloved story of Cinderella to explore the power of transformational leadership and advocacy. Just as the Fairy Godmother turned pumpkins into carriages and overlooked talent into royalty, leaders, and educators have the ability to shape environments, elevate others, and create lasting change. This engaging session will unpack key leadership lessons from Cinderella: Transforming Culture: How Visionary Leadership Creates Opportunities, Transforming People: Identifying and nurturing hidden talents, Leadership Styles: The difference between authoritative and servant leadership, Leading with Love: Building relationships that inspire growth, Success Requires Struggle: The journey to the “glass slipper” moment. Through storytelling, practical strategies, and real-world applications, this session will equip attendees with the mindset and tools to lead with impact, heart, and resilience.
Session 1G: Building Bright Futures: Exploring the Early Childhood Education Program at Nashville State Community College
Time: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Location: S-116
Presenter: Jennifer Goncalves, M.S., IMH-E, CFLE, Associate Professor – Early Childhood Education, Nashville State Community College and Melissa Fleck, Associate Professor and Program Coordinator for the Early Childhood Degree Program, NSCC
Session Description: Join us for an engaging and informative session about the Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program at Nashville State Community College (NSCC). Designed for prospective students, current participants, alumni, and community stakeholders, this session will illuminate the benefits of earning a degree in Early Childhood Education and its potential to transform careers and lives. Attendees will learn about the program’s curriculum, discover opportunities for practical experience, and receive guidance in navigating the application process.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Nashville State Community College https://nscc.edu/ – Since 1970, Nashville State Community College has provided quality, affordable, and accessible higher education to Middle Tennessee. Today, Nashville State continues to prepare students for success with several campuses around the middle Tennessee area. Our supportive community is what makes us one of the best community colleges in Nashville and across Tennessee.
Session 2A: A Functional Approach to “Problem Behavior” in Early Childhood
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: S-118
Presenters: Claire Winchester, PhD, BCBA-D
Session Description: Challenging behavior is one of the most difficult parts of teaching young children—but every behavior tells us something. In this practical, supportive session, early childhood educators will learn how to look beneath the surface of problem behavior to understand what a child is trying to communicate. Participants will explore the basic functions of behavior and walk away with simple, classroom-friendly strategies for prevention and response. Grounded in social-emotional learning and behavior analytic principles, this session is designed to build confidence, reduce frustration, and support positive outcomes for all classrooms and all children.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Growth Early Childhood Behavior Coaching (www.growth-ecbc.com) is an organization dedicated to bridging the gap between research and reality in early childhood by providing collaborative, research-backed behavior support to families, teachers, service providers, and organizations.
Session 2B: Paths to Success - Establishment/Expansion Grants, Support & Enhancement Grant Facts, Maximizing Vendor Discounts
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: S-117
Presenter: Julia Clark, Northeast Regional Coordinator/Establishment & Expansion Grant Coordinator
Session Description: Together we will demystify the TDHS Grants and how you can best leverage Vendor Discounts to retain more revenue.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: CFMT/ChildcareTennessee
Session 2C: More Than Mud
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: S-104
Presenter: Jennifer Strange, Early Childhood Teacher and Darcia Witherspoon, Early Childhood Teacher
Session Description: In this session, we will discuss the common arguments revolving around muddy play and how we can approach each activity from start to clean-up and each family’s comfort level through all the age groups. We will discuss the negative stigma mud play has with teachers and parents and how we can make it a norm. We will dive into mud to create art and investigate your own relationship with mud play. Messy play provides children with an exciting tactile and sensory experience that inspires their curiosity. Mud an decrease behaviors, regulate development, and nurture cognitive development within every age. We will explore how as adults we can foster and create opportunities for children to foster their development and It allows them to explore the world around them and enhances learning by creating intentional play. You will learn how to set up mud kitchens to be accessible for all children using different materials.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Vanderbilt University Acorn School
Session 2D: Literacy in the Classroom
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: S-113
Presenters: Krissi Carr
Session Description: This literacy training will provide educators with effective strategies and activities to enhance student engagement before, during, and after reading. It will highlight exemplary book series, demonstrate the use of anchor charts to support comprehension, and explore questions that foster critical thinking and meaningful connections. Additionally, the session will cover best practices for incorporating literacy centers and response-to-literature activities into the classroom.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Elite Education Preschool/ Elite Education, founded by two former kindergarten teachers, offers a custom-designed curriculum that builds readiness and confidence for kindergarten. Their structured program supports children ages 2-6, gradually building knowledge for a smooth transition from preschool. A specialized Kindergarten Bootcamp each summer further prepares students for success in the fall.
Session 2E: Building a Strong Foundation: Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: S-116
Presenters: Mandy Royston, AIMHiTN
Session Description: Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health (IECMH) refers to the emotional, social, and cognitive development of children from birth to age five. This presentation explores the critical role of early relationships, responsive caregiving, and secure attachments in shaping brain development and lifelong mental health. Professionals will explore how early experiences shape the brain’s architecture and emotional regulation, discuss the importance of caregivers, early attachment, and responsive interactions, and learn practical approaches to foster well-being in young children.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: https://www.aimhitn.org/
Session 2F: : Get on Track With Your Staff
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: S-112
Presenter: Lisa Maddox-Vinson
Session Description: Getting on track with staff is crucial, and consistent one-on-one meetings between leaders and employees are essential for fostering effective communication, trust, and engagement. These dedicated interactions enable employees to share updates, raise concerns, and seek guidance, while allowing leaders to provide feedback, clarify goals, and align priorities. Join the ride as we learn ways to enhance staff engagement.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance www.tecta.info
Session 2G: Mobilizing for Tennessee’s Kids: ECE Edition
Time: 1:00 – 2:00 p.m.
Location: S-208
Presenters: Katie Growden, State Manager with Save the Children Action Network
Session Description: Have you felt the need to make a difference for the ECE community but didn’t know how? Save the Children Action Network can help! Join this interactive session to:
▪ Break down some complicated government terms and processes and how they impact your work;
▪ Talk about policies that affect children and families;
▪ Build your personal advocacy skillset;
▪ Take action to protect programs like Head Start and SNAP; and
▪ Network with like-minded community members
Information about Org: Save the Children Action Network (SCAN) was created in 2014 as the political advocacy arm of Save the Children, to be the political voice for kids. We work across the United States to ensure that the issues critical to children’s lives and futures are given top priority by our elected leaders, building bipartisan support to make sure every child has a strong start in life. In addition to our federal work, we helped secure nearly $800 million in state level investments (across 10 states) to expand early learning programs and ensure American children have enough to eat. In 2022, we met with U.S. lawmakers more than 250 TIMES & GENERATED 840,000 messages urging them to invest in children in the U.S. and worldwide. We provide the training and the connection to decision makers to help you use your voice for the children and families you serve.
Session 3A: Empowering Families and Communities: Financial Literacy for Long-Term Success
Time: 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: S-208
Presenters: Mary Williamson
Session Description: This session is designed for early childhood educators, community leaders, and families to promote financial well-being within families and strengthen community engagement. Using effective learning practices, participants will explore hands-on strategies to improve financial stability, foster positive money habits in young children, and create supportive financial education programs for families.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Northwestern Mutual – improving lives through financial security northwesternmutual.com
Session 3B: Meaningful Connections: Building Strong Family Engagement
Time: 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: S-117
Presenter: Robbie Belew, Program Manager, Curricula Concepts
Session Description: When families and educators work together, children thrive. Family engagement isn’t just about sending home flyers or planning occasional events—it’s about building real connections that create a sense of partnership and trust. But with busy schedules, diverse family backgrounds, and communication barriers, how do we make that happen in a way that feels natural and impactful? In this session, we’ll explore what true family engagement looks like and why it’s a game-changer for early childhood programs. We’ll talk about effective strategies that encourage open communication, strengthen relationships, and make families feel like valued partners in their child’s learning journey. A key part of this conversation will be the Café Model Approach—a powerful way to bring families together in small, meaningful group settings that encourage reflection, conversation, and peer support. By creating welcoming spaces where families can share their experiences and learn from one another, programs can deepen trust and build stronger community connections. From small, everyday interactions to bigger program-wide initiatives, you’ll walk away with practical tools that fit into your work without adding more to your plate.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Curricula Concepts equips parents, educators, and community leaders with tools to foster positive relationships and support young children’s development. By blending evidence-based strategies with practical resources, they help families and professionals create nurturing, balanced environments for children to thrive. Their innovative training programs inspire caregivers to build meaningful connections and promote lifelong learning.
Website: https://curriculaconcepts.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/curriculaconcepts/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curriculaconcepts/?hl=en
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@curriculaconcepts4830
Session 3C: The Play to Learn Curriculum: Supporting Development Through Meaningful Play
Time: 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: S-118
Presenter: Claire Winchester, PhD, BCBA-D
Session Description: Play isn’t just fun—it’s how young children learn best. This interactive session will explore how early childhood educators can support communication, social-emotional skills, and cognitive development through purposeful, engaging play. Participants will learn practical strategies to recognize rich play moments, join children’s play without taking over, and use simple techniques to scaffold learning in inclusive settings. Whether you’re new to play-based learning or looking to deepen your practice, this session will leave you inspired and equipped to make play a powerful part of every day.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Growth Early Childhood Behavior Coaching (www.growth-ecbc.com) is an organization dedicated to bridging the gap between research and reality in early childhood by providing collaborative, research-backed behavior support to families, teachers, service providers, and organizations.
Session 3D: Leading with Wellness: Overcoming the Four Os to Sustain Yourself and Your Leadership
Time: 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: S-104
Presenters: Annie Paraison, Cultural Architect and Wellness Consultant
Session Description: Effective leadership requires more than strategy and vision—it demands sustainability. This session explores the Four Os—overworked, overwhelmed, overburdened, and overextended—and their impact on personal well-being and leadership effectiveness. Through interactive discussions and exercises, participants will reflect on their own experiences, develop awareness of how stress affects decision-making and team dynamics, and brainstorm self-care practices that support long-term leadership success. Together, we will shift from burnout culture to leadership practices rooted in balance, resilience, and holistic wellness.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Love Before ALL
Session 3E: Reframe, Respond, Reinforce! Essential Pyramid Model Practices for Responding to Challenging Behavior
Time: 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: S-113
Presenters: Gracie Stubbs, M.A. Early Childhood Program Manager – Middle/East TN
Session Description: In this session, we will discuss the importance of addressing behavior from a supportive stance and strength-based lens. We will define behavior form and function, and identify practical strategies in responding to challenging behavior in the moment, along with ways to reinforce positive behaviors in the future.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: TN Voices – TN Voices is a mental health non-profit based out of Goodlettsville TN serving the lifespan and building hope for all generations.
Session 3F: Utilizing the Strategies of the Honeycomb Hypothesis in an Early Childhood Classroom
Time: 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: S-116
Presenters: Michelle Wyatt, Ed.D., Site Director at The Acorn School, NSCC Adjunct Instructor
Session Description: This presentation explores the application of the Honeycomb Hypothesis to create a more integrated, engaging, and effective learning environment for young children through nature play.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: The Acorn School provides early childhood care and education to children ages six weeks to six years old. Open to children of Vanderbilt faculty, staff and students, the Acorn School is operated by Vanderbilt University’s Child and Family Center and is licensed by the Tennessee Department of Education. Find it at https://www.vanderbilt.edu/acorn/.
Session 3G: Building Positive Relationships with Colleagues
Time: 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
Location: S-112
Presenter: Angie Turner, Early Childhood Classroom Consultant
Session Description: This training will discuss the practices of the universal supports tier of the Pyramid Model Framework including the importance of colleague relationships, ways to make connections with colleagues, team approaches, kindness, encouragement, feedback, and staff celebrations.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: TN Voices – Ready. Set. Grow! Early Childhood – TN Voices Early Childhood Program offers supports for educators and caregivers of young children 0-8 years old in TN at no-cost. Available services include training, technical assistance, behavioral intervention*, family support services*, and consultation. Additional services* are available in select counties through the TN Resiliency Project-Program.
Session 4A: Rest, Refuel, Recharge
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: S-117
Presenter: Haley Dunlap, Be Well Care Well Arkansas Program Manager
Session Description: Are you feeling stressed and overwhelmed? When was the last time you truly recharged? Are you looking for ways to increase staff well-being and decrease burnout? We have got your answers right here! This is a fun, interactive session where we will examine our current stress levels and identify small, manageable action steps to start improving our overall well-being right away!
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Be Well Care Well equips employers with practical solutions to create thriving work environments that benefit both their childcare providers and the children they serve. Our strategies promote positive change in overall well-being across 8 dimensions of wellness, lowering stress, reducing burnout, increasing job satisfaction, and promoting sustained professional fulfillment. We’re passionate about helping you create a lasting culture of well-being in the workplace through consulting, well-being retreats, coaching and training fit specifically to the workplace and staff.
Website: bewellcarewell.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bewellcarewell/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bewell.carewell.1
Session 4B: Social Emotional Learning for Educators
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: S-104
Presenters: Natalie Looney, Erase the Stigma Youth Program Coordinator
Session Description: The training provides information on social emotional learning specifically for educators and caregiver professionals. The goal is to assist in the development of self-advocacy skills to effectively support youth, colleagues, and leadership. Additionally the training addresses strategies for integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) to enhance implementation with youth and cultivate self-awareness and social awareness strategies to foster a positive work culture and climate. The training aims to assist professionals to identify and understand individual emotional intelligence to strengthen teamwork and collaboration. Lastly, the training aims to discuss ways to build a cohesive, inclusive work environment by fostering collaboration across all roles.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Mental Health America of the Midsouth at https://mhamidsouth.org/.
Session 4B: Social Emotional Learning for Educators
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: S-104
Presenters: Natalie Looney, Erase the Stigma Youth Program Coordinator
Session Description: The training provides information on social emotional learning specifically for educators and caregiver professionals. The goal is to assist in the development of self-advocacy skills to effectively support youth, colleagues, and leadership. Additionally the training addresses strategies for integrating Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) to enhance implementation with youth and cultivate self-awareness and social awareness strategies to foster a positive work culture and climate. The training aims to assist professionals to identify and understand individual emotional intelligence to strengthen teamwork and collaboration. Lastly, the training aims to discuss ways to build a cohesive, inclusive work environment by fostering collaboration across all roles.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Mental Health America of the Midsouth at https://mhamidsouth.org/
Session 4C: Engaging Read-Alouds for Children Aged 0-5
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: S-118
Presenter: Karen Bentall, Technical Lead of Literacy and Libraries
Session Description: This session will demonstrate how to build relationships with students through expressive read-alouds and provide examples of books to read for fun, community-building, and social/emotional learning.
• Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Room to Read was founded in 2000 on the belief that World Change Starts with Educated Children®. Room to Read develops children’s foundational literacy skills, as well as life skills that promote gender equality. We nurture these essential skills in children by training and coaching educators, creating quality learning materials and spaces, strengthening education systems, and delivering programs directly and with partners – all while honoring the dignity of every child. Committed to accelerating learning outcomes for more children, more quickly, we have benefited more than 50 million children across 28 countries. Room to Read envisions a world free from illiteracy and gender inequality, where all children have room to read, learn, and grow. Visit us at www.roomtoread.org.
Session 4D: Building a Compassionate Community: Skills for Compassion, Communication, and Collaboration
Location: S-113
Presenter: Annie Paraison and Kathleen Seabolt
Session Description: Creating a compassionate community within early childhood education requires shared understanding, strong communication, and innovative problem-solving. This interactive session will guide participants in defining key terms, developing self-awareness, and practicing skills like cognitive empathy, reflective listening, and creative negotiation. Through engaging activities and discussions, attendees will explore multiple perspectives—those of children, families, teachers, and administrators—to foster more inclusive, respectful, and connected learning environments.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Love Before ALL exists to usher in transformative change by emphasizing leadership that is deeply rooted in holistic wellness and justice. We believe that true leadership goes beyond the boardroom, reaching into the realms of personal well-being and societal harmony. True leadership prioritizes relationship. Website: https://www.lovebeforeall.com.
Session 4E: From Chaos to Clarity: The Role of Visuals in Supporting Children
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: S-116
Presenters: Charlie Dugger, M.Ed, ECMH-E
Session Description: This training will provide early educators with practical, research-based strategies to support children with developmental disabilities through the use of choice boards, visual schedules, emotion charts, and more. By incorporating these tools, educators can foster communication, reduce anxiety, and promote independence in classroom routines and social interactions. The session will emphasize how visual supports help children understand expectations, express their needs, and regulate emotions more effectively. Participants will leave with concrete examples and ready-to-use resources that can be immediately implemented, empowering them to create structured, innovative environments that enhance learning, growth, and connection.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: AIMHiTN at https://www.aimhitn.org/
Session 4F: Empowering Early Childhood Educators Through Higher Education
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: S-208
Presenters: Jen Tedder, Director of Child Care WAGE$ TN and Rhonda Laird, Associate Director at TECTA
Session Description: This session will explore the critical role higher education plays in strengthening early learning environments, improving outcomes for children, and supporting long-term career growth for educators. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of how an educated staff contributes to program quality and stability, and how leaders can foster a culture of continuous learning to retain skilled professionals. The session will also provide practical tools and up-to-date resources to help educators take the next step toward earning college credits in the field of early childhood education. Whether you’re a teacher looking to grow or a leader striving to support your team, this session will equip you with practical strategies to invest in education.
Information on presenter(s) organization/business/program: Child Care WAGE$ Tennessee promotes high-quality learning environments by reducing turnover, addressing the low pay of educators, and rewarding them for their higher education (tnwages.org) The Tennessee Early Childhood Alliance (TECTA) is a statewide system established to provide affordable professional development with academic degree credit possibilities for Tennessee’s early childhood education personnel. (https://www.tecta.info)
Session 4G: The ABCs of Behavior Management
Time: 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: S-112
Presenter: Elizabeth McMellon, M.S., BCBA, LBA
Session Description: Learn how to simplify your approach to common classroom behaviors in order to restore peace and fun learning. This presentation will introduce some principles of Applied Behavior Analysis to create a toolbox to prevent behaviors using proactive strategies that encourage lasting learning and change.
Key Autism Services provides expert ABA therapy with highly trained Board Certified Behavior Analysts, offering compassionate, flexible care at home, in clinics, schools, and communities to support each family’s unique needs. Find them at https://www.keyautismservices.com/.
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