Early Childhood Investigations

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Early Childhood Investigations is your gateway to inspiring, research-based professional development. Since 2009, our free webinar series has brought together authors, researchers, and leaders in early care and education to share timely insights and spark meaningful conversations across the workforce. We believe high-quality professional development should be accessible, practical, and immediately useful. ECI is a movement that empowers directors, administrators, and teachers to elevate their practice and strengthen outcomes for children and families. https://ecewebinars.com/spotify

Episodes

  1. 3D AGO

    Coaching for Change: Working Through Resistance by Susan Lewis, M.Ed.

    Coaching is one of the most powerful tools we have to support adult growth in early childhood education—but meaningful change is rarely easy. Resistance isn’t a sign that people don’t care; more often, it’s a natural response to uncertainty, vulnerability, or past experiences. As coaches, leaders, and mentors, how we approach these moments can make all the difference. In this insightful and compassionate session, Susan Lewis, M.Ed., Founder and CEO of Early Childhood Education Professional Development (ECEPD), offers a fresh, reflective lens on resistance in coaching. Drawing from more than two decades of experience across classrooms, programs, and state systems, Susan will guide you in understanding what resistance really is—and how to work with it instead of against it. You’ll explore practical ways to connect with adult learners, respond with empathy, and support sustainable growth—even when change feels slow or uncomfortable. Whether you're a coach, administrator, or peer mentor, this session will deepen your coaching skills and help you foster more trusting, collaborative relationships that move your program forward. In this session, you will: Describe the underlying causes of resistance during coaching or organizational change. Apply adult learning principles to enhance engagement and build rapport. Use reflective questioning and empathy-driven tools to reduce defensiveness and foster trust. Design flexible coaching plans that are responsive to where people are in their growth journey. RESOURCES Watch the full webinar hereCheck out the producer of ECI, Playground, the Child Care Management Software

    1h 19m

  2. 3D AGO

    Helping Young Brains Build the Foundations to Flourish: Executive function and school readiness in the early years by Victoria Bagnall. MA (Cantab), PGCE.

    In the early years, children are developing the essential building blocks that shape their ability to learn, manage emotions, build relationships, and thrive in the classroom. At the heart of this development are executive function skills—the brain-based processes that enable focus, self-regulation, memory, flexibility, and goal-directed behavior. Join Victoria A Bagnall. MA (Cantab), PGCE., neurodivergent educator, speaker, and co-founder of Connections in Mind, for a clear and compelling exploration of executive function in early childhood. A former teacher and Cambridge graduate, Victoria is one of the UK’s leading specialists in executive function coaching and training. Drawing on her work with early years settings, schools, and national organizations—including the NHS and the University of California, Berkeley—she shares practical, research-informed strategies that educators can use to create supportive, neuro-inclusive classroom environments where every child can thrive. This session explores: What executive function looks like in early childhood, how it develops, and why it’s central to school readiness The neuroscience behind executive function, presented in a clear and accessible way Practical strategies early years educators can use to create supportive, developmentally appropriate environments where every child can flourish Whether you're a practitioner, leader, or support staff member, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how to nurture executive function—not just to prepare children for school, but to support their overall well-being and lifelong success. RESOURCES Watch the full webinar hereCheck out the producer of ECI, Playground, the Child Care Management Software

    1h 19m

  3. 6D AGO

    Is it Stress or Trauma? How We Can Support Children in School by Sharon Bacharach EdD, LCSW

    What is a child’s behavior trying to tell you—and are we sometimes missing the real story? In early childhood settings, challenging behaviors can easily be misread. Children who have experienced trauma or chronic stress may display symptoms that mirror those of ADHD—leading to misdiagnoses and missed opportunities for healing. Understanding the difference is critical to offering the right support. In this insightful and practical webinar, Sharon Bacharach, Ed.D., L.C.S.W., will guide you in recognizing the behavioral signals of trauma and stress in young children. Drawing on over 30 years of experience as a social worker and early childhood educator, Dr. Bacharach will help you explore how trauma presents in the classroom and what educators can do to respond with empathy and effectiveness. You’ll learn when to dig deeper, how to distinguish between trauma and other behavioral challenges, and which classroom strategies can help children feel safe, supported, and regulated. Walk away with a toolbox of concrete ideas you can implement immediately to better support the children in your care. Learning objectives, participants will be able to: Understand their role as educators when working with children who have experienced stress or trauma.Recognize signs in children that may indicate exposure to trauma.Lead activities that support children's self-regulation.RESOURCES Watch the full webinar hereCheck out the producer of ECI, Playground, the Child Care Management Software

    1h 11m
  4. From Idea to Launch: Starting Your Early Childhood Business the Right Way by Chelsea Denny

    JAN 21

    From Idea to Launch: Starting Your Early Childhood Business the Right Way by Chelsea Denny

    Are you considering starting an early childhood business? Let's learn how to take your small business from the idea phase to launch. In this session presented by business consultant, website designer, and trainer, Chelsea Denny from Early Childhood Creative, you’ll learn the steps required to set up your for-profit business and make it official. Topics covered include business entities, insurance, financials, marketing, and more. You'll leave this session with a better understanding of what is required to form your for-profit business legally and how to protect yourself from liability. You'll also understand what is considered best practice in operating a new business and what the most common mistakes are. The content covered will be most applicable to for-profit, service-based businesses operating in the United States, including childcare, private schools, coaches, consultants, and trainers. If operating outside of the United States, there may be different names and terminology, but the general information will still apply. If operating a non-profit, the general best practices will still apply. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: 1. Participants will be able to outline the process required to start a legal business in the United States. 2. Participants will be able to discuss common terminology related to starting a business. 3. Participants will be able to identify three components to consider when developing a business plan. 4. Participants will be able to name and describe the legal structures of for-profit businesses and how they generally relate to taxes, liability, and strategic planning. All content shared is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. RESOURCES Watch the full webinar here Check out the producer of ECI, Playground, the Child Care Management Software

    1h 13m
  5. Brrrrring It On! Embracing Cold, Snow & Rain Outdoors with Young Children by Kirsten Haugen, M.A.

    JAN 21

    Brrrrring It On! Embracing Cold, Snow & Rain Outdoors with Young Children by Kirsten Haugen, M.A.

    Facing cold, wet, or snowy weather? No need to stay indoors! In this engaging session, you’ll learn how to prepare for cold weather play so children can enjoy it in safety and comfort—and how to thrive as you discover the wondrous possibilities of all kinds of weather.   Join Kirsten Haugen, Research Director for Dimensions Educational Research Foundation, and Early Learning Consultant at Nature Explore for a practical and inspiring exploration of outdoor play in the cold months. Discover how real-world programs not only cope with snow, rain, and wind but embrace it through thoughtful preparation, clear communication, creative scheduling, innovative use of materials, and—most importantly—a shift in mindset that makes it all possible. You’ll hear inspiring stories and practical ideas for playing in snow, rain, wind, and mud, as well as guidance on supporting holistic learning, honoring children’s agency, partnering with families, and caring for the adults who care for children. We’ll even unpack the “dark side” of the familiar phrase, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choices.”  Join us for a cool and captivating opportunity to: ·   Witness the benefits of cold-weather play ·   Embrace an attitude shift ·   Prepare with confidence and awareness ·   Make time for winter play·   Adopt cold-weather comforts·   Expand possibilities with your space and materials·   Support the well-being of educators and caregiversWhether you’re in a snowy climate or a region with rain and wind, you’ll leave ready to expand possibilities for outdoor learning and embrace the beauty of every season. RESOURCES Watch the full webinar here Check out the producers of ECI, Playground, the Child Care Management Software

    1h 16m
  6. From Overwhelmed to Joyful: Caring for Children and Yourself with Intention by Christina Fecio

    JAN 21

    From Overwhelmed to Joyful: Caring for Children and Yourself with Intention by Christina Fecio

    Working in early care and education requires you to show up every day with your whole heart, and sometimes, that heart can feel stretched thin. This session is an invitation to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the deep purpose behind your work.   Join author and educational consultant Christina Fecio in this session inspired by her latest book, Small Things, Great Love, where you'll explore simple, heartfelt practices that transform everyday moments into something meaningful. You don't need more time or a longer to-do list—just a gentle reminder to reclaim simplicity and joy. Done with great love, these small things are the key to nurturing children's well-being while also protecting your own. Together we'll rediscover the power of presence, the impact of noticing, and the importance of small gestures that build trust and connection. You'll also learn how to offer that same care to yourself through intentional language and mindset. This is intended to be joyful work—and joy is something we can choose, protect, and practice. Come as you are and leave with fresh energy, practical ideas, and a renewed sense of purpose in the work only you can do. What you'll take from this session: Identify simple, everyday practices that support children's sense of safety, connection, and belonging. Participants will explore how small, intentional actions care create meaningful moments that nurture child well-being.Describe strategies for protecting and replenishing your own sense of joy and purpose in early care and education work. Participants will learn how to apply affirming language and self-reflective tools that promote personal resilience and wellbeing.Recognize the importance of presence, noticing, and relational gestures as leadership and teaching tools. Participants will deepen their understanding of how small acts—done with great love—can build trust, strengthen relationships, and uplift your team or classroom culture. RESOURCES Watch the full webinar session hereCheck out Playground the Child Care Management Software

    1h 16m
  7. Foundations of SEL Development in a Post-Pandemic, Digital World by Brian Puerling, MS, NBCT

    JAN 9

    Foundations of SEL Development in a Post-Pandemic, Digital World by Brian Puerling, MS, NBCT

    How has the digital age—and the lasting impact of COVID—reshaped the way children build social and emotional skills? This foundational session explores how early childhood environments can foster critical competencies for young learners in today’s evolving world. Led by Brian J. Puerling, MS, NBCT—author of Teaching in the Digital Age for Preschool and Kindergarten, and recipient of the PBS Innovative Educator Award—this session blends developmental theory with practical strategies to help educators reset classroom rhythms, rebuild connection, and cultivate essential SEL skills. Brian brings deep experience as an early childhood specialist, former preschool teacher, and national consultant for Sesame Workshop, PBS, and Nickelodeon. This is the first session in a two-part series and lays the groundwork for more advanced practices explored in Part 2. Participants are encouraged to register for both webinars to gain a complete toolkit for supporting SEL in early learning. Key Takeaways: • Understand the lingering social-emotional effects of COVID on young learners. • Identify strategies to promote collaboration and shared problem-solving. • Foster identity development and critical thinking in young children. • Enhance meaningful communication in both digital and in-person contexts. Watch the full session here: https://ecewebinars.com/social-emotional-spotify

    1h 17m
  8. ECI Joins The Podcast World

    JAN 9

    ECI Joins The Podcast World

    Introducing Early Childhood Investigations to the Pod-World! You may have joined one of our hundreds of webinars over the past 17 years, and now you can bring us on the go! These sessions are your gateway to inspiring, research-based professional development. Since 2009, our free series has brought together world-class authors, researchers, and experts in early care and education to share timely insights and spark meaningful conversations across the workforce. All of our session are free thanks to our producer, Playground the Child Care Management Software designed to early educators. If you want to earn your professional development hours with us, you can join our live sessions at ecewebinars.com/spotify You can also learn more about Playground at ecewebinars.com/playground-spotify

    2 min
  9. From Control to Collaboration: Re-thinking Classroom Management with Samuel Broaden

    JAN 5

    From Control to Collaboration: Re-thinking Classroom Management with Samuel Broaden

    In this engaging webinar, Samuel Brodin discusses the transition from control-based practices to collaborative approaches in early childhood education. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection for educators, the impact of language on classroom dynamics, and the necessity of viewing children as capable individuals. By fostering collaboration with both children and families, educators can create a supportive and engaging learning environment. The session highlights practical strategies for letting go of control, understanding children's needs, and adapting teaching methods to enhance the educational experience. Key Takeaways - Self-reflection is crucial for educators to improve their practice. - Viewing children as capable individuals fosters a collaborative environment. - Language used in the classroom can influence children's behavior and self-perception. - Letting go of control can lead to a more engaging and supportive classroom. - Collaboration with children enhances their learning experience and autonomy. - Creating a safe space for children to express themselves is essential. - Involving families in the educational process strengthens community ties. - Understanding children's needs helps in managing classroom dynamics effectively. - Flexibility in teaching methods can accommodate children's energy levels. - Educators should continuously reflect on their practices and adapt to better serve children. See episode information here: https://ecewebinars.com/44UfEEq

    1h 32m
  • 9 Episodes

About

Early Childhood Investigations is your gateway to inspiring, research-based professional development. Since 2009, our free webinar series has brought together authors, researchers, and leaders in early care and education to share timely insights and spark meaningful conversations across the workforce. We believe high-quality professional development should be accessible, practical, and immediately useful. ECI is a movement that empowers directors, administrators, and teachers to elevate their practice and strengthen outcomes for children and families. https://ecewebinars.com/spotify

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