Save the date for EdFest: Friday, April 3, 2026
Learn more about the trainings for the day:
Effective Discipline & Self-Discipline Skills, presented by Brooke Haberle, The Educators Collaborative
This workshop focuses on building self-regulation and internal discipline through proactive, movement-based routines and games. Participants will explore the difference between external control and teaching self-discipline, and how movement can be intentionally used to strengthen impulse control, cooperation, and emotional regulation. Educators will gain practical tools and strategies that promote connection, consistency, and skill-building rather than punishment, helping students develop lifelong self-regulation skills.
Handling Stress & Triggers Through Movement, presented by Brooke Haberle, The Educators Collaborative
This interactive workshop supports educators in understanding how stress and emotional triggers impact the nervous system and learning. Participants will engage in play-based, brain-smart movement activities designed to help reset the nervous system, reduce stress responses, and restore a sense of safety and regulation. Educators will leave with practical, developmentally appropriate strategies they can immediately use with students to support emotional regulation, focus, and readiness to learn—especially during moments of dysregulation or transition.
Speaking Strengths: Using Positive Conversations to Build Strong Teams, presented by Laurie Carpenter, Early Childhood Education Consultant & Facilitator
An interactive workshop that focuses on the power of intentional, strengths-based communication in early childhood education settings. Participants will explore how positive conversations—such as recognition, encouragement, and affirming feedback—can strengthen relationships, build trust, and support professional growth. Through reflection, practical strategies, and real-world examples, educators will learn how to communicate in ways that uplift colleagues, reinforce accountability, and contribute to a positive, collaborative team culture.
Turning Tension into Trust: Difficult Conversations, presented by Laurie Carpenter, Early Childhood Education Consultant & Facilitator
An interactive workshop designed to support educators in navigating challenging conversations with confidence, clarity, and care. Participants will explore why difficult conversations can feel so hard in early education settings and learn practical strategies for addressing concerns with colleagues, families, and leadership in ways that preserve relationships and promote trust. Through real-life scenarios, reflection, and guided discussion, educators will build skills to communicate openly, manage emotions, and turn moments of tension into opportunities for growth, collaboration, and stronger professional relationships.
Yoga, presented by Martha Goldstein, UCONN
Offering gentle, integrative yoga as a self-care experience for staff!
