The objective of this workshop is that by using everyday life experiences, we will reflect on how storytelling can bring benefits to children’s learning and explore how storytelling from different parts of the world brings experiences alive, creating a sense of connection, kindness and sharing. Expanding a story into multiple styles of teaching, such as yoga, songs, sign language, social studies and more, will also be the focus of this workshop.

Living Inquiries:

Well-being and belonging.
Engagement with others, materials, and the world.
Communication and literacies.

Pathways:

Joy in relationships with people, place, materials and ideas.
Culture and worldviews.
Emotions, thoughts, and views.
Every child is a gift.
Time for engagement.
Culture, family, traditions, and knowledge.
Language and communication.

Suitable for ECE students, 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: Mekdes Gete

Mekdes is an Early Childhood Educator and certified Montessori teacher with over 24 years of experience working in various childcare settings in the lower mainland. Her love for teaching and nurturing young children has been her lifelong passion throughout her career. In addition to her ECE and Montessori teaching, Mekdes is a BCRPA certified group fitness instructor, Fit Flow yoga and children’s yoga teacher.

Mekdes was born and raised in Ethiopia and emigrated to Canada 30 years ago. As an Ethiopian woman and mother, the childhood stories of her youth helped shape her and her outlook today. She strongly believes stories have the power and gift to build bridges, connect cultures, and strengthen communities so we may better understand, appreciate and respect one another.