How has the digital age—and the lasting impact of COVID—reshaped the way children build social and emotional skills? This foundational session explores how early childhood environments can foster critical competencies for young learners in today’s evolving world.

Led by Brian J. Puerling, MS, NBCT—author of Teaching in the Digital Age for Preschool and Kindergarten, and recipient of the PBS Innovative Educator Award—this session blends developmental theory with practical strategies to help educators reset classroom rhythms, rebuild connection, and cultivate essential SEL skills. Brian brings deep experience as an early childhood specialist, former preschool teacher, and national consultant for Sesame Workshop, PBS, and Nickelodeon.

This is the first session in a two-part series and lays the groundwork for more advanced practices explored in Part 2. Participants are encouraged to register for both webinars to gain a complete toolkit for supporting SEL in early learning.

Key Takeaways:
• Understand the lingering social-emotional effects of COVID on young learners.
• Identify strategies to promote collaboration and shared problem-solving.
• Foster identity development and critical thinking in young children.
• Enhance meaningful communication in both digital and in-person contexts.

Watch the full session here: https://ecewebinars.com/social-emotional-spotify

Introducing Early Childhood Investigations to the Pod-World! You may have joined one of our hundreds of webinars over the past 17 years, and now you can bring us on the go!

These sessions are your gateway to inspiring, research-based professional development. Since 2009, our free series has brought together world-class authors, researchers, and experts in early care and education to share timely insights and spark meaningful conversations across the workforce.

All of our session are free thanks to our producer, Playground the Child Care Management Software designed to early educators.

If you want to earn your professional development hours with us, you can join our live sessions at ecewebinars.com/spotify

You can also learn more about Playground at ecewebinars.com/playground-spotify

In this engaging webinar, Samuel Brodin discusses the transition from control-based practices to collaborative approaches in early childhood education. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection for educators, the impact of language on classroom dynamics, and the necessity of viewing children as capable individuals. By fostering collaboration with both children and families, educators can create a supportive and engaging learning environment. The session highlights practical strategies for letting go of control, understanding children's needs, and adapting teaching methods to enhance the educational experience.

Key Takeaways

- Self-reflection is crucial for educators to improve their practice.

- Viewing children as capable individuals fosters a collaborative environment.

- Language used in the classroom can influence children's behavior and self-perception.

- Letting go of control can lead to a more engaging and supportive classroom.

- Collaboration with children enhances their learning experience and autonomy.

- Creating a safe space for children to express themselves is essential.

- Involving families in the educational process strengthens community ties.

- Understanding children's needs helps in managing classroom dynamics effectively.

- Flexibility in teaching methods can accommodate children's energy levels.

- Educators should continuously reflect on their practices and adapt to better serve children.

See episode information here: https://ecewebinars.com/44UfEEq