Are you considering starting an early childhood business? Let's learn how to take your small business from the idea phase to launch.

In this session presented by business consultant, website designer, and trainer, Chelsea Denny from Early Childhood Creative, you’ll learn the steps required to set up your for-profit business and make it official. Topics covered include business entities, insurance, financials, marketing, and more.

You'll leave this session with a better understanding of what is required to form your for-profit business legally and how to protect yourself from liability. You'll also understand what is considered best practice in operating a new business and what the most common mistakes are.

The content covered will be most applicable to for-profit, service-based businesses operating in the United States, including childcare, private schools, coaches, consultants, and trainers. If operating outside of the United States, there may be different names and terminology, but the general information will still apply. If operating a non-profit, the general best practices will still apply.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1. Participants will be able to outline the process required to start a legal business in the United States.
2. Participants will be able to discuss common terminology related to starting a business.
3. Participants will be able to identify three components to consider when developing a business plan.
4. Participants will be able to name and describe the legal structures of for-profit businesses and how they generally relate to taxes, liability, and strategic planning.

All content shared is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice.

RESOURCES

• Watch the full webinar here
• Check out the producer of ECI, Playground, the Child Care Management Software

Facing cold, wet, or snowy weather? No need to stay indoors! In this engaging session, you’ll learn how to prepare for cold weather play so children can enjoy it in safety and comfort—and how to thrive as you discover the wondrous possibilities of all kinds of weather.

Join Kirsten Haugen, Research Director for Dimensions Educational Research Foundation, and Early Learning Consultant at Nature Explore for a practical and inspiring exploration of outdoor play in the cold months. Discover how real-world programs not only cope with snow, rain, and wind but embrace it through thoughtful preparation, clear communication, creative scheduling, innovative use of materials, and—most importantly—a shift in mindset that makes it all possible. You’ll hear inspiring stories and practical ideas for playing in snow, rain, wind, and mud, as well as guidance on supporting holistic learning, honoring children’s agency, partnering with families, and caring for the adults who care for children. We’ll even unpack the “dark side” of the familiar phrase, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choices.”

Join us for a cool and captivating opportunity to:

· Witness the benefits of cold-weather play
· Embrace an attitude shift
· Prepare with confidence and awareness
· Make time for winter play
· Adopt cold-weather comforts
· Expand possibilities with your space and materials
· Support the well-being of educators and caregivers

Whether you’re in a snowy climate or a region with rain and wind, you’ll leave ready to expand possibilities for outdoor learning and embrace the beauty of every season.

RESOURCES

• Watch the full webinar here
• Check out the producers of ECI, Playground, the Child Care Management Software

Working in early care and education requires you to show up every day with your whole heart, and sometimes, that heart can feel stretched thin. This session is an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the deep purpose behind your work. Join author and educational consultant Christina Fecio in this session inspired by her latest book, Small Things, Great Love, where you'll explore simple, heartfelt practices that transform everyday moments into something meaningful. You don't need more time or a longer to-do list—just a gentle reminder to reclaim simplicity and joy.

Done with great love, these small things are the key to nurturing children's well-being while also protecting your own. Together we'll rediscover the power of presence, the impact of noticing, and the importance of small gestures that build trust and connection. You'll also learn how to offer that same care to yourself through intentional language and mindset. This is intended to be joyful work—and joy is something we can choose, protect, and practice. Come as you are and leave with fresh energy, practical ideas, and a renewed sense of purpose in the work only you can do.

What you'll take from this session:

• Identify simple, everyday practices that support children's sense of safety, connection, and belonging. Participants will explore how small, intentional actions care create meaningful moments that nurture child well-being.
  
• Describe strategies for protecting and replenishing your own sense of joy and purpose in early care and education work. Participants will learn how to apply affirming language and self-reflective tools that promote personal resilience and wellbeing.
  
• Recognize the importance of presence, noticing, and relational gestures as leadership and teaching tools. Participants will deepen their understanding of how small acts—done with great love—can build trust, strengthen relationships, and uplift your team or classroom culture.

RESOURCES

• Watch the full webinar session here
• Check out Playground the Child Care Management Software