1. family and parenting
2. children

NEW JERSEY ASSOCIATION
FOR THE EDUCATION OF
YOUNG CHILDREN
(NJAEYC)
STEM:
AN
PREPARING OUR
YOUNG CHILDREN FOR
THE FUTURE
L
A
U
N
NFERENCE
O
C
2014
OCTOBER 17-18, 2014
HILTON
MEADOWLANDS HOTEL
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ
HELEN MUSCATO,
CONFERENCE INFORMATION
(732) 329-0033
[email protected]
New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children
Schedule Overview
Thursday
October 16, 2014
Friday
October 17, 2014
Saturday
October 18, 2014
Hilton Meadowlands
Hilton Meadowlands
Hilton Meadowlands
Pre-Conference
Session
Breakfast/Exhibits/
Registration
7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Breakfast/Exhibits/
Registration
7:30 a.m. - 8:45 a.m.
Welcome
8:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Welcome/Awards
8:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.
Keynote Presentation
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Keynote Presentation
9:00 a.m. - 10:15 a.m.
Book Signing & Exhibits
10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m.
Workshops
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
See brochure for specific
time
Workshops
11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Lunch/Exhibitors
(Lunch Included)
1:00 p.m. - 2:15 p.m.
Workshops
2:15 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.
Break
3:45 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Lunch/Exhibitors
(Lunch Included)
12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Workshops
1:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Closing Session
3:15 p.m. - 4:15 p.m.
Workshops
4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.
Special Presentation
5:45 p.m. - 6:45 p.m.
NJAEYC provides a forum through which individuals can gather and discuss issues vital to those
who work on behalf of children and families. Although NJAEYC encourages the exchange of diverse
opinions, the ideas presented do not necessarily reflect any of NJAEYC’s official positions. NJAEYC
assumes no responsibility for any statement of fact or opinion presented at this conference, nor does
acceptance of advertising or exhibits imply endorsement of any products or services by NJAEYC.
Photographs will be taken during the conference and may appear on the NJAEYC website.
2014 ANNUAL CONFERENCE INFORMATION
What is STEM?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This educational
focus has become a top priority across all sectors of our society. In January 2010,
President Obama released $250 million to support the “Educate to Innovate”
Campaign to support STEM education. Educators, in public-private partnerships with
corporations, foundations and collaboration with the U.S. Department of Education’s
Race to the Top Fund were asked to prioritize programs that offer rigorous courses
and to help prepare students for careers in STEM fields.
REGISTRATION AND FEES
• Early Bird registration must be post-marked by September 16, 2014.
• After September 16, 2014, mailed registrations will only be processed if the payment includes
a $25 late fee.
• On-site registration (based on availability) fees will be $25 higher than early bird registrations.
PAYMENT OF FEES
• Fees are listed on the registration page.
• Payment must accompany your registration form. NJAEYC does not accept purchase orders for
• Checks must be made payable to NJAEYC.
conference registration.
• Refunds of registration fees are made only upon written request prior to September 16, 2014.
A $25.00 processing fee is deducted from each refund. Absolutely no refunds are issued after
September 16, 2014.
• A registration can be transferred to another person upon request.
• Send your registration and payment to:
NJAEYC Conference
PO Box 1024
Barnegat Light, NJ 08006
CONFIRMATION
• NO CONFIRMATION WILL BE SENT. YOU WILL RECEIVE YOUR NAME TAG AND CONFERENCE
MATERIALS AT THE CONFERENCE.
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CORE KNOWLEDGE AREAS
CORE KNOWLEDGE identifies specific base areas that a professional must have and apply when
working with children, their families and other professionals. All areas are intrinsically interrelated and
interdependent.
The Core Knowledge Areas are:
1. Assessment and Evaluation
2. Child Growth and Development
3.Curriculum
4. Family and Community Relationships
5. Health, Safety, Nutrition and Physical Activities
6. Professionalism and Leadership
7. Program Organization and Management
LEVELS (appear in parentheses after workshop title)
• Level I - Individuals at this level are at the first step in their commitment to a career in early care and
education.
• Level II - Individuals at this level have participated in formal study leading to a degree and/or certificate
and have refined their knowledge through guided and reflective experience with young children.
• Level III - Individuals at this level have extensive academic preparation and experience in the field and
can be responsible for mentoring those at Levels I and II.
L&A =
Leadership and Administration
I/T = Infant/Toddler
P = Preschool
K = Kindergarten/School age
FCC =
Family Child Care
SEATING
• Seating in workshops is limited to those people who are specifically registered for that particular
workshop and assigned workshops will appear on your name tag.
FOOD
• There will be a complimentary continental breakfast provided on Friday and Saturday for conference
attendees.
• Attendees will also receive complimentary lunches on Friday and Saturday.
PARKING
• Free parking is available at the hotel.
CEUs
• Continuing Education Units will be awarded for successful completion of requirements. Packets must
be picked up at registration.
• Department of Education - Registered Provider (qualifies for Professional Development hours for public
school teachers).
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SPECIAL DEMONSTRATION . . .
“Where Ideas Learn to Fly”
As Quality Grows for Garden State’s Kids, Take the Path of Possibility
Through the Demonstration Room of Quality Engagements
Delve into a guided learning tour of this 2,500 square feet of collaboration space
designed to inspire quality learning engagements for infants, toddlers and young children
through thoughtful placement of intentional materials. Visit this demonstration room with other
PINJ-registered professionals and examine both materials and requirements needed to meet
and exceed licensing standards and support quality measures. Navigate your way through a
three dimensional exhibit, “Where Ideas Learn to Fly,” to gain new insight about observing,
documenting, and co-learning with children. Gather practices to help you apply the new Core
Knowledge and Competencies Framework to overlap with the NJ Birth- to -Three Early Learning
Standards and/or the NJ DOE 2013 Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards. Find ways to
support staff with these tools across their own learning paths. The exhibit at this conference is
part of a collaboration with Ohio Voices for Learning, Professional Impact New Jersey, NJAEYC
and New Jersey First Steps to support state-wide participation in Grow NJ Kids.
Take a guided tour during the vendor visitation schedule. Test and grow your own ability
to use a quality measure tool. Apply the ITERS, ECERS or FCCERS to assess the featured
spaces designed for play inside this room. Win door prizes and vendor discounts on materials
for your efforts.
Workshops will be offered during the regular workshop schedule by Professional
Impact NJ and NJ First Steps.
3
NJAEYC
Your Professional Early Childhood Organization
Are YOU a member?
Join the National NAEYC and automatically
become a member of your state and local affiliate.
3 easy ways to join:
WEB: www.naeyc.org/membership/join
Phone: 1-800-424-2460
E-mail: [email protected]
The NJAEYC conference committee has a
limited number of positions open for
Undergraduate
and Graduate students
to attend the conference at no cost.
Visit our website at www.njaeyc.org to download the
NJAEYC Student Volunteer Application Form.
*Remember to sign up early, student applications are
accepted in the order in which they are received.
4
THURSDAY PRE-CONFERENCE SESSION
Medication Administration in Early Education and Child Care Settings
Schedule: 9:00 AM - 12:00 Noon- Light breakfast will be provided in the morning
12:00 - 1:00 PM
- Lunch on your own
1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Ritamarie Giosa, MSN, RN, CPN, Nursing Program and
Undergraduate Student Advisor, Thomas Edison State College
Based on the American Academy of Pediatrics “Healthy Futures” curriculum, this
full day workshop will cover policies, regulations, liability, measuring, administration,
storage, disposal and documentation procedures that promote administering
medications safely. The session will also include when medication administration
may not be appropriate, dealing with parents, Special Needs Care Plans, and
inclusion of children with asthma and life threatening allergies along with special
delivery devices such as nebulizers, inhalers and the EpiPen®. Current CPR and First Aid certification
preferred.
AWARDS CEREMONY TO HONOR NEW JERSEY’S
EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION LEADERS
This ceremony honors the four winners of the 2014 Dr. Maxine Fischel Professional
Development Awards. These awards are made possible through a collaboration of
Professional Impact NJ, New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children
(NJAEYC) and the NJ Statewide Coalition for Child Care. The Awardees were selected
from nominations submitted by their peers. Please join in celebrating the accomplishments
of New Jersey’s future leaders on Saturday morning.
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FRIDAY, 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
HEDDA SHARAPAN, Director of Early Childhood Initiatives,
The Fred Rogers Company
Hedda Sharapan recently celebrated the start of her 48th year
with Fred Rogers and the small nonprofit company that he
founded. Hedda met Fred Rogers in 1965, before Mister Rogers’
Neighborhood, looking for advice about a possible career in
children’s television. At his suggestion, she pursued a master’s
degree in Child Development from the University of Pittsburgh.
She was asked to work on his production from the very first day of
the Neighborhood series in 1966, and served as Assistant Director,
Assistant Producer, Associate Producer and currently serves as
Director of Early Childhood Initiatives. Continuing to carry on Fred Rogers’ legacy, her work includes
writing for articles, books, and websites, consulting on scripts for Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, along
with creating and presenting professional development materials for early childhood educators. Her
monthly professional development newsletter “What we can continue to learn from Fred Rogers”
reaches nearly 15,000 subscribers.
As “ambassador on the road” for the Neighborhood, she’s a highly sought-after speaker at national
and statewide education conferences. Hedda connects the insight she’s gained over the years from
working closely with Fred Rogers with treasured video segments and stories from early childhood
professionals around the country. In 2010 Hedda was named one of two “Heroes on the Horizon” at
the annual NAEYC conference, and in 2011 she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from NAFCC
(The National Association for Family Child Care). In 2013 she was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in
Humane Letters from St. Vincent College in Latrobe, PA.
KEYNOTE ADDRESS:
STEM might be Science, Technology, Engineering and Math to the world, but it begins in early
childhood with “What’s this?” and “What can I do with it?” Adding the A for Arts to make it STEAM
makes it an even more natural fit for young children. Through videos, like the all-time favorite
crayon factory - maybe you remember it from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood? -- and stories from
child care professionals around the country, we’ll explore everyday ways to get comfortable with
STEAM concepts in early childhood. It’s not just to inspire scientists, architects and engineers these basic concepts are at the foundation for all of children’s future learning!
6
Friday workshops 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
ASSESSMENT AND EVALUATION
1. Taking Apart the Environment Rating Scales (I/T, P, Level I)
Tricia Sifford, Senior Acct Manager, Branagh Information Group
Environment Rating Scale – assessments are designed to give more than a score. Used appropriately,
assessments provide a road map for planning quality improvement efforts. This session will provide a deeper
understanding of the scales and see before/after pictures of classroom quality improvements.
Child Growth and Development
2. Multi-Sensory Strategies to Enhance Classroom Learning (P, K, Level II, III)
Eleanor Campbell, Pediatric Physical Therapist, Advanced Physical Therapy Associates,
Alison Bielinski, OTR
Learn how to help your students improve gross, fine and visual motor skills, improve body awareness and
self-regulation and wake the brain up for learning. This workshop explores the connection between the mind
and body, in relation to learning and self-regulation. It will provide easy, practical strategies for teachers using
common classroom materials.
3. Kindness in an Unkind World (L&A, Level I, II, IIII)
Moya Fewson, HighScope Teacher Education Centre
This workshop will examine ways to help preschoolers deal with a stressful world full of visions of violence and
cruelty. It will help teachers focus on compassion, courage and kindness from an adult to child perspective and
a child to child perspective. Kindness, like other social skills, needs to be modelled and it needs to be taught!
4. Baby Sign Language (I/T, Level I)
Sherri Begleiter, Early Childhood Consultant
Why learn baby sign language? For a host of reasons: it bridges the gap between understanding language and
being able to communicate by helping children communicate before they can speak. This helps reduce frustration
for infants and toddlers, it helps practice interperson communication skills, creates a common language for a
classroom that might be multilingual, increases attention and engagement while increasing a child’s sense of
accomplishment and self-esteem. Sign language enhances finger play and helps ease transitions as well as
reaching children with special needs. Most of all, it’s fun and easy to learn! We will learn the alphabet, numbers,
simple directions, animals and a couple of special surprises!
Curriculum
5. Dan Zanes House Party: Songs and Stories from American Neighborhoods (I/T, PS, Level II)
Dan Zanes, Grammy Award Winner, Festival Five Records and Joy Marilie
Sing, dance, listen and learn to make music an integral part of children’s everyday lives while interacting with the
music and stories of the diverse culture that make up America’s neighborhoods. Experience in the workshop
how children in the class are able to explore the rich tapestry of American folk traditions through songs, stories,
movement, puppets and games.
7
Friday workshops 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
6. Preschoolers as Photographers (P, Level I, II)
Elizabeth Cottino, M. Ed. William Paterson University Child Development Center;
Cindy Gennarelli, M.Ed. William Paterson University Child Development Center
The purpose of this workshop is to provide participants with an in-depth look at how one preschool classroom
integrated the use of digital cameras and iPads to follow the children’s interest in photography. Participants
will learn about the journey (curriculum including literature and activities, documentation and the photography
exhibit) that took place during this unit of study.
7. Making Storytime More Fun! (I/T, PS, K, Level I, II, III)
Don Dougherty, Author, Storyteller, Rocketeer; Classroom Adventure Stories, LLC
This is NOT your typical workshop! So get ready to go on an exciting, highly-interactive adventure, with
Don Dougherty of Classroom Adventure Stories! Don has been a Professional Storyteller since 2007. He’s
performed thousands of times for tens of thousands of children and adults in a variety of settings. In this
workshop, he’ll perform one of his stories, and then give you tips on how you, yourself, can make story time
more fun in your classroom. But remember: “It’s NOT just a workshop -- It’s an ADVENTURE!”
8. The Joy of Yoga & Music: Songs, Activities, Tips and Tools (P, K, Level II)
Bari Koral: Music, Movement & Kids Yoga
A trip to the moon? Growing from seeds into apple trees, chasing the gingerbread man? Discover a wonderful
world of beloved songs and activities that help teach children the love of yoga & movement. As we move
and play you’ll discover life changing tools you can easily incorporate into your classroom. Everyone will
be encouraged to participate in the fun while we play songs that build confidence, strength, balance and
coordination.
9. Oceans Alive! A showcase of hands-on aquatic science programs for young children
(I/T, P, K, Level I, II, III)
Estelle M. Kerdock, Outreach Manager, New Jersey Academy for Aquatic Sciences
This session will introduce participants to the various traveling programs offered for young children, toddlers
through 2nd grade, by New Jersey Academy for Aquatic Sciences. In this session, participants will experience
firsthand, mini-sessions of Tidepool Toddlers (for 2-3 yr), Oceans in Motion (PS-1st), and Feathers and Scales
and Fur Oh My! (for PS-2nd). Hands-on with live animals!
10. Activate Your Curriculum – Bring Kinesthetic Learning Into Your School (PS, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Monica Levy, Founder/Owner LeapSmart
Educators will learn how to invent their own custom tailored educational movement activities for any curriculum
through creative activities, inspirational PowerPoint and spirited discussions. Educators will learn step-by-step
techniques and will leave the workshop confident and prepared to incorporate kinesthetic learning into their
classrooms resulting in improved classroom management and increased retention.
11. “Where Ideas Learn to Fly”: An Exhibit Demonstrating Approaches to Learning (L&A, Level I, II, III)
Dr. Arlene R. Martin, Executive Director of Professional Impact New Jersey, (PINJ); Kim M. Cornell,
Director of New Initiatives, PINJ
Utilizing the Ohio Voices for Learning exhibit “Where Ideas Learn to Fly” as inspiration, we’ll look at standards
with new eyes. Make connections to the Approaches to Learning from NJ DOE 2013 Preschool Teaching and
Learning Standards. Participate in a learning community discussion about how a shift to thinking in reverse can
reveal standards as opportunities rather than obstacles.
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Friday workshops 11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Family and Community Relationships
12. Family Literacy Workshops: Thousands of Possibilities – Incredible Results. Get Yours!
Anita R. Kumar, Assistant Professor and Coordinator – Department of Early Childhood Teacher Education,
Passaic County Community College; Nicole DeNude, Administrator - Child Development Center, Passaic
County Community College
Do you want to engage families through fun literacy building activities? Join us to learn research-based
strategies to share with families to build oral language, vocabulary, comprehension, phonemic awareness, letter
knowledge and writing through home environments, daily interactions and routines and culturally and socially
relevant practices. Materials, activities and parent handouts to use for family literacy workshops will be shared.
Health, Safety, Nutrition and Physical Activities
13. Nutrition and Fitness in Early Childhood (I/T, P, FCC, Level I, II)
Pat Lutner, Goddard Instructor and Pat Zauflik, Goddard Systems, Inc.
This workshop explores the basics of nutrition and fitness for young children. It guides adults to become good
role models in food choices and fitness activities for the children and families they serve.
Professionalism and Leadership
14. Respectful, Effective and Positive Communication (All, Level I, II)
Cindy Rzasa Bess, Developmental Psychologist, Education Consultant
So often as adults (parents and co-workers) we forget how important building positive and productive
relationships are to our success, especially with young children. We must always be mindful of what we say,
what our intended message is, and how we look when speaking, if we truly want to make our voice heard, our
message clear, and our point understood.
15. Breaking Free – Using Your Inner Strength (All, Level I, II, III)
Sylvia F. Pfeffer and Lauretta Freeman, Consultants – Center for Educational Services
This workshop will engage attendees in experiences to help them become more aware of their own strengths.
Participants will be exposed to techniques which can enrich their lives on a daily basis.
16. First Annual NJAEYC Leadership Summit (Part I) (L&A, Level I, II, III)
Amanda Blagman, Coordinator of Early Education Quality Initiatives, Programs for Parents
Come and be part of our First Annual NJAEYC Leadership Summit as we discuss Race to the Top, QRIS,
Accreditation and what’s happening in early childhood education in New Jersey and the nation. Help define
your role as an early childhood leader. Join the NJAEYC Public Policy Team for a lively interactive discussion
on these topics and more.
Program Organization and Management
17. NJ Immunization Requirements: Tools for Best Practice (P, K, Level I, II, III)
Jenish Sudhakaran, MPH Population Assessment Coordinator and Jennifer Smith, MPH, CHES Health
Educator; NJ Department of Health Vaccine Preventable Disease Program
This interactive presentation will provide an overview of NJ’s child care and preschool immunization
requirements (N.J.A.C. 8:57-4). The speakers will share tools for best practice for interpreting and applying
school immunization requirements.
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Friday WORKSHOPS 2:15 PM - 3:45 pm
Assessment and Evaluation
18. Do You Know R.O.S.I.E.? (I/T, P. K. FCC, Level II, III)
Angie DeFazio, ECE Consultant/Trainer, Is It Good For Children, LLC
ROSIE (Rating Observation Scale for Inspiring Environments) is a self-assessment tool that looks at environments
in a new way—Sprouting, Budding and Blooming. Teachers are invited to come and learn how to enhance
their classrooms by emphasizing aesthetic environmental qualities that are often overlooked in early childhood
classrooms, such as nature, color, furnishings, textures, displays, lighting and focal points.
CHILD GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
19.How to Deal with Anger and Aggression (I/T, P, FCC, Level I, II)
Sherri Begleiter, Early Childhood Consultant
Being angry is normal human emotion. Learning to handle anger in a safe, healthy way is sometimes more
difficult. We will cover biting, aggressive vs nonaggressive, why children become aggressive, helping children
identify their emotions, and a toolbox of techniques for teachers to use in their classroom.
Curriculum
20. Music Centers….Indoor or Out! (P, Level I)
Dina Lopreiato, Preschool Teacher, Little Egg Harbor School District
Have you ever wondered if a child initiated outdoor music center would enhance children’s language and
build vocabulary while supporting social emotional growth? Workshop participants will learn how one teacher
engaged in an investigative study from observing and documenting children’s interest in music. Children were
active participants, creating an outdoor music center that is now a favorite place to create and march to joyful
sounds, rhythms and beats.
21. Paint Me a Story (P, Level II)
Kerry Scott, Early Learning Program Coordinator and Beth Cooper, Curator of Education, New Jersey
State Museum
“Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once he grows up.” Pablo Picasso. How
can art give children the classroom skills they need for grade school? This workshop will present techniques
to promote critical thinking, creativity, language development, and interdisciplinary learning. Participants will
receive a curriculum guide and resource packet.
22. Enhancing Children’s Literacy Skills in a Preschool Classroom (P, FCC, Level I, II)
Denielle Carr, Group Teacher, William Paterson University Child Development Center
This interactive workshop will introduce participants to various ways to actively engage children while reading
a book. Through a mixture of demonstration, practice and reflection, participants will learn how to support
key literacy skills such as fluency, vocabulary, recall and sequencing. They will also learn developmentally
appropriate ways of reinforcing the book theme throughout the centers in the classroom while addressing the
Preschool Teaching and Learning Standards. They will also have the opportunity to create their own props and
games to several children’s books.
10
Friday workshops 2:15 pm - 3:45 pm
23. The Scientist in Your Cupboard (Level P, K, I, II)
Carole O’Brien, Early Childhood Consultant
Science is a perfect fit in the early childhood classroom, but we aren’t teaching it enough. Children are born
motivated to explore, question, seek and discover their world. For teachers, we have an opportunity to build
on our student’s natural inclination to question the way the world works and why. A good science curriculum
will include capturing, as well as creating, the science moments that occur throughout a child’s day. Science
is fun, and our goal is to get teachers excited and engaged, so they in turn will engage young children. This
workshop will present strategies for both creating and capturing science.
24. Finding Math in Every Place and Every Space – Linking the Arts and Mathematics in the Early
Childhood Classroom (P, K, Level I, II)
Jamie Mayer, Associate Director of In-School Programs, NJPAC; Wincey Terry, NJPAC Master Teaching
Artist
During this highly interactive workshop, participants will learn how to tap young children’s love of music and
movement to spark meaningful explorations of math by using the art forms as a teaching tool. Teachers will
walk away with simple strategies for creating songs and facilitating movement in the early childhood classroom.
Workshop participants will also learn how to link these lessons to literacy and empower children to actively
apply critical thinking skills and evaluate their learning.
25. “If You Have the Time, Preschoolers Have the Answer” (P, K, Level II)
Joanne Jasmine, Ed. D., Professor of Education, Caldwell College
A student centered approach is effective in addressing the needs of preschoolers. However, this method
disappears as students enter elementary school. This workshop addresses 6 tenets and their applications
that should occur in preschool and continue through elementary school. They are as follows: STEM (Science,
Technology, Engineering, Math), Reading Comprehension, Student Centered Learning/Differentiation,
Multisensory Approach, HIB Law/Prevention and Assessment.
26. Continuing the Conversation (P, K, FCC, Level I, II)
Hedda Sharapan, Keynote, Director of Early Childhood Initiatives, The Fred Rogers Company
Join us for fun, hands-on, everyday ideas to help you build on the STEAM concepts from the keynote. Hedda
has lots of engaging and developmentally appropriate activities to share and practical ways to help you become
more comfortable encouraging children’s meaningful experiences with STEAM concepts.
27. NJ First Steps: Active by Design (L&A, Level I, II, III)
Cynthia Soete, MSed, New Jersey First Steps Infant/Toddler Specialist; Maureen Greiner, New Jersey
First Steps Infant/Toddler Specialists Consultant to Programs for Parents, Inc. New Jersey First Steps
Care giver practices determine the availability and accessibility of challenging materials. Increase the quality
measure of your care by learning ways to offer low cost infant/toddler engagements across nine items from the
ITERS/FCCERS/ECERS Activities Subscales. Practice ways to increase quality at your site through a hands-on
visit to the Demonstration Room of Quality Engagements and make adjustments to materials with guidance
from the NJ First Steps team.
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Friday workshops 2:15 pm - 3:45 pm
28. Enough! No More Plastic Bags (P, K, FCC, Level I, II)
Barbara Reynolds, Teacher, Free To Be Child Care Center at The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey
Learn about the problems caused by plastic bags and how to create a cool alternative: recycling T-shirts into
cloth bags. In 10 minutes, with no sewing, turn your shirt into a warm & fuzzy replacement for plastic bags. You
are encouraged to bring your own T-shirt. A limited supply of T-shirts will also be available. Donations of T-shirts
will also be available. Donations of T-shirts (old/new, big/little) are welcome. Come prepared to brainstorm
additional solutions to the plastic problem that can be implemented in your early childhood setting. Young
children are the future caretakers of our planet. They are the solution!
Health, Safety, Nutrition and Physical Activities
29. Yoga for You and Your Students (P, K, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Beth and Scott Bierko, Owners, Rivertown Center for Yoga and Health
Experience the benefits of yoga – stress reduction, improved concentration, pain relief and a stronger, more
flexible body. Participants will also learn how to use yoga with children to improve body awareness, concentration
and imagination.
30. Teaching Healthy Eating Habits in the Classroom in 5 Easy Steps (I/T, P, K, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Dina Rose, PhD, Sociologist, Feeding Expert, Author; Caron Gremont, MPP
Teaching kids to eat right is much harder than just providing healthy food. Come learn easy, research-based
solutions to the most common eating problems (including kids who refuse anything green). We’ll also help you
better communicate with families about eating habits, and share tips on how you can offer healthier food, even
on a tight budget.
Professionalism and Leadership
31. Dealing with Difficult Behaviors (L&A, Level I, II, III)
Robert Kane and Mark Kremen, Senior Partners, Training Unlimited, LLC
We all know someone whose behaviors we find difficult, whether a friend, co-worker, or client. They may be
rude, ignorant, demanding, a screamer, or just plain old mean. This program looks at a variety of behaviors and
how to deal with them in a professional manner. It separates the person from the behavior. A must program for
anyone who deals with people.
Program Organization and Management
32. Top Three Legal Issues Effecting ECE Programs (L&A, Level II)
Janice Nieliwocki, Child Care Specialist, Ronald V. McGuckin & Associates
This session will look at the recent trends in legal actions facing Early Care and Education Programs. Participants
will examine the effect the current economy has had on Unemployment Compensation Claims. The presenter
will outline how to best prepare for an Unemployment case and what specific documentation and language
should be used to help you. Participants will also discuss Discrimination claims. Finally, participants will
examine claims filed with the Department of Labor and specifically, information will be presented related to
paying Overtime, what is considered work, training pay and “comp time”.
12
Friday workshops 2:15 pm - 3:45 pm
33. Grow NJ Kids . . New Jersey’s Path to Quality Early Care and Education (L&A, Level II, III)
Andrea Breitwieser, Grow NJ Kids Coordinator, NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Child
Care Operations; Shonda Laurel, NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Child Care Operations
Join us for this information session to learn more about Grow NJ Kids, New Jersey’s quality rating and
improvement system. This system is designed to create universal standards of quality for all early care and
education programs, including Head Start, child care, public preschool and family child care programs.
Grow NJ Kids provides a road map for improving quality in five program areas: (1) Safe, Healthy Learning
Environment, (2) Curriculum and Learning Environment, (3) Family and Community Engagement, (4) Workforce/
Professional Development and (5) Administration and Management. Find out more about the various incentives
and resources. All programs can enroll so don’t miss this opportunity to
showcase your program’s quality!
Friday workshops 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Assessment and Evaluation
34. Pre-K Assessments for Readiness, Writing, Literacy, and Math:
A Systematic Approach (P, Level I)
Diane Eldridge, RN, COTA/L, Handwriting Without Tears
Pre-K assessments are powerful tools for educators to guide individual and classroom instruction. This session
presents three simple, informal assessments that address children’s growth in crucial foundation skills in
readiness/writing, language/literacy, and numbers/math. Attendees will examine and analyze the activities,
observation checklists, and assessment records that are universal and developmentally appropriate for children
4-5 years.
Child Growth and Development
35. Fine Motor Matters: Promoting the Fine Motor Skills of Young Students in the Inclusive Preschool
and Kindergarten Classroom (P, K, Level II, III)
Alison Hales, Occupational Therapist, Mani Educational and Therapeutic Resources; Laurie Donovan,
Occupational Therapist, Mani Educational and Therapeutic Resources
Learn about the role fine motor skills have on the academic success of young children and how problems in this
area impact classroom performance. Learn to recognize when and how to help your students who are displaying
difficulties with fine motor skills. This session will provide an overview of fine motor skills development, current
fine motor programs and current research.
36. Breaking the Bullying Circle (P, K, Level I, II, III)
Ron Shuali, National Speaker-Shua Life Skills
The participants in this workshop will get a deeper understanding on why bullying occurs in their classrooms and
schools. Educators will see how they unknowingly and unintentionally initiate bullying amongst their students,
co-workers and parents through a dynamic and interactive program. Every participant will get the opportunity to
experience what their children feel so that they can empathize and transform their environment into a bully free
learning environment. Only through the eyes of the bully and the victim can we truly take on the responsibility
and power to lead our young learners.
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Friday Workshops 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Curriculum
37. The Science of Traditional Play Behind Early Childhood STEM Education (P, K, FCC, Level I, II)
Kelley O. Williams, Customer Experience; Rachel Williams, Director, The Honey Bee Company
Fostering a love for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) starts early, but how do you get
students interested in these concepts early? Delve into how to implement STEM learning at the early childhood
level through the science of play. During this session, you will also get some playtime of your own to test out
what you’ve learned!
38. Science, Math and Music (I/T, P, K, Level II)
Michael Napolitano, Founder of Preschool of Rock
We will use intriguing instruments, drum circles and musical performance to teach the basics of preschool math
and science.
39.How to Foster Scientific Thinking or Mr. Feynman’s Excellent Curriculum (P, K, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Judi Pack, Early Childhood Consultant
Richard Feynman, award-winning physicist, was lucky enough to have a father who inspired him to think deeply.
In this workshop we will explore how Mr. Feynman’s approach can be used in our classrooms to further develop
the young child’s natural curiosity and love of learning and discover how we are all scientists as we live our lives
among young children.
40. Designing a Three-Dimensional Curriculum (I/T, P, Level I, II)
This workshop will be a collaboration between the Christian Kjeldsen Leadership Institute of Professional
Impact NJ and NJ First Steps, a State-wide Infant/Toddler Initiative
Navigate your way through a three dimensional exhibit, “Where Ideas Learn to Fly”, to gain new insight about
observing, documenting and co-learning with children. In this hands-on workshop, in a demonstration room of
resources and ideas, you will explore a variety of infant, toddler and preschool engagement activities by taking
a quality materials inventory to identify the equipment and environments needed to inspire further explorations.
Family and Community Relationships
41. Building Bridges Instead of Walls: Improving Parent/Staff Communication (All, Level I, II, III)
Sue Gellert, MS, Ed. Technical Assistance Quality Specialist, Bergen County Office for Children
Open sharing of information between program staff and parents helps to strengthen home/school connections.
By building bridges, providers can enhance the comprehensive services they provide for children. Learn how
to share and gather sensitive information with families using a relationship-based approach. This workshop will
provide you with practical strategies for enhancing your communication skills.
Health, Safety, Nutrition and Physical Activities
42. Medication Administration Review and Update
Ritamarie Giosa MSN, RN, CPN., W. Cary Edwards School of Nursing, Thomas Edison State College;
Dianne Burdette MS, RN, CPNP, K. Hovnanian Children’s Hospital Wellness Center, Midtown Community
Elem. School, Neptune
This workshop will reinforce previously learned essential concepts relative to medication administration in early
care and school age programs, expose the participant to updated resources and best practices, and allow the
participant to demonstrate skill in measuring and administering selected medications for this population. Must
bring to the class: Evidence of (certificate) from previous class in medication administration (any program) and
a current CPR and First Aid certification card.
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Friday Workshops 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
43. Movement, Motivation and More: Stemming the Tide to Childhood Obesity (P, K, FCC, Level I, II)
Debbie Clement, Arts Enrichment Specialist; Author/Illustrator Picture Books
Get UP! Get Active!! Come learn simple songs and dances that are based on active movement. Learn the
choreography that brings the dances to life, patterns and sequences that scaffold upon each other. Cross the
midline with your feet! Build group cohesion through shared dancing experience. Lets MOVE!
44. Imaginative and Invigorating Music and Movement Activities (P, FCC, Level I, II)
Abby Connors, Early Childhood Music Educator
The purpose of this workshop is to explore how young children benefit physically, socially, and cognitively
from moving to music of a wide variety of styles and cultures. It’s based on my ongoing research in this area
as well as my original games and activities using music of other cultures and genres, which are engaging and
developmentally appropriate for young children.
Professionalism and Leadership
45. Supporting New Educators as They Begin Their Teaching Journey (L&A, Level II, III)
Moya Fewson, HighScope Teacher Education Centre – Canada
This workshop is useful to coaches. It will examine the stages new teachers go through, investigate the interpersonal skills mentors/coaches need to support them, look at ongoing observation and feedback as a tool for
learning and develop specific strategies to work with teachers at each stage of their journey.
46. First Annual NJAEYC Leadership Summit (Part II) (L&A, Level I, II, III)
JoAnne Kirk, Family Child Care Education Coordinator, BCCAP
Where do we go from here? Work with your colleagues in a roundtable discussion to develop concrete steps to
face new challenges and take advantage of new opportunities in early childhood education. Become a leader
and make your voice heard. (Session 1 is not a pre-requisite to attend Session 2 - all are welcome.)
Program Organization and Management
47. What’s New in Licensing? (L&A, Level II, III)
Marilyn Lidlow, BS, Supervisor, Child Care Quality Assurance Inspector; Antonette Franklin, BA, Child
Care Quality Assurance Inspector II, NJ Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing
Staff from the NJ Office of Licensing will answer your questions and provide information on licensing requirements
for child care centers, adopted on 9/1/13.
48. Easy and Not So Evil Evaluations (L&A, Level II, III)
Lynette Galante, President, Future Generation Consulting Services
Directors, Center Supervisors – Do you dread staff evaluations and appraisals? Is finding the time to observe
and evaluate your staff challenging? Join me and we will solve all of your job description and evaluation
nightmares!
49. Issues and Solutions for Creating A Successful Natural Playground (P, K, Level II, III)
Eric Strickland, Ph.D., CPSI, Grounds for Play
Providing more natural experiences for children on playgrounds requires thoughtful planning and attention to
more than rocks, sticks and dirt. This session will focus on creating a blended natural environment that meets
the developmental needs of children, provides a wide range of experiences and minimizes safety concerns.
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~ SPECIAL EVENT ~ Friday evening 5:45 pm - 6:45 pm
Early Childhood STEM Learning Through the Arts: NJ Wolf Trap Program
“Turning STEM INTO STEAM” –Infusing the artistic process into the Sciences
NJPAC’s Arts Education Team and NJ Wolf Trap Teaching Artists (NJPAC is the regional provider of the National
Wolf Trap Program.)
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) education has become a top priority across all sectors of our society, as
exemplified by the January 6, 2010 announcement by President Obama of a $250 million “Educate to Innovate” Campaign to support
STEM educators, a public-private partnership with corporations, foundations, and the U.S. Department of Education’s Race to the
Top Fund, whose Competitive Preference Priority is for programs that offer rigorous courses and prepare students for careers in
STEM fields.
Research into early childhood study of science has shown that children are capable of more complex scientific thinking and work
using basic scientific methods than even some scholars previously thought possible (Gelman and Brenneman, 2004).
Despite ample research showing that young children have the potential to become competent math learners before entering
elementary school, few children realize this potential. Yet research now shows that student’s math skills as they enter Kindergarten
are the strongest predictor of later school achievement.
The active learning inherent in arts-based lessons proves to be an especially effective teaching strategy for early childhood educators.
Experimental evidence shows that Wolf Trap arts-infused methodology promotes the development of math and science skills of pre-K
and Kindergarten children and significantly improves their academic readiness for elementary school.
The Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning Through the Arts supports the cognitive, emotional, and physical development of
children ages three months to five years old, with the goal of increasing their school readiness. The Institute provides in-classroom
training and professional development programs for early childhood educators — all to infuse the performing arts into standard
lesson plans, helping young children:
• Develop their emergent literacy skills and language;
• Learn math and science concepts, vocabulary, and habits of mind;
• Practice and experience 21st century skills such as communication, creativity, collaboration, and cooperation, which are key
to future success; and
• Achieve pre-K and Kindergarten learning outcomes as defined by national education organizations and local education
districts.
Our work is continually updated to align with the latest guidelines and recommendations for developmentally appropriate practices in
early childhood education from the National Association for the Education of Young Children, National Head Start, the International
Reading Association, and the Committee on Early Childhood Mathematics, as well as state and national early education standards and
curricula.
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SATURDAY, 9:00 AM - 10:15 AM
KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Vincent Nunes, Children’s Recording Artist, Lighthouse Records
A musician of Portuguese descent, Vincent composes and performs
original, interactive music for children. His nationally distributed CDs,
Vincent and the Big Bad Kitchen Band, Read to Me, Brand New Day, Just
One Step and Working Together have won numerous national awards,
including: the Parents’ Choice Award, NAPPA and Parent’s Guide to
Children’s Media. Vincent has also won a number of ASCAP awards for
songwriting. His newest CD, Smart Songs for Active Children, released
in June 2014 is terrifically entertaining and continues to reflect Vincent's
committment to early childhood learning. He has performed across the
country, from Massachusetts to California, and from Texas to Michigan,
in schools, libraries and teacher conferences, and has been featured on national children’s radio.
Vincent has offered keynote and featured presentations, as well as workshops, at regional and National
Association for the Education of Young Children conferences since 1989, including signing songs for
the hearing impaired. Vincent is also affiliated with Young Audiences of Rochester, New York. In May
2014, he launched a new website: www.VincentNunes.com
KEYNOTE ADDRESS:
Smart Songs for Active Children: InterActive Music to Enhance
Curriculum, Encourage Creativity and Introduce Community
Values
Vincent presents his original music for children to provide theoretical and practical ways to enhance
core curriculum standards (including STEM fields) for early childhood educators and their learners. The
presentation is accessible and applicable to a wide range of children, from PreSchool to 3rd grade. Attendees
will develop confidence and skill in identifying and using this kind of music to encourage creative thinking
and introduce shared community values, while providing a foundation for curriculum modules throughout
the year.
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Saturday EARLYBIRD WORKSHOP 7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Health, safety, nutrition & physical activities
50. “Zumba with Darlene” (All, Level I, II, III)
Darlene Anderson – Zumba Instructor
Come join Darlene for an early morning Zumba class. It’s fun with great music and anyone can do it.
Saturday workshops 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Assessment and Evaluation
51. Pre-K Assessments for Readiness, Writing, Literacy, and Math: A Systematic Approach (P, Level I)
Diane Eldridge, RN, COTA/L, Handwriting Without Tears
Pre-K assessments are powerful tools for educators to guide individual and classroom instruction. This session
presents three simple, informal assessments that address children’s growth in crucial foundation skills in
readiness/writing, language/literacy, and numbers/math. Attendees will examine and analyze the activities,
observation checklists, and assessment records that are universal and developmentally appropriate for children
4-5 years.
Child Growth and Development
52. Powerful Interactions: How to Connect with the Child and Extend Their Learning
(I/T, PS, FCC, Level II, III)
Tychawn Johnson, Early Childhood Consultant
This interactive session will examine Powerful Interactions in which teachers intentionally connect with the child
and extend the child’s learning. Participants will learn how to turn everyday interactions into Powerful Interactions
using a three-step approach: be present so you can be intentional; connect to deepen your relationship with the
child; and extend learning in ways that are individually responsive to each child.
53. Toddler Watch (I/T, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Marjorie Brickley, Faculty Bank Street College of Education
Observing toddlers at play offers us an opportunity to think about development, curriculum and interactions.
We will be joined by toddlers!
54. Fine Motor Matters: Promoting the Fine Motor Skills of Young Students in the Inclusive Preschool
and Kindergarten Classroom (P, K, Level II, III)
Alison Hales, Occupational Therapist, Mani Educational and Therapeutic Resources; Laurie Donovan,
Occupational Therapist, Mani Educational and Therapeutic Resources
Learn about the role fine motor skills have on the academic success of young children and how problems in this
area impact classroom performance. Learn to recognize when and how to help your students who are displaying
difficulties with fine motor skills. This session will provide an overview of fine motor skills development, current
fine motor programs and current research.
Curriculum
55. Building a Better Community Song by Song (P, FCC, K, Level I, II)
Vincent Nunes, Children’s Recording Artist
Community values are shared in early childhood, shaping young lives from the very beginning. Vincent performs
his multiple award-winning, original, interactive songs to assist early childhood professionals to enrich children’s
learning experiences as they encounter shared values, such as racial tolerance, cultural diversity, harmony with
our environment, cooperation, teamwork, and gender equity.
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Saturday Workshops 10:30 am - 12:00 PM
56. Play, Learn, Grow! Developmentally Appropriate & Fun Thematic Activities for Young Learners
(I/T, P, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Jacqueline G. Lopez, Founder/Educator, Little Hands, Busy Minds; Valeria E. Lopez, Education Specialist,
Little Hands, Busy Minds
Play, Learn, Grow! will feature developmentally appropriate activities that encourage discovery, independence
and learning through play. Participants will learn how to use everyday low-budget items to develop activities for
toddlers and preschoolers in all learning areas. Topics to be discussed include: science and art activities, circle
time, finger plays, and transition exercises.
57. Recycle, Repurpose and Play (I/T, P, FCC, Level I, II)
Denece Young, Quality Improvement Specialist, Programs for Parents, Inc.
This activity was designed to promote play that is stimulating and keeps children curious and engaged on
a limited budget. Recycled items are being repurposed into supplies that can enrich learning in areas of
science, math, reading, social interaction and art. Included in this workshop are instructions to help you plan
developmentally appropriate activities for children.
58. Science, Math and Music (I/T, P, K, Level II)
Michael Napolitano, Founder of Preschool of Rock
We will use intriguing instruments, drum circles and musical performance to teach the basics of preschool math
and science.
59. You Can Play the Ukulele (P, K, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Scott and Beth Bierko, Co-Owner, Beth & Scott and Friends
Bring the gift of music to your children. Learn the fundamentals for life-long enjoyment of this easy to play
instrument. Learn why live music is essential for children and grown-ups too. Participants will have the option
to purchase a ukulele at the conference (although not mandatory).
60. NJ First Steps: Active by Design (L&A, Level I, II, III)
Cynthia Soete, MSed, New Jersey First Steps Infant/Toddler Specialist; Maureen Greiner, New Jersey
First Steps Infant/Toddler Specialists Consultant to Programs for Parents, Inc. New Jersey First Steps
Care giver practices determine the availability and accessibility of challenging materials. Increase the quality
measure of your care by learning ways to offer low cost infant/toddler engagements across nine items from the
ITERS/FCCERS/ECERS Activities Subscales. Practice ways to increase quality at your site through a hands-on
visit to the Demonstration Room of Quality Engagements and make adjustments to materials with guidance
from the NJ First Steps team.
Family and Community Relationships
61. Rethinking Our Preschool Traditions (P, K, FCC, Level II, III)
Elizabeth Carlson, Head Teacher, Hollingworth Preschool, Teachers College, Columbia University;
Marisa Chin-Calubaquib, Head Teacher; Heather Pinedo-Burns, Director – Hollingworth Preschool
Traditions are expected and important components of preschool culture. With an increasing number of children
diagnosed with food allergies, we began rethinking food-oriented celebrations - new traditions, Craft Day and
Messy Day, highlight author/illustrators and science concepts. On these days, families are invited to participate
in an hour of special activities. Four years later, these “new” traditions are loved by children, families and staff.
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Saturday Workshops 10:30 am - 12:00 PM
62. Building Positive Relationships With Parents and Children (I/T, P, Level I, II)
Sereeta Cantres, Independent Credentialed Trainer
The workshop will make participants think about the types of relationships participants have with their students
and their parents. We will discuss 3 appropriate strategies of building positive relationships with children and
3 strategies with parents.
Health, Safety, Nutrition and Physical Activities
63. Understanding Toddlers Who are Fussy Eaters (I/T, FCC, Level I, II)
Debbie Silver, Director of Professional Development – Child Care Resources of Rockland
Toddlers who are fussy/picky eaters can often be challenging for caregivers! This workshop will explore why
toddlers exhibit this behavior and offer strategies for dealing with it.
Professionalism and Leadership
64. New Jersey Pyramid Model Partnership (All, Level I, II, III)
Keri Giordano, Director, Children’s Learning Center, New Jersey City University
The NJ Pyramid Model Partnership is an interagency, collaborative working group started in 2009 with the
goal of increasing the social-emotional competency of infants and young children across the state. In this
session, participants will learn about the work of the group, future professional development opportunities, and
opportunities to get involved.
65. A Creative Life (I/T, P, K, FCC, Level I, II)
Ed Shankman, Children’s Author
Award-winning children’s book author talks about his creative process, including where his ideas come from,
the magic of inspiration and the power of discipline.
Program Organization and Management
66. It Takes a Village to Define a Leader – Effectively Managing and Motivating Others (All, Level I, II)
Cindy Rzasa Bess, Ph.D., Developmental Psychologist, Education Consultant
In the ECE setting, the best way to ensure classrooms run smoothly, and jobs are done correctly and efficiently,
is to effectively manage teams, use positive communication, and delegate responsibility successfully. Directors
are ultimately responsible for how programs run, and teachers are responsible for how the classroom operates.
Yet all must be invested to make a program work and run well.
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Saturday Workshops 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Assessment and Observation
67. The View from the Little Chair in the Corner – Making the MOST of the Information Obtained from
Classroom Setting Observations (I/T, P. FCC, Level I, II)
Cindy Rzasa Bess, Developmental Psychologist, Education Consultant
All teachers can improve what they do, present, and offer the children in their care. Good practice comes
from making necessary changes to improve the classroom environment, integrating knowledge of child
development with effective communication and strong meaningful learning experiences, and optimizing one’s
personal teaching style to make strong, solid connections with young children. Best practice can only come
from understanding at a deeper level why these changes are needed.
Child Growth and Development
68. Exploring Deafness and Diversity (P, K, Level I, II)
Brianna Franco, Early Childhood Teacher; Sue Mankiw, Associate
Professor, William Paterson University
Exploring Deafness opens dialogue on diversity issues and allows
children to pose questions about disability culture. In this workshop
participants will get a glimpse at how children in one kindergarten
class responded to a unit of study about deafness. Participants will
learn promising classroom applications for incorporating disability
into the early childhood curriculum.
69. The Effects of Domestic Violence on Children – What Childcare Providers Need to Know
(I/T, P, K, FCC, Level I, II)
Stacy Rodgers, MSW, ACSW, DVS, WTS, Founder & CEO PURE I.M.A.G.E.S Inc.; Jocelyn D. Britt, BA,
WTS Owner/Director Fruits of the Spirit Family Day Care
This workshop aims to enlighten teachers and directors with an understanding of the effects of domestic violence
on children and the developmental coping experiences of children who observe and/or experience abuse, and
the impact that these experiences have on a child’s ability to function in your center. It will also provide early
childhood professionals with insights into their roles and responsibilities – identification and support.
Curriculum
70. Finding Math in Every Place and Every Space – Linking the Arts and Mathematics in the Early
Childhood Classroom (P, K, Level I, II)
Jamie Mayer, Associate Director of In-School Programs, NJPAC; Wincey Terry, NJPAC Master
Teaching Artist
During this highly interactive workshop, participants will learn how to tap young children’s love of music and
movement to spark meaningful explorations of math by using the art forms as a teaching tool. Teachers will
walk away with simple strategies for creating songs and facilitating movement in the early childhood classroom.
Workshop participants will also learn how to link these lessons to literacy and empower children to actively
apply critical thinking skills and evaluate their learning.
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Saturday workshops 1:30 pm - 3:00 PM
71.“Keep it Upbeat! Keep ‘em Moving!” Using Music and Movement to Keep Kids Actively Engaged in
Learning” (P, Level I, II, III)
Mr. Scott the Music Man, Movement Motivator/Performer/Educator; Valerie Frost-Lewis, Director,
Peppermint Tree Child Development Center
A non-stop fun, energetic and motivating exploration of the joys and benefits of infusing music and movement
throughout the day. Come prepared to move to the high energy, original music of New Jersey’s very own Mr.
Scott the Music Man.
72. The Science of Traditional Play Behind Early Childhood STEM Education (P, K, FCC, Level I, II)
Kelley O. Williams, Customer Experience; Rachel Williams, Director, The Honey Bee Company
Fostering a love for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) starts early, but how do you get
students interested in these concepts early? Delve into how to implement STEM learning at the early childhood
level through the science of play. During this session, you will also get some playtime of your own to test out
what you’ve learned!
73. “Lyrics to Literacy: Playful Connections Between Singing & Early Literacy” (I/T, PS, K, Level I, II, III)
Debbie Clement, Arts Enrichment Specialist; Author/Illustrator Picture Books
Join a nationally, award-wining picture book author and illustrator in an upbeat romp through her books based
on her original song lyrics. Learn the sign language to support the performance of the songs: Affirmation,
Earth Science, Patriotism, Early Childhood Civics. You’re invited to be delighted. Prepare to laugh AND
perhaps cry, too.
74. Dan Zanes House Party: Songs and Stories from American Neighborhoods (I/T, PS, Level II)
Dan Zanes, Grammy Award Winner, Festival Five Records and Joy Marilie
Sing, dance, listen and learn to make music an integral part of children’s everyday lives while interacting with the
music and stories of the diverse culture that make up America’s neighborhoods. Experience in the workshop
how children in the class are able to explore the rich tapestry of American folk traditions through songs, stories,
movement, puppets and games.
75. Sing, Sing, Sing! Playful Approaches to Nurturing the Child’s Singing Voice
(I/T, P, K, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Emily Westlake, Early Childhood and General Music Specialist, Graduate Assistant, Temple University
In this session, participants will engage in playful activities designed to nurture the development of the child’s
singing voice, and in turn, improve their own vocal model. Interspersed among the activities will be suggestions
garnered from practice and research to aid the teacher or caregiver in creating a musically rich environment in
their own settings.
76. “Where Ideas Learn to Fly”: An Exhibit Demonstrating Approaches to Learning (L&A, Level I, II, III)
Dr. Arlene R. Martin, Executive Director of Professional Impact New Jersey (PINJ); Kim M. Cornell,
Director of New Initiatives, PINJ
Utilizing the Ohio Voices for Learning exhibit “Where Ideas Learn to Fly” as inspiration, we’ll look at standards
with new eyes. Make connections to the Approaches to Learning from NJ DOE 2013 Preschool Teaching and
Learning Standards. Participate in a learning community discussion about how a shift to thinking in reverse can
reveal standards as opportunities rather than obstacles.
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Saturday workshops 1:30 pm - 3:00 PM
Family and Community Relationships
77. Effectively Solving Problems with Families (All, Level I, II)
Keri Giordano, Director, Children’s Learning Center, New Jersey City University
During this session, participants will discuss various parenting styles that may be challenging for some teachers
to work with. Participants will learn how to take the parent’s perspective. Strategies will be introduced that
participants can use to successfully work with “difficult” parents. Participants will practice their newly learned
skills in small group scenarios.
Health, Safety, Nutrition and Physical Activities
78. Teaching Healthy Eating Habits in the Classroom in 5 Easy Steps (I/T, P, K, FCC, Level I, II, III)
Dina Rose, PhD, Sociologist, Feeding Expert, Author; Caron Gremont, MPP
Teaching kids to eat right is much harder than just providing healthy food. Come learn easy, research-based
solutions to the most common eating problems (including kids who refuse anything green). We’ll also help you
better communicate with families about eating habits, and share tips on how you can offer healthier food, even
on a tight budget.
79. Relax, Refresh, Renew and Rejuvenate (All, Level I, II, III)
Miriam Moran Shankman, Mir-Yam School of Tai Chi, Chi Kung and Meditation
Take the time to recharge. We will learn and have fun. Listen to your inner self and to the people around you. So
much can be accomplished when we let ourselves rest and relax.
Professionalism and Leadership
80. Breaking Free – Using Your Inner Strength (All, Level I, II, III)
Sylvia F. Pfeffer and Lauretta Freeman, Consultants – Center for Educational Services
This workshop will engage attendees in experiences to help them become more aware of their own strengths.
Participants will be exposed to techniques which can enrich their lives on a daily basis.
Program Organization and Management
81. Quality Begins With You (L&A, Level II, III)
Lynette Galante, Future Generation Consulting Services
This workshop will help you create and develop center policies, practices and procedures that will support your
program goals as well as refine your skills as an effective leader. You will learn how to interview and hire the
right employees, and to provide and lead staff orientation and effective supervision.
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SATURDAY, 3:15 PM - 4:15 PM
CLOSING KEYNOTE ADDRESS
Don Dougherty
Author, Storyteller, Rocketeer
Don Dougherty is the Founder and Sole Proprietor of Classroom Adventure
Stories, LLC. He's had a passion for writing and storytelling since the age
of ten. He's always loved children, and spent four Summers working as a
Counselor, Sports Director, and Program Director at Camp Neumann. They
were the four best Summers of his youth!
Don is thrilled to be a Professional Storyteller. He believes that he has the best job in the world. He
loves to make-up stories, and he loves children -- so he really does have the best job in the world!
Through the use of his interactive, adventure stories, Don teaches children some very important "Life
Lessons", such as Perseverance, Cooperation, The Value of Hard Work, etc. He has found that, when
presented in a very fun and stimulating environment, children will remember these important lessons.
Don earned a B.A. degree in English/Communications from Holy Family University. When his children
were a little bit younger, he enjoyed coaching them in ice hockey, lacrosse, and basketball. He is
married to the Most Beautiful Girl in the World. He lives with his wife and three children in bucolic
Bucks County, Pennsylvania. To be a children's author and storyteller is truly his dream come true!
KEYNOTE ADDRESS:
“The Importance of Making Learning FUN!”
It’s difficult for children to retain the myriad of lessons that we try to teach them on a daily basis.
Repetition certainly helps, and patience is a definite requirement. But there’s another way to help
children remember important lessons -- Make Learning FUN! If you think back to some of the
lessons you learned as a child, most of those that have stayed with you were taught in a fun and
stimulating manner. At our Closing Keynote Address, children’s author and professional storyteller,
Don Dougherty, will remind us of this, and challenge us to do the same for our students.
24
HOTEL INFORMATION
RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE BY SEPTEMBER 28, 2014
HILTON MEADOWLANDS HOTEL
2 Meadowlands Plaza, East Rutherford, NJ 07073 • (201) 896-0500
www.hiltonmeadowlands.com
RATES: SINGLE/DOUBLE/TRIPLE/QUAD $149.00.
Mention group code NJJ16A when making your reservation.
Relax & Re-Energize . . .
Dining & Amenities
• The Chairman’s Grill and The Lounge
• Stay Connected (located on the lobby level) offering complimentary High
Speed Internet access
• In Room Dining from 6 am to 11 pm
• Complimentary Shuttle Service to Harmon Meadow Secaucus Outlets, Mill
Creek Mall, The Plaza at the Meadows and Secaucus Junction Train Station
(direct 12 minute train to NYC) *Shuttle based on availability as it is First
Come, First Service. For pick up call the hotel: 201-896-0500
• Hilton Fitness Center includes: Cardiovascular Equipment & Training
Equipment with 24 hour access, Indoor Heated Pool from 5 am to 12 am.
• Full Service Gift Shop
25
CONFERENCE COMMITTEE
Michelle Barnea
Shelania Blunt
Bel Gwiazdowski
Helen Muscato
NJAEYC AFFILIATE PRESIDENTS
Atlantic Bay President
John Toland
[email protected]
Essex-Hudson President
Carolyn Simpson
[email protected]
Kenyon President
Melinda Wilson
[email protected]
Northwest President
Amanda L. DiScala
[email protected]
Ocean President
Michelle Keenan
[email protected]
Shore
Cindy Terebush
[email protected]
Southern Co-Presidents
Diane Morrow
[email protected]
Kathryn Nichols
[email protected]
Susan Mittelstadt
[email protected]
Sussex President
NJAEYC EXECUTIVE BOARD 2014 - 2015
President
Amanda DiScala
[email protected]
Past-President
Kathy Burke
[email protected]
Vice-President - Affiliate Relations
John Rich
[email protected]
Vice-President - Organizational Dev.
Nancy Kalvin
[email protected]
Vice-President - Professional Dev.
Michelle Barnea
[email protected]
Vice President - Public Policy
JoAnne Kirk
[email protected]
Treasurer
Bel Gwiazdowski
[email protected]
Recording Secretary
Sue Lincoln
[email protected]
26
NJAEYC CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM
Before completing this form be sure you have read the terms and fees. Please print clearly to ensure your
information is accurate. Complete one registration form (both sides) for each person.
ANY WALK-INS OR REGISTRATIONS POSTMARKED AFTER SEPTEMBER 16, 2014 MUST INCLUDE A
$25 LATE FEE TO ENSURE PROCESSING. SPACE IS LIMITED. IF THE CONFERENCE IS SOLD OUT,
CHECKS AND REGISTRATIONS WILL BE RETURNED.
Last Name
First Name
Address
City
State
Zip
Position/Title
School/Work
Day Phone #
Evening Phone #
E-mail Address:
Are you a current member of NJAEYC?
Member ID #
If yes, which Affiliate?
Mail payments to:
NJAEYC
c/o Helen Muscato
P.O. Box 1024
Barnegat Light, NJ 08006
VOUCHERS & PURCHASE ORDERS ARE NOT
ACCEPTED AND WILL BE RETURNED
NOTE: If 3 or more people from 1 center attend and are paid for by one check, deduct $10 from each registration.
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2014
PCHECK APPROPRIATE BOX
MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION
o
(FEE INCLUDES BREAKFAST)
Member $49.00
o
Non-member $64.00
EARLY BIRD RATES
(Registrations postmarked by September 16, 2014
Please check only
one option P
OPTION 1
Friday ONLY
Current Member*
o
o
Non Member
OPTION 2
Saturday ONLY
o
o
$130.00
$195.00
$130.00
$195.00
OPTION 3
Friday AND Saturday
o
o
$220.00
$305.00
RATES
(Registrations postmarked after September 16, 2014)
Please check only
one option P
OPTION 1
Friday ONLY
Current Member*
o
o
Non Member
OPTION 2
Saturday ONLY
o
o
$155.00
$220.00
$155.00
$220.00
OPTION 3
Friday AND Saturday
o
o
$245.00
$330.00
*In order to receive the discounted membership conference rate, you must be a current member of NJAEYC. If you wish to
join NJAEYC prior to the conference, please go to www.naeyc.org and join online.
For additional information contact Helen Muscato, Conference Coordinator at (732) 329-0033 or
online at [email protected]
27
NJAEYC CONFERENCE REGISTRATION FORM
Please indicate the seminar, workshop or session number you are selecting:
FRIDAY
11:30 AM - 5:30 PM
1st CHOICE
2nd CHOICE
AM Workshops
Sessions #1 - 17 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
PM Workshops
Sessions #18 - 33 2:15 PM - 3:45 PM
PM Workshops
Sessions #34 - 49 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
SATURDAY EARLYBIRD
7:00 AM - 8:00 AM
Session #507:00 AM - 8:00 AM
SATURDAY
10:30 AM - 3:00 PM
AM Workshops
Sessions #51 - 66 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
PM Workshops
Sessions #67 - 81 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
For additional information contact
Helen Muscato, Conference Coordinator
at (732) 329-0033
or on-line at [email protected]
28
3rd CHOICE
NEW JERSEY ASSOCIATION
FOR THE EDUCATION OF YOUNG CHILDREN
Our Mission Statement
The New Jersey Association for the Education of Young Children (NJAEYC) is dedicated
to advancing excellence in the field of early childhood education.
“This is YOUR NJAEYC . . . become a member today!
You’ll receive:
• 20% discount on books, videos, posters and other resources through the
NAEYC website
• YOU choose your subscription to an award winning magazine:
Young Children or Teaching Young Children
• Professional development opportunities on a local and state level
• Reduced rates to local state and national conferences
• Lots of networking opportunities
• Sign up for e-news updates on policy issues
• State newsletter to keep you informed
• You vote in NJAEYC elections to help shape the future of our organization
•
Reduced subscription fees for the highly respected Early Childhood Research
Quarterly, Exchange Magazine, Highlights High Five and Education Week
• Access to members-only section of NJAEYC website
• Volunteer and leadership opportunities
• Coming soon . . . e-learning opportunities
•
Opportunities to participate in various insurance plans designed to meet your
personal and professional needs, including professional liability insurance -and an Association-sponsored credit card service from Bank of America.
• Join as a Comprehensive member and you’ll receive five or six publications
automatically as they are released throughout the year (a $100 value). What
an easy way to enhance your professional development while building your
personal professional library or early childhood education resources!
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Permit No. 535
Trenton, NJ
NJAEYC
C/O
HELEN MUSCATO
P.O. BOX 1024
BARNEGAT LIGHT, NJ 08006
(732) 329-0033
Promoting High Quality Early Childhood Education