Learning Centre
CMAS Tutorial: What is Executive Function?
For many of us, executive function sounds like a really abstract term that might not hold much meaning. But executive function is actually an incredibly practical, useful and important set of skills that children start to develop in the early years.
In this tutorial, we’ll help you to understand what executive function is, and why it’s important. We’ll also share some resources and ideas for how we can support the development of executive function for the children in our programs.
At the end of the tutorial, you’ll also find resources, references, a facilitator guide and added group discussion questions so that you can easily facilitate your own team training.
CMAS Tutorial: Creativity and the Educator
When you think about the word “creativity” what comes to mind for you? For many of us, we automatically think about a painting, drama or storytelling, or maybe a song and dance. But creative expression isn’t about the product or end result… it’s all about the creative process and journey. Whenever we use and develop our imaginations, originality, and problem-solving skills during everyday life – that’s creativity!
In this tutorial, we’ll talk about why creativity is so important in the early years. We’ll also try to get everyone thinking outside the box a little bit, by talking about creativity… and how it isn’t just about art! Then we’ll share some ideas and inspiration for encouraging and fostering creativity in our programs! At the end of the tutorial, you’ll also find resources, references, a facilitator guide and added group discussion questions so that you can easily facilitate your own team training.
WEBINAR: The Honeycomb Hypothesis: A Fresh Perspective on how Infants, Toddlers, and Two’s Learn
https://www.earlychildhoodwebinars.com/webinars/the-honeycomb-hypothesis-a-fresh-perspective-on-how-infants-toddlers-and-twos-learn/?utm_source=Early+Childhood+Investigations+Consultant+Directory+Email&utm_campaign=cce542e69c-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2019_01_28_04_40_COPY_01&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_354244258a-cce542e69c-391489965Online Virtual Learning Professional Development
As we look to the future, online virtual professional development is an obvious and effective choice for early childhood educators. Kodo has a variety of free and fee-based online learning opportunities for your CNC team to explore!WEBINAR SERIES! Modelling Flexible Ideas About Gender in an Early Childhood Setting
We come from different families. We come from different cultures. We grew up in different decades. We each have our own individual experiences. We probably all see and experience gender in a slightly different way. Gender “refers to the attitudes, feelings, and behaviors that a given culture associates with a person’s biological sex” (American Psychological Association). CMAS is pleased to present an opportunity for CNC staff to learn more about Modelling Flexible Ideas About Gender in an Early Childhood Setting.
This two-part webinar series hosted by Kirsten Freed, an early childhood educator at Mosaic in Winnipeg, includes information about gender and child development, and centres around the ideal of creating the best possible environment for nurturing the social and emotional development of children of all genders. Watch Part 1 and Part 2.
CMAS Tutorial: Activity Planning for Mixed-Age Groups
Some CNC programs choose to use mixed-age grouping to allow for flexibility or accommodate families when there is limited space and/or staffing. But it also means that staff need to plan with a wider age group in mind… so a child-centred approach can be especially important! In this tutorial, we’ll talk about the benefits, challenges, and important considerations to keep in mind when planning activities for children of different ages. Participants will go back to their programs feeling more confident, with new strategies and promising practice. At the end of the tutorial, you’ll also find resources, references, a facilitator guide and added group discussion questions so that you can easily facilitate your own team training.
Webinar Series – Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action
Reconciliation and Indigenous Pedagogies in Early Learning and Child Care: Part 1 – Walking Together in Reconciliation
Webinar length: 60 minutes
Publish Date: February 2021
CMAS is pleased to present an opportunity for CNC staff to learn about Canada’s Indigenous peoples’ history, knowledge and pedagogies while engaging in reconciliation. For this three-part webinar series, Elder Brenda Mason and Lori Huston, RECE, will join us to share Indigenous knowledge and stories from their perspectives, teachings and lived experiences.
In part 1 of this three-part series, we discuss the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action, including two recommendations that are specifically related to the early learning sector: new Indigenous Education legislation and culturally appropriate Indigenous programs. This webinar and associated article support a deepening of our understanding of what it means to honour the knowledge and skills Indigenous children and families.
Reconciliation and Indigenous Pedagogies in Early Learning and Child Care: Part 2 – Awakening and Coming to Know Indigenous Pedagogies in Early Learning
Webinar length: 63 minutes
Publish Date: February 2021
Indigenous knowledge is a knowledge system that is different from Eurocentric knowledge – it is closely tied to space. In part two of this webinar series and associated article, Elder Brenda Mason and Lori Huston, RECE we share teaching and learning processes that are holistic and narrative-based.
CMAS Tutorial: What is the Difference Between Emergent Curriculum and Child-Centred Programming?
The terms “child-centred programming” and “emergent curriculum” are often used interchangeably. But have you ever found yourself wondering what emergent curriculum means? Or maybe you wonder how a child-centred program is different from an emergent curriculum? Our newest tutorial provides a quick overview of child-centred programming and emergent curriculum, help in understanding your role as a facilitator of children’s learning, and some tips for expanding on children’s interests. At the end of the tutorial, you’ll also find resources, references, a Facilitator Guide and Questions for Personal Reflection/Group Discussion so that you can easily facilitate your own team training.
Podcast: Working with Children with Developmental Delays and Autism
In this podcast, HiMama chats with Dr. Cara Goodwin about the different ways educators and parents can not only support children with developmental delays and autism but how to recognize the signs early. Dr. Goodwin mentions that early intervention is the most effective thing we can do to help children reach their highest potential, and why it’s important to take action quickly to help support these children!