Division for Early Childhood 2024 Conference: Full Schedule

arrow_back View All Dates

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

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 Candidate/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

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.

th

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

GrandSalon 22 - 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
GrandSalon 22 - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

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

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

We Hear You Sis: Black Mothers Advocacy in Special Education Process

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

GrandSalon 19 - 1st fl

This presentation will discuss the lived experience of three Black mothers navigating the special education process. We will discuss (a) the inequities our children experience and (b) the barriers we navigated to ensure our children receive appropriate services.

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 →

Asia Johnson M.S. BCBA, LBA

Founder | BCBA | Executive Advisor, Seizing 611 LLC

As an executive advisor and licensed behavior analyst, I specialize in driving organizational success through strategic behavior analysis and executive coaching. With over eight years of experience in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), I empower leaders and ambitious professionals to... Read More →

Lydia Ocasio-Stoutenburg

Mirage Sanders

OT, N/A

Meridith M. Rose, MS, CCC-SLP

Education of Students with Exceptionalities Doctoral Student and Graduate Research Assistant, Georgia State University

Meridith M. Rose, MS, CCC-SLP is a pediatric speech-language pathologist (SLP) of over 15 years. Her journey to become an SLP began over 20 years ago following her youngest brother’s diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. She has worked with neurotypical and neurodiverse populations... Read More →

William White

Dr. William L. White hails from Seattle, WA and holds a PhD in special education from the University of Washington where he received the Gordon C. Lee Dissertation Award for his dissertation entitled “Through Our Eyes: The Lived Experiences of Black Male Early Childhood Teachers... Read More →

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

Family

Age 5-8
Audience 1 Families
Audience 2 Practitioners
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

Pat Cameron

Andrea Laser

Meedra Surratte

Using the RPs for Equitable Family Participation pdf

Using the RPs for Equitable Family Participation pptx

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

GrandSalon 21 - 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
GrandSalon 21 - 1st fl

Professional Development

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

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

Passionate about promoting quality and timely early intervention services to families by supporting the wonderful personnel serving them.

Maya L Raimondi

Nevada EI PD Center Director, NV IDEA Part C

DEC ppt Nevada Grow Your Own Retention Sept 2024 pdf

NV EI PD Catalog 2024 2025 pdf

NV Capstone Highlights 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

GrandSalon 13 - 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
GrandSalon 13 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 Practitioners
Content Level Intermediate

10:30am CDT

Ableism in Early Childhood: Policy Implications for Our Field

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

GrandSalon 9 - 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
GrandSalon 9 - 1st fl

Policy

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

10:30am CDT

Psychological Safety Considerations for Early Intervention Teaming

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

GrandSalon 6 - 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
GrandSalon 6 - 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

GrandSalon 19 - 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
GrandSalon 19 - 1st fl

Professional Development

Age 0-3
Audience 1 Faculty
Audience 2 Practitioners
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

GrandSalon 12 - 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

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 →

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
GrandSalon 12 - 1st fl

Professional Development

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

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

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 →

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

1:00pm CDT

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

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

GrandSalon 7 - 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
GrandSalon 7 - 1st fl

By Practitioners for Practitioners

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

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

A Little Neurobiology and A Lot of Reframing

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

GrandSalon 12 - 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
GrandSalon 12 - 1st fl

Professional Development

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

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

DEC 2024 EI CMC Presentation Final pdf

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

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

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

GrandSalon 13 - 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

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 →

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
GrandSalon 13 - 1st fl

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)

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

1:00pm CDT

Annual aRPy Ambassador Summit (invite only)

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

GrandSalon 9 - 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

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.

Thursday September 19, 2024 1:00pm - 3:15pm CDT
GrandSalon 9 - 1st fl

Practice

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

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

Creating Connection for Families of Children with Developmental Needs

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

GrandSalon 3 - 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
GrandSalon 3 - 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

Building Sustainable Solutions to EI Workforce Challenges in Illinois

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

GrandSalon 12 - 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
GrandSalon 12 - 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

Fostering Dignity and Equality for Every Child

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

GrandSalon 24 - 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

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 2:15pm - 3:15pm CDT
GrandSalon 24 - 1st fl

Practice

Age 0-5
Audience 1 Administrators
Audience 2 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

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 →

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

GrandSalon 10 - 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
GrandSalon 10 - 1st fl

Research

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

2:15pm CDT

Building the Bridge between EHDI and IDEA (OSEP)

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

GrandSalon 13 - 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
GrandSalon 13 - 1st fl

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)

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

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

International Perspectives on Supporting Young Children with Disabilities

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

GrandSalon 24 - 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
GrandSalon 24 - 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

GrandSalon 3 - 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
GrandSalon 3 - 1st fl

Policy

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

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

GrandSalon 21 - 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, Washington State Early Support for Infants and Toddlers

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GrandSalon 21 - 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

GrandSalon 4 - 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
GrandSalon 4 - 1st fl

Practice

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

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

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

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

GrandSalon 13 - 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

AT DEC STEMIE Handout pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 3:30pm - 4:30pm CDT
GrandSalon 13 - 1st fl

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)

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