Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-12-2022 04:12 AM
    Aloha, 
    It's autumn and NAEYC conference season is weeks away. (Washington, DC - November 16-19, 2022)  In the state I live, Hawaii,  our chapter HIAEYC,  will be hosting a face to face state-wide conference since the start of the pandemic, (March 2020) this upcoming weekend. I am going, I wouldn't miss it. 

    For me, conferences have been a perk of the profession I have chosen (ECE). I gain insight, make life-long friends and connections. I usually learn something that will help me help the children and families I  serve. I feel validated for the work and the long hours. (We have all been there). 

    I am wondering if other early childhood professionals are planning on attending NAEYC-sponsored conferences, either local, state and/or the national conference in D.C. ( FYI: Next year, 2023, the national conference is in Nashville). Is your local chapter of NAEYC hosting a conference or workshop in 2022.   Here are my questions:.
     Are you attending?
     What do you hope to gain? 

    My name is Jacquelyn "Jackie" Ching. 
    I am a life-long learner and currently work with children and adults on the spectrum. 




     


     





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    Jacquelyn Ching, M.A.
    Advocate
    The Learning Bridge
    Keaau, HI
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  • 2.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-13-2022 12:10 AM
    I plan to attend the 2023 SDECE conference in Huron, South Dakota. 

    While there I hope and plan to gather a plethora of knowledge to bring back to my center to help build it into one of the elite.

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    Joseph Thompson
    JrK Teacher, Preschool Curriculum Coordinator, Training Coordinator
    Trucks N Trykes Playcare
    Sioux Falls SD
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  • 3.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-13-2022 03:22 AM
    Wow Joseph, that's great. 
    What's also great about conference are the topics and the keynote speaker. I find it difficult making the final decision on which session and workshop to attend. They are so interesting.
    When you say 'elite 'do you mean an  NAEYC-accredidation program? Or does it mean something else?   
    Usually there is a session dedicated to learning about NAEYC accreditation. In Hawaii our state chapter partnered with other entities to help ECE programs begin the NAEYC self-study, Free training was available to interested programs plus the participants earned professional develop certificates good for continuing ED requirements required for state licensed programs. It was a win-win situation. However, the funds have dried up since the pandemic. 

     
    I'm hoping to renew connections and advocate for accreditation support and training. To me, quality  is achievable and with help from NAEYC  and accreditation it can be done. 
    Have a great time at your conference. Let's compare notes. 
    'Jackie' 


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    Jacquelyn Ching
    Advocate
    The Learning Bridge
    Keaau HI
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  • 4.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-14-2022 12:04 AM
    Getting accreditation would be amazing for my program. However, when I mean elite, I mean one of the top centers in the state not just accredited. By going to these conferences. I always look forward to them because I get to develop a sense of belonging while at the same time learning new techniques and gaining vast amounts of new knowledge on how to better my staff, better my students and help the parents as well.

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    Joseph Thompson
    JrK Teacher, Preschool Curriculum Coordinator, Training Coordinator
    Trucks N Trykes Playcare
    Sioux Falls SD
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  • 5.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-14-2022 03:20 AM
    Hi Joseph, Thank you for your reply. You might think about presenting at a conference sometime. It is a wonderful experience and you sound like you have much to give and are dedicated to the work.
    I will be flying to Honolulu tomorrow. I live on the Hawaii Island hear Hilo. Our state conferences  have generally taken place on the island of Oahu. It has the biggest population. 
    Take care Joseph. I will share what I learned if you are interested. 
    Aloha,  Jackie

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    Jacquelyn Ching
    Advocate
    The Learning Bridge
    Keaau HI
    ------------------------------



  • 6.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-14-2022 09:42 PM
    Aloha Jacqueline,

    I will be attending and presenting. I am super excited, first time attending this national conference and visiting Washington yay!  I hope to learn what other professionals will be sharing, new knowledge, networking, and get inspired by our teaching community. I am from San Diego. 
    I will love to say hi there if possible  😀

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    Lenika Flores
    Quality Support Manager
    YMCA
    San Diego CA
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  • 7.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-15-2022 01:38 AM
    Aloha Lenika, That is exciting! I presented with my colleague at NAEYC Conference  in 2011. It was held in Anaheim and It was fun. Remember to breathe and enjoy, Don't sweat the small stuff and go with the flow.  The participants are eager to learn and tell their stories. 
    Can't wait to hear about your experience if you wish to share.
    I will not be attending the National conference this year. I wish you the best. 

    My state conference is tomorrow and I am excited to see old friends, make new ones and learn something new. 
    Be well, 
    'Jackie'  Jacquelyn

    ------------------------------
    Jacquelyn Ching
    Advocate
    The Learning Bridge
    Keaau HI
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  • 8.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-17-2022 04:29 PM
    Hi Jackie - great question. Many of NAEYC Affiliates host one or more professional development events and conferences each year.  You can find out more information on where and when these events are by checking our Affiliate Events and Conference calendar online. 

    Gwen Simmons
    Senior Director Affiliate Relations

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    Gwen Simmons
    Senior Director Affiliate Relations
    National Association for the Education of Young Children
    Cleveland Hts OH
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  • 9.  RE: Upcoming Conferences

    Posted 10-27-2022 07:06 PM
    Thanks to everynody for this discussion! I am new to NAEYC and thrilled to discover all the resources it has to offer. 

    Gwen, thank you for sharing this link. I won't attend the upcoming conference (though I would like to).  The information you shared helps me connect with affiliate conferences when and where I am able to participate!

    Warm regards to all,
    Susanna Curry in California

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    SUSANNA CURRY
    Educationally-Related Mental Health Specialist
    Shasta Lake CA
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