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Are you using WhatsApp to connect with families?
Many CNC programs have been using WhatsApp to connect with newcomer parents and children throughout the pandemic. No matter what virtual platform you're using, it's important to use the technology responsibly and understand best practices when it comes to safety and security. Here's a helpful article on how to use WhatsApp responsibly.
Are you using Zoom to connect with children and families?
COVID-19 is forcing everyone to change how they function, and CNC is no exception. If your program is using Zoom to offer online sessions for families during the pandemic, here are two articles with some tips and tricks that might help: How to use Zoom as an early childhood educator and How to Do Zoom Sessions for Little Tiny Squirmy Kids
Multilingual stories for children
StoryWeaver and Reads have lovely digital collections of multilingual stories for you to share!
Six Key Elements of Meaningful Play
Play supports the development of the whole child, including cognitive, social, physical, and emotional skills. So it's important to actively protect and encourage playtime for children - and to understand the key elements that can help you better foster quality play.
A Case for Self-Care
Caregivers need down time to re-energize, refuel and regroup. In this article, experts share suggestions and ideas for making self-care part of your usual routine - so that you can be better rested and ready to support the children in your care!
Using Psychological First Aid to Support Children During the Pandemic
Many of the children we work with will be affected by the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 in some way, so we can anticipate many young ones will need additional support during these times. Psychological First Aid is something that non-mental health clinicians can use when mental health practitioners may not be available. PFA is not therapy. It is a system that focuses on providing a supportive and compassionate presence during and immediately following stressful events.
Multicultural and Social Justice Children’s Book Lists
Teaching for Change has more than 60 carefully selected lists full of multicultural and social justice books for children and educators.
Webinar: Diversity & Inclusion In Early Childhood
This webinar offers activity suggestions, books, songs, and practical tips to create a diverse and inclusive early years classroom. Participants will discuss race, gender and ability, the importance of knowing personal biases and promoting inclusion, as well as how to include parents in the conversation!
Feeling anxious? These tips from two mental health experts might help
As many of you have made or are about to make the transition back into the CNC program, you may be experiencing stress or anxiety. Here are some tips and strategies to help you “find your calm” so that you're able to keep supporting the children in your care.
CMAS Webinar: The Importance of Play in Challenging Times
The transition back to CNC after pandemic closures can be stressful for everyone, and for some, it’s hard to imagine how to plan play-based learning and still meet provincial directives. In this webinar, CMAS consultant Jackie Cunningham provides CNC staff with 10 tips for keeping the focus on play during these challenging times, activity ideas to try, and a simple tip sheet you can share with your team!