What is tough stuff for young children? Sharing, sitting at circle time, and putting on shoes to go outside can seem challenging for some little bodies. Now imagine being a little one whose parents are struggling to put food on the table, or a child who recently moved or just had a younger sibling born. Now add to these daily struggles and life transitions, the impact of going through a pandemic for most of your life. That is exactly what our 3-5 year olds are going through right now. Not only are many children facing an increased risk for adversity, but many may also be going through their daily lives with additional stress and trauma that could be impacting their ability to participate in regular childcare routines without us knowing. In this workshop participants will go through common and not-so-common challenges children may face. Participants will also discuss how the childcare environment and curriculum may impact children who are dealing with tough stuff at home. Participants will also be given strategies that are inclusive and trauma-informed to best support all children.

Living Inquiries:

Well-being and belonging.

Pathways:

Diversity and difference.
Safety and respect.
Emotions, thoughts, and views.
Every child is a gift.

Suitable for students and novice, intermediate and experienced early care and learning professionals working with children of all ages, from infants/toddlers to school age children, including children with extra support needs.

Facilitator(s): Ana Valle Rivera

Ana is a proud mother of three, a children’s book author, and the founder of Early Years Thriving. Ana has worked in various capacities within the early year’s field since 2007. She has experience working with diverse children and families with complex needs using inclusive and trauma-informed approaches. Ana has many aspirations but her current focus is to inspire positive change in the early year’s field through sharing a vision of social wellness and social justice for all.