Events List

Culturally Responsive Practice in Nova Scotia’s Early Learning and Child Care Settings is a 12-hour module developed in response to the ongoing enhancements to Nova Scotia’s Early Learning Curriculum Framework (NSELCF). Three (3) sub-modules have been designed to create a safe and ethical space for examining the nature of biases, prejudice, and assumptions. The modules unpack privilege and encourage participants to reflect on the historical and systemic roots of discrimination and racism. The modules reflect on the lived experiences of people who face these challenges in Nova Scotia. Each module is accompanied by home learning that will continue the conversations between modules.

Through a reflective approach, participants will become deeply aware of their own identities and the identities of the children, families, and communities they serve.

Disclaimer: The modules have been developed for synchronous learning. Participants are required to move through each of the modules in sequence, and with the same cohort. The inability to commit will result in a “restart” of the entire training. The objective of the modules is to demonstrate cultural responsiveness, thus, participants must demonstrate this understanding throughout. To do so, participants scheduled for online learning must work from an operational computer, with a working mic and camera.

Module 1: Laying Face and Foundation

Module Objectives:

• Understand who the Mi’kmaq are

• Understand who the Acadians are

• Understand who the Gaels are

• Understand who the African Nova Scotians are

• Explore and contextualize our understanding of culture

• Explore and contextualize our understanding of intersectionality

• Explore and articulate the intersections of race, nationality, gender, and sexuality

Module 1 provides space for the four (4) historical cultures of Nova Scotia to share themselves in a meaningful way. Participants will better understand the four (4) historical cultures, languages, and beliefs. Participants will explore and contextualize specific intersections and how they relate to culture and themselves.

Module 2: Faces of Discrimination

▪ Explore and contextualize our own privileges, biases, and opinions

▪ Explore and contextualize discrimination

▪ Explore and contextualize racism

▪ Explore and contextualize systemic racism

▪ Explore the Indian Act, Residential Schools, Africville, Racialized Policing, “All lives Matter” and, Social Determinants of Health

▪ Explore and contextualize micro-aggression

Module 2 requires participants to explore and contextualize their own privileges, biases, and opinions. Participants will explore how these interrelate with discrimination, racism, and moreover, systemic racism. Participants will specifically explore contemporary racism in Nova Scotia.

Module 3: Faces of Reconciliation

▪ Explore and contextualize reconciliation

▪ Explore Truth and Reconciliation

▪ Explore and review Education Calls to Action

▪ Explore Black Lives Matter

▪ Explore and review United Nations Rights of the Child

▪ Explore Educator’s role in the classroom

▪ Explore 7 Sacred Teachings as a tool

▪ Explore racism from birth onward

▪ Explore Nova Scotia’s Early Learning Curriculum Framework

▪ Explore and articulate culturally responsive practice

▪ Explore and contextualize Allyship

Module 3 provides space to explore the different types of reconciliation while acknowledging the need to act now. Participants explore their own roles in this work; specifically exploring cultural responsiveness as it relates to Early Learning and Child Care Settings and moreover the Early Learning Curriculum Framework.

Pre-registration agreements

• I agree to participate from an operational computer with a working mic and camera.

• I agree all information is confidential and will not be shared outside my group discussions or cohort of participants

• I agree to commit to the entire 12-hour schedule to receive credit.

• I agree to conduct myself in a professional manner and be respectful of other people’s perspectives, opinions, and ideas.

• I agree that I will show up fully committed and engaged in the work.

Facilitators:

Sieun Palmer

Carrie Melsom

Session Dates and Times:

Session 1: Tuesday, October 15th, 2024 (online), 6:30pm-8:30pm

Session 2: Thursday, October 17th, 2024 (online), 6:30pm-8:30pm

Session 3: Saturday, October 19th, 2024 (online), 9:00am-1:00pm

Session 4: Tuesday, October 22nd 2024 (online), 6:30pm-8:30pm

Session 5: Thursday, October 24th, 2024 (online), 6:30pm-8:30pm

To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/nscece-culturally-responsive-practice-online-tickets-858984013307?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl 

Date Saturday October 26, 2024 (9am –4 pm) Cost: $75 Total PD hours: 7 PD hours Location: IN PERSON Rosaria Student Centre Multi Purpose Room (Room #303) Lunch is provided

Description:  Description:  
Much about our understanding of inclusion is in transition including the language we use. Language matters. The language we use goes beyond a list of correct words and terms.  Inclusive language is more than just a trend; it is a powerful tool for creating a more equitable and respectful society.  
Our morning will begin with a panel presentation where community representatives from various fields will share their thoughts on the language of inclusion; how language shapes our interactions and impacts social inclusion
After lunch participants will engage in facilitated discussion, where we will learn from each other and hear from those in the inclusion community. 
 
Key takeaways participants may expect from this day long event include: 
•    Gain a clear understanding of what inclusive language is and why it matters in today’s diverse society.
•    Discover practical strategies for incorporating inclusive language into everyday communication.
•    Learn how to avoid biased language and make conscious word choices that respect all individuals.
•    Hear real-world examples and best practices from the inclusion community
•    Learn to communicate in a way that respects and centers the voices of historically marginalized groups.
•    Understand the impact of inclusive language on creating welcoming and respectful environments.
•    Gain insights into how inclusive language can enhance community engagement and foster a sense of belonging.
•    Recognize that inclusive language is dynamic and evolves over time.
•    Be encouraged to stay informed and adapt to new developments in inclusive communication.

Learning with Mi'kma'ki is a new professional development opportunity for early childhood professionals in Nova Scotia. This training provides an opportunity for participants to see the natural environment, Earth science, sustainability, reciprocity, and interconnectedness, with two eyes — Etuaptmumk (ed-do-up-dm-momk). The work represents Mi’kmaw-first voice, with the support and advice of a standing committee.

The 6-hour course is an introduction for Early Childhood Educators to explore their immediate relationship with place and how this knowledge can be integrated in learning environments for Early Learners. The field book, which is a part of the training, requires participants to reflect on knowledge and teachings. It helps guide participants in understanding how they, as members of this place, are to be present and, in turn, how being present can be directly linked to the work of Early Learning and Child Care.

TOPICS EXPLORED:

Part 1: Indoor Presentation and Reflection

Explore Mi’kma’ki
Explore Land Acknowledgments
Explore the traditional territory and seven (7) districts
Explore who are the Mi’kmaq
Explore Mi’kmaw ways of knowing and being
Explore the teachings of Netukulimk
Explore the differences between a gift economy and a wage economy
Explore how this knowledge relates to early learners
Explore the importance of play
Explore the differences between outdoor education, outdoor learning, and land-based learning
Explore personal skill sets
Explore Etuaptmumk
Explore relationships with place

Part 2: Outdoor Activities and Discussions

Sitting with Land Activity
Observe – Memorize – Compare Protocol: bird watching
Observe – Memorize – Compare Protocol: plants and trees
Talking Circle reflection
Etuaptmumk – Two-Eyed Seeing
Case study on outing with children – reflection and discussion.

Please come prepared to spend at least 3 hours outdoors, dress for the weather and have appropriate footwear and bring a water bottle.

Session Dates and Times:

October 26th 9:00am-4:00pm (Lunch not provided)

9:00am-12:00pm-NSCC Cumberland Amherst Learning Centre (147 South Albion Street, Amherst, NS)

1:00pm-4:00pm-Tidnish Provincial Park (Prounis Park, Amherst, NS) It is a 26 minute drive here from the Amherst Site. We ask that you bring your lunch or grab something on your way to the park.

To register, click on the link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/932515477897?aff=oddtdtcreator

The One Step Forward Club strives to raise awareness about issues of injustice and inequality and to effect change within ourselves, and our community. The One Step Forward Club is a refreshing alternative to a traditional book club.  It provides a platform for engaging discussions without the hefty time commitment.  Creating a community of kind, thoughtful people, and discuss one great article/film every month.

This community of practice is free of charge.

If interested contact Jane MacKenzie
jane.mackenzie@janenorman.ca

Date: Saturday November 2 2024 (9am –4 pm) Cost: $75 Total PD hours: 6 hours
Location: IN PERSON Presenters: Heather Bartholomew & Debbie Thompson

Description:   It is widely accepted that children learn through play. This workshop will support partici-pants in identifying children’s current levels of play through the lens of both cognitive & social development. The facilitators will then focus on sharing tools and strategies to support the expansion of children’s play in both of these domains. This will allow participants to further the development of skills, enhance children’s sense of belonging and social connection & create a fun and engaging learning environment. The learning outcomes:
•Gain familiarity with Piaget’s Developmental Levels of Play and Parten’s Social Levels of Play to enable participants to use child observations to classify children’s play.•To empower participants to utilize child motivation and environmental supports to expand children’s existing play.•Learn variety of strategies for encouraging peer play, social engagement and the skills required for success in a social environment
 
Presenter Biographies: Heather Bartholomew graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Arts (Child & Youth Study) & in the twenty plus years since then, has been working with preschoolers. Additionally, she has recently begun working part-time with adults with developmental delays, giving her a broader, across the lifespan perspective on supporting di-verse individuals at any age. She has worked as an Early Childhood Educator, one-to-one support staff & as a resource teacher. For five years, she served as Resource Teacher at the Mount’s Child Study Centre, supporting children with identified special needs &, in particular, delivering programming to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Heather has worked as a Program Implementer in Halifax’s Early Intensive Behavioural Intervention program for the past sev-enteen years. She has developed & facilitated workshops on a variety of topics, most frequently relating to Inclusion. Heather is passionate about facilitating positive inclusion experiences & finding effective & efficient strategies to sup-port individual & classroom-wide learning.
Debbie Thompson is a graduate from Mount Saint Vincent University with the Degree in Child & Youth. Debbie started her journey in ECE at Wee Care Developmental centre working as a Developmental teacher in an integrated setting. It was there that she knew she wanted to focus her attention on working with children with special needs. Deb-bie also developed the Resource position at Wee Care & was responsible for developing & implementing plans for chil-dren with special needs. Debbie now works at the IWK as a Program Implementer for the Early Intensive Behaviour Intervention program (EIBI) working with children with Autism. Through her job at the IWK she continues to work closely with preschool teachers consulting & providing feedback in various programs. Debbie also teaches regularly at Nova Scotia College of Early Childhood Education & Mount Saint Vincent University on various topics including chal-lenging behaviour & Inclusion.

Explore the importance of educator wellness, and how it effects not only your overall wellbeing but that of the children's.

Facilitator: Theresa MacLeod

I have been an ECE for the past 18 years, all of which spent working directly with children. I've worked with infants to school age in licensed care, home daycare, nursery school and currently Pre-primary. I love being outside and sharing my love of all things outdoors with the children and families work with.

Fee: $30

Deadline to register: October 25,  2024

Please Note Our new payment process (September 2023)

1. Credit card or VISA Debit payment
2. Cheque
3. Cash
(Instructions below)

- Registration form AND payment are to be received by us at least TWO WEEKS IN ADVANCE (unless otherwise noted), not simply postmarked by the deadline.
- Registrations cannot be processed, nor spaces held, until both registration form and payment are received.
- Cancellations must be processed before the workshop occurs. Please contact us at least 1 week prior to a workshop if you are unable to attend.

Please contact  sara.graves@nscc.ca or justine.macdonald@nscc.ca  for more details.

*please keep our workshop guidelines in mind* https://www.nscc.ca/ecdsc/professional-development/kingstec-guidelines.asp

To Register: https://bit.ly/ecdscregistration

WHAT IF TODAY WAS THEIR ONLY DAY? (KEYNOTE)

In this keynote address Lisa shares the powerful story of her first day of school. Through engaging storytelling Lisa brings you back to this first day by taking you on a tour of Mary’s Nursery School. Lisa will share the sights and sounds of the place where, at the young age of three, she decided to become a teacher and identifies how one day solidified this decision. This inspiring keynote gets participants back in touch with their own personal why which is at the heart of providing quality care - why do we show up every day and do this work? And, if it was a child’s only day, what will they remember?

OOEY GOOEY® SQUISHY PLOP!
Sensory Play for Every Day!

This one-of-a-kind workshop offers six (6) tables of hands-on activity ideas as well as the “wolf words” that support their use in the classroom! Participants will have play time too!

10 LITTLE HOT DOGS FRYIN’ IN THE WHAT?!?!
Fingerplay songs & chants for transition time, circle time or any time!

This is an audience sing-along session so leave the inhibitions at the door and be ready to sing and clap along!

LISA MURPHY ON...PLAY!
The Importance of Early Experiences

In this workshop Lisa presents the seven things we must do with children each day which she outlined in her book, Lisa Murphy on… PLAY. This workshop continues to be Lisa’s most requested session because it shows how these seven things make up the foundation that supports the house of higher learning. There is nothing wrong with the “academic” expectations of the house such as reading, writing, math… the trouble is that many early childhood educators are being pressured to build a house where there is no foundation. Play is the foundation and through an investigation of the seven things Lisa shows you how.

Facilitator: Lisa Murphy    Cost: $86.25

Preregistration required-submit ECDSC registration form by October 11th, there are 300 spots available.

To register, click here: https://forms.office.com/r/Fpexz3sp9w