Strong Foundations & Sensory Pathways, Emotional Highways

This workshop will be covering two topics for the day.

Topic 1 Strong Foundations- The neuroscience of emotional development for the early years.

What aspects of emerging science about the brain are most useful in our role as educators, carers and teachers? We love analogies and metaphors, but which ones will truly bring us closer to understanding the current research on the brain, its functions, and emotions? What does science reveal about emotions and children's subsequent behaviour? Sandi will delve into these questions and more, unpacking recent brain science and its implications for our pedagogy. Spoiler alert: We can't teach about emotions with emojis!

We will also utilise the Phoenix Cups framework as an innovative tool for translating theory into action. Through this lens, educators will learn how to create 'Cup filling programs' that support emotional and needs literacy among children. These programs not only address the emotional and behavioural needs of children but also teach them to understand and articulate their own needs, fostering a deep sense of self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

In this workshop, you will:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the neuroscience behind emotional development and its implications for early childhood education.

• Learn how to implement the Phoenix Cups framework to create emotionally supportive learning environments.

• Develop strategies for teaching children to identify and articulate their needs, enhancing their emotional literacy.

• Feel confident in integrating insights from psychological science and neuroscience into their daily practices to foster a deeper emotional resilience in children.

• This presentation promises to provide a transformative perspective on the intersection of neuroscience and early years education, equipping educators with the tools to profoundly impact the emotional lives of the children they work with.

• This workshop is for practitioners working directly with children in the early years, 0-8 years (i.e. teachers, early childhood educators, foster carers, Families as First Teachers, and playgroup facilitators) who are committed to applying cutting-edge neuroscience in practical ways within their practice.

Topic 2 Sensory Pathways, Emotional Highways Harnessing Sensory and Schematic Play in Early Years Education to foster emotional development and wellbeing.

This workshop is for practitioners working directly with children (i.e. early childhood educators, foster carers, Families as First Teachers, and playgroup facilitators) who are committed to applying cutting-edge neuroscience in practical ways within their practice. Packed with actionable strategies and insights, this session will empower participants to confidently support young children's development in sensory processing and schematic play, ensuring a solid foundation for emotional regulation and overall wellbeing.

In this workshop, you will:

• Confidently plan and implement programs that foster healthy sensory

• development across all senses, including interoception.

• Understand the link between a rich sensory environment and the development of emotional regulation.

• Examine the concept of schematic play, where children repeatedly explore particular patterns of behaviour and thinking (schemas) as they interact with their environment.

• Learn to identify common schemas in children's play and understand their significance for learning and development.

• Discuss how to support and extend schematic play through intentional planning and responsive interactions, fostering deeper learning and engagement.

• Apply neuroscience principles in practical ways to enhance children's learning experiences.

• Feel equipped to support children’s emotional and sensory needs through informed, reflective practice.

• Understand the concept of a state of ‘flow’ and the importance of it in wellbeing and healthy brain development.

• This workshop blends theory with practical application, leading the way in innovative and evidence based early childhood education.