Inspired Minds ECC Consulting Inc.

NEW! The Journey of Learning: Reflective Practices of an Early Childhood Professional
2025-02-18 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Edmonton) | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/new-the-journey-of-learning-reflective-practices-of-an-early-childhood-professional/
The Journey of Learning: Reflective Practices of an Early Childhood Professional
One of the most impactful strategies I have learned as an early childhood educator is how to reflect on my practices. This is not something I did much of in my early years as an educator. After all, I was simply trying to survive and just at the beginning of my journey as an educator. However, I wish I had done more of this essential practice when I started as it has immensely helped me grow as a professional early childhood educator. I wish I had a community of practice to share ideas and perspectives. So, here we are to support you – wherever you are on your journey as an ECE. Reflective practices can be done in a variety of ways. From quick, on-the-spot reflections to deeper and collaborative reflective practices, there’s something out there for each and every one of us. Join us as we discover the pathways of learning through reflective practices and how we can diversify our approach and build our metacognition. We will explore reflective practices as an individual, as a team and within a community of practices. Discover practical ways to increase this invaluable tool that we have at our fingertips and how to maximize our outcomes of reflection to apply to our practices.
Learning Objectives:

Identify reflections as an integral part of professional practices
Identify strategies to support reflective practices
Gain knowledge about how to diversify reflective practices

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
Approved for PD funding to eligible participants.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Managing Stress: Finding Balance at Work and in Life
2025-03-04 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/managing-stress-finding-balance-at-work-and-in-life-3/
Managing Stress: Finding Balance at Work and in Life
Managing stress is not an easy task for many early childhood educators. We invest our heart, minds and bodies in what we do as professionals and often take things home with us. Not only the material ‘to-do’ list, but also the emotional ‘to do’ list. How can we manage the stresses of home and work? How can we find the balance that works for us? Managing stress is a journey within itself. Let’s connect and talk about our journeys and all the different ways that we cope with stress and find a healthy balance between work and life so that our stress levels decrease and our peaceful, calming and joyful moments shine through. Identifying our stresses and how it affects our well-being. Learn effective strategies and tools to manage your time more effectively to decrease your stress. Connection is key. We are not in this alone. Let’s find the balance together.
Objectives:

What is work-life balance
Identify possible stressors for early childhood educators
Impact of stress on behaviours and well-being
Strategies to manage work-life balance

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
Approved for PD funding to eligible participants.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

The Magic of Loose Parts: Promoting Play with Loose Parts
2025-03-11 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/the-magic-of-loose-parts-promoting-play-with-loose-parts-2/
The Magic of Loose Parts: Promoting Play with Loose Parts
Loose Parts! The possibilities are endless when we arrange loose parts (open-ended) materials for children to explore. Remember the possibilities of a cardboard box?! Was it a den? A spaceship? Or a 3D canvas to paint and draw on? The possibilities are endless! Join me as we learn the advantages of including loose parts in your early learning environment and how to promote creativity and adventure with children through loose parts. True play and imagination really shine when we add these valuable materials to our classrooms – the learning opportunities are endless! The experiences and memories are priceless!
Objectives:

Exploring the Importance of Loose Parts
Strategies to Managing Loose Parts
Creating Invitations & Provocations with Loose Parts

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

The Me, The You, The We: Facilitating Social Emotional Learning
2025-03-18 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/the-me-the-you-the-we-facilitating-social-emotional-learning-3/
The Me, The You, The We: Facilitating Social Emotional Learning
Feelings! Feelings! And more Feelings! The everyday struggle of identifying and understanding big emotions is a tough gig for young children. It’s all so hard! But with the right positive support and environment, children can thrive and build the skills required to manage these big emotions. SEL, Social Emotional Learning, is all about understanding the self and then understanding others to be a positive member of our community. These skills can be woven into our everyday practices and play experiences. Knowing what skills children are developing and how will be the key to successfully supporting children on this learning journey. Together, we will be able to identify specific strategies to support each main component of social-emotional learning: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills and responsible decision-making skills. Let’s get together and learn how we can provide a place of vitality so every child can build the skills needed in SEL!
Objectives:

Define social-emotional learning
Identify the importance of SEL
Review strategies to promote each component in SEL

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Playful Planning: Exploring the Planning Process with the Emergent Curriculum Approach
2025-04-01 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/playful-planning-enriching-your-emergent-curriculum-approach-5/
Playful Planning: Exploring the Planning Process with the Emergent Curriculum Approach
Playful learning experiences promote a sense of curiosity, exploration, and confidence, which are what we all strive to achieve when we plan for our early childhood environment and our children’s experiences. One of the most popular and best approaches to achieve this is the emergent curriculum approach. This approach lets the child lead the playful experiences and follow their own learning path. Our job, as early childhood educators, is to observe their interests and plan to either complement or extend these interests. Being intentional about how we prepare a responsive environment is a key element to emergent planning. How we plan activities, play experiences, provocations and invitations and make changes to our environment all depends on the dynamics of our group of children and our ability to really listen, observe and learn about the children’s deeper interests and abilities. Let us walk alongside the children and join them in their journeys of wonder, play and curiosity. Join me as we discuss planning strategies that work for everyone. There is no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to planning for children’s play, so let’s explore what your journey is with the children and how you can plan for play!
Objectives:

Review Emergent Planning Practices
Identify Planning Strategies based on the Balanced Approach to Emergent Planning
Translating Observations to Playful Planning

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Beautiful Oopsies: Exploring the Creativity of Open-Ended Art Experiences
2025-04-08 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/beautiful-oopsies-exploring-the-creativity-of-open-ended-art-experiences-3/
Beautiful Oopsies: Exploring the Creativity of Open-Ended Art Experiences
Creativity is intelligence having fun! Albert Einstein had it right with his quote on creativity. Children are natural artists, as all their masterpieces are a visual representation of how they see the world around them. Let us foster this self-expression through open-ended creative art experiences! For children, the focus on art is the process of creativity, not the end result. This is what our focus of this session is all about…the process of Play with art (not crafts). Let’s dive into the creative world of what art is for children and how we can be more responsive to their creative needs and expressions. Say goodbye to those handprint crafts and cut-out projects that take us hours to prepare. Open-ended art is about getting messy! It’s about exploring with all our senses and having a creative outlet for thoughts, ideas and emotions. As early childhood educators, it’s our role to provide materials and a space for creativity and inspiration, so the children can be mighty artists! So, let’s explore how we can do this and ensure that children have the opportunity to enjoy the creative journey and show us their colourful world!
Objectives:

Define creativity & art
Differences between crafts and open-ended art
Create a responsive curriculum and environment that nurtures children’s creative interests
Spark your creativity for open-ended art experiences

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

NEW! Protectors of Play: Valuing the Pedagogy of Play
2025-04-15 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/new-protectors-of-play-valuing-the-pedagogy-of-play/
Protectors of Play: Valuing the Pedagogy of Play
Play. Playful Learning. Learning Through Play. Pedagogy of Play. These are just some of the terms we use to advocate for the importance of Play, not only in the early learning years but throughout our learning journey. For now, let’s start with Play in the early years and how it can optimize learning and create a responsive environment where we are all co-learners! The brain is wired to Play. As playful learners, our role is to foster a playful environment and encourage children to Play to explore, create, problem-solve and discover. Together, we will unpack the power of Play as we become Protectors of Play! Define Play for yourself and its relevance to children’s experiences, learning and growth. Identify the key principles of Play. Discover how to create playful environments and reflect on these Play experiences to nurture the passion of Play. As Protectors of Play, we play a vital role in its implementation and advocacy. Raise your voices for Play!
Objectives:

Unpacking Play Pedagogy
Implementing Play into Your Everyday Practices
Reflections on Play
Advocating for Play in the Early Learning Years

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Exploring Hygge! Creating Spaces that Foster Happiness, a Sense Belonging, and Togetherness
2025-05-06 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/exploring-hygge-creating-spaces-that-foster-happiness-a-sense-belonging-and-togetherness/
Exploring Hygge! Creating Spaces that Foster Happiness, a Sense Belonging, and Togetherness
Hygge. A Danish term that encompasses a way of living that promotes happiness, joy, coziness, and a sense of belonging. Does this sound familiar? It’s similar to what we want children to feel and experience when they walk into our early childhood spaces. Exploring cultures to enhance our early learning environments is one way we can create responsive spaces that promote a sense of well-being, a sense of belonging, and a sense of togetherness. Let’s explore hygge together as we capture the warmth of materials, lighting, sounds, and feelings. During my journey with hygge, I have found seven main elements that we can bring into our early learning environments to create this cozy feeling for children: lighting, softness, warmth, nature, simplicity, being present, and a sense of belonging. Hygge isn’t one specific thing, but how it helps us feel and the memories it stirs or creates. Bring your fuzzy socks and a warm drink, as we feel for ourselves, how hygge can be woven into your early learning practices and environment.
Objectives:

Understanding Hygge in Child Care
Embracing Central Elements of Hygge
Exploring and Reflecting on Hygge Materials

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Approaches to Play: Exploring Play Schemas
2025-05-13 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/approaches-to-play-exploring-play-schemas-3/
Approaches to Play: Exploring Play Schemas
“Why do they keep throwing things?!” “I don’t know how to capture children’s interests…they’re just playing.” “They (the child) just keeps doing the same thing over and over!” “What do you mean that spinning around in circles is Play?!” These are common questions many early childhood educators ask themselves or hear from others when we work with young children. To answer these questions, and many others, let’s look at how children are engaging in play and the meaning behind these behaviours by understanding schematic play. In this workshop, we will discover the possibilities of play that happen when we look at play through the lens of play schemas. We will identify the main play schemas, such as trajectory, rotation, transporting, enveloping, enclosing, positioning, connection, transforming, and other common play schemas. Together, we will use our skills of observation to identify possible play schemas and brainstorm how we can respond to these behaviours and approaches to play. Let play come alive when we make meaning out of children’s play and make connections to their play spaces to nurture these play experiences. Let’s throw some ideas around…spin a few strategies…and put them all together in this workshop that inspires play!
Objectives:

Identify the meaning and value of schematic play and play schemas
Examine the main play schemas in early childhood
Create responsive practices to support children in various play schemas

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

From Crying to Smiling: Understanding Children's Behaviours
2025-05-20 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/from-crying-to-smiling-understanding-childrens-behaviours-6/
From Crying to Smiling: Understanding Children’s Behaviours
Ever wonder WHY some children react in ways we just don’t understand? The screaming, biting and hitting came from nowhere! When a seemingly small situation throws them right into a major meltdown. Feeling like you’re at a standstill of what to do next? Well, then this webinar is for you! Join us as we discuss the why’s behind children’s difficult and challenging behaviours and how we can support them during these difficult moments. Learn what happens in a child’s brain when they are dysregulated, and take away some tools that can help you bring them to a responsive state of mind. Co-Regulation is the key! It’s not easy sometimes…but YOU are the one who can make a difference. YOU can help them move from reacting to responding by making meaningful connections and adding some great activities and strategies that everyone can use!
Objectives:

Identify the communication and brain science behind behaviours
Reflect on how trauma can impact behaviours
Explore strategies for co-regulation and positive supports

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

We Are Family! Building Stronger Connections with Families
2025-06-03 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/we-are-family-building-stronger-connections-with-families-3/
We Are Family! Building Stronger Connections with Families
Hi Samantha…I mean Sidney…I mean…Ms. Randolf…I mean…Maggie’s mom! Connecting with families and knowing their names is just as important as your connection with the children in your care! Families are the primary caregivers in a child’s life. An essential role for educators is co-creating strong relationships with families. Sound simple?! Maybe…or maybe not. We always have families who are easy to connect with and we always have families that we struggle to form a trusting bond with. We need to carefully look at how each family is unique and embrace the diverse perspectives they can bring to your program. Whether it’s family expectations, family dynamics, family rituals and routines or family culture that are creating some wonderful resources or some difficult tensions for you, your ability to sustain positive relationships with families is essential. Every family is unique and brings a different perspective about their child’s growth, development, and views on play. Understanding the importance of working with families, not against them, can create a strong foundation of support for the children in your care. Let’s bring the village together to ensure children have a safe, supportive, and culturally responsive environment where children can thrive!
Objectives:

Welcoming families to your community
Co-creating strong relationships with families
Collaborating with diverse families
Engaging in difficult conversations with families

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Mighty Transitions: Discovering Transitions that Work
2025-06-10 18:30 - 20:00 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/mighty-transitions-discovering-transitions-that-work-5/
Mighty Transitions: Discovering Transitions that Work
Oh, those transitions! From here to there and back again. They could be a time of chaos or a time of calm – which one do we plan for?! That’s right! Transitions can be calm, fun and effective if we intentionally plan for them! Planning goes a long way when it comes to helping children transition throughout the day through multiple types of transitions. And since not every strategy works with every child, we need a whole pocket full of ideas (or a backpack full). During this session, we will brainstorm, practice, and play some unique transition ideas that will be sure to add some magic to ease those troublesome transitions. Transitional strategies will include the most common transitional obstacles, such as; going outside, welcoming a new child, clean up time and more! We actually have a magic wand for this workshop that works for every child in every play space! It’s seriously amazing! Wave that magic wand three times and you’ll get amazing results! So, let’s get some ideas stashed away in our back pocket to pull out when we need them the most and let’s play during transitions!
Objectives:

Identify key elements to mighty transitions
High quality practices for transitions
Discovering responsive transitional activities

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Beautiful Minds! Caring for Children with Neurodiversity
2025-06-17 18:30 - 20:30 | https://inspiredmindsecc.ca/workshop-events/beautiful-minds-caring-for-children-with-neurodiversity-2/
Beautiful Minds! Caring for Children with Neurodiversity
Our brains all function slightly differently. Some of us are great with numbers, while others are great artists or sports players. As our brains grow and develop, we may notice that some brains are wired differently, and different strengths and behaviours emerge. Children who are neurodivergent grow just like every other child, just at their own pace and in their own way. Sometimes, though, it can be difficult for adults to learn how to engage and be responsive to a child who is neurodivergent. In this workshop, I will share with you my own experiences as an individual with Attention-Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and offer perspectives and approaches to consider when caring for our young children who march to their own beat. We will discuss three neurodiversity: ADHD, Autism, and Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), and how to be responsive to their needs and abilities. Forming the foundation of positive relationships at the heart of our connections with children. Let’s discover how we can embrace the beautiful minds of children who are neurodivergent.
Objectives:

Understanding Terms: Special Needs, Neurodiversity and Neurodivergent
Exploring the brain science behind neurodiversity
Develop an understanding of the signs and symptoms of ADHD, Autism and SPD and strategies on how to support children with neurodiversity.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Fostering Autonomy, Agency and Independence in the Early Years!
2025-08-19 18:30 - 19:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Celebrate our 10-year anniversary in August 2025 with us by joining us for some FREE online PD! These are NEW sessions… you are getting a sneak peek of what’s coming in 2026!
Fostering Autonomy, Agency and Independence in the Early Years!
This dynamic and thought-provoking workshop explores how early childhood educators can intentionally nurture autonomy, agency, and independence in young children. Grounded in the principles of rights-based, responsive pedagogy, participants are invited to reflect deeply on their current practices and beliefs, examining how this impacts the ways children experience choice, voice, and freedom in their daily lives. Participants are provoked to examine how everyday moments—such as routines, transitions, and play—can become powerful opportunities for children to make choices, express themselves, and develop confidence in their abilities.
Together, we explore how fostering agency is not about giving children control over everything, but rather co-creating an environment where children are seen as capable, competent, and powerful contributors to their own learning and community. Through storytelling, reflective dialogue, and practical examples, educators are encouraged to think critically about their role in co-creating environments that promote children’s voices and participation. The session highlights that autonomy and agency are not simply outcomes to achieve, but ongoing processes that unfold through responsive relationships, shared decision-making, and meaningful engagement.
Educators will feel empowered to transform everyday moments into meaningful opportunities for children to lead, make choices, and be recognized as confident, competent members of their learning community.
Outcomes:

Understanding independence, autonomy, collective autonomy and agency
Strategies to support children’s development of independence, autonomy and agency

Things to Keep in Mind:

Limited spaces available!
Registration closes 12 hours in advance!
Certificate of participation will be available to participants who join us for the LIVE session only.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.
*Alberta PD funding & time release funding is NOT available (as this is a free workshop!).*

Lunch & Learn: Magnetic Play ~ Exploring Magnets with Curious Minds
2025-08-21 12:30 - 13:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Celebrate our 10-year anniversary in August 2025 with us by joining us for some FREE online PD! These are NEW sessions…you are getting a sneak peek of what’s coming in 2026!
Lunch & Learn
Magnetic Play ~ Exploring Magnets with Curious Minds
Join us for a playful and practical lunch and learn session exploring the joyful world of magnetic play in early childhood settings. Magnets naturally capture children’s curiosity and invite them to explore, discover, and test their ideas through hands-on, open-ended play.
This session will highlight how magnetic materials can spark deep engagement, support creative thinking, and offer rich opportunities for playful exploration of concepts like movement, connection, balance, and construction. Whether using magnetic tiles, wands, or homemade materials, this session will offer ideas to enrich your learning environment with open-ended, joyful play. Educators will leave with fresh inspiration and simple ideas for setting up magnetic provocations that respond to children’s interests and foster imaginative, inquiry-based play.
Outcomes:

Participants will deepen their understanding of how magnetic play supports children’s inquiry, creativity, and exploration, and reflect on how to integrate these experiences meaningfully into their current practice.
Participants will identify and plan for magnetic play opportunities that are open-ended, developmentally appropriate, and responsive to the children’s interests and emerging curiosities.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Limited spaces available!
Registration closes 12 hours in advance!
Certificate of participation will be available to participants who join us for the LIVE session only.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.
*Alberta PD funding & time release funding is NOT available (as this is a free workshop!).*

Inspired Minds ECC Inspiring Play: 10-Year Anniversary Customer Appreciation Event
2025-08-24 10:00 - 12:00 | gold bar park, 10955 50 Street, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
🎉 You’re Invited! 🎉
Inspired Minds ECC Inspiring Play: 10-Year Anniversary Customer Appreciation EventPlay, Connect, and Be Inspired!
We’re turning 10 — and it’s all thanks to you, our amazing community of Early Childhood Educators and Protectors of Play! To celebrate a decade of playful learning, creativity, and connection, we’re hosting a special Customer Appreciation & Networking Event just for you.
Join us for a morning filled with joy, laughter, and gratitude as we reflect on the past 10 years, share stories of inspiration, and dream about what’s next.
✨ What’s in store?

Playful Experiences: Box Play, Games + Prizes
Music & Laughter
Exclusive Discounts & Giveaways
Tasty Snacks & Refreshments
Connection with fellow Play advocates

📅 When: Sunday, August 24, 2025📍 Where: Gold Bar Park, Picnic Site #1, Edmonton⏰ Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM💛 Cost: Free (registration required)
Come play with us — because 10 years of Inspired Minds ECC wouldn’t be possible without you.
Let’s celebrate together — the past, the present, and the playful future ahead!

The Power of Pause! The Rhythm of Slow Pedagogy
2025-08-27 18:30 - 19:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Celebrate our 10-year anniversary in August 2025 with us by joining us for some FREE online PD! These are NEW sessions… you are getting a sneak peek of what’s coming in 2026!
The Power of Pause! The Rhythm of Slow Pedagogy
In today’s fast-paced, ‘hustle’ culture, early childhood educators are often pressured by rigid routines, outcome-based expectations, and time-bound activities. This workshop invites educators to pause, reflect, and reimagine their practices through the lens of slow pedagogy – an approach that centres presence, patience, and deep connection. Rooted in the belief that meaningful learning happens in relationship and through play, slow pedagogy honours the rhythms of childhood by creating environments that nurture deep engagement, authentic relationships, and reflective practice.
Participants will explore how slowing down enables educators to build stronger connections with children, attune to their unique identities, and be more responsive to their cultural backgrounds, interests, and individual play flow. Through discussion, reflective exercises, and practical examples, we will examine ways to unclutter routines, embrace open-ended play, and cultivate environments that truly respond to the needs, curiosities, and identities of young children.
Outcomes:

Participants will be able to identify and implement slow pedagogy practices that support children’s autonomy, curiosity, and engagement in play.
Participants will reflect on and adapt aspects of their daily routines, environments, and interactions to align more closely with the pace and needs of the children in their care.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Limited spaces available!
Registration closes 12 hours in advance!
Certificate of participation will be available to participants who join us for the LIVE session only.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.
*Alberta PD funding & time release funding is NOT available (as this is a free workshop!).*

Lunch & Learn: Paper Play ~ Unlocking Creativity with Paper
2025-08-28 12:30 - 13:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Celebrate our 10-year anniversary in August 2025 with us by joining us for some FREE online PD! These are NEW sessions…you are getting a sneak peek of what’s coming in 2026!
Lunch & Learn
Paper Play ~ Unlocking Creativity with Paper
Join us for a playful and practical lunch and learn session exploring the joyful world of paper play! Educators will explore the endless possibilities of paper as a rich, open-ended material for play, creativity, and exploration. From tearing, folding, crumpling, and twisting to constructing, designing, and storytelling, paper invites children into joyful experiences that support fine motor development, sensory engagement, and imaginative thinking.
Together, we’ll reflect on how simple materials like paper can inspire curiosity, foster problem-solving, and offer meaningful invitations to play across ages and developmental stages. The session will also share practical ideas for creating paper-based invitations to play that are responsive to children’s interests—such as offering long rolls for collective art experiences, or using large sheets for immersive explorations of texture, sound and movement, or scraps of paper for storytelling prompts. Together, we’ll reflect on how simple materials like paper can inspire curiosity, foster problem-solving, and offer meaningful, inclusive invitations that adapt to children’s emerging ideas and identities.
Outcomes:

Participants will gain practical ideas for using paper as an open-ended material to support children’s sensory exploration, creativity, and imaginative play.
Participants will reflect on how to design paper-based invitations to play that are responsive to children’s interests, inquiries, and emerging skills.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Limited spaces available!
Registration closes 12 hours in advance!
Certificate of participation will be available to participants who join us for the LIVE session only.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.
*Alberta PD funding & time release funding is NOT available (as this is a free workshop!).*

Unlocking the Magic of Emergent Curriculum: An Introduction to the Emergent Curriculum Approach
2025-09-03 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Unlocking the Magic of Emergent Curriculum: An Introduction to the Emergent Curriculum Approach
Step into the magical world of emergent planning – where children are the key! The way we plan play experiences for children is changing as we focus on the interests and abilities of the children as the core concept behind planning classroom activities with the children. What is emergent planning? Is it effective? Will the children still enjoy the activities and learn? How does it work with the Alberta Flight Curriculum Framework? Discover the answers to these questions and much more as we look at some key tips and tricks to implementing an emergent curriculum. This workshop is designed to reveal the mystery and magic of the well-known emergent curriculum concept and put it into practice in your early learning environment. Remember! Not all planning is the same – just like not all children or educators are the same, so let’s figure out how to do it so it works for everyone!
Objectives:

Identify the foundations of the emergent curriculum approach
Overall review of the main components to the emergent curriculum approach
Create an individualized and responsive approach to planning your environment and play experiences

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

The Third Teacher! Creating Responsive Environments to Support Children’s Behaviours
2025-09-09 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
The Third Teacher! Creating Responsive Environments to Support Children’s Behaviours
Children experience big feelings and have big actions to communicate these feelings with the people around them. It’s important that early childhood educators create an environment that is safe, physically, mentally, and emotionally, for children to learn about these emotions and discover ways to express these emotions. This is where the third teacher – our early learning environments- can help! By knowing what works for each child, we can create spaces and routines that help them feel safe to explore and express these emotions without negative outcomes. We all understand that this is a learning process for children, so why don’t we engage in proactive strategies that support them on their learning journey? In this workshop, we will look at the four key components of creating responsive environments: routines, transitions, play spaces and engagement. Since one strategy doesn’t work for each child, every time, we will brainstorm a variety of strategies and approaches you can add to your behavioural support toolkit! Let’s look to our environments for help!
Objectives:

Identify the important role environments have on children’s behaviours
Identify strategies to support four key components of responsive environments: Routines ~ Transitions ~ Play Spaces ~ Engagement
Reflect on current practices and create action steps to move forward with creating responsive environments.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Active Listening! Surviving Difficult Conversations with Colleagues
2025-09-16 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Active Listening! Surviving Difficult Conversations with Colleagues
Conflict. Disagreements. Tension. People. Adults. A common communication barrier for many early childhood educators is how to address conflict in the workplace, between co-workers and with families. This is not an easy task and takes time, intentionality and practice. Effective communication is key to developing a positive workplace culture and working with families. A major component of effective communication stems from your own ability to engage in active listening. To learn the skills of how to listen to learn, instead of listening to respond. As early childhood educators face conflicts with other adults, active listening skills become an essential part of building a safe space that fosters positive relationships between adults who care for young children. Join us as we discuss some of the most common conflicts early childhood educators have with other adults and how to overcome these obstacles with active listening skills. Adopt strategies that take your communication skills to the next level, and set you on the pathway of success. Reaching positive outcomes in conflict may not always be easy but it is possible when we have the right tools.
Objectives:

Reflect on current communication strategies and obstacles
Discover how active listening improves communication with families and workplace culture
Identify specific strategies to use during conflict to result in positive outcomes

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Redefining Circle Time! Moving Beyond Adult-Directed Group Times with Young Children
2025-09-23 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Redefining Circle Time! Moving Beyond Adult-Directed Group Times with Young Children
A time to connect. A time to feel a sense of belonging. A time to share stories. A time to learn about each other. This is what circle times in early childhood should be about. Gathering times and sharing circles are a part of many cultural and family traditions as family and friends come together to connect and share stories. Gone are the outdated practices of calendar time and singing weather songs as the focus of circle times in early childhood programs where educators instruct and direct children. Instead, let’s make gathering time meaningful and relevant to the children in our care. In this session, we will come together to discuss a variety of ways to change an adult-directed circle time to an opportunity to connect, reflect and share. Gathering times can be a part of our daily routine or a spontaneous story time that children will remember forever. By being intentional in our group gathering practices and reflecting on our ‘why’, we can create a gathering time that truly embraces the image of the child and helps children learn about themselves, others, and their community. Let’s build community together!
Objectives:

Redefining circle time as a child-responsive experience
Understanding and respecting the cultural values of group gathering
Strategies to improve meaningful and interactive group gathering

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

From Crying to Smiling Understanding Challenging Behaviours
2025-09-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
From Crying to Smiling: Understanding Challenging Behaviours
Ever wonder WHY some children react in ways we just don’t understand? The screaming, biting and hitting came from nowhere! When a seemingly small situation throws them right into a major meltdown. Feeling like you’re at a standstill of what to do next? Well, then this webinar is for you! Join us as we discuss the why’s behind children’s difficult and challenging behaviours and how we can support them during these difficult moments. Learn what happens in a child’s brain when they are dysregulated, and take away some tools that can help you bring them to a responsive state of mind. Co-Regulation is the key! It’s not easy sometimes…but YOU are the one who can make a difference. YOU can help them move from reacting to responding by making meaningful connections and adding some great activities and strategies that everyone can use!
Objectives:

Identify the communication and brain science behind behaviours
Reflect on factors that can impact behaviours
Explore strategies for co-regulation and positive supports

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

DAP Trivia Time Understanding Best Practices in Child Care
2025-10-07 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
DAP Trivia Time! Understanding Best Practices in Child Care

Are you DAP? What is DAP? This hands-on, full-participation workshop is designed to get you involved in understanding Developmentally Appropriate Practices. What exactly is DAP? How does it affect my early learning environment, professional practices, and children’s learning? Come find out the answers to these questions and much more as we discuss the cornerstones of developmentally appropriate practices and learn how to implement these strategies in your play space. Become more developmentally informed and responsive in your professional practices as an early childhood educator. Instead of just a discussion though, let’s follow the child’s lead and play! Get ready as we transform this workshop into a game show extravaganza that makes learning fun. Let’s Play!

Objectives:

Gain an understanding of developmentally appropriate practices (DAP) in early learning environments
Identify effective strategies & activities for implementing DAP
Reflect on strengths and goals for individual and team-teaching practices

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

No Waiting! Get Them Shaking: Exploring and Extending Engaging Transitions
2025-10-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
No Waiting! Get Them Shaking: Exploring and Extending Engaging Transitions

I can see it like it was just yesterday…the children are climbing over each other as we help them put on their snow pants, jackets and boots to get them ready to go outside. It’s a nightmare come true! Wait! This was yesterday! The reality sets in….transitions are HARD! There’s no doubt about it. Whether it’s the infamous ‘clean up’ time, going outside or coming back in, moving from lunch to nap time or helping those new children adjust to group care…it’s a stressful time for many of us. It doesn’t need to be. When we take the time to stop, be present and be intentional, we can minimize the stress of transitions not only for us but also for the children in our care. Children are not designed to sit and wait, so we cannot expect them to do so! What can we do to keep children engaged during transitions? To help this be a time of connections instead of directions. To help them navigate their own transitions successfully and with confidence. Let’s get them moving! Let’s get them engaged! Let’s connect. Join me as we fill your transitional toolkit with strategies and activities that are sure to capture the attention and imagination of those little ones who struggle with transitions. We will look at our daily routine schedules to reflect on how they impact our transitional times. And of course, we will sing, play and dance with some NEW transitional ideas that you can add immediately to your practice. Let’s do this!
Objectives:

Establish an understanding of why effective transitions are important to child development.
Identify strategies that support the 3 phases of effective transitions – before, during and after.
Develop a daily visual routine for children to help them with transitions.
Learn new transition songs, games and tools to use during transitions.

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Adventures of Play! Exploring Risky Play
2025-10-14 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Adventures of Play! Exploring Risky Play
Taking risk is a necessary part of play. It’s part of how children assess what they can do, what challenges them and what to leave until a later date to try. However, many of us face obstacles, barriers and reluctance to accept this into children’s play. Join me as we discuss what risky play is, how it promotes development and how to overcome those barriers and obstacles. Let’s take a look at all the different levels of risk children engage in during their play and how we can help provide an environment that allows children to explore naturally – with risk!
Objectives:

Defining Risky Play / Adventurous Play
Developmentally Appropriate Practices with Risky Play
Facilitating Risky Play

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Caring Connections: Interactions that Matter
2025-10-21 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Caring Connections: Interactions that Matter
The comfort of an encouraging smile. The caring reassurance after a fight with a friend. The excitement of co-celebration as they discovery a new skill. How we interact with children has a huge impact on children’s growth and development, not only their social emotional development, but also in their abilities to problem solve, resolve conflict, and take risk because they feel safe! Children rely on positive, supportive and encouraging adults in their live to show them they are respected, safe and loved. This type of interaction doesn’t happen just by supervising, asking questions or giving direction. It comes from a deep connection between the adult and the child. A connection that takes time to build and takes intentional interactions. Let’s learn some strategies of how to build this connection with ALL children – from the ones we struggle with to the ones who love us the moment they come through our doors. Understanding what each child needs to feel a connection will help us establish that bond with each child and continue to see that relationship blossom. Connection is key!
Objectives

Defining Caring Connections
Identify the Importance of Connecting with Children
Key Benefits of Establishing Connections with Children
Identify Strategies of how to Build Caring Connection

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Beautiful Oopsies! Exploring the Creativity of Open-Ended Art Experiences
2025-10-22 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Beautiful Oopsies! Exploring the Creativity of Open-Ended Art Experiences
Creativity is intelligence having fun! Albert Einstein had it right with his quote on creativity. Children are natural artists, as all their masterpieces are a visual representation of how they see the world around them. Let us foster this self-expression through open-ended creative art experiences! For children, the focus on art is the process of creativity, not the end result. This is what our focus of this session is all about…the process of Play with art (not crafts). Let’s dive into the creative world of what art is for children and how we can be more responsive to their creative needs and expressions. Say goodbye to those handprint crafts and cut-out projects that take us hours to prepare. Open-ended art is about getting messy! It’s about exploring with all our senses and having a creative outlet for thoughts, ideas and emotions. As early childhood educators, it’s our role to provide materials and a space for creativity and inspiration, so the children can be mighty artists! So, let’s explore how we can do this and ensure that children have the opportunity to enjoy the creative journey and show us their colourful world!
Objectives:

Define creativity & art
Differences between crafts and open-ended art
Create a responsive curriculum and environment that nurtures children’s creative interests
Spark your creativity for open-ended art experiences

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

NEW! Stronger Together: Building Collaborative Professional Relationships in Education
2025-10-27 18:30 - 19:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Join us for our NEW online workshops through the Inspired Minds ECC Community Collaboration Project! This initiative is designed to strengthen community and build capacity for Early Childhood Educators by offering FREE professional learning opportunities. Through Inspired Minds ECC, we bring together passionate educators, organizations, subject matter experts, and play advocates to share their stories, knowledge, research, and strategies—all to inspire and support growth in our professional practice.
October Collaboration
Stronger Together: Building Collaborative Professional Relationships in Education
with Cathy Belgrave
Join us for an inspiring experience where educators gain practical tools and a collaborative mindset to build authentic, dynamic professional relationships. This energizing workshop will empower participants to foster creativity, enhance collaboration, and nurture a supportive educational community where both educators and students thrive.
Guest Speaker: Cathy Belgrave
Cathy Belgrave is an Early Childhood and Elementary Educator with over 25 years of experience. As the host of The Intentional ECE podcast and founder of The Intentional Educator she’s passionate about helping educators feel confident and inspired in their practice. With a background in developmental psychology, a B.Ed., and Wunderled ECE certification, Cathy supports educators in aligning their values with their teaching practices through thoughtful reflection and practical, actionable strategies. She’s dedicated to helping educators create authentic, joyful learning environments where children develop a positive learner identity and thrive.
Website: theintentionaleducator.ca
IG: theintentionaleducator_yvr

Limited Spots Available!

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding is NOT available due to being a FREE session.
Certificate of participation will be available to participants who attend the LIVE session.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.

Curiosity and Wonder of Heuristic Play and Treasure Baskets: Infant and Toddler Play Explorations
2025-11-04 18:30 - 20:30 | Online!, Alberta, Canada
Curiosity and Wonder of Heuristic Play and Treasure Baskets: Infant and Toddler Play Explorations
Infants and Toddles explore the world around them with awe and wonder. They explore with a zest for curiosity and exploration. They deserve an environment that supports this natural process of learning. They deserve Play! Creating responsive environments for infants and toddlers is slightly different then how we would create a responsive environment for older children. We need to take into consideration their physical, sensory and neurological needs. One of the most impactful way of supporting infants and toddlers in their play explorations is through heuristic play and treasure baskets! This approach creates hands-on, self-directed play experiences for children to dive deep into their own learning process. Let’s discuss what heuristic play is and how we can create treasure baskets and sensory experiences that are meaningful and relevant for our young learners. Participants will develop an awareness of this approach to play and engage in reflective practices and discussions about how they can make children’s learning visible. Go beyond a basic infant toddler space and create a space of magic, wonder and inspiration!
Objectives:

Identify the Importance of Play for Infants and Toddlers
Heuristic Play Approach
Creating Treasure Baskets

Things to Keep in Mind:

Registration closes 24 hours in advance!
PD funding available to eligible participants.
Certificate of participation will be available to registered participants.
All registered participants will have 30 days access to the webinar recording.
This workshop will be held online through the Zoom platform.
You will need access to a smartphone, laptop, tablet or computer with audio capabilities to join us.
A link will be emailed to you 24 hours prior to the workshop. Please click the link 10 minutes before the workshop begins to join in.
E-transfers to be sent to tina@inspiredmindsecc.ca

Zoom link is included in your ticket email. Reminder emails will be sent out 24-48 hours prior to event.
