The tables are being turned this week as early childhood educators in Kansas are being taught instead of teaching.
The 2023 Kinders Can! took place at ESSDACK in Hutchinson. Attendees could select from two different dates – either Thursday, Dec. 7, or Friday, Dec. 8.
Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson engaged with educators on Thursday during a “fireside chat” focused on purposeful play in early childhood education.
Jed Dearybury, author of “The Playful Classroom,” is delivering keynote addresses both days on how purposeful play in the classroom aligns with early childhood standards, as well as kindergarten and first grade standards.
Dearybury also is leading breakout sessions.
Additional breakout sessions included “Science of Reading,” “Writing with Littles” and “INspired Leadership.”
The goal of the conference is to facilitate meaningful discussions among teachers, coaches and administrators working with Kansas’ youngest students.
Participants explored practical strategies to prepare students for a successful future.
“ ‘Kinders Can’ aims to be a platform for exchanging ideas, gaining valuable insights and collectively building a brighter future for students in their early years of education,” the conference registration page states.