Thrive Workshops: Living And Learning

Join us for a day of learning and growth at Thrive Workshops, designed for early childhood educators and parents. Engage with expert speakers and connect with others passionate about supporting children's development.

We warmly welcome all parents and early childhood educators (ECEs) to attend. ECEs will receive a certificate of attendance to acknowledge the professional development hours earned.

Option #1: Morning Keynote (9 to 12 pm) …… $20

Option #2: Morning Keynote + Afternoon Workshop (9 to 3 pm) …… $45
Lunch is provided and a choice of one afternoon workshop.

Playful Beginnings, Lifelong Benefits: The Power of Play for Growth and Development
Dr Vanessa Lapointe (9 to 12 pm)

Play isn't just for kids—it’s essential for adults too! This workshop will explore the vital role of play in early childhood and its lasting impact on cognitive, emotional, social, and physical well-being. Participants will learn practical strategies to incorporate meaningful, developmentally appropriate play into daily interactions, fostering creativity, resilience, and lifelong joy.

Dr. Vanessa Lapointe is an international speaker, best-selling author, parenting educator, and the founder of The North Star Developmental Clinic.

Workshop 1:
Music and the Brain
(Guest Speaker) Allison Davies (1 to 3 pm)
This workshop will explore the relationship between music and the brain, focusing on how melody, rhythm, and our voice impact the body, brain, and nervous system. Regardless of musical background, educators can use music daily to support emotional regulation for both children and themselves. This session will inspire you with the power of music to support anxiety, move emotion, entrain the physical body and feel safe and in control.

Allison Davies is an educator, scholar, and former music therapist of 16 years who creates resources and delivers professional development on neurodivergence and music as a regulatory tool.

Workshop 2:
A Relationship for Life - The Power of Connection in Growth and Development
Dr Vanessa Lapointe (1 to 3 pm)
Newborns form 1 million new neural connections per second, and early experiences shape the brain in profound ways. The neural pathways laid in the first 6 years can influence mental health and well-being throughout life. This session will equip educators, caregivers, and parents with a clear understanding of the science of relationship, the power of connection, and ideas for how to bring this to life in the everyday experiences of children.

Workshop 3:
Go Wide: Harnessing Your Resilience Through Life’s Challenges
Ranbir Puar (1 to 3 pm)
Rather than testing your limits, challenges can expand your ability to thrive. The session will focus on building resilience through intentional learning and empowered living. You’ll explore how to embrace discomfort, tap into your strength during adversity, and develop tools for greater awareness, adaptability, and purpose. Leave inspired to navigate life with confidence, curiosity, and a deeper commitment to both living and learning.
Rabir Puar is a TEDx Speaker, Author, Clinical Hypnotherapist, Life Strategies Coach, and Biofeedback Specialist.

Worshop 4:
Growing Kindness, Confidence, and Adaptability: Parenting and Teaching Children Under 6
David Loyst (1 to 3 pm)
By understanding the six key developmental and attachment stages, participants will learn practical strategies to foster kindness, self-esteem, and resilience in children. The session offers clear guidance on what to do—and avoid—at each stage to promote healthy emotional growth. Through relatable examples and actionable tips, attendees will gain the tools to create environments where children thrive. Join us to discover how small, intentional actions can make a lasting impact on a child’s sense of self and relationships.
David is a co-director of The North Star Developmental Clinic with over 30 years of experience working with children and families as a Speech Language Pathologist, Behavioral Consultant, and Parent Coach/Educator.

This workshop is designed for adults only as we are unable to accommodate children. After the refund deadline, refunds will not be offered if the workshop is canceled due to severe weather conditions or unexpected power outages beyond our control. Photographs wll be taken at the event. By registering, you are hereby giving permission for photos containing your image to be used on Wind & Tide's website and social media accounts (Facebook and Intagram).

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Gracepoint Community Church, 3487 King George Boulevard, Surrey, Canada