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2 Days - Saturdays June 7th and 21st.You must attend both days to receive your certificate.
$80 | 8 PD hours | Register by May 30th
https://www.nscc.ca/ecdsc/professional-development/details.asp?id=296
The “Celebrating Neurodiversity Series” is a 4-part professional development workshop that is meant to dig deeper into our general understanding of neurodiversity and how best to implement supportive accommodations for neurodivergent children and educators in early learning and childcare settings.
1. “Beyond Behaviours” is inspired by the work of Dr. Mona Delahooke and will give educators the tools they need to recognize the inherent traits of neurodiversity and characteristics of neurodivergent trauma. In rethinking our responses to child behaviour we will compare ‘top-down’ vs ‘bottom-up’ behaviours, and learn to be an ‘interpreter of behaviour’. Identifying how to provide compassionate care for sensory overwhelm (meltdowns/shutdowns) in neurodivergent children will also lead educators to a better understanding of the neurodiverse perspective.
2. “Responsive Relationships” reflects on the importance of building secure, nurturing relationships with neurodiverse children and their families. Educators who intentionally prioritize children’s needs and capabilities will create strong connections and a culture of acceptance in their learning environments. We will explore co-regulation, facilitating positive relationships with neurotypical peers, and how to build capacity for emotional regulation in kids and educators. Identifying neurodiversity affirming rules and expectations, while highlighting existing ableism, means more inclusive and accessible spaces for all!
3. “Sensory-Friendly Spaces” is driven by a comprehensive and practical approach that will help educators assess and understand the sensory profiles of neurodivergent children, including how best to support sensory processing needs within adaptive multi-sensory environments in early learning settings. Ideas for sensory diet tools and activities will be shared, alongside discussion about how best to ensure that the space inspires joyous inclusion and adheres to appropriate policies, safety practices, and applications in daily use.
4. “Accessible Workplaces” approaches our work environments from the perspective of neurodivergent ECEs. The information in this session will encourage meaningful conversations and acknowledge educator support needs in our early learning settings. Practical (and tested) advice on how best to implement supportive accommodations and recognize each others’ strengths/needs will empower employees and employers alike to create successful workplaces that prioritize compassionate teamwork. Accessibility in the workplace is a universal goal that can only be achieved through clear communication and willing collaboration.
Facilitated by Melissa Castonguay
Melissa Castonguay is an Early Childhood Educator, a neurodiversity movement advocate, an advisor for child care transformation in Nova Scotia, and the parent of a neurodivergent child. She is also a professional consultant, facilitating workshops focused on neurodiversity affirming pedagogical practice and the implementation of supportive accommodations for neurodivergent children in child care settings.
She is striving to inspire truly inclusive early learning for all children by empowering educators to embrace a new mindset as she shares openly from her own experiences. Melissa believes whole-heartedly in the value of meeting children where they are, accepting them for who they are, and supporting them in reaching their lifelong potential.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
236 Belcher St., Kentville, NS, Canada, Nova Scotia B4N 0A6
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