215-518-9574 helen@helenober.com

Ongoing professional development is so important for early childhood educators. It allows for learning new research and trends, sharing, and networking with other professionals. Learning is never complete in order to provide the best for children and be an advocate for their well-being and development.

PQAS and ACT 48 APPROVED TRAINING TOPICS

All topics have corresponding parenting workshops

SOCIAL EMOTIONAL LEARNING

Strategies for Increasing Emotional Intelligence in the Classroom

Description

Childcare practitioners will learn the importance of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) and its connection to success and happiness in life. Teachers and staff will learn five parts of EQ and specific activities and tools for use in the classroom in order to support the development of social and emotional learning.

Learning Objectives; Upon completion, the student will be able to:

  1. Explain what Emotional Intelligence is and behaviors associated with high vs low EQ.
  2. Discuss functions of the parts of the brain that are connected to emotion and corresponding behaviors.
  3. Define five parts of EQ and the importance of each in social emotional development.
  4. Implement daily individual and group activities/tools/methods related to increasing children’s emotional intelligence.
Develop a Growth Mindset in Children

Description 

Develop a Growth Mindset in the children you teach and they will become children that love to learn, get excited about new challenges, and do not fear failure. Children that fear failure often end up becoming protected from failing by well-intended caregivers. Instead, a resilient, strong child has developed a Growth Mindset. Learn how to make that happen!

Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this training, students will be able to: 

  1. Identify their own level of mindset, whether predominately growth or fixed in order to deepen understanding of the difference.
  2. Identify the impact of brain development and its influence on one’s ability to take risks and not fear failure, and create habits as a result of practice and effort
  3. Identify ways to praise that develops a growth mindset in children.
Develop a Growth Mindset for Educators

Description 

Growth Mindset is the belief that abilities can be cultivated. A Fixed Mindset stands in the way of development and change. As educators, it is easy to understand the importance of helping children develop a Growth Mindset but as educators, it is equally important. The opportunity for learning never runs out. Learn how to shift how you see challenges and your own unlimited ability to learn and watch how so many exciting opportunities open up for you and for the children you teach.

Learning Objectives: Upon completion of this training, students will be able to:

Professionalism as an Early Childhood Educator (6d)

  1. Engage in continuous, collaborative learning to inform practice.
  2. Demonstrate self-motivated commitment to continuous learning that directly influences the quality of their work with young children
  3. Participate in and act on guidance and reflective supervision related to strengths and areas for growth
    Mindfulness Matter: Simple Ways to Help Kids Become Focused and Calm

    Childcare practitioners will learn what mindfulness is and why so important in today’s world. They will also learn specific ways to help children train their mind to be calm and focused and what the outcome will be from consistently applying these techniques in the classroom.

    Learning Objectives; Upon completion, the student will be able to:

    1. Describe what mindfulness is and why so important in today’s world.
    2. Implement ways to help children train their mind to be calm and focused.
    3. Discuss outcomes to expect from consistently applying these techniques.
    Teacher/ Family Connection... 5 Keys to Effective Communications

    Description

    We all seek to be understood. Why then are there so many misunderstandings? Learn 5 principles to become a better communicator and how to apply them with families, coworkers, and children and feel more connected to everyone in your daily world.

    Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

    1. Discuss 5 important communication principles to more effectively relate to families, coworkers, and supervisors, and children.
    2. Explain how to apply these communication principles every day.
    3. Discuss communication barriers to avoid in order to better connect.
    A Day in the Life of an EC Educator

    Description

    Wish you knew how other teachers spend their days? How do they set up their rooms? How to they accomplish the content to help children achieve both academically and emotionally. Learn the best of the best ideas from the best of the best teachers that has been gathered and shared during this training in a hands on and interactive way.

    Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

    Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices (4b)

    1. Understand and use teaching skills that are responsive to the learning trajectories of young children and to the needs of each child, recognizing that differentiating instruction, incorporating play as a core teaching practice, and supporting the development of executive function skills are critical for young children.

    2. Identify teaching practices that are core to working with young children including differentiating instruction for individual children and groups of children, using play in teaching practices, and using teaching practices that build young children’s executive function skills

    3. Use teaching practices that incorporate the various types and stages of play that support young children’s development

        Proper Nutrition & Physical Activity: Guidelines for Providing a Healthy Childcare Environment

        Description

        Childcare practitioners will learn nutrition basics for young children along with fun recipes to make for and with children. Also will learn the relationship between physical activity, achievement, and behavior.

        Learning Objectives Upon completion, the student will be able to: 

        1.  Explain what Science has found about the future of our children based on what is commonly eaten and understand why good nutrition/activity is critical.
        2. Discuss nutrition basics specific to young children, along with foods to avoid.
        3. Explain ways to involve children in simple yet fun food preparation ideas, by observing some being created.
        4. Discuss the importance of frequent physical activity and how it impacts achievement and behavior.
        Becoming Better Together: Leadership for Directors

        Description 

        Directors, does it ever feel lonely at the ‘top’? Do you wish you knew how to communicate better with your staff that could eliminate apathy, poor attitudes, and never ending teacher turnover? Instead, imagine less interviewing, less training of new teachers and having a team of teachers that were fulfilled, motivated, and action takers. Learn how to create that environment.

        Learning Objectives Upon completion, the student will be able to:

        1. Answer these 2 questions: What is Leadership and why is it vital for each member of a staff to have strong leadership skills in order for an organization to grow and be the best it can be.
        2. Implement the 5 part model that leads to assessing, visioning, and with the team of teachers, determining solutions with an accountability plan. The 5 part model will take place within:
        • The Community
        • The Center/Director
        • The Parents
        • The Children
        • The Teachers
        1. Implement model and see an increased mutual respect among teachers and with Director/Supervisor, from this team cooperation activity, where each teacher is expected and valued to give their input.
        2. Increase unity, problem solving skills, leadership skills, and accountability. Teachers feel as if they matter since they are an integral part of the whole process.
        Positive Discipline

        Description 

        This ‘Positive Discipline’ course teaches how to create a classroom where children feel connected to the teacher and to the other children. When this connection is in place, children are less likely to misbehave. Specific methods and techniques are shared as to how to create a connected environment. This course also teaches how to guide young people to become responsible and respectful members of their classroom. By learning effective communication and problem solving skills, the classroom becomes a more peaceful and supportive place.

        Learning Objectives; Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:

        1. Explain why children individually misbehave and demonstrate through questioning what underlying factors produce certain behaviors.
        2. Modify their environment to include a Time IN space that contains materials such as paper and crayons, puzzles, books to take time to calm big emotions.
        3. Begin each day with an individualized connecting activity that has been taught.
        Off to a Great Start for Infants & Toddlers

        Description 

        Infants and toddlers come with many different personality traits and temperaments. Learn ways to adapt to these unique beings that leads to a connected environment for the children and you while providing a high quality child care program.

        Learning Objectives; Students will be able to:

        1. Explain 4 key factors necessary for providing a high-quality program for infants and toddlers.

        2. Discuss temperament types in infants and toddlers and how to best adapt to the different types.

        3. Explain how to create an environment of ‘Yes’, one that fosters freedom to grow developmentally.

        4. Discuss the connection between an infant/toddler’s brain development and its importance for laying a solid foundation for a child’s future learning potential and emotional health.

         

        Helping Children Handle Anxiety and Stress

        Description 

        The number of children that have high levels of anxiety and stress is on the rise. As someone that has influence on these children, learn ways to help the child and increase the positive climate for all children in your care.

        Learning Objectives Students will be able to:

        1. Explain how specific parts of the brain function and how this creates the condition of worry and anxiety in all people. Ways to help children then handle/manage this ‘worry’ condition will be taught.

        2. Discuss causes of anxiety in children and the nature vs nurture theory.

        3. Explain the symptoms of anxiety in children and what is normal anxiety and what is not and the language/techniques that help give the child the tools to handle anxiety and stress.

         

        Early Childhood Development

        Description 

        Each stage of childhood development brings a different set of milestones. By understanding what these milestones are, as an early education professional, able to better understand what types of environments children need. Fostering the right environment can help children develop their fullest potential.

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain the 4 categories of learning for children 2 months-5 years of age.
        2. Identify each developmental milestone included in the 4 categories.
        3. Apply this knowledge to simple yet concrete ways to include in the child’s daily environment.
        7 Warning Signs a Child is Experiencing Unhealthy Stress

        Description 

        Change is happening everywhere for children-school, family, friendships. Everywhere. How to adapt to change and the stress it may cause, can be taught. Help begins with understanding and identifying stress-based behaviors and teaching the child needed coping skills. Learn how to provide the tools and strategies that empower children to not only adapt to change but thrive and go into the future equipped and strong.

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Discuss what stress is and the difference between healthy and unhealthy stress and understand the negative impact too much unhealthy stress has on a child.
        2. Identify specific behaviors that may indicate a child is experiencing unhealthy stress.
        3. Implement specific tools and strategies for helping children cope with the stress that uncertainty and change may produce.
        The Explosive Child

        Description 

        Learn how to understand why some children have explosive behaviors and how to help the child gain control.

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain why children have extreme behaviors.
        2. Identify what explosive behaviors are.
        3. Explain what causes explosive behaviors (lagging skills) .
        4. Implement specific solution ideas to help the child self-regulate big emotions by developing communication and problem solving skills.
        Decoding a Child's Needs (sensory processing)

        Description 

        Children express themselves through the language of behavior. Rather than focusing on the behaviors, learn how to understand the child’s underlying needs and what is really happening for the child. Applying methods for the child to express themselves in positive ways is a win win for the child and the adult.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain basic emotional/sensory processing needs of a child.
        2. Discuss ways/activities to help children become aware of their emotions and the vocabulary to express it.
        3. Explain coping skills and appropriate responses to emotions.
        Time-In Toolkit

        Description 

        Developmentally, it is important for children to learn how to handle big emotions. What a child often feels when emotions tend to ‘take over’ is fear. This workshop teaches ways to help a child self-regulate and regain control and confidence. Hands-on demonstration and sharing of specific tools to include in a Time In Toolkit will be provided.
        Diversity, Inclusion, Empathy

        Description 

        Learn ways to increase appreciation of differences and similarities in each other within the classroom. Expanding children’s ability to also ‘feel what others feel’ will intrinsically alter behaviors in a positive and more peaceful direction.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Define diversity and give specific examples from their own classroom.
        2. Explain Dr. Clausin’s Strength Based Approach and look at student’s challenges as possible strengths.
        3. Implement the taught tools for raising the child’s ability to empathize with differences and learn the benefit of treating each other with kindness.

        LANGUAGE

        Teacher/ Family Connection: 5 Keys to Effective Communication

        Description 

        We all seek to be understood. Why then are there so many misunderstandings? Learn 5 principles to become a better communicator and how to apply them with families, coworkers, and children and feel more connected to everyone in your daily world.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Discuss 5 important communication principles to more effectively relate to families, coworkers, and
          supervisors, and children.
        2. Explain how to apply these communication principles every day.
        3. Discuss communication barriers to avoid in order to better connect.
        How to Talk So Kids Will Listen

        Description 

        As a teacher, do you ever feel like what you say goes in one ear and out the next? Do you ever feel like you are not taken seriously, that the children you teach do not respond to your requests? This course will teach you why children don’t listen, what to do when they don’t, and how to be heard and begin seeing kids’ respond and move forward.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain the reasons children don’t listen.
        2. State various solutions that result in children become better listeners evidenced by following directions and completing tasks.
        3. Identify ways to use the power of consequences and cause and effect to create lasting vs temporary change in behavior.

        CHILD DEVELOPMENT

        Early Childhood Development

        Description 

        Each stage of childhood development brings a different set of milestones. By understanding what these milestones are, as an early education professional, able to better understand what types of environments children need. Fostering the right environment can help children develop their fullest potential.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain the 4 categories of learning for children 2 months-5 years of age.
        2. Identify each developmental milestone included in the 4 categories.
        3. Apply this knowledge to simple yet concrete ways to include in the child’s daily environment.
        Off to a Great Start for Infants and Toddlers

        Description 

        Infants and toddlers come with many different personality traits and temperaments. Learn ways to adapt to these unique beings that leads to a connected environment for the children and you while providing a high quality child care program.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain 4 key factors necessary for providing a high-quality program for infants and toddlers.
        2. Discuss temperament types in infants and toddlers and how to best adapt to the different types.
        3. Explain how to create an environment of ‘Yes’, one that fosters freedom to grow developmentally.
        Proper Nutrition and Physical Activity

        Description 

        Childcare practitioners will learn nutrition basics for young children along with fun recipes to make for and with children. Also will learn the relationship between physical activity, achievement and behavior.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain what Science has found about the future of our children based on what is commonly eaten and understand why good nutrition/activity is critical.
        2. Discuss nutrition basics specific to young children, along with foods to avoid.
        3. Explain ways to involve children in simple yet fun food preparation ideas, by observing some being created.
        4. Discuss the importance of frequent physical activity and how it impacts achievement and behavior.

        DIRECTOR TRAINING

        Tackle Teacher Burnout Without Increasing Your Bottom Line

        Description 

        Teacher burn-out is becoming the norm in early childhood education. It doesn’t matter whether you are a in-home provider, a teacher, or a director. A very special person is required, one that is patient, self-disciplined, loving, and has boundless energy. It is not an easy profession and this past year has added so many more unexpected challenges. However, we must find a solution since our early childhood educators are a critical necessity in our communities. Learn several strategies to prevent and minimize burn-out.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Discuss and engage staff and self toward understanding and specifically stating why they are in the early childhood education profession….awareness of WHY they do what they do.
        2. Explain how to determine each teacher’s language of appreciation and implement that knowledge by specifically expressing it uniquely and understand this increases job fulfillment and lessens burn out.
        3. Discuss how to best support and provide teachers the tools needed in the classroom and for them to personally grow by scheduling regular 1 on 1 check ins.
        4. Implement the tools provided that clarifies and builds a culture within their center and clearly express these expectations with staff.
        3 Simple Ways to Create Buy In From Your Staff

        Description 

        Leaders of child care centers who think they need to take part in all aspects of the center often end up making poor decisions and feeling burned out. Learning how to build a team and make room for teachers to have ownership over their work, frees up a director to focus on growing the business. This results in all having pride in all they do that also leads to minimizing teacher burn out.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Explain how to create a mission statement for their Center with input from all staff.
        2. Discuss the importance in taking the time to know each teacher and their strengths and passions and their goals by scheduling 1-1 time with each.
        3. Discuss ways to create space for teachers to have ownership over their work and see you trust them.
        4. Explain the process of teaching staff to know how to resolve conflict and the importance of a ‘safe’ environment-communication skills.
        Becoming Better Together - Center Transformation Project

        Description 

        Directors, does it ever feel lonely at the ‘top’? Do you wish you knew how to communicate better with your staff that could eliminate apathy, poor attitudes, and never ending teacher turnover? Instead, imagine less interviewing, less training of new teachers and having a team of teachers that were fulfilled, motivated, and action takers. Learn how to create that environment.

         

        Learning Objectives; Student will be able to:

        1. Answer these 2 questions: What is Leadership and why is it vital for each member of a staff
          to have strong leadership skills in order for an organization to grow and be the best it can be.
        2. Implement the 5 part model that leads to assessing, visioning, and with the team of teachers, determining solutions with an accountability plan. The 5 part model will take place within:
          1. The Community
          2. The Center/Director
          3. The Parents
          4. The Children
          5. The Teachers
        3. Implement model and see an increased mutual respect among teachers and with Director/Supervisor, from this team cooperation activity, where each teacher is expected and valued to give their input.
        4. Increase unity, problem solving skills, leadership skills, and accountability. Teachers feel as if they
          matter since they are an integral part of the whole process.
        Lesson Planning, Time Management, Organizing, Shaken BabySyndrome & Child Maltreatment

        Other topics can be created 

        Additional Topics

        Social Skills for Kids

        The 5 Love Languages of Children

        Building Resilience & Grit in Children

        Social Skills for Kids

        The 5 Love Languages of Children

        Building Resilience & Grit in Children

        Kindergarten Readiness: Academic and Emotional

        Teach Children How to Be Organized

        5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace

        S.T.E.A.M. Trainings

        Miracle of Nature

                           Understanding the Life Cycle of Plants

                            Understanding the Life of Birds

                            World of Insects

        Looking Up to the Sky

           Sun, Moon, Stars, Planets

           Understanding Night and Day

           Weather

           The Miracle of Rainbows

        Our Wonderful Body

           The Five Senses

        Engineering

           Why Playing with Blocks is So Important

        Art/Music

           The Art of Observation using Music & Painting  

        Sample Resources Used for Workshops

        Organizations I Have Supported

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