Division for Early Childhood 2024 Conference: Full Schedule

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7:30am CDT

Chair Yoga

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:30am - 8:00am CDT

Speakers

Danielle Brunson

CEO, The Namaste Project

At TNP, we’ve been dedicated to enhancing well-being in workplaces since 2019. Our focus is on providing busy professionals with accessible somatic practices and practical learning sessions. We prioritize sustainability and skill-based interventions, ensuring that adults and youth... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:30am - 8:00am CDT

7:30am CDT

Subdivision Meeting - invitation only

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:30am - 8:30am CDT

Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:30am - 8:30am CDT
Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Meetings and Socials

7:30am CDT

Posters & Coffee -- Coffee begins at 7:30am and Posters 8:00-9:00am

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:30am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

7:55am CDT

Mother's Room - available all day

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:55am - 8:10am CDT

Speakers

Please pick up key at registration

Thursday September 19, 2024 7:55am - 8:10am CDT

8:00am CDT

Fostering Global Cognitive Development: A Teachers-to-Teachers Approach - Poster 18

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Discover impactful collaboration between EWU pre-service teachers and Guatemala's 'Hope for Literacy.' Using 'The Little Old Lady Who Was Not Afraid of Anything,' they crafted culturally sensitive lessons, impacting 65 classrooms. Explore takeaways for global perspectives and engage in live demonstrations, gaining insights from firsthand experiences in Guatemala City.

Speakers

Lin Zhu

Assistant Professor, Eastern Washington University

Tara Haskins

Eastern Washington University

Ann Van Wig

Denise Ellenwood

Preschool Teacher, Garfield Elementary School

Kendall Brown

Shannon Salter

Student Teacher, Eastern Washington University

Rosie Hewett

Lecturer, Eastern Washington University

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Inclusion of Students With Moderate to High Support Needs in Montessori - Poster 10

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

There is little research on inclusion within the Montessori classroom. In a recent survey of Montessori Schools, 8.5% of EC students enrolled were identified with disability, of which 65% had an IEP. This poster will use DEC’s Recommended Practices to discuss how students with moderate to high support needs are fully included EC Montessori classrooms.

Speakers

Raejean Burton Lopez

Doctoral Student/Occupational Therapist, University of Cincinnati/ECiDC

Raejean is pursuing her doctorate in educational studies with a focus in developmental and learning sciences at the University of Cincinnati. In addition to her work as a doctoral student, she is also a scholar in the Early Childhood Intervention Doctoral Consortium (ECiDC), a national... Read More →

Nicholas Black

Cathy Keith

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

EI/ECSE Personnel Recruitment & Retention Synthesis of Innovative Practices - Poster 11

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This session will present strategies and practices that can be implemented to attract, prepare, and retain an adequate number and diverse group of state and local EI/ECSE personnel. These strategies will aim to reinforce the quality and racial and ethnic diversity of the workforce and the successful inclusion of children with disabilities across various settings.

Speakers

Ted Burke

Consultant, ECTA

Paula Grubbs

Technical Assistance Specialist, ECTA Center at UNC

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Coping Skills Instruction and Proactive Responding for Tier 3 Behaviors - Poster 12

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This study investigated a coaching and training package focused on supporting early elementary teachers to provide inclusive Tier 3 behavioral supports as opposed to exclusionary alternatives. With reflective coaching, we focused on teachers' integration of coping skills instruction, their proactive responding to precursor behaviors, and the teacher-child relationship.

Speakers

Sarah Scott

Doctoral Student, Vanderbilt University

Anna Louise Lewis

Anna Hoepfner

BCBA, Young Mind Center

Mary Louise Hemmeter

Professor of Special Education, Vanderbilt University

Dr. Mary Louise Hemmeter is a professor of Special Education at Vanderbilt University and holds the Nicholas Hobbs Chair of Special Education and Human Development. Her research focuses on effective instruction, supporting social emotional development and addressing challenging behavior... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Practice

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

How to Create Inclusive Opportunities for Children with Visual Impairments - Poster 8

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This session will discuss several different methods and intervention strategies that will enable children with visual impairments to be included in a variety of settings. Topics will include the simplification of instruction, tactile modifications, benefits of preview/review, task analysis, and how to use a variety of household materials to create multisensory activities.

Speakers

Kathy Boisvert

Integrated Early Childhood Teacher & Assistant Professor, Blackstone-Millville Regional School District & Worcester State University

DEC HANDOUTS Inclusive Opportunities for Children with VI SEPT 2024 pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Practice

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Incorporating AI Into University Teacher Preparation Courses - Poster 32

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Many companies have been integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into their products. This proliferation is at the point where the use of AI can no longer be ignored. This session will introduce attendees to AI, describe how AI can be incorporated into teacher education courses, and provide opportunities to interact with the AI to generate course content.

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Speakers

Conrad Oh-Young

Assistant Professor, California State University, Dominguez Hills

Jennifer Buchter

professor, Eatern Illinois University

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Preschool Teachers’ Needs for Successful Inclusion: A Study From Utah - Poster 24

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

What do preschool teachers know about inclusive practices? Are they ready and able to implement them? This study examined confidence and competence for DEC recommended practices related to inclusion for Utah preschool teachers, supports available, supports needed, and the barriers to implementing practices known to increase outcomes for students with disabilities

Speakers

Meridith Karppinen

Sondra M Stegenga

Assistant Professor of Special Education, University of Utah

I have over 20 years experience in the fields of health and education working with individuals across the lifespan. I have provided services and supports to children and families as a home visitor, occupational therapist, early intervention program administrator, and state council... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Adapting the Early Childhood Environment for Children with Disabilities - Poster 1

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This poster session explores the critical role of adapting the physical, social, and temporal
environment of early childhood settings to support children with disabilities. Acknowledging the
diverse needs and abilities within this population, the session advocates for a holistic approach
that considers various dimensions of the environment.

Speakers

April Crutcher

Instructor of Special Education, Midwestern State University

Beth Barnard

Instructor, Midwestern State University

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Developing and Validating a Measure to Appraise Progress Monitoring Quality - Poster 21

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

We sought to develop and validate an easy-to-use teacher/classroom quality measure specific to progress monitoring. This measure may assist school districts and early childhood programs in understanding the ability of their teachers to engage in high quality progress monitoring and support children with intensive and diverse needs.

Speakers

Collin Shepley

Associate Professor, University of Kentucky

While I enjoy talking shop (e.g., progress monitoring, MTSS), I'm also a fan of building forts with my kids (or without) and trying not to cry when I watch a Pixar a movie.

Amanda Duncan

BCBA, Research Assistant, Doctoral Candidate, University of Kentucky

Emily Webb

Graduate Student, Research Assistant, University of Kentucky

Developing and Validating a Measure to Appraise Progress Monitoring Quality pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Infusing Infant Mental Health into an Interdisciplinary Graduate Program - Poster 3

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This poster will describe the project components and outcomes of Project BLENDS, a funded Office of Special Education (OSEP) Personnel Development grant with a focus on infant and early childhood mental health that involves four related services disciplines – social work, speech-language pathology, occupational therapy, and psychology.

Speakers

Hattie Harvey

Professor, University of Alaska Anchorage

University of Alaska Anchorage Programs: Social Work, School Psychology (new!), Children's Mental Health Graduate Certificate, Project BLENDS

Mary Dallas Allen

Cary Moore

Associate Dean, University of Alaska Anchorage

Karen Gallagher

University of Alaska Anchorage, Psychology Department

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Leveraging Individual and Community Cultural and Social Assets - Poster 36

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

The presentation will provide data on a group of early childhood special education teachers who work in diverse urban communities and the cultural and social assets that they identified and leveraged to support the children and families that they serve.

Speakers

Ya-Chih Chang

Professor, California State University, Los Angeles

Talya Drescher

Associate Professor, California State University Channel Islands

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Needs Assessment Data Drives DEC Professional Development CoP - Poster 28

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This poster session will present the needs assessment data used to drive the DEC Professional Development Community of Practice in 2024 and to support its members. Reflective questions will be used to generate discussion and participants will have an opportunity to join the DEC PD CoP.

Speakers

Becky Hoffman

Professional Development Specialist, CESA5 RESource for the WI Birth to 3 Program

Serena Wheeler

Assistant Professor and Associate Director, Coaching in Early Intervention Training and Mentorship Program, University of Louisville

I train and mentor EI Providers in a statewide PD program and support ongoing program quality and improvements efforts. My primary areas of interest are evidence-based practices related to effective PD for early intervention providers and caregiver coaching to build family capaci... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

New CDC’s Learn the Signs. Act Early. Developmental Milestone for Families - Poster 33

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This poster session will review the 2022 updated CDC Milestones, For the first time in almost 20 years, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) have updated guidelines for developmental milestones in the Learn the Signs. Act Early program. \

Speakers

Bethanne Vergean

CT Learn the SIgns Act Early Ambassador, UCONN UCEDD

Bethanne Vergean provides technical assistance and training for Connecticut’s Early Childhood system. Her work over the past 20 years has been centered on improving developmental monitoring in Connecticut. Through her dedicated advocacy, she has developed strong networking systems... Read More →

Melissa Crist

Director of Early Childhood Programs, Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development

Melissa Crist, M.S. is the Director of IdahoSTARS at the Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development, the state University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD). IdahoSTARS houses the majority of quality initiatives in early care and education for the... Read More →

Janel Preston

Program coordinator- Autism Specialist, Institute for Disability Research Policy and Practice -USU

Deepa Srinivasavaradan

Deana Buck

Act Early Ambassador, Early Childhood Consultant

Jennifer Hall

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Outcomes of Interprofessional Competency in Interdisciplinary Preparation - Poster 38

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This poster presents findings of three cohorts of an self-assessment tool to evaluate interprofessional interactions and interprofessional values. This measure, initially developed and validated for use in health care settings, was adapted and applied to an educational environment that included social workers and early childhood special education students.

Speakers

Renee Hepperlen

Bonnie Ingelin

Assistant Professor, Early Childhood Special Education at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis Minnesota

Bonnie Ingelin is assistant professor of Early Childhood Special Education at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis Minnesota. She received her PhD at Florida State University in Special Education with an emphasis in teaching Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics... Read More →

L. Lynn Stansberry Brusnahan

Parent & Professor, University of St Thomas

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Supporting Children with Disabilities- Begin with Belonging: What-Why-How - Poster 25

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Young children with a developmental disability can often experience anxiety, loneliness, discrimination and marginalization. Attendees will engage with a tool to evaluate dimensions of belonging in classrooms and prioritize dimensions for improvement. They will learn strategies they can implement immediately to enhance the culture of belonging and improve student outcomes.

Speakers

Maureen Ruby

Professor, Sacred Heart University

Avinash Mishra

SLP Faculty, Sacred Heart University

DEC 2024 Presentation MR AM QR pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Using Standards to Support Candidate Reflection and Field Experiences - Poster 6

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This session describes using professional preparation standards to support preservice educators’ reflection and field experiences. Using the EI/ECSE and ECE Standards, observations are more focused and reflections based on what the field expects teachers to know and be able to do. Additionally, candidates indicate increased focus on their own and child and classroom needs.

Speakers

Megan Purcell

Purdue University

Shawna Harbin

Clinical Assistant Professor, Purdue University

Sara Schmitt

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

A Systematic Review of Video Modeling to Teach Play Skills in Preschool - Poster 29

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

In this systematic review, we gauged the degree to which video modeling meets Council for Exceptional Children criteria as an evidence-based practice for teaching play skills to preschool students on the autism spectrum, and the conditions under which it is effective.

Speakers

Kaitlyn Viera

Ohio State University

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Advocacy Among Chinese Immigrant Parents of Children With Autism - Poster 16

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Chinese immigrant families of children with autism are an underserved and under-researched population. This poster session provides an insight into the advocacy of 13 parents through a narrative inquiry. The parents greatly valued the professionals’ dedication and supportive partnerships. Only a few parents displayed advocacy in relation to their children’s education.

Speakers

Lei Huang

PhD Student, University of Georgia

Lei Huang is currently a doctoral candidate in Special Education at the University of Georgia. Her research interests include advocacy, immigrant families, children with autism and complex needs, and cultural humility to meet families’ needs. She is honored to receive a Graduate... Read More →

Cynthia Vail

Professor, University of Georgia

Dr. Cynthia Vail received her Ph.D. from Florida State University and has been on the faculty of the University of Georgia in the Department of Communication Sciences and Special Education since 1989, where she is currently Professor. She teaches in the Birth through Kindergarten/Early... Read More →

DEC 2024 Handout Lei Huang e pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Comparing Caregiver Coaching Fidelity during Inperson and Telehealth Visits - Poster 20

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

We present study findings that compared fidelity to a defined set of caregiver coaching practices during inperson and telehealth (TI) EI visits across training phases of a PD program. Findings illustrate higher intervention fidelity during TI visits. We discuss implications for family access and workforce shortages.

Speakers

Scott Tomchek

Professor, University of Louisville

Serena Wheeler

Assistant Professor and Associate Director, Coaching in Early Intervention Training and Mentorship Program, University of Louisville

Lauren Little

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Conceptualizing Their Role: Perceptions from Special Instructors - Poster 15

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This study explores how SI providers describe their role when working with families and the aspects of EI services SI providers believe are unique to the special instruction.

Speakers

Megan Schumaker Murphy

Assistant Professor, Salem State University

Dr. Megan Schumaker-Murphy is an assistant professor in the McKeown School of Education at Salem State University. Her research interests include early intervention service provision and culturally responsive teaching.

Stephanie Parks

Assoc Director, Career Pathway, University of Kansas

Dr. Parks is an occupational therapist and associate director of the Kansas Career Pathway for ECCE. She was a faculty member in early childhood education at the University of Kansas prior to joining K-State.

Dana Childress

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, ODU

Dana Childress, PhD is an Assistant Professor of Early Childhood Special Education at Old Dominion University. She has worked in the field of early intervention (EI) for more than 27 years as an educator, service coordinator, supervisor, training facilitator, author, and consultant... Read More →

Teran Frick

Professional Development Coordinator, Family, Infant & Preschool Program (FIPP)

Corinne Wilson

VTSS Evaluation Director at CIEES, Old Dominion University

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Disproportional Child Behavior and Teacher Outcomes in Head Start - Poster 19

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

We examined links among teacher well-being, practice, and child social-emotional outcome in FACES 2014. We found teacher job satisfaction predicted classroom practice but not child outcome. Black children and those with disability were disproportionally reported with higher problem behaviors and lower social skills; Black teachers scored significantly lower by CLASS.

Speakers

Jun Ai

Assistant Professor, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Gospel Kim

Postdoctoral fellow, University of California-Davis, MIND Institute

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Advanced

8:00am CDT

Early Childhood Special Education, NDBIs, and Peers - Poster 27

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

A systematic literature review of Naturalistic Developmental Behavioral Interventions as a peer-mediated intervention for preschool-aged children with ASD/ Developmental Disabilities. Together, these two evidence based interventions can support the learning of a variety of skills in various settings.

Speakers

Kate Anderson

Graduate Student, The Ohio State University

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Early Numeracy, Online PD, and EI Professionals’ Practices and Perspectives - Poster 30

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This mixed-methods study examined the impact of an online PD on IFSP early numeracy outcomes. Practices and perspectives of EI providers were also explored. The results of this study showed a need for more PD related to high-quality IFSP early numeracy outcome development and ways to support families in implementing early numeracy skills for children with disabilities.

Speakers

Koryne Nnoli

Assistant Professor, Morgan State University

Salenah Cartier

Lisa Shanty

Beth Boyle

Faculty, Johns Hopkins University

Rachel Hur

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Embedding Sociocultural Competencies into Professional Development - Poster 4

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This poster will present the growth in cultural competence experienced by pre-service social workers & early childhood special educators after completing a series of professional development microcredentials focused on diversity, equity, & socioculturally responsive practices specifically focused on historically marginalized immigrant & refugee children & families.

Speakers

L. Lynn Stansberry Brusnahan

Parent & Professor, University of St Thomas

Renee Hepperlen

Bonnie Ingelin

Assistant Professor, Early Childhood Special Education at the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis Minnesota

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Evidence-Based Practices for Bilingual Children with Disability - Poster 31

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

The purpose of the systematic review was to describe and analyze studies examining interventions for promoting social/language/communication for bilingual children who have disability below the age of five. Implications for research, policy, and practice will be shared.

Speakers

F. Kivanc Erdogan

Researcher, University of Massachusetts Boston

Serra Acar

Associate Professor, University of Massachusetts, Boston

Dr. Acar is an associate professor at the University of Massachusetts Boston. Her research includes culturally and linguistically responsive assessment practices in early intervention/early childhood special education.

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Exploring Factors Impacting Retention of WA EI Workforce - Poster 14

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This study investigates EI provider retention in Washington State, recognizing its crucial role in quality supports. Utilizing a mixed-methods design, surveys integrated with qualitative interviews explore factors impacting satisfaction and retention. Findings unpack challenges, give recommendations for retention, and provide a model for states to examine their workforce.

Speakers

Molly Stryker

Kathleen Artman-Meeker

Associate Professor, University of Washington

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Impact of a PD Session on Head Start Providers' Autism Perceptions - Poster 5

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This poster will summarize the impact of a PD session about autism on Head Start providers’ autism knowledge and perceptions. Using a mixed-methods approach, preliminary results indicate providers made statistically significant gains in their autism knowledge, but a qualitative analysis revealed there is a desire for more information and training.

Speakers

Sarah Wiegand

Assistant Professor of Early Childhood and Special Education, New Mexico State University

I am an assistant professor of special education and early childhood education at New Mexico State University. I am a former Part C early intervention provider and autism resource specialist. My research centers around improving policies/practices in Part C and autism. I am a member... Read More →

Dr. Angela Owens

Director, New Mexico State University

Dr. Angela Victoria Enriqueta Owens is an instructor of Curriculum and Instruction in the School of Teacher Preparation, Leadership, and Administration at New Mexico State University. She educates early childhood and special education teacher candidates, is the Director of the New... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Inclusion of Children with Disabilities in Nature-based Preschools - Poster 39

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

In this poster, participants will learn about the findings from a national cold-call audit/email survey of nature-based preschool programs. Participants will demonstrate increased knowledge of the characteristics of nature-based programs indicating willingness to serve children with disabilities, and will leave with strategies for advocating for inclusion in these spaces.

Speakers

Sarah Pedonti

Assistant Professor, Western Carolina University Birth-Kindergarten Education Program

Sarah F. Pedonti, Ph.D. is an assistant professor in Birth-Kindergarten Education at Western Carolina University. She teaches a range of courses that focus on inclusive methods and environments for diverse children with or at risk for disabilities. Her latest work focuses on how outdoor... Read More →

Cathy Grist

Professor, Western Carolina University

Cathy L. Grist, Ph.D. is a professor in the Birth-Kindergarten Program at Western Carolina University. Her teaching and work focus on preschool personality, assessment, infant, toddler, and preschool assessment, social-emotional issues, and self-regulation in young children

Derek Becker

Associate Professor, Western Carolina University Birth-Kindergarten Education Program

Derek R. Becker, Ph.D., is an associate professor in the Birth-Kindergarten program at Western Carolina University. He teaches a range of early childhood research methods courses, along with math, science and curriculum. His research examines connections among play, physical activity... Read More →

Myra Watson

assistant professor, Western Carolina University Birth-Kindergarten Education Program

Myra K. Watson, Ed.D., is an assistant professor in the Birth-Kindergarten Program at Western Carolina University. She teaches a variety of courses focused on pedagogy in early childhood preservice teacher education. Her research is focused on teacher education, early career teacher... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Intersections of Disability and Poverty: An Early Intervention Case Study - Poster 37

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

We will share the findings of a qualitative study that used multiple methods to explore the daily life and EI services of a child with medical complexities who was experiencing homelessness. We will share participant’s quotes, vignettes, and photographs to illustrate our study findings and provide opportunities for attendees to reflect on the implications of the study.

Speakers

Crystal Williams

Michaelene Ostrosky

Professor, University of Illinois

Grace Sawyer

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Latine Families’ Autism Journeys: Initial Concerns to Present Partnerships - Poster 9

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This study explored Latine mothers’ experiences with obtaining & sharing their children's autism diagnosis & engaging with schools, highlighting their multifaceted roles. It suggests strategies to improve access to information & resources, along with ideas for equitably supporting culturally & linguistically diverse families in family-school partnerships.

Speakers

Elizabeth Cambray

Norma Lopez-Reyna

Silvia Rodriguez

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Literature Review: Identifying Young Children’s Perspectives in Research - Poster 18

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Young children with disabilities have things to say about the systems that affect them every day. However, little research has explored their perspectives on the practices and policies they are impacted by. This session will review what literature uncovered about children’s perspectives and what centering the perspectives of young children offers researchers.

Speakers

Kristen Witzling

Student, UW-Madison

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Metaverse and Its Technological Application - Poster 7

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This session will discuss research results of the perception of early childhood special education
pre-service and in-service teachers regarding metaverse, technological application, and
educational design principles. Implications for practice, teacher preparation programs, and
practitioners also will be discussed.

Speakers

Sangsu Baek

Eunyoung Jung

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Perceptions of Integrating Telehealth in Early Intervention: A Review - Poster 22

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

While the benefits of EI are compelling, the disparity in access to early intervention (EI) experienced by families from marginalized backgrounds (e.g., Black, Hispanic, low socioeconomic, rural areas) are deserving of our attention. This review aims to synthesize existing research regarding stakeholders’ experiences of using telehealth in EI.

Speakers

Casey Kim

Doctoral student, University of Illinois

Hsiu-Wen Yang

Researcher, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Sunyoung Kim

Jing Wang

Victoria Aragon

Emily Gregori

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Preschool Teachers' Use of Self-Determination Teaching Practices in Class - Poster 17

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Twenty-one preschool teachers' use of self-determination (SD) teaching practices was observed and quantified during two classroom activities, using a direct behavior coding system. Teachers' use of SD practices varied across teachers, SD skill categories, and activity types. Teachers' use of SD practices showed positive correlations with their CLASS-PreK scores.

Speakers

Qunshan Zheng

Post-doc associate, University of Florida

Patricia Snyder

Director, Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies, University of FL

I am a Distinguished Professor of Special Education and Early Childhood Studies, an affiliate Professor of Pediatrics, the David Lawrence Jr. Endowed Chair in Early Childhood Studies, and Director of the Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies at the University... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Sensory-Motor Language Intervention for Emergent Writing in Young Children - Poster 13

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This study combines interventions from OT and Speech to address co-occurring language and motor deficits in preschoolers with DLD, with potential to enhance learning efficiency and retention of emergent literacy, language, and fine motor skills, lessening the academic gaps between preschoolers with delays and their typically developing peers.

Speakers

Michelle Thompson

Assistant Professor, Old Dominion University

Danika Pfeiffer

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Sibling Synergy: Facilitating Dialogic Reading Use with Older Siblings - Poster 34

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This presentation explores a study designed to promote language development in children within immigrant Latino families by using older siblings as dialogic reading partners. We explore the intervention program, address how it capitalizes on familial strengths, share successes and challenges, and identify future opportunities to enhance shared book reading among siblings.

Speakers

Miguel Garcia-Salas

Doctoral Candidate, Florida State University / Florida Center for Reading Research

Hi! My name is Miguel, and I am a doctoral student in the School of Communication Science and Disorders at Florida State University. I am also a Florida Interdisciplinary Research Fellow in Education Sciences through the Florida Center for Reading Research. I am passionate about working... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Special Educators’ Partnership Practices with Refugee Families - Poster 23

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Young children from diverse linguistic and racial backgrounds are increasing, thus special educators are interacting with diverse families now more than ever. This convergent mixed methods study, used surveys and interviews, to explore early childhood (ECSE) and elementary special education teachers’ (n = 14) use of family professional partnership practices and culturally

Speakers

Nikki Adams

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Amy Santos

Associate Provost and Professor of Special Education, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Erica Ranade

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

8:00am CDT

Supporting Children who are Deafblind to Access General Education - Poster 26

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

This mixed-methods study identified the educational trends of children who are deafblind and identified strategies to improve the outcomes of children. Secondary data from the National Deafblind Child Count Data and interview transcripts were used for data analysis and then integrated to identify the supports children who are deafblind should access.

Speakers

Ira Padhye

Project Director, Virginia Commonwealth University

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

8:00am CDT

Virtual Equity: Parent Inclusion in Early Intervention Language Program - Poster 35

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT

Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Virtual care ensures marginalized families receive equity. HomeGoals combines education, coaching, measuring parent stress&vocabulary. Coaching targets joint attention, modeling &feedback. Education covers development, delay, behavior & support. A-B study was conducted 3x/5weeks (n = 2). High fidelity for parent reporting & observation was reported. Parent stress decreased

Speakers

Dr. Cherina Williams

Founder/Clinical Researcher/Program Developer, I Heart Speech Therapy

Hi! I'm Dr. Cherina Williams, licensed speech and language pathologist. I specialize in early intervention and I love discussing family-centered practice, parent education, early identification, parent coaching, parent stress, and collaborative practice. I am the creator of HomeGoals(TM... Read More →

Kelly Robinson

Speech Pathologist, Strong Link Therapy

Thursday September 19, 2024 8:00am - 9:00am CDT
Grand Ballroom A (Exhibits) - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

9:15am CDT

Building Cohesive Early Intervention Assessment Teams

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS D22 - 1st fl

During this session, participants will discuss a family-centered, early intervention assessment process while engaging in effective teaming and collaboration. Practitioners will walk away with strategies that will assist with creating improved children and family outcomes.

Speakers

Bernita Sykes

Local System Manager, ITC of Henrico Area

Bernita Sykes is a native of Portsmouth, Virginia, and has been a resident of Central Virginia since 2001. She has a Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Psychology. Bernita is currently pursuing her PhD in Special Education at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). Her professional... Read More →

Kendall Lee

Director, ITC of the Heartland, Longwood University

Dr. Kendall Lee serves as the Director of the Infant and Toddler Connection (ITC) of the Heartland and HIPAA Compliance Officer at Longwood University in Farmville, VA. Dr. Lee is responsible for the oversight of the ITC; the area’s early intervention program serving clients birth... Read More →

Christine Spence

Associate Professor, Virginia Commonwealth University

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS D22 - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

Finding a Friend: Key Social Skills for Children with Visual Impairments

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Starboard/Port - Riverside Bldg

This session will discuss a variety of interventions that enable children with visual impairments to be effectively included in early childhood settings. Topics to be discussed include strategies that will increase social opportunities, peer-mediated interventions, and simple modifications that can make social activities more engaging for children with visual impairments.

Speakers

Kathy Boisvert

Integrated Early Childhood Teacher & Assistant Professor, Blackstone-Millville Regional School District & Worcester State University

DEC HANDOUT Finding a Friend (SEPT 2024) pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Starboard/Port - Riverside Bldg

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Introductory

9:15am CDT

What's Happening in Washington: Congressional Panel

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Marlboro B - 2nd fl

DEC Sponsored

9:15am CDT

Bridging the Gap: Linking LTSAE and The DEC RPs for Families

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

This session will explore the intersection of two powerful frameworks: Learn the Signs. Act Early (LTSAE) and the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) Recommended Practices (RPs) to empower families in recognizing developmental milestones, acting early on developmental concerns, and engaging in early intervention that supports improved developmental outcomes.

Speakers

Melissa Crist

Director of Early Childhood Programs, Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development

Bethanne Vergean

CT Learn the SIgns Act Early Ambassador, UCONN UCEDD

Deepa Srinivasavaradan

Kristen Paul

Director of Early Childhood Programs, The Parents' Place of Maryland

Kristen Paul has devoted over two decades to various roles serving children and their families; her career has included work as a science teacher, Albert Einstein Distinguished Educator Fellow at NASA, STEM Coordinator at Salisbury University, and family support for Birth to Five... Read More →

Deana Buck

Act Early Ambassador, Early Childhood Consultant

DEC 2024 Bridging the Gap pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

Family

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

Oh...I'm so sorry: Shifting from Sympathy to Celebration

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Chequers - 2nd fl

Despite efforts to promote positive views of disability, the deficit model permeates our practice and society. Upon the birth of a child with differences, parents are continually confronted with sympathy. and pity. Drawing from our own lived experiences and the field of disability studies, we discuss shifting to parent support that celebrates all children and families.

Speakers

Ann Mickelson

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Holly Dregne

Teacher, Elm Lawn Elementary, Middleton, WI

Kristi Godfrey-Hurrell

Becky Hoffman

Professional Development Specialist, CESA5 RESource for the WI Birth to 3 Program

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Chequers - 2nd fl

Family

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

Early Childhood Inclusion: Building Research Collaborations

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS C16 - 1st fl

The DEC International Committee will moderate an interactive discussion of potential research collaborations on early childhood inclusion. We will provide an overview of global early childhood inclusion efforts. We will provide opportunities for session attendees to network and discuss research ideas related to early childhood inclusion and build collaborative projects.

Speakers

Ching-I Chen

Associate Professor, Kent State University

Margarita Canadas

Catholic University of Valencia

Maria Kastanis

Associate Director, Early Intervention Training Program

Susan Shapiro

Associate Professor, Touro Graduate School of Education

Susan H. Shapiro is an Associate Professor of Early Childhood and Special Education at Touro Graduate School of Education and Co-Director of the New DEEL (Democratic Ethical Educational Leadership). She earned her Bachelor’s degree in child psychology from the New School, Eugene... Read More →

Chih-Ing Lim

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute

Chih-Ing Lim, Ph.D., is currently Senior Technical Assistance Specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA. Chih-Ing is the Co-Chair of the International Early Childhood Inclusion Institute and serves as... Read More →

James Lee

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS C16 - 1st fl

International

9:15am CDT

The Odd Couple: Partnering With States to Build Capacity & Increase Equity

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Burgundy - 1st fl

This session offers insight into the challenges and nuances of partnering with states on early education policy initiatives. It delves into the iterative nature of research-practice partnerships, highlighting challenges, breakthroughs, and shared learning. Participants learn strategies for navigating power dynamics, building mutual trust, and centering community voice.

Speakers

Allison Kimble-Cusano

Research Specialist, Institute for Child Success

Dr. Allison Kimble-Cusano (she/her) is a Research Specialist in the Impact & Practice program area of the Institute for Child Success. She is responsible for promoting equity-focused professional empowerment of early childhood professionals, systems-level research, evaluation and... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Burgundy - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

2024 Revised DEC Position Statement: The Role of Special Instruction in EI

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS B9 - 1st fl

We introduce the revised 2024 DEC Position Statement: The Role of Special Instruction in Early Intervention (EI) and discuss how it can be used in states and programs. We review a) how special instruction is defined, b) recommendations for professional preparation and qualifications of EI educators, (c) the role of EI educators, and (4) the uniqueness of the service.

Speakers

Serena Wheeler

Assistant Professor and Associate Director, Coaching in Early Intervention Training and Mentorship Program, University of Louisville

James Young

Project Administrator, Johns Hopkins University

Dana Childress

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, ODU

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS B9 - 1st fl

Practice

9:15am CDT

Equity Audit: Identifying Disparities and Implementing Systemic Change

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS A4 - 1st fl

Are you interested in building and sustaining more equitable EI/ECSE systems? Want to receive resources and learn more about assessing the extent to which there is equity in state and local programs? Then join us as we explore the Equity Audit’s indicators of quality and engage in discussions regarding use of its results to improve policies, practices, and outcomes.

Speakers

Catasha Williams

Technical Assistance Specialist, UNC Frank Porter Graham CDI

Evandra Catherine

Director of Disability and Mental Health Policy, Children's Equity Project

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS A4 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

Using the Recommended Practices for Equitable Family Participation

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Because racial disparities exist in EI/ECSE, there is an urgency to provide each family with the information and support needed to access services and to meaningfully engage within these services. Participants will learn strategies to address these needs through use of the DEC Recommended Practices and related resources in their work with families.

Speakers

Stephanie Moss

Chief Operating Officer, Parent to Parent of Georgia

Sasha Bueno

Family Educator, INCLUDEnyc

Adriana Fontaine

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

9:15am CDT

Actualizing DEC’s Racial Equity Point of View

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS D21 - 1st fl

Liberation is a complex journey towards freedom and justice. It requires collective effort and diverse perspectives. DEC PPAC seeks to build a more equitable future for EI/ECSE through collaboration and shared leadership. This process involves personal growth and systemic change. Join us to discuss the future of championing DEC's RE POV throughout DEC's resource system.

Speakers

Lori Meyer

Associate Professor, University of Vermont

Hsiu-Wen Yang

Researcher, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Matt Klein

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS D21 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

9:15am CDT

Cross Disciplinary: Working Together Across Disciplines

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS C18 - 1st fl

This presentation will provide an overview of the Cross Disciplinary Competencies, sharing materials that illustrate collaboration, and how we are working together to attract, prepare, and retain a diverse workforce in early childhood intervention to meet the changing needs of the ECI system.

Speakers

Mary Beth Bruder

UCEDD/ECPC Director, UNIV OF CONNECTICUT HEALTH CTR

Infants & Young Children is an interdisciplinary journal focusing on children with disabilities or at risk for disability age birth to five years and their families. Of special interest are articles involving innovative interventions, summaries of important research developments and... Read More →

Peggy Kemp

Executive Director, Division for Early Childhood (DEC)

Welcome! Thank you for attending DEC 2023! Please introduce yourself if we are in sessions together and tell me a bit about your work/dreams for DEC/questions/concerns! - Peggy

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS C18 - 1st fl

Professional Development

9:15am CDT

DECIDE: Fostering Future Leaders through Mentorship

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS B10 - 1st fl

DECIDE supports Doctoral Students in Research, Teaching, and Service in early intervention and early childhood special education. In this session, current doctoral students and faculty will discuss the DECIDE mentoring program along with how to find a mentor during the doctoral program and as an early career scholar. Strategies for high-quality mentoring will be shared.

Speakers

Samantha Riggleman

Associate Professor, Saint Joseph's University

Veronica Kang

Assistant Professor, University of Maryland at College Park

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS B10 - 1st fl

Professional Development

9:15am CDT

Grow Your Own EI Professional Development Retention Initiative

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Follow the journey of the Nevada Early Intervention Professional Development Center from its conception as a Grow Your Own workforce retention initiative in 2022 to present day success for the Developmental Specialist/Service Coordinator workforce serving infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.

Speakers

Lori Ann Malina-Lovell, DrPH

Part C Coordinator, NV IDEA Part C

Maya L Raimondi

Nevada EI PD Center Director, NV IDEA Part C

DEC ppt Nevada Grow Your Own Retention Sept 2024 pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Professional Development

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

How to Integrate Neurodiversity Affirming Practices in the Classroom

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS C13 - 1st fl

Many educators are eager to incorporate neurodiversity-affirming practices in their classroom. In a hands-on workshop setting, learn some of the basics of neurodiversity affirming practices and how a shift in mindset can help every child thrive.

Speakers

Celest Austin

Founder/CEO, GoManda

GoManda is an iOS app that teaches the basics of communication via a science-backed method designed for neurodivergent children. The GoManda app targets the comprehension arm of communication by providing:- Photorealistic visual library of common nouns, colors, shapes and more- Real... Read More →

Katrina Martin

CEO/ Founder, Bridges Learning System

Talk to me about--Why teaching discreet social skills is harmful for neurodivergent children What SEL should look like in the EC classroomHow you can implement neurodiversity-affirming practice in Early Childhood!

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS C13 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

OER for Access, Equity, and Quality in Personnel Preparation

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS C15 - 1st fl

This session will provide an overview of the adoption and adaptation of Open Educational Resources (OER) for courses in three personnel preparation programs in different institutions. Examples of course materials and assignments will be shared.

Speakers

Serra Acar

Associate Professor, University of Massachusetts, Boston

Ching-I Chen

Associate Professor, Kent State University

Zhen Chai

Professor, California State University, Northridge

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS C15 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

The Quest for OSEP Funding: Wowing the Reviewers and Writing Winning Grants

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS B12 - 1st fl

This session will focus on opportunities afforded by OSEP grants. Using an interactive format with audience participation, the session will explore the challenges of and strategies for writing high-quality grant proposals to increase the likelihood of successful funding. Highlighted will be interdisciplinary efforts, recent trends, and innovative strategies.

Speakers

Jennifer Kilgo

Harriet Able

UNC at Chapel Hill

Harriet is a Professor of Early Childhood and Special Education at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she teaches and researches issues regarding family empowerment, ethics, and interprofessional preparation.

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS B12 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Content Level Introductory

9:15am CDT

Virtual Case-Based PD Approach on Assessment Data & Intervention Strategies

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Marlboro A - 2nd fl

Session covers the design of an online case-based, professional development model to support early interventionists in using authentic assessment data to support the identification of priority skills & develop embedded instructional strategies. We will review the Project ECHO model, the design of the cases & session tools, and highlight key data from participant surveys

Speakers

Jen Brown

Education Consultant, University of New Mexico

Professional development and technical assistance provider for New Mexico's Part C program with 25+ years experience in EI/ECSE.

Jennifer Grisham

Professor, University of Kentucky

Jennifer Grisham, Ed.D., is Professor in the Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education program at the University of Kentucky, Lexington. She received her doctorate in Education from the University of Kentucky. She is also Faculty Director of the Early Childhood Laboratory at the... Read More →

Leah Davidson

Part C Coordinator, NM ECECD

I have been working in Part C in New Mexico since December of 2020. I started my career in Early Intervention in January of 2009 in Virginia, where I worked until 2019 when my family and I relocated to New Mexico. Please feel free to talk to me about what it is like to have experienced... Read More →

Virtual Case Based PD Approach Assmt&Intervention pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Marlboro A - 2nd fl

Professional Development

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

Examining Referral Practices Between Pediatricians and Early Intervention

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS A6 - 1st fl

Insufficient referral and participation in Early Intervention (EI) services are common among children aged birth to 3 years. Yet, there’s limited understanding of referral practices by pediatricians and Part C EI personnel. This presentation presents findings from a mixed-method study on referral practices and improvement recommendations.

Speakers

Asha Yadav

Postdoctoral Associate, University of Florida

Jane Squires

Randall Alan Phelps

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS A6 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

Exploring Family-Profession Partnerships Through Intersectionality

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

Cambridge - 2nd fl

Research suggests that refugee families and early educators struggle to develop equitable family-professional partnerships in the U.S. This session will address the challenges faced and the support needed by early educators to develop partnerships with refugee families. We will also discuss how their multiple identities influence their partnerships.

Speakers

Ankita Bhattashali

Education Specialist, Utah State University

Gregory Cheatham

higher ed faculty, University of Kansas

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
Cambridge - 2nd fl

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Advanced

9:15am CDT

Perspectives on Leadership in EI and ECSE: Insights from Educators

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS B7 - 1st fl

The following mixed method study investigated EI and ECSE perspectives on teacher leadership (i.e., knowledge, skills, and beliefs). Participants shared their teacher leadership experiences, perceived support, and barriers. Presenters will overview results while discussing implications for practice and future research.

Speakers

Amanda Passmore

Assistant Professor, Elmhurst University

Veronica Kang

Assistant Professor, University of Maryland at College Park

Marie Tejero Hughes

Professor, UIC College of Education

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS B7 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

9:15am CDT

Research Committee - Updates, Activities, and Ways to Get Involved!

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS A3 - 1st fl

Are you curious about the DEC Research Committee? Join us to hear about the committee’s purpose, structure, and how it fits within the DEC organization. Presenters will provide updates, share membership details, and identify how to get involved. Participant feedback will be solicited to help inform the committee’s future work.

Speakers

Sloan Storie

Research Associate, University of Cincinnati

Sondra M Stegenga

Assistant Professor of Special Education, University of Utah

Ann Mickelson

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Angi Stone-MacDonald

Professor, California State University, San Bernardino

Dr. Angi Stone-MacDonald is a Professor and Department Chair at California State University, San Bernardino. She earned her doctorate from Indiana University in Special Education and African Studies, where she studied the role of culturally relevant curriculum and cultural beliefs... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS A3 - 1st fl

Research

9:15am CDT

The Role of Digital Communication in Building Family-Educator Partnerships

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT

GS D24 - 1st fl

This study examined how digital and non-digital communication shapes partnerships among educators and family caregivers and promotes family engagement that supports the development of children (aged 18 months to 6 years) with disabilities. The presentation will provide insights from teachers, therapists, and parents about practices that best support trusting partnerships.

Speakers

Sue Anderson

Associate Professor, Texas Christian University

I am a professor with degrees in both special education and educational technology. I have taught educational technology and special education courses to preservice teachers in Texas. I am currently researching the use of technology in special education settings. Before pursuing a... Read More →

Link to DEC presentation pptx

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:15am - 10:15am CDT
GS D24 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

The Current and Future Status of the ECI (0-8) Workforce: What Practitioners Have Told Us About Shortages, Diversity and Their Knowledge and Skills. **SPOTLIGHT SESSION"

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS B10 - 1st fl

Join us for a joint session led by the Early Childhood Intervention Personnel Center for EQUITY (ECIPC-Equity) and the Division for Early Childhood (DEC). We will share the results from a national survey of the ECI workforce and discuss the implications of the findings for the future of ECI. We will then ask for input from the audience about their current workforce challenges and opportunities as we collectively try to attract, prepare, and retain a competent and diverse workforce for the future.

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS B10 - 1st fl

Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Administrators

10:30am CDT

Introduction to the DEC Recommended Practices and Support Tools

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

Marlboro A - 2nd fl

This session will explore how the DEC Recommended Practices can be used to support access and meaningful participation for children with disabilities and their families. The Recommended Practices and associated ECTA Practice Improvement tools range from teaming and collaborating on a child’s IFSP/IEP team, to ways in which a family can be involved in their child’s assessment. This session will provide a more in-depth understanding of the Recommended Practices and how they can be used to support both families and practitioners. Participants will have opportunities to try out the practices individually and within small groups using realistic scenarios. There will be opportunities for participants to engage with Ambassadors of the Recommended Practices and learn ways in which they have used practices in a variety of settings with diverse audiences. Participants will be supported in examining how they can use the practices and tools to support child access and meaningful participation within everyday activities and routines, alongside peers. They will leave this session with ideas and free online resources to support children.

Speakers

Allison Jones

TA Specialist, ECTA

The ECTA Center supports state IDEA Part C and Part B, Section 619 programs in developing more equitable, effective, and sustainable state and local systems, that support access and full participation for each and every young child with a disability, and their family.

Stephanie Moss

Chief Operating Officer, Parent to Parent of Georgia

Introduction to RPs and Tools (2024 New Orleans) pptx

Official DEC 2014 Recommended Practices with Examples (6) pdf

PGF TC1 participating 2018 pdf

PGF TC2 familyteam 2018 pdf

PGF TC3 sharing 2018 pdf

Activity Theres An RP for That(9 2024) docx

Instructions Activity Opportunity for Practice (September 2024) docx

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Marlboro A - 2nd fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

10:30am CDT

Partnering with Immigrant Families for Promoting Social Emotional Learning

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS C15 - 1st fl

Early Childhood Education (ECE) practitioners must partner with families to promote early Social Emotional Learning (SEL). With the increasing number of immigrant families in the U.S., practitioners need more guidance for partnering with immigrant families. This session will provide strategies for promoting SEL with immigrant families of children with disabilities.

Speakers

Gounah Choi

Lecturer, University of Oregon

Kathryn Bigelow

Associate Research Professor, Juniper Gardens Children's Project, University of Kansas

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS C15 - 1st fl

Family

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Saluting Strengths: Military Families with Children with Disabilities

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

Burgundy - 1st fl

Researchers affirm the importance of professionals’ knowledge and skills when working with children and families from backgrounds different from their own. A population that has received little attention in ECSE is military families. In this session we discuss the experiences of military families and provide an overview of military-connected programs and resources.

Speakers

Karen Terry

Program Analyst, Dept of Defense

Robyn DiPietro

Asst. Project Director, OneOp-University of Illinois at Urbana-Chamapaign

Michaelene Ostrosky

Professor, University of Illinois

Amy Santos

Associate Provost and Professor of Special Education, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Burgundy - 1st fl

Family

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Survivor: Starting, Reviving and Keeping Your Subdivision Alive

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS D22 - 1st fl

The Subdivision Support committee and a panel of subdivision leaders will provide resources and actionable tasks to support you in starting subdivisions, reviving subdivisions, and maintaining active membership. Participants will engage in panel discussions and small group activities and will leave with immediately actionable items related to their specific needs.

Speakers

Katy Green

Interim Department Chair and Associate Professor, University of West Georgia

Amanda Quesenberry

Professor, Illinois State University

Summer Gunn

Professional Practices Assistant Professor, Utah State University

Summer received a Bachelor of Science degree in Special Education with an emphasis in Birth to 5 services and significant disabilities and a Master’s of Education in Special Education from Utah State University. She is currently a Professional Practice Assistant Professor in the... Read More →

Donna Wadsworth

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Julie Rutland

Associate Professor, Eastern Kentucky University

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS D22 - 1st fl

Family

10:30am CDT

Ableism in Early Childhood: Policy Implications for Our Field

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS B9 - 1st fl

The Joint Inclusion Policy Statement shows that we have not been able to move the needle on inclusion in early childhood. Is ableism at work here? Let's explore this together! We will consider alternatives to the notion of disability and how a new way of thinking can impact our programs, policies, and practices. Together we can confront ableism in ECE and find solutions.

Speakers

Jani Kozlowski

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Every Child Can Fly: An Early Childhood Educator's Guide to Inclusion: https://www.gryphonhouse.com/books/details/every-child-can-fly-an-early-childhood-educators-guide-to-inclusion

Jennifer Fung

Inclusion Lead, National Center on Early Childhood Development, Teaching, and Learning

Dr. Jennifer Fung is an educator, trainer, consultant, and researcher who has dedicated her career to ensuring that all young children, especially those with disabilities, have a strong start to their educational journeys. Jennifer is a senior content specialist at Cultivate Learning... Read More →

Allyson Dean

DEC ableism session slides 9 12 24 pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS B9 - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Authentic Assessment Practices to Support Child Development

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS D24 - 1st fl

Have you ever wondered how professionals use the DEC Recommended Practices to observe and assess young children? What do different disciplines in early childhood settings have in common when it comes to assessment, and how are they different? These questions and more are explored in this session.

Speakers

Marisa Macy

Professor, University of Wyoming

Dr. Marisa Macy is full professor and holds the John P. Ellbogen Foundation Professorship of Early Childhood Education at the University of Wyoming. Macy has more than 25 years of experience as an educator. Macy, a Seattle native, earned a bachelor’s degree in English at the University... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS D24 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

10:30am CDT

Creating CHANGE for the Next Generation of Early Educators

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS C18 - 1st fl

High-quality early childhood education is equity! This presentation shares one approach to collaborating with community college faculty to design and deliver content that will prepare associate degree students to serve young children with disabilities and their families, including those who are multilingual and from racially, ethnically, and culturally diverse populations.

Speakers

Sloan Storie

Research Associate, University of Cincinnati

Jennifer Ottley

Research Director, University of Cincinnati

Ching-I Chen

Associate Professor, Kent State University

Lindsay Diamond

Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Reno

Anne Larson

Research Associate, University of Minnesota

Ann Mickelson

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Naomi Rahn

Assistant Professor, UW-Whitewater

Sondra M Stegenga

Assistant Professor of Special Education, University of Utah

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS C18 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Ideas for a Trauma-Informed Classroom: Practices From ECSE Teachers

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

Cambridge - 2nd fl

In this session, we will introduce the foundations of trauma-informed practices. We will share photos of trauma-informed practices that were shared by early childhood special education teachers in a research study. Then, we will facilitate a discussion about how attendees can implement these practices in their own classroom.

Speakers

Mia Chudzik

Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Illinois

Abby Hardy

Doctoral student, University of Illinois

Catherine Corr

Associate Professor, University of Illinois

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Cambridge - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Introductory

10:30am CDT

Meeting Families When and Where They Are: FAB Scheduling

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Implementing a flexible, activity-based, bursts of support (FAB) scheduling system helps ensure visits occur during natural family activities and routines. Learn strategies for increasing scheduling flexibility and how and when natural learning environment practices are used to build caregiver capacity and increase child learning opportunities.

Speakers

Kaitlin Porter

Physical Therapist, Family, Infant and Preschool Program (FIPP)

Teran Frick

Professional Development Coordinator, Family, Infant & Preschool Program (FIPP)

FAB Scheduling handout pdf

FAB Scheduling Tips Tricks pdf

FAB Scheduling Plain Text pdf

FAB Scheduling Tips and Tricks Plain text pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Psychological Safety Considerations for Early Intervention Teaming

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS A6 - 1st fl

This session will review the research on psychological safety through the lens of implementation science, including discussion of the characteristics of highly functioning teams, stages of psychological safety, and application to early intervention. Early intervention teaming will be considered through the framework of psychological safety, examining how home visiting and

Speakers

Kristen Votava

Associate Professor, University of North Dakota

Carol Johnson

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS A6 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Advanced

10:30am CDT

A Before & After Story: Professional Development to Engage Adult Learners

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Participants will consider what each of Knowles Adult Learning Principles look like in practice. Presenters will share the first-hand experience of moving from “sit & get” training, to using engaging strategies, as well as the data collected to determine effectiveness and impact. Participants will share their own strategies to expand everyone's bank of ideas.

Speakers

Sally Hansen

Director of Development and Technical Assistance, University of Denver

Sally began working in early childhood education and children’s mental health in 2001. As a family therapist, an early childhood education behavior consultant and early childhood program administrator, Sally blended the mental health framework with an educational approach to fully... Read More →

Dameri Watson

Senior Research Associate, University of Denver

Dameri Watson, M.S., is a Senior Research Associate at the University of Denver. Her work primarily focuses on partnering with leaders and providers in states, communities, and local programs to co-create and sustain high-quality inclusive experiences that welcome and support every... Read More →

Nancy Burdic

Senior Research Associate, PELE Center, University of Denver

Ron Roybal

Engaging Adult Learners DEC 2024 handout pdf

Adult Learning Principles pdf

Facilitate Adaptively pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Embedding DEC RPs and EI/ECSE Standards in Infant/Toddler Training Programs

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS D19 - 1st fl

Infants, toddlers, caregivers, and families deserve the support of professionals with competencies in DAP and DEC Recommended Practices grounded in EI/ECSE Standards. The session will explore strategies to embed DEC RPs and EI/ECSE Standards in training/preparation programs for infant toddler professionals. This session is focused on workforce development in EI/ECE/ECSE.

Speakers

Jami Swindell

Assistant Professor, Fontbonne University

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS D19 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Establishing Community Norms and Equitable Engagement in Virtual Spaces

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS C16 - 1st fl

Communities of Practice (CoPs) can promote networking, skill building, and innovation. We will discuss the importance of establishing group norms as one way of fostering accountable, equitable virtual environments for all participants. Using an equity mindset, practical application within DEC CoPs and other meetings spaces will be explored.

Speakers

Nicole M. Edwards

Associate Professor, Rowan University

Sarah Nichols

Professional Development Specialist, Early Intervention Training Program at the University of Illinois

Professional Development Specialist, Early Intervention Training Program at the University of Illinois. Passionate about all things service coordination, Communities of Practice (CoPs), and evidence-informed professional development. Special interests also include leadership development... Read More →

Jisun Oh

Melanie Reese

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, AnLar

As a Senior Technical Assistance Specialist at AnLar, Melanie is passionate about building systems to support inclusive opportunities for young children with disabilities. She is a skilled facilitator, trainer, and technical assistance provider. She has expertise in early childhood... Read More →

Melissa Schnurr

Iowa Dept. of Education

Community Agreements Developing (1) pdf

Comparison of DEC Committees and Communities of Practice pdf

DEC CoP Committee DEC Conference Handout Take Away Activity 2024 pdf

DEC CoP Development Committee Handout DEC Conference 2024 pdf

DEC Group Norms CT Open Source Approach pdf

Division for Early Childhood Racial Equity Point of View pdf

Positionality Activity pdf

Sample CoP Post Meeting Feedback Questions pdf

Why join a DEC CoP pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS C16 - 1st fl

Professional Development

10:30am CDT

No One Here Looks Like Me: Creating Professional Development for All Staff

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS A4 - 1st fl

Professional Development is often geared towards the dominant culture of the leadership. In this training, we will discuss ways to ensure that professional development is created through an equitable lens for all team members, regardless of their identity. Additionally, we will focus on creating an inclusive and reflective atmosphere for all staff.

Speakers

Laycee Thigpen

Lead Consultant, Reinking Education Consulting

Anni Reinking

Owner, Reinking Education Consulting, LLC

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS A4 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Practical Strategies for Engagement Across Online & In-Person Instruction

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS D21 - 1st fl

Teaching in higher education continues to evolve in skills needed to support student learning and engagement. This session will provide practical strategies in promoting student engagement in college classrooms for both online and in-person learning environments.

Speakers

Lindsay Diamond

Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Reno

Cynthia Baughan

Associate Dean, Anderson University

Laura McCorkle

Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Charlotte

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS D21 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Reimagining Preparation for Early Intervention (including Keynote Speaker: Monique Matute-Chavarria)

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

This presentation will showcase innovative approaches to early intervention (EI) preparation programs that can be implemented to prepare EI providers. We will discuss (a) reimagining EI personnel preparation to include critical multicultural and bilingual education, culturally sustaining practices, and (b) using a conceptual framework to prepare equity-minded EI providers.

Speakers

Monique Matute-Chavarria

Assistant Professor, New Mexico State University

Dr. Monique Matute-Chavarria is an assistant professor of Special Education at New Mexico State University (NMSU). Before obtaining her Ph.D. in Special Education, she worked with Nevada Early Intervention Services, working with children from birth to three with disabilities. Dr... Read More →

Sarah Wiegand

Assistant Professor of Early Childhood and Special Education, New Mexico State University

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Professional Development

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Scaling-up Community Partnerships to Prepare Inclusive EC Educators

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS A3 - 1st fl

EPIC-ECEL is an equity-focused partnership between 2-year and 4-year IHEs to prepare inclusive EC practitioners and leaders through targeted and systematic curriculur enhancements, coaching practices. and intentional field experiences in inclusive EC settings. We will share strategies and resources for embedding inclusive practices in community college coursework.

Speakers

Rashida Banerjee

Professor, University of Denver

Ritu Chopra

Executive Director, PAR2A Center & Assistant Research Professor, University of Colorado, Denver

Julianne Daniel

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS A3 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Supporting Instructors to Embed Inclusive STEM Content in Higher Education

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS B12 - 1st fl

This session will focus on supporting faculty and professional development providers to embed STEM content for their students and participants. Freely available resources will be shared and participants will apply the content to their own practice to empower our early educators to embed inclusive STEM for all children and families.

Speakers

Jessica Amsbary

Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute

Dr. Jessica Amsbary is an adjunct clinical assistant professor and the Coordinator of the Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support program at UNC-Chapel Hill. She also is a postdoctoral research associate at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute where she engages... Read More →

Chih-Ing Lim

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute

Megan Vinh

Co-Director, ECTA and STEMIE Centers

IHE DEC Handout pdf

STEMIE IHE RFA pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS B12 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

10:30am CDT

PRRFCT Match: A Parent-Mediated Intervention with Virtual Coaching

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

GS B7 - 1st fl

Promoting Reciprocal Relationships with Flexibility, Coaching, and Teaching: (PRRFCT Match) is a parent-mediated intervention package to increase engagement and reciprocity between dyads of parents and young children with developmental delays. Considerations for adapting and implementing culturally grounded interventions with children and families will be examined.

Speakers

Megan Kunze

Assistant Research Professor, Megan Kunze

Qi Wei

Alexis Bacon-Yates

DEC 2024 PRRFCT Match pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
GS B7 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Teacher/Family Perceptions of Using Reach for the Stars for IEP Development

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT

Starboard/Port - Riverside Bldg

Reach for the Stars (RFTS) is a person-centered approach that is used as a functional assessment tool and can lead to the development of a child's IEP. This session will discuss the effects of using RFTS with families, and teacher attitudes and perceptions of young children with disabilities. Lastly, we will discuss how this process shapes the development of the IEP.

Speakers

Sarah Hawkins-Lear

Assistant Professor, University of Kentucky

Jennifer Grisham

Professor, University of Kentucky

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:30am - 11:30am CDT
Starboard/Port - Riverside Bldg

Research

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

11:30am CDT

Break

Thursday September 19, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT

Thursday September 19, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
--

11:30am CDT

Research Community of Practice Meet and Greet and Brainstorm Session (open meeting)

Thursday September 19, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT

Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Speakers

Jessica Amsbary

Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute

Sloan Storie

Research Associate, University of Cincinnati

Thursday September 19, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Meetings and Socials

11:30am CDT

Virginia DEC Subdivision Meeting – Open Meeting

Thursday September 19, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT

Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Speakers

Serra De Arment

Associate Professor, Virginia Commonwealth University

After teaching in special education (early childhood through fifth grade) for 10 years, I now thoroughly enjoy preparing future special educators through my faculty role at VCU in our Early Childhood Special Education and Richmond Teacher Residency programs. I am as passionate about... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 11:30am - 1:00pm CDT
Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Meetings and Socials

1:00pm CDT

DEC Position Statement: Inclusion

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS A4 - 1st fl

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS A4 - 1st fl

1:00pm CDT

Becoming Anti-Racist: Using Cultural Humility to Address Implicit Bias

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS B7 - 1st fl

This 60 minute session will address the reduction of implicit bas, using culturally responsive practices to address racial and other biases to reduce biased actions, disproportionality, especially in regards to suspensions and expulsions. Participants will walk away with concrete skills that they can use immediately to address biases in their practice settings.

Speakers

Jasmine Crane

Director of Health and Well-Being, IREE--Institute for Racial Equity & Excellence

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS B7 - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

Recommended Practices - DEC Committee

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS D22 - 1st fl

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS D22 - 1st fl

DEC Sponsored

1:00pm CDT

Disability, Diversity, and Identity in Early Childhood

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Chequers - 2nd fl

Disability is a naturally occurring human variation. Some variations, such as nearsightedness, are so common that they're no longer considered disabilities. Others are considered an inconvenience to society. How do professionals help children and families form a positive disabled identity amid these implicit and explicit messages created by society?

Speakers

Charissa Darland

Educational Resources Specialist, Indiana University Bloomington

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Chequers - 2nd fl

Family

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Introductory

1:00pm CDT

Setting the Stage for a Peaceful and Productive IEP Meeting

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Burgundy - 1st fl

Have you ever had an IEP experience that just didn’t go well? What did you do to help get the meeting back on track? This session will discuss strategies to promote family engagement throughout the IEP process and to empower families to be their child’s advocate.

Speakers

Amanda Duncan

BCBA, Research Assistant, Doctoral Candidate, University of Kentucky

Julie Rutland

Associate Professor, Eastern Kentucky University

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Burgundy - 1st fl

Family

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

1:00pm CDT

Strategies to Include Family Voice and Choice in the Behavior Support Plan

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

Empowering families and practitioners collectively in communication, planning, and social-emotional support development is pivotal for enhancing outcomes in young children. With practical examples and user-friendly resources, participants will learn to foster family partnership, amplifying voice and choice in the Individualized Positive Behavior Support Process (IBSP).

Speakers

Meghan von der Embse

Learning and Development Facilitator, University of South Flordida

Ben Riepe

Senior Project Manager, University of Denver

Ben began his early childhood experience as a Head Start teacher, coach, and trainer. He is on staff at both the National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations and the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center, where he supports high fidelity program-wide implementation of the Pyramid Model with families of diverse backgrounds in Denver, Colorado. His previous work includes the Colorado Center for Social Emotional Competence and Inclusion, where he supported communities in their efforts to embed evi... Read More →

Jackie Joseph

Research Associate Professor, University of Denver

Jackie Joseph is a Research Associate Professor at the University of Denver Positive Early Learning Experiences Center, where her work promotes high-quality inclusion across the early care and education system. She specifically focuses on family partnerships and evidence-based strategies... Read More →

Aniva Lumpkins

National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI) Fellow; Doctoral Candidate, FIU

Aniva Lumpkins, Ed.S., is a clinical supervisor of school psychologists and a doctoral candidate pursuing her PhD in Special Education at Florida International University. As a recipient of the National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI) and Project INCLUDE fellowships... Read More →

family voice choice pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

Family

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

Parent-Child Interaction (PCI) in Everyday Routines: Systematic Review

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS C16 - 1st fl

This presentation will highlight outcomes from a systematic review on parent-child interaction (PCI) in everyday routines. Focused on dyads of caregivers and young children who are deaf, this systematic review revealed interesting findings and informed a number of "lessons learned" that can benefit researchers conducting reviews across a range of family/child populations.

Speakers

Amy Szarkowski

Researcher, Institute for Community Inclusion, University of Massachusetts Boston

I am a psychologist, passionate about supporting families and their young children who are deaf or hard of hearing and/or have communication challenges. Ask me about family-centered early intervention (FCEI), parent-child interaction, social-emotional development in deaf children... Read More →

Martina Curtin

Evelien Dirks

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS C16 - 1st fl

International

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

Connecting the Dots! Collaborating as a Cross-Sector State Leadership Team

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS D24 - 1st fl

Join this session to learn tools and strategies to support the capacity of cross-sector state leadership teams to implement an early childhood multi-tiered system of support (MTSS) to improve the social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes of young children with, and at risk for developmental disabilities or delays.

Speakers

Beth Vorhaus

Education Consultant, Vanderbilt

Ashley MacNish

Educational Consultant, Vanderbilt University

Kerri Wikel

Program Director, Team for Early Childhood Solutions (TECS)

DEC 2024 Connecting the Dots Collaborating as a Cross Sector State Leadership Team pdf

Spectrum of Community Engagement to Ownership pdf

Cross sector SLT Collaboration activity docx

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS D24 - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

Do Service Coordinators Coach?

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Marlboro A - 2nd fl

Caregiver coaching is not just for providers. It's a capacity-building interaction style that can help build sustainable change when used by Service Coordinators. Apply evidence-based coaching to family support interactions to increase focus on family-identified priorities, prioritize the family’s, and improve family outcomes and well-being.

Th 100

Speakers

Sarah Sexton

Director, Family, Infant and Preschool Program (FIPP)

Andrea Matias-Lemoine

Senior Case Coordinator, Mecklenburg County Children's Developmental Services Agency (CDSA)

As a passionate service coordinator, I am dedicated to empowering each parent to advocate for their children. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I am committed to supporting families every step of the way to ensure their children receive the care and resources they dese... Read More →

Capacity Building Practices pdf

RBP Roadmap Booklet Complete 10.27.2020 pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Marlboro A - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Introductory

1:00pm CDT

The Play to Learn Curriculum: Increasing Play Complexity in Children

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS A6 - 1st fl

We will describe our Playing To Learn curriculum and provide an overview of related research, which contribute significantly to the body of knowledge surrounding interventions designed to enhance the complexity of children's play skills. We will outline the curriculum components and highlight specific goals and strategies for supporting play for all children.

Speakers

Erin Barton

Consultant, Barton Consulting

Erin E. Barton, PhD, BCBA-D, is an international educational consultant and founder of Barton Consulting, LLC and Faculty for the Pyramid Model Consortium. She has worked as a special education teacher and as a university professor, previously at Vanderbilt. She taught graduate-level... Read More →

Claire Winchester

Coach, consultant, & researcher, Growth Early Childhood Behavior Coaching

Claire Winchester, Ph.D, BCBA-D is an international early childhood behavior coach, consultant, and researcher with a specialization in supporting the families, teachers, and organizations that support young children. As the founder and operator of Growth Early Childhood Behavior... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS A6 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

The Power of Reflection: Social-Emotional-Focused Questions for Families

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

How confident are you implementing reflection practices during home visits? Research shows reflection is one of the least used family coaching practices by early interventionists. Join us as we share a tool that will help early intervention providers to build their confidence and competence to support family reflection with a social and emotional lens.

Speakers

Ashley MacNish

Educational Consultant, Vanderbilt University

Crystal Williams

Julianne Daniel

Julia Sayles

Georgetown University

DEC 2024 Reflection HO pdf

Reflection Questions for Families on Social and Emotional Development DEC pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

A Little Neurobiology and A Lot of Reframing

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS B12 - 1st fl

Sources of stress can be biological, emotional, socio-cultural and environmental. By understanding the neurobiology of stress, families and early childhood practitioners can reduce their own reactivity and reframe the behaviors of the children in their care. Participants will learn strategies to reflect and respond in order to co-regulate young children.

Speakers

Corinne Catalano

Associate Director, Montclair State University

Corinne is the Associate Director for Education, Inclusion, and Development at Montclair State University’s Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health. She is the project manager for the NJ Preschool Inclusive Education Project (NJPIEP) funded by the NJ Department of Education... Read More →

Eileen McKeating

Assistant Director for Research and Evaluation, CAECMH, Montclair State University

Eileen McKeating, Ph.D. joined the Center for Autism and Early Childhood Mental Health as a Research Assistant in 2014. She is responsible for the research and program evaluation for the Center’s many grant initiatives. In addition, she teaches graduate courses for the Department... Read More →

DEC2024 Stress and Reframing pdf

Self Reg Adult Reframe and Recognize Activity 2023 pdf

Reframing, Recognizing and Reducing a Young Child's Stress Activity 2024 pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS B12 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

1:00pm CDT

Leading for Change: Leadership Competencies for Part C and Part B/619 Coordinators and Staff

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS C18 - 1st fl

Promoting high-quality leadership at all levels of EI/ECSE is critical to successful outcomes for infants, toddlers, and families. Learn more about a tiered system of leadership development for Part C and Part B/619 coordinators and staff. The tiered system puts focus on knowledge and skills needed for foundational, operational, and strategic leadership. Hear from a panel of past participants about their experience and how they are using what they have learned in their state. They will also share the progress of their capstones projects.

Speakers

Jenn Kaufman

Darla Gundler

Associate Director, Early Childhood Intervention Personnel Center -Equity (ECiPC-Equity)

Engaging families of young children with disabilities in early childhood

Panel of Part C and Part B/619

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS C18 - 1st fl

Professional Development

1:00pm CDT

Developmental Monitoring PD: Educator Change and Family Engagement

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS B10 - 1st fl

Results from a coaching PD designed to improve infant-toddler educators’ developmental checklist use, systematic monitoring, and collaboration with families. Data from pre and post-assessments, interviews, and conference notes will be shared. Attendees will gain insights on engaging families, expanding the study, and accessing monitoring tools/resources.

Speakers

Audra Classen

Associate Professor, University of Southern Mississippi

Jean Kang

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS B10 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

EI Providers’ Perspectives Supporting Children with Medical Complexities

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Cambridge - 2nd fl

We will share findings from a qualitative interview study that explored early intervention (EI) providers' beliefs about supporting families of children with medical complexities (CMC). Attendees will engage in a discussion about (1) important practices, (2) successes and challenges, and (3) strengths in needs in personnel preparation related to supporting this population

Speakers

Crystal Williams

Julianne Daniel

Michaelene Ostrosky

Professor, University of Illinois

Renae Cuevas Dias

Early Intervention Speech-Language Pathologist, Doctoral Student, University of Colorado Denver

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Cambridge - 2nd fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

1:00pm CDT

Evolving Perspectives: A Repeated Cross-Sectional Analysis of Transitions

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS D19 - 1st fl

Through findings from a longitudinal cross-sectional study, this session examines declines in importance ratings of transition practices over time. Overall ratings significantly declined and were predicted by professional role, education level, and race. The discussion will center on implications for reconsidering approaches to transition planning.

Speakers

Beth Rous

Professor, University of Kentucky

John Nash

Associate Professor, University of Kentucky

Zijia Li

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS D19 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

Tiered Online Training and Supports for Parents of Children with IDD

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

Marlboro B - 2nd fl

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the efficacy of the Tiered Online Training and Support (TOTS) virtual parent training model for parents of children with developmental disabilities. Participants will leave with an understanding of the usability, efficacy, and impact of TOTS and know how to access the program to use with the families they serve.

Speakers

Sabine Scott

Megan Kunze

Assistant Research Professor, Megan Kunze

Christina Karns

Assistant Research Professor, University of Oregon

Laura Lee McIntyre

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Researchers
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

Enhancing Coaches’ Use of Evidence-Based Coaching to Promote Outcomes (OSEP)

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT

GS C13 - 1st fl

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Coaching is an evidence-based approach to support the use of effective practices with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers with disabilities. Panelists will describe lessons learned through three OSEP-funded model demonstrations designed to enhance the use of evidence-based coaching frameworks to support outcomes for young children with disabilities and their families.

Speakers

Darbianne Shannon

Assistant Research Scientist, Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies, University of FL

Dr. Shannon is an Assistant Research Scientist with the Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies at the University of Florida. Dr. Shannon supports states and early childhood programs with the installation, implementation, sustainability and scale-up of professional... Read More →

Patricia Snyder

Director, Anita Zucker Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Studies, University of FL

Lisa Knoche

Research Associate Professor, Nebraska Center for Research on Children, Youth, Families and Schools/ UNL

Kathleen Artman-Meeker

Associate Professor, University of Washington

Carol Davis

Rachel Schachter

2024 DEC Conference Handout pdf

2024 DEC Conference PPT Accessible pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 2:00pm CDT
GS C13 - 1st fl

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

1:00pm CDT

Crafting Slam Style Stories

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS C15 - 1st fl

StorySlams - events where tellers perform short 5 minutes stories on a theme, live with no notes - are enjoying huge popularity. We use stories everyday in our advocacy as parents, family, teachers, service providers. Painting a picture for medical professionals, legislators, decisionmakers can often shift perspectives, leading to important conversations and great strides.

In this workshop we’ll discuss slam story format, generate compelling stories using writing prompts, get tips for live performance and discuss ways to use in our advocacy. Participants will also have the opportunity to share in front of the group.

Speakers

Bethany Van Delft

Bethany Van Delft is a stand up comedian, actress, and writer. Born in the Bronx and raised up in Boston, Bethany’s unique point of view is a product of her upbringing and quirky observations, combining a grounded storytelling delivery with her quietly hysterical alternate universe... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS C15 - 1st fl

1:00pm CDT

Annual aRPy Ambassador Summit (invite only)

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS B9 - 1st fl

During this invitation-only session, aRPy Ambassadors will share with one another the ways in which they are promoting and using the DEC RPs. The session will serve as an in-person work time, where questions, ideas and challenges are discussed and documented. This in-person time with the Ambassadors will help guide the planning and delivery of future Ambassador activities.

Speakers

Stephanie Moss

Chief Operating Officer, Parent to Parent of Georgia

Allison Jones

TA Specialist, ECTA

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS B9 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Advanced

2:15pm CDT

CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early: Milestones, Materials, and More!

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS A6 - 1st fl

Would you like to improve your efforts and skills in the early identification of developmental concerns in young children? CDC’s “Learn the Signs. Act Early.” campaign has developed FREE materials to share with families and providers. Join us to learn new skills about how to integrate these tools into existing EC systems. Leave with an action plan and a materials toolkit.

Speakers

Janel Preston

Program coordinator- Autism Specialist, Institute for Disability Research Policy and Practice -USU

Deana Buck

Act Early Ambassador, Early Childhood Consultant

Deepa Srinivasavaradan

Bethanne Vergean

CT Learn the SIgns Act Early Ambassador, UCONN UCEDD

Jennifer Hall

Melissa Crist

Director of Early Childhood Programs, Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS A6 - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Introductory

2:15pm CDT

Partnering with Parents to Provide the ‘Just Right’ Support

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

Marlboro A - 2nd fl

Service coordinators can use caregiver coaching to help families think about the outcomes that best match their family’s culture, priorities, and values and make informed decisions about the amount and frequency of services. More isn’t always better. Gain a parent perspective on receiving coaching support to advocate for what they need during the IFSP process.

th 215

Speakers

Lindsey Moss

Case Management Supervisor, Mecklenburg County Public Health

Tina Grove

Child Developmental Specialist, Mecklenburg County Children's Dev Sevs Agency

Handouts for Presentation pdf

DEC 2024 Partnering with Families Final pptx

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Marlboro A - 2nd fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

What to Expect When You are Expecting an Interventionist in Your Classroom

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS A4 - 1st fl

EI practitioners often visit children with IFSPs in early care classrooms. Collaboration is critical to inclusive early childhood classroom practices and optimal learning opportunities for all young children. This session provides classroom professionals with concrete expectations to ensure evidence-based support is provided by visiting early intervention practitioners.

Speakers

Kris Everhart

Associate Director, FIPP

I am presenting a session at this year's conference titled "What to expect when you are expecting an early intervention provider in your classroom." I work at the Family, Infant and Preschool Program in Morganton, North Carolina. My duties at FIPP include serving as FIPP's associate... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS A4 - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

"Be Part of" Campaign: Recruiting Early Interventionist

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

Burgundy - 1st fl

Join us to learn more about how to use the Be Part Of video and other materials for early intervention provider and service coordinator recruitment. Materials have been used at the university level for student recruitment and the state and local level for those already in the field. Share ideas on how we might grow this campaign together.

Speakers

Chris Guillen

Photographer/Producer, Chris Guillen

Chris Guillen is a photographer, producer and creative partner, and brings a unique skill set for the Early Intervention field. He is a husband of 31 years to Early Interventionist Chelsea Guillen, who ran an EI program for 12+ years and who is currently the EI Ombudsman for the state... Read More →

Peggy Kemp

Executive Director, Division for Early Childhood (DEC)

Welcome! Thank you for attending DEC 2023! Please introduce yourself if we are in sessions together and tell me a bit about your work/dreams for DEC/questions/concerns! - Peggy

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Burgundy - 1st fl

DEC Sponsored

Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Advanced

2:15pm CDT

Creating Connection for Families of Children with Developmental Needs

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS A3 - 1st fl

Families of children with developmental needs may wish to connect with similar families for support but getting together can be challenging due to the varying availability of each family. We set up a family support event “Time with Me” within our EI centre to facilitate connection. Feedback showed that families enjoyed this event and gained valuable insights.

Speakers

Nurul Ain Bte Mohd Komari

Senior Speech Therapist, Head of Programs Development (Early Intervention), THK Early Intervention Centres (Singapore)

Nurul, a speech therapist by training, currently serves as the Head of Program Development in an early intervention service within a social service agency. Passionate about family-centered practices, she is committed to developing solutions that create a meaningful and lasting impact... Read More →

Shaun Ng

Senior Research Assistant, Thye Hua Kwan Moral Charities

Multi-disciplinary research experience across industries from social service to healthcare, with diverse and adaptable capabilities in psychology and business development. Passionate about youth development and aspire towards working with like-minded individuals to promote positive... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS A3 - 1st fl

Family

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

2:15pm CDT

Lights, Camera, Red Flags! Roll Out the Parental Red Carpet

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

Chequers - 2nd fl

Practical skills and sensitive language are crucial for addressing neurodiversity, physical diversity, and family differences in Early Head Start/Head Start classrooms. This presentation covers prevalence, best practices, and supporting underprivileged communities. If you're an educator, administrator, or advocate interested in fostering inclusivity, join us.

Speakers

Brooke Frenkel

Lights Camera Red Flags (1) pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Chequers - 2nd fl

Family

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

2:15pm CDT

How Are Children with Disabilities Included in the Reggio Emilia Approach?

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS C18 - 1st fl

This session will explore inclusive practices for children with disabilities in Reggio Emilia, Italy. We will share the story of how a group of early childhood education professionals took a trip to Reggio Emilia, Italy to learn about the preschool approach and how it strengthened our learning, and created stronger supports within our own community of practice at home.

Speakers

Jacqueline Towson

Associate Professor, University of Central Florida, School of Communication Sciences and Disorders

Jacqueline Towson, Ph.D., CCC-SLP is an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director in the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders with a joint appointment in the School of Teacher Education at University of Central Florida. She completed her doctorate in 2015 at Georgia... Read More →

Marisa Macy

Professor, University of Wyoming

Judy Levin

Dena Harshbarger

Associate Professor, UNK

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS C18 - 1st fl

International

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

2:15pm CDT

Building Sustainable Solutions to EI Workforce Challenges in Illinois

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS B12 - 1st fl

This session will delve into Illinois's comprehensive approach to tackling its workforce challenges. The discussion panel will consist of advocates, technical experts, and state leaders. Strategies include engaging with practitioners and families, conducting research and data analysis, creating a cost model for EI services, and establishing public-private partnerships.

Speakers

Abby McCartney

Senior Director, Early Care and Education, Afton Partners

Zareen Kamal

Policy Specialist, Start Early

Ted Burke

Consultant, ECTA

Benny Delgado

DEC conference presentation on EI in IL Sept 2024 pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS B12 - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Rural vs Urban Barriers to Accessing Inclusive Preschool Opportunities

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Access and equity issues to inclusive educational settings are present in both urban and rural settings. In this presentation we will compare barriers impacting access to inclusive educational opportunities in rural vs. urban settings. Through this comparison we will highlight common practices that work across settings as well as unique approaches for each set of needs.

Speakers

Cori More

Jennifer Buchter

professor, Eatern Illinois University

Paula Kerchenski

Assistant Professor, Utah Tech University

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Policy

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

2:15pm CDT

Autism & Inclusion: The Power of Words, Representation & Visuals

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

Embark on an empowerment journey in Autism & Inclusion. Led by an inclusion specialist and two unique parenting perspectives. Discover stats, terms, and strategies for promoting sensory regulation, safety, communication, and social skills. Learn through quizzes, polls, and Q&A. Honor intersectionality by engaging in equitable practices. Gain immediate actionable insights.

Speakers

Emily Parker

President, Inclusive Compass

Hello, my name is Emily Hope Parker, and I’m thrilled to be part of the DEC conference. I've had the honor of working with children and their families for years as an accessibility educator, inclusion specialist, and advocate. My passion for inclusion extends far beyond my professional... Read More →

Alyssa McDonald

Meggan Wentworth

Vice President, Inclusive Compass

Autism & Inclusion Slides DEC pdf

Expanding Diet Visuals pdf

Disability Inclusion Book List pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

2:15pm CDT

Expand Your Leadership Vision with the Habits of a Systems Thinker

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

Marlboro B - 2nd fl

This session will provide special education professionals with the essential skills of systems thinking through the application of the Habits of a Systems Thinker. Rooted in systems theory, this approach fosters a holistic perspective that recognizes the interconnectedness of individual actions and the impact on broader systems.

Speakers

Melanie Reese

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, AnLar

Monica Yudron

Betsy Lin

Pamela Elwood

EC Consultant, GHAEA

Eboni Walker

Senior TA Specialist, AnLar LLC

Eboni Walker serves as a senior technical assistance specialist at AnLar LLC working with early childhood leaders and professionals across the country to build capacity in leadership development. Prior to this position, she was the founding Executive Director of a charter school based... Read More →

Britt Braun

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, AnLar

Britt provides creative and innovative approaches to supporting projects focusing on early childhood access, quality and special education. Britt has worked in the early childhood field at the school, district, and state levels. Her passion for building systems that support high-quality... Read More →

habits single page 2020 pdf

DEC Copy Circle of Concern and Influence Template pdf

iceberg current reality pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Fostering Dignity and Equality for Every Child

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS D24 - 1st fl

We will guide participants through what it means to know that respecting the dignity and worth of all children is a fundamental commitment that goes beyond ethical considerations. We will provide specific strategies for supporting the dignity of children with disabilities or children who might have disabilities and their families within early childhood programs.

Speakers

Erin Barton

Consultant, Barton Consulting

Claire Winchester

Coach, consultant, & researcher, Growth Early Childhood Behavior Coaching

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS D24 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

From External- to Self-Regulation: Inclusive Practices for Infants/Toddlers

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS D21 - 1st fl

Self-regulation early in life provides a strong foundation for learning. Thus, engaging in intentional activities designed to promote early precursors of self-regulation with infants & toddlers is critical. This presentation will provide information on understanding the relevance of early regulation and introducing inclusive practices focused on promoting these skills.

Speakers

Sara Schmitt

Elizabeth Schlesinger-Devlin

Chanele Robinson-Rucker

Megan Purcell

Purdue University

DEC presentation final pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS D21 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Reimagining Professional Development for Equity and Inclusion

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

This session empowers leaders to implement a comprehensive approach to professional development grounded in Equitable Implementation. Presenters will share a roadmap that leaders can use to guide their teams to collaboratively design and implement professional development centered on the experiences of their program’s young children, families, and professionals.

Speakers

Sally Hansen

Director of Development and Technical Assistance, University of Denver

Jackie Joseph

Research Associate Professor, University of Denver

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Black Fathers of Children With Disabilities: A Ripple Effect

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS B10 - 1st fl

Becoming a father is a developmental milestone for men and has potential to support their mental health and wellness. Little research exists about the caregiver roles of Black fathers of children with disabilities. An understanding of the lived experiences of Black fathers of children with disabilities is warranted. Review of experiences and next steps will be reviewed.

Speakers

Brandy James, PhD

Early Childhood Learning Coordinator, Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS B10 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Exploring Early Childhood Expulsion Through a Trauma-Informed Lens

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS B7 - 1st fl

We conducted interviews to learn about caregivers’ experiences with early childhood expulsion using a trauma-informed lens. We will present the findings, which highlight the harmful nature of expulsion, implications for research/practice, and facilitate a discussion about trauma and expulsion in early childhood.

Speakers

Mia Chudzik

Postdoctoral Research Associate, University of Illinois

Courtney OGrady

Catherine Corr

Associate Professor, University of Illinois

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS B7 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

2:15pm CDT

Just Stop And See How The Family Does Things: Cultural Responsiveness in EI

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS C16 - 1st fl

Early interventionists (EIs) are faced with supporting families’ cultures when working with families from marginalized backgrounds. We interviewed EIs about their beliefs and practices related to working with Black and Latino families. Join a discussion about ways to best support EIs to develop equitable partnerships with families from marginalized backgrounds.

Speakers

Diana Abarca

Mollie Romano

Florida State University

Elizabeth Biggs

Assistant Professor, Vanderbilt University

Elizabeth E. Biggs, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Special Education at Vanderbilt University and a member of the Vanderbilt Kennedy Center. Her work focuses on promoting social, communication, language, and literacy outcomes for children and youth with autism... Read More →

Michelle Therrien

DEC 2024 Presentation Qual Study pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS C16 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Making an IMPACT: The Dimensions of Equity in Early Childhood Assessment

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS D22 - 1st fl

This session provides an in-depth look at the dimensions of equity in early childhood assessment. Participants will explore the relationships between the cost, usability, technical merit, and cultural relevance of early childhood measures. They will consider the implications for how to best meet the measurement needs of their communities.

Speakers

Allison Kimble-Cusano

Research Specialist, Institute for Child Success

DEC 2024 IMPACT presentation pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS D22 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Partnering with Community Providers to Support Black Autistic Children

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS D19 - 1st fl

FACES (Fostering Advocacy, Communication, Empowerment, and Support) is an advocacy intervention designed to empower Black families to combat autism service disparities. This presentation will describe the development and manualization of the FACES Facilitator Training and highlight how we have leveraged community-based partnerships to increase FACES outreach.

Speakers

Jamie Pearson

Associate Professor, North Carolina State University

DeVoshia Mason Martin

Doctoral Student, North Carolina State University

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS D19 - 1st fl

Research

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

2:15pm CDT

Building the Bridge between EHDI and IDEA (OSEP)

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT

GS C13 - 1st fl

Effective collaboration between Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Part C (Part C) can help both programs better support families. This session aims to grow attendee’s understanding of the EHDI programs, how Part C and EHDI can coordinate, and the available resources to support coordination.

Speakers

Vinetta Freeman

Sharon Walsh

Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children

Thursday September 19, 2024 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GS C13 - 1st fl

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Caring Across Colors: Bridges to Understanding

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

Explore the personal journey of a caregiver and provider, navigating ruptures and repairs shaped by their different racial identities. They will reflect upon the influence of historical racism on their individual stances and actions. Gain valuable insights into dismantling discrimination through self-awareness and proactive behavior in this enlightening discussion.

Speakers

Kirsten Sippel-Klug

Physical Therapist, Early Intervention

Kirsten Sippel-Klug, PT, MPP, I/ECMH-C is a physical therapist who has been working with military families overseas, in their homes, for 25 years. Kirsten completed a certification program in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health from University of Massachusetts in 2022 and at... Read More →

Kena Chambers

Parent, Self

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Prince of Wales - 2nd fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Families
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Tiered Coaching to Support Itinerant Practices in Early Childhood

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Starboard/Port - Riverside Bldg

This session focuses on an Itinerant Coaching Model designed to meet the specific needs of early
childhood special education (ECSE) itinerant practitioners within school districts. Attendees of this
session will gain access to the nuts and bolts of a state-wide itinerant training and be able to identify
the benefits of tiered coaching for ESCE itinerant practitioners.

Speakers

Tanya Hutchinson

SEIT Coach, South Carolina Partnerships for Inclusion

Kate Ascetta

Assistant Professor, University of South Carolina

Melissa Griffin

Technical Assistance Coordinator, South Carolina Partnerships for Inclusion at the University of South Carolina

Melissa Griffin serves as the Technical Assistance Coordinator with SCPI. In this role, she facilitates the implementation of a tiered framework of supports for early childhood specialists and coordinates service delivery for districts working with SCPI to improve early childhood... Read More →

DEC SEIT Academy and Coaching Presentation pdf

2024 Coach's Corner Newsletter copy pdf

Resource Padlet Tiered Coaching pdf

SEIT Consultation and Tiered Coaching Model pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Starboard/Port - Riverside Bldg

By Practitioners for Practitioners

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Addressing Gaps in Family Support Through Family-Informed Micro-Trainings

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS B10 - 1st fl

Participants will learn about the co-creation with families and early childhood professionals of brief "micro-trainings" on topics identified as gaps during family interviews with families of young children with disabilities. Participants will understand how format and content decisions were made and will consider new methods for dissemination.

Speakers

Katherine Herron

Director, Indiana University Early Childhood Center

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS B10 - 1st fl

Family

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Building Hope: Exploring Infant Mental Health in Diverse Families

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS B7 - 1st fl

Embark on a transformative journey in this session, strategically crafted to elevate professional practices and directly impact outcomes for children and families. With a spotlight on under-resourced or culturally diverse communities, this exploration and interactive discussion promise to revolutionize the approach to caregiving.

Speakers

Lisa Terry

Early Intervention Professional Development Consultant, Virginia Commonwealth University/Partnership for People with Disabilities

Lisa provides support for the design and implementation of professional development activities for early intervention providers and administrators in Virginia. She has worked in early intervention for over 15 years as an educator, service coordinator, clinical supervisor, and consultant... Read More →

Elvia Cortes

CEO, FINE Infant Program

Elvia Cortes, PhD, MSW, is the founder and executive director of FINE Infant Program, an Early Intervention program, leading in-home visitors and mental health practitioners providing direct services to children 0-3 years and their families in California. She collaborates with in-home... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS B7 - 1st fl

Family

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

International Perspectives on Supporting Young Children with Disabilities

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS D24 - 1st fl

In this presentation, professionals from Spain and the U.S. will describe their work in improving the quality of services to young children with disabilities and their families. Through research, training, mentoring, and coaching, the group has influenced the implementation of recommended practices throughout Spain, and Central/South America.

Speakers

Jennifer Grisham

Professor, University of Kentucky

Margarita Canadas

Catholic University of Valencia

VIRGINIA AYUSO

Ocupathional Therapy, Early Childhood Center

MIREYA VICENTE VILAS

Special Teacher, Early Childhood Capacitas

Cecilia Simón

Associate Professor, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid

InternationalPresentation pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS D24 - 1st fl

International

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Connecting Awareness to Action: Nationwide Findings and Policy Solutions

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS A3 - 1st fl

We will present findings from roundtables of local, state, and federal stakeholders about EI/ECSE and kindergarten for children with disabilities. Themes include dual-identified students, family engagement, workforce, and connecting awareness to action. We will invite attendees to reflect on findings and share solutions to strengthen our recommendations to policymakers.

Speakers

Carrie Gillispie

Senior Policy Analyst, New America

Nicole Hsu

Policy Analyst, New America

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS A3 - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Effective Cost Modeling and Rate Setting in Early Intervention (Part C)

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Burgundy - 1st fl

This session will focus on cost modeling methodology to determine the true cost of providing evidence-based and equitable early intervention (Part C) services and the development reimbursement rates that support the recruitment and retention of qualified EI professionals. State examples will highlight the use of advisory groups and lead agency engagement.

Speakers

Andy Gomm

Consultant - Early Intervention, Public Consulting Group (PCG)

Andy has worked in the early intervention / early care and education field for over 30 years. Since receiving a master's in social work from the University of East London he has worked with children with Autism and their families in New York, and coordinating early intervention and... Read More →

Zane Wyrick

Associate Manager, Public Consulting Group LLC

Zane Wyrick, MBA, PMP, is an Associate Manager based in PCG's Nashville, TN office. He has been working in public-sector early intervention and child care cost studies, rate setting, and technology for ten years. He has conducted extensive financial analyses in the early childhood... Read More →

Leah Davidson

Part C Coordinator, NM ECECD

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Burgundy - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Using a Mental Health Framework to Support Retention in a State EI System

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS D21 - 1st fl

The past several years has seen unprecedented increases in both referrals to early intervention, and the complexity of children and families being served, leading to high staff turnover.

Presenters will review their experience using the Surgeon General’s Five Essentials for Workplace Mental Health & Well-Being as a framework for state-level staff retention efforts.

Speakers

Laurie Thomas

ESIT Service Delivery & Technical Assistance Manager, WA DCYF

Laurie Thomas has worked in the field of early intervention for more than 30 years. She completed her undergraduate work at Western Washington University, where she was selected as the Outstanding Graduate in Special Education. She has her Masters degree in Early Childhood Special... Read More →

Molly Stryker

Iris Dunaway

Technical Assistance Specialist, WA DCYF

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS D21 - 1st fl

Policy

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

A Promising Model to Reduce Suspensions and Expulsions

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS A4 - 1st fl

In this session, a promising model to reduce the suspensions and expulsions of young Black children in early learning programs will be presented. Key components of this model include centering the voices of families and providers, and addressing community level factors. Participants will leave the session with key strategies that can be used to replicate the model.

Speakers

Jen Neitzel

Executive Director, Educational Equity Institute

Dr. Jen Neitzel is the Executive Director of the Educational Equity Institute, which is focused on eliminating the educational and opportunity gaps within communities through systems level change. Prior to this work, Jen was a Research Scientist and Technical Assistance Provider at... Read More →

Ebonyse Mead

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS A4 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Combatting Bias in Early Childhood Education Systems

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Using individual reflection and small and whole group activities, participants will gain awareness of their culture and identity and how they, as well as power dynamics, impact services through explicit and implicit biases. Participants will also learn evidence-based strategies for combatting biases to ensure equitable service delivery.

Speakers

Lynne Hall

Research Associate, Indiana University Bloomington

M.S. Ed.

Janet Ballard

Research Associate, Indiana University Bloomington

Janet has worked in the field of early childhood since 1993. She has been a developmental therapist in Indiana’s Early Intervention program (First Steps), a Bureau of Child Development Services State Program Consultant, developed and oversaw the day-to-day operations of an Early... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Eglinton Winton - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Administrators
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Lessons Learned from Two EI/ECSE Personnel Preparation Programs

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS B9 - 1st fl

We will share examples from two practicum models: undergraduate early intervention and graduate early intervention/early childhood special education. We will share examples of state-level strategic partnerships and discuss how to create interdisciplinary practicum experience with the goal of impacting child and family outcomes.

Speakers

Serra Acar

Associate Professor, University of Massachusetts, Boston

Catherine Brayden-Calias

Moira Downes

Manager of Field Experiences, University of Massachusetts Boston

Lynne Mendes

Leadership Program Manager, University of Massachusetts Boston

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS B9 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Making Informed Transition Decisions: Service Coordinators Who Coach

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Marlboro A - 2nd fl

The transition out of the Part C early intervention services is an important time for service coordinators to use a capacity-building approach to support families with making informed decisions. Service Coordinators can empower families as they prepare them for next steps after Part C.

Speakers

Sheena Jennings

Early Intervention Supervisor / Ph.D. Student / Adjunct Instructor, Mecklenburg County CDSA / UNC Charlotte

Kristen Gunnoud

Senior Case Coordinator, Mecklenburg County CDSA

DEC Presentation Transition 2024 pdf

Do Service Coordinators Coach Transitions pdf

at a glance resource based practices pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Marlboro A - 2nd fl

Practice

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Meaningful Inclusion in Early Childhood Through Community Partnerships

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS C15 - 1st fl

Presenters will describe one suburban school district’s drive to provide meaningful inclusion for 3- and 4-year-olds with disabilities as a part of their early learning equity strategy. Participants will learn how preschool playgroups can be used in partnership with Community Schools to offer inclusive early learning opportunities to 3- and 4-year-olds.

Speakers

Kristen Witzling

Student, UW-Madison

Rebecca Penticoff

Early Childhood Special Education Teacher & Coordinator, Sun Prairie Area School District

Passionate advocate for inclusion, belonging and culturally responsive educational practices. Early childhood educator and leader in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. I began my career in Northern Virginia and my current role in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin, allows me to work across early learning... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS C15 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Everyone Can Play: Supporting ALL Students Through Self-Determination!

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Chequers - 2nd fl

Join us in exploring the inclusive early childhood learning environment to discover how self-determination can enhance intentional instruction and interactions. Learn to foster growth and development through play by teaching choice-making, problem-solving, self-regulation and more. Leave empowered to create an inclusive environment where every student thrives!

Speakers

Meg Druga

Early Childhood Coordinator, TTAC @JMU

BIS: Concentration- Early Childhood Special Education;James Madison UniversityM.A.T, Early Childhood Special Education; James Madison UniversityMeg Druga holds her M.A.T. in Early Childhood Special Education from James Madison University and an endorsement in Early Childhood ages... Read More →

Erin Saxon

Educational Specialist, TTAC@ODU

Erin is an educational specialist at the TTAC ODU. The scope of Erin’s work includes providing training and technical assistance across VDOE Superintendent’s Study Regions 2 and 3 in the areas of early childhood special education and early literacy. She joined TTAC ODU with experience... Read More →

DEC 2024 Slides pdf

One Pager Tool IMD pdf

Elements of Im Determined png

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Chequers - 2nd fl

Professional Development

Age 3-5
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Imagining Alternate Possibilities for Family-Professional Partnerships

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Cambridge - 2nd fl

In this session, we discuss how EI/ECSE professionals can reframe family-professional partnerships to disrupt and transform entrenched power dynamics that harm families. Participants will: (1) identify deficit- and equity-based partnership dynamics, (2) recognize how power emerges in interactions, and (3) consider ways to disrupt and transform entrenched power dynamics.

Speakers

Chelsea Morgan

Associate Researcher, The University of Kansas Center for Public Partnerships and Research

Christine Hancock

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Cambridge - 2nd fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Infant & EC Mental Health: Advancing Practices in Personnel Preparation

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS B12 - 1st fl

Learn about an innovative approach to personnel preparation involving collaboration of EI/ECSE teachers & social workers that focuses on better addressing infant/early childhood mental health in ECE settings. Reasoning for this work, strategies for cross-program collaboration, and a crosswalk of interdisciplinary standards, including infant mental health, will be discussed

Speakers

Sondra M Stegenga

Assistant Professor of Special Education, University of Utah

Alysse Loomis

Meridith Karppinen

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS B12 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Lessons Learned: Promoting Systems Change in Early Intervention

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS C16 - 1st fl

Presenters will share experiences and lessons learned in researching, adopting and implementing a new statewide method of service delivery promoting the use of coaching practices in home visiting while using the principles of implementation science as a framework for decision-making.

Speakers

Katherine Hargreaves

Research Associate, Indiana University

Constance Young

Director of Training and Outreach, Indiana First Steps/Part C

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS C16 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Supervisory Coaching: Promoting Deliberate Decision-Making

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS C18 - 1st fl

Coaching is an adult learning strategy that can build the capacity of individuals to create sustainable change. The predictable nature of coaching helps the coachee internalize a process for making deliberate decisions about their work. Learn to apply a capacity-building coaching framework to supervisory discussions to improve work force performance.

Speakers

Sarah Sexton

Director, Family, Infant and Preschool Program (FIPP)

01 Planning Coaching laminated pdf

01 Facilitating Coaching laminated pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS C18 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Who Knew Kindergarten Inclusion Would Work? (Spoiler: We did!)

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS D19 - 1st fl

This session highlights an innovative inclusion model piloted in the 2023-2024 school year to increase children's access to equitable and inclusive kindergarten environments. Implementation methods, findings, and implications for leadership and practice will be discussed.

Speakers

Lorin Terrell

Jackie Joseph

Research Associate Professor, University of Denver

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS D19 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Administrators
Content Level Introductory

3:30pm CDT

Functional Frameworks for Inclusive Fieldwork: A Systematic Review

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS D22 - 1st fl

Evidence-based approaches to designing high-quality inclusive field experiences across early childhood personnel preparation that connect theory and practice are essential. This session will share the results of a systematic literature review of ECE/EI/ECSE fieldwork to help identify essential practices and fill research gaps to promote inclusive practices in communities.

Speakers

Maryssa Mitsch

Associate Professor, San Francisco State University

Maryssa Kucskar Mitsch, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor of Early Childhood Special Education in the Department of Special Education. Her primary teaching responsibilities includes courses in early intervention, assessment of young children at-risk and with disabilities, and family... Read More →

Jenna Weglarz-Ward

Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Proud DEC member and so excited to be back in person this year at conference!! A mom and former practitioner, my work now focuses on personnel preparation in family partnership and transdisciplinary collaboration to promote inclusion. I specifically focus on services for infants and... Read More →

Prince Estanislao

My name is Prince Estanislao (he/they). I am a third-year student in the Joint Doctoral Program in special education at UC Berkeley and San Francisco State University (SFSU). I am a course Instructor at SFSU and a Graduate Student Researcher for the Universal Transitional Kindergarten... Read More →

Hadas Arbit

Infant Developmental Specialist, Through the Looking Glass

Melissa Yarczower

Visting Assistant Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Hello! My name is Melissa Yarczower and I am currently a visiting assistant professor at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. I teach both undergraduate and graduate coursework in EC/ECSE, mentor students, supervise fieldwork, and collaborate on curriculum development and program... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS D22 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Faculty
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Inclusive Early Intervention for Children with ASD: Where Are We Now?

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) need inclusive experiences, especially to facilitate their social-communication challenges. The results of this literature review will provide information on the research related to inclusive child care center opportunities for children birth to five years old with ASD. Attendees are encouraged to share their experiences.

Speakers

Dawn Patterson

Faculty, West Chester University oi PA

Allyson Suda

Christy Hicks

Professor of Special Education, West Chester University

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Marlboro B - 2nd fl

Research

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Understanding Cultural Values for Early Intervention Family Education

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

This qualitative study examines the use of baby equipment by Navajo families. Cradleboards and baby walkers meet the practical needs of Navajo parents and help to instill cultural values. Understanding the values underpinning parenting practices can guide culturally responsive interventions and education efforts in early intervention (EI) to promote child development.

Speakers

Cathron Donaldson

Maureen Russell

Sara Clancey

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
Kabacoff - Riverside Bldg.

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Practitioners
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Why Do They Leave? Results of a State-Wide Survey of EI Professionals

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS A6 - 1st fl

This presentation will overview the results and policy/practice implications of a state-wide survey on job satisfaction and intent to leave among early intervention professionals. We surveyed a diverse sample of professionals (n = 427) across a variety of roles and conducted a multiple regression analysis. We will discuss key findings related to pay and work conditions.

Speakers

Kristopher Yeager

Assistant Professor, CSUCI

Beverley Calvo

Dana Childress

ASSISTANT PROFESSOR, ODU

Elizabeth Beavers

University of Houston-Clear Lake

Yok Fong Paat

Berenice Peralta Matus

Research Assistant, University of Texas at El Paso

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GS A6 - 1st fl

Research

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Researchers
Content Level Intermediate

3:30pm CDT

Enhance and Empower: Using AT to Promote Engagement in STEM Experience (OSEP)

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT

GS C13 - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners Join the STEM Innovation for Inclusion in Early Education (STEMIE) Center for an interactive session and discussion on why assistive technology (AT) is critical for young children with disabilities to engage and participate fully in STEM learning and how assistive technology devices can support children’s STEM learning experiences.

Speakers