Upcoming Training
Upcoming events
Come learn what is going on in your association!
2025-2026 Events
We are hoping to offer a mix of in-person and virtual sessions this membership year. Please stay tuned!
September 6, 2025
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Trainer: Heather Quinn
Back to Nature School Professional Development Institute
COK 2 CUR/1 PRO
October 15, 2025
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm via Zoom
Trainer: Linda Bratcher
Process Praise vs. Product Praise in Child Care Understanding the Impact of Praise on Children
(CD 1 CUR 1)
In childcare settings, fostering a child’s confidence, resilience, and intrinsic motivation is crucial for their long-term development. This professional development workshop is designed to equip early educators with a clear understanding of the differences between process praise and product praise and how each impacts children’s learning and self-esteem. Participants will leave the session with practical strategies to implement effective praise techniques that nurture a growth mindset and encourage positive developmental outcomes.
November 12, 2025
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm via Zoom
Trainer: Linda Bratcher
Effective Alphabet Instruction: Enhancing Early Literacy for Early Educators
(CUR 3)
Effective alphabet instruction forms the cornerstone of early literacy development. The ability to recognize, name, and manipulate letters is foundational for children’s reading and writing skills. In early education settings, purposeful and research-based approaches to teaching the alphabet can foster not only letter knowledge but also a lifelong love for literacy. This presentation explores the essential principles that support successful alphabet instruction, offering practical insights for educators seeking to maximize their impact during the critical early years.
December 4, 2025
6:30pm - 9:30pm via Zoom
Trainer: Linda Bratcher
Enhancing Early Education Classrooms with Project Based Learning (CD 1 CUR 2)
This interactive workshop will introduce early educators to Project-Based Learning (PBL) as an effective instructional method for young children. Participants will explore the principles of PBL, how to design and implement engaging projects, discover ways to foster creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration in early childhood settings. Through hands-on activities and discussions, attendees will acquire practical strategies and resources to integrate PBL into their daily routines.
January 22, 2026
6:30pm - 9:30pm
Trainer: Linda Bratcher
Title: Beyond Inclusion: Building Anti-Ableist Classrooms in Early Education
Core of Knowledge Content Area(s) & Hours: PRO 3
Training Description: This presentation explores how early educators can move beyond basic inclusion toward truly anti-ableist practice. Participants will examine how ableism appears subtly in expectations, routines, and classroom language. Using Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and practical examples, educators will learn to dismantle barriers, assume competence, and create environments where every child is recognized as capable and valued.
February 11, 2026
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Trainer: Maryland Excels
Guide to Self-Assessment
Using the Maryland EXCELS Standards to Guide Program Self-assessment
March 23, 2026
6:30pm - 8:30pm
Trainer: Aurora Sanchez
Relationship Based Caregiving: Culturally Responsive Care for Infants and Toddlers COK PRO1 COM 1
Participants will recognize the importance of culture by examining the relationship between culture identity and the benefits of culturally responsive care. Participants will explore strategies related to culturally responsive care.
April 29, 2026
6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Trainer: Jennifer Sheats with The Planning Council
Serving Snacks in the CACFP with CACFP Civil Rights Review COK HSN 2
May 26, 2026
6:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Trainer: Linda Bratcher
Art Exploration for Infants, Toddlers, & Twos Nurturing Creativity from the Start (CUR 1 CD 2)
From finger paints to scribbles, early art experiences are more than just “messy fun”—they are powerful opportunities for infants, toddlers, and two-year-olds to explore the world, 2 express themselves, and build the foundation for lifelong creativity. In this interactive session, early educators will learn how to provide meaningful art experiences that nurture sensory exploration, cognitive growth, fine motor skills, and emotional expression, all while fostering joy and curiosity. Participants will discover the difference between product-focused and process-focused art, examine the role of the adult as facilitator of creative experiences, and explore strategies for setting up environments that encourage safe and open-ended artistic discovery.
June 20, 2026
9am - 12pm IN-PERSON SESSION
Trainer: Heather Quinn
Slow Down Pedagogy at Hummingbird Hill
"Hurry up! We are running late!" Research and statistics reveal that our lives are busier than ever, and children are feeling this pressure as well. While caregivers instinctively give their all, stepping away from the constant need to be "doing" something can be difficult. Slowing down is the antidote to this hurried lifestyle. It is essential not only for our physical and mental well-being but also for forming strong connections with each other and the environment. Nature provides the perfect setting to practice this. By following the seasons and Mother Nature’s lead, children can learn from an early age how to regulate themselves and help others do the same. As caregivers, we can be their first role models. Finding the peace and calm you and the children in your care need is just outside your door!
This day will be fully outside, unless it is pouring rain. Please bring a camp chair, blanket, and water bottle. There will be snacks and water for refills. Tea and coffee will be flowing.
June’s Training
Schedules and Lesson Planning:
Using Maryland EXCELS Standards, participants will learn how to develop and coordinate daily schedules and lessons plans.