Early Childhood Education Annual Conference

The Vermont Association for the Education of Young Children (VTAEYC) is set to host the Early Childhood Education Annual Conference at the Killington Grand Resort Hotel, a premier venue nestled in the stunning Green Mountains of Vermont. This vibrant conference is a gathering of early childhood educators from across the state, dedicated to enhancing their professional practice through engaging breakout sessions, inspiring keynote presentations, and invaluable networking opportunities. The theme for this year's event, Connected Minds, Connected Hearts: Where Relationships, Care, and Learning Meet, emphasizes the importance of connection in early childhood education. Attendees can expect sessions that delve into critical topics such as social emotional learning and behavior, neurodiversity affirming practices, developmentally appropriate environments and curriculum, as well as connected leadership strategies. These sessions are designed to equip educators with the tools necessary to cultivate inclusive and responsive learning environments, promoting the well-being of both children and educators alike.The conference will also honor outstanding contributions to early childhood education through the VTAEYC Annual Awards, recognizing individuals who have made significant impacts in the field. Nominations for the awards will be accepted until specific deadlines, emphasizing the community's commitment to celebrating excellence in education. Notable speakers at the conference include Susan MacDonald, founder of Inspiring New Perspectives, who advocates for nurturing learning environments, and Alyssa Blask Campbell, founder and CEO of Seed & Sew, a recognized authority in emotional development. Campbell's work, including her books Tiny Humans, Big Emotions and Big Kids, Bigger Feelings, provides research-backed strategies for understanding and supporting children's emotional needs. Additionally, Stuart Mister Stu Perry will share his insights on children's mental health through an engaging and practical approach that emphasizes compassion and understanding. With over 50 years of tradition, the VTAEYC Annual Conference is Vermont’s largest gathering of early childhood educators, consistently attracting over 425 participants and fostering high-quality learning and connection within the community.