Recognizing the need for high quality professional development in all scenarios throughout Connecticut, CTAEYC presents the Saturday Academy once each month. Each session offers participants an opportunity for in-depth exploration of a subject and for learning through practical opportunities, with a clear link to the Connecticut Early Learning and Development Standards, NAEYC standards, and early childhood theories.

Let's Play_ Early Learning Done a Better

Click here to view photos from past Saturday Academies!

Picture a classic steam train, chugging along the tracks towards its ultimate destination. Now, imagine a train that has run out of steam, falling off the rails. That is the difference between a high steam learner and a low steam learner. As educators, it is our job to be the conductors who empower our children to move through their early learning experiences full steam ahead! In this workshop, participants will first learn to identify the difference between a high and low steam learner, exploring ways to increase motivation and engagement amongst children and ultimately leading us to the conclusion that play indeed has purpose in the classroom.

Participants will gain an in-depth understanding of what constitutes age appropriate play and social development, explore relevant assessment tools (all of which are free and easily accessible), and dive deep into critical considerations to take into account when selecting learning objectives. Once we’ve covered these fundamentals, we will highlight simple, evidence-based strategies early childhood providers can use to harness the power of play, promoting early learning in their classrooms the better way.

Join The Hangout Spot, LLC founders Meghan Cave and Justyna Balzar on Saturday, November 21 from 9:00a-10:30p on Zoom for an amazing look at the role play has in our classrooms and homes. Select your payment link below and once payment has been made, a Zoom link will be emailed to you. Participants will receive a certificate for 1.5 hours post-event.