This In-Person Workshop will empower educators in a hands-on way to explore the core story of brain development. Attention will be focused on how toxic stress can derail development of the foundational brain systems involved with acquisition of important developmental skills such as self-regulation. The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study brought awareness of how common experiences of toxic stress (ACE) are across all socioeconomic groups which helps us understand the importance of using trauma-informed approaches in our work, regardless of whether you know an individual's history. Likewise, Children’s First Canada recently released their 2023 report titled “Top 10 Threats to Childhood in Canada” in which they report that “the World Health Organization declared stress the #1 health epidemic of the 21st century and predicts loneliness as the next major health epidemic“.  

This workshop will offer time to explore these concepts in small group discussions, and through an enjoyable group play activity using the “Brain Architecture Game’ which was developed by the Harvard Center on Child Development. Early childhood educators will be encouraged to recognize how exposure to toxic stress during early child development is linked to common behaviours, and the important role that they can play to support ongoing healthy development through provision of appropriate developmental scaffolding. 

 Kim's presentation will include the:

• sequential process of brain development
• sensitive periods of brain development
• how experiences shape brain development
• what does it mean to be regulated?
• the critical role of attuned relationships to support a child's acquisition of regulation skills
• how to support children with problem behaviours by helping them to regulate

Light snacks and refreshments will be included.