conference brochure - Association for Early Learning Leaders

30 TH ANNUAL NATIONAL CONFERENCE
HOW SUCCESSFUL DIRECTORS LEAD!
Celebrate with us at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Lake Buena Vista, FL
APRIL 23 – 25, 2014
PRECONFERENCE APRIL 22
CONFERENCE BROCHURE
Our national conference, How Successful Directors Lead!, is the ONE conference devoted to serving
directors, owners and administrators dedicated to the early care and education field. Sessions
by experts focus on leadership, administration, business practices, legal issues and program
quality. The Association for Early Learning Leaders is a professional organization committed to
strengthening the skill level of leaders in the field of early child care and education. We believe
that effective management is the critical link to superior programs.
Featuring:
•Disney Institute
•Donna Thornton-Roberts
•Gigi Schweikert
Join us at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort—reserve your space early! See back cover for details.
2014 30th ANNUAL NATIONAL CONFERENCE
HOW SUCCESSFUL DIRECTORS LEAD!
Orlando, Florida
Wednesday, April 23, 2014 – Friday, April 25, 2014
Join fellow leaders at the ONE national conference devoted to serving owners, directors and
administrators dedicated to the early childhood field. Sessions by experts focus on leadership,
administration, business practices, legal issues and program quality!
DISNEY INSTITUTE
Opening Keynote—Building a Business Through Storytelling featuring Disney Institute
Today, storytelling is considered a critical and relevant leadership tool for gaining emotional buy-in from
stakeholders and employees. The impact of effective storytelling is felt by large and small organizations around the
world. Through this Disney Institute presentation, you will discover how you can translate your own organization’s
culture in a meaningful way through the power of storytelling. Why? Because people will be listening.
Disney Institute empowers organizations to create lasting change through their time-tested model for cultural transformation that bridges
insights into action through Disney best practices in leadership, culture, customer experience, brand loyalty, creativity and innovation.
DONNA THORNTON-ROBERTS
Gala Luncheon Keynote—Telling Your Story: Building a Lasting Legacy
Legacy is built intentionally. As early learning leaders, our contribution to the field’s evolution is essential to our
next generation of leaders and the quality of care we extend to the families we serve. Holding, preserving and
sharing our positive values and time-honored practices ensures that the next generation of directors can have a
rewarding and successful career in caring.
National speaker and inspirational training coach Donna Thornton-Roberts is known as an expert in the field of child care management. For
over 24 years, she has crisscrossed the nation influencing early learning leaders of the importance of child care management. Because of her
experiences and unique skills, her company has excelled in providing training and consulting specifically dedicated and customized to influencing
the next generation of early child care leaders.
GIGI SCHWEIKERT
Closing Keynote—Keep Your Dream Alive: Using Your Power and Influence Effectively
As owners and directors, we set the tone in our programs, but at times we can feel overwhelmed and
unappreciated. Join us for this humorous and informational session to renew your spirit and commitment. Learn
how to develop strong, professional relationships with your staff. Create a work culture that demands performance
excellence and exceptional customer service. You are a powerful influence in your program: how are you using your
influence?
Gigi Schweikert is an internationally known expert on early childhood education, parenting and work-life issues. Known for her humor and
practical messages, she is a popular keynote speaker for education conferences, corporations, women’s events and parenting seminars. Gigi is the
best-selling author of over a dozen books, including the popular Winning Ways for Early Childhood Professionals book series and Prime Times: A
Handbook for Excellence in Infant and Toddler Programs.
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Association for Early Learning Leaders 30th Annual National Conference How Successful Directors Lead!
DIRECTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
During Conference, the Association for Early Learning Leader grants the annual Director
of the Year award honoring outstanding early care and education program directors. The
award recognizes child care program directors who reflect the dedication, managerial
acumen, innovative spirit and commitment to professionalism and the child care
profession that is critical to achieving program excellence.
Director of the Year Award: Prizes and Recognition
• Recognition and valuable prizes and services from sponsoring organizations
• Guest accommodations for two nights to attend the National Conference
• A one-year complimentary (FREE) membership for the Association
• Complimentary conference registration and guest accommodation for next year’s
National Conference
Thank you to our 2014 Director of the Year Award sponsors:
™
DISNEY VIP PACKAGE
FULL CONFERENCE
This package has been designed just for you, our
members, in honor of our 30th year as an Association.
Package includes:
• Two One-Day, One-Park, After-Hour Disney tickets
(valid for one year)
• 30th Anniversary Reception
– One VIP Dessert Reception ticket for the Epcot®
Fireworks Extravaganza on Thursday from 7:00 p.m.
– 10:00 p.m. at Epcot® Italy Pavilion.
– Includes group transportation, dessert and open bar.
• VIP commemorative pin
Your full conference registration includes:
$250 Member, $275 Nonmember
• All keynote and concurrent sessions from Wednesday – Friday
• CEU certificate for each completed session
• One professional digital headshot from PortraitEFX
Open Tuesday @ 1:00 p.m. – Thursday @ 3:00 p.m.
• Coffee breaks in Exhibit Hall
• Opening Reception in Exhibit Hall­
Tuesday, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Munch and Mingle Luncheon with Exhibitors
Wednesday, 12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.
• Members-Only Reception
Wednesday, 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
• Denim to Diamonds Karaoke and Line Dancing
Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. (cash bar)
• Gala Luncheon
Thursday, 12:15 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
For additional details and updated information, visit w w w.earlylearningleaders.org/conference.
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CONFERENCE-AT-A-GLANCE
TUESDAY, APRIL 22: PRECONFERENCE EVENTS
7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Registration/Conference Services Open
8:30 a.m. – 11:30 p.m. Optional Leadership Tour
Disney Institute: The Business
Behind the Magic Tour
8:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. Preconference Workshop
AM1Instructional Leadership—Sorrels
8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Optional Child Care Center Tour
Explore Local Child Care Centers
11:15 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. Lunch on Your Own
11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Florida Affiliate Group
Luncheon: Leading for Change in Florida
Preconference Workshops
PM1Dig a Little Deeper: Effective Staff Trainings—Dressler
PM2I’m Late, I’m Late for a Very Important Date: Advanced Time Management—Thornton-Roberts
1:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
12:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Munch and Mingle Luncheon with Exhibitors
2:30 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.
CONCURRENT SESSIONS TWO
201 Step in Time: Introduction to the National
Accreditation Commission (Acc)—Haddad
202 Be Prepared: Disaster Strikes—What Happens
Now?—Montpetit, Iglio
203 One Jump Ahead: What Great Schools Do Better—
Smith
204 Whose Castle Is This: Sharing Space—Can’t We All
Just Get Along? (FB)—Buxton
205 Don’t Get Stuck in Neverland: Organizing Your
Day—Boe
206 When You Wish Upon a Star: Encourage, Inspire,
Lead—Sorrels
207 Whistle While You Work: Using Music for a Positive
Learning Environment—Woda
4:15 p.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Exhibits Open/Raffle
5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m.
President’s Member Reception
7:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. Denim to Diamonds Karaoke Professional Portraits
PortraitEFX Photography
4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
THURSDAY, APRIL 25: CONFERENCE EVENTS
Opening Reception
and Exhibitor Expo
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Get Connected! First-Time Attendee/Ambassadors Meet-Up
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23: CONFERENCE BEGINS
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Registration/Conference Services Open
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Professional Portraits
PortraitEFX Photography
7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Exhibit Hall Open
7:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.
Coffee Service in Exhibit Hall
8:30 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. OPENING KEYNOTE
Building a Business Through
Storytelling—The Disney Institute
10:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Coffee Break in Exhibit Hall
10:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. CONCURRENT SESSIONS ONE
101 Does the Glass Slipper Fit? Getting the Best
Candidates—Dressler
102 Dealing with Grumpy and Dopey: Coping with
Difficult People (FB)—Bozeman, Littleton
103 Are You a Scrooge McDuck? Lessons in Fiscal
Management—Siegel
104 Making Magic: Motivating Your Staff—Harris
105 You’ve Got a Friend in Me: Personnel Policies as
Management Tools—Martini
106 Hakuna Matata: Start from a Place of Peace—Bess
107 It’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow: Technology to
Build Enrollment—Jain
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and Line Dancing
7:00 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Exhibit Hall Open
7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.
Coffee Service in Exhibit Hall
7:00 a.m. – 2:45 p.m.
Professional Portraits
PortraitEFX Photography
8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. CONCURRENT SESSIONS THREE
301 Bibbidi, Bobbidi, “Box”: Accreditation Document
Organization (Acc)—Poppendorf, Keeth
302 SupercalifragilisticexpialiFOCUS: The Power of
Focus—Thompson
303 And They Lived Happily Ever After: Motivation and
Morale Boosters—Galante
304 Zip-a-Dee-Do-Dah: Joy Tank—Shaffer
305 I’ve Got No Strings to Keep Me Down: Playground
Accidents—Swain
306 Sometimes the Right Path Is Not the Easiest One:
Necessary Endings—Maus
307 Through the Looking Glass: Taking Good Care of You—Hornbeck
8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Registration/Conference Services Open
9:45 a.m. – 10:15 a.m. Coffee Break in Exhibit Hall
10:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. CONCURRENT SESSIONS FOUR
401 Go the Distance: Accreditation (Acc)—Collins
402 Understanding Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum:
Dealing with Problem Employees—Siegel
403 To Infinity and Beyond: Making the Most of
Professional Development—Smith
404
405
406
Be a Nemo, Not a Dory: Respectful, Effective and
Positive Communication—Collins
Through the Rabbit Hole: Teaching 21st Century Readiness Skills—Bess
A Whole New World: Social Networking—Martini
12:15 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. GALA LUNCHEON KEYNOTE Telling Your Story: Building a
Lasting Legacy—Thornton-Roberts
Last Chance with Exhibitors/
Exhibitor Demos
2:00 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
2:45 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. CONCURRENT SESSIONS FIVE
501 Look For the Bare Necessities: Ongoing
Compliance—Schmidt
502 You Can Fly… You Can Fly: Quality Begins with
You—Anderson
503 Who’s the Leader of the Pack? Becoming the
Preferred Employer—Thornton-Roberts
504 Well Begun is Half-Done: Managing Your
Manager—Hendricks
505 Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall: Are You the Most DYNAMIC Director of All?—Sitton
506 Part of Your World: How to Make State Training
Registries Support You—Kalifeh
Ambassador Informational Meeting
4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Epcot® VIP Reception
Celebrate Our 30th Anniversary
FRIDAY, APRIL 25: CONFERENCE EVENTS
7:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Registration/Conference Services Open
8:00 a.m. – 10:45 a.m.CONCURRENT SESSIONS SIX
601 I Want to Be Like You-O-O: Accreditation Classroom
Coaching (Acc)—Rice
602 Heffalumps and Woozles: Child Care Law—McGuckin
603 If the Time Comes You’ll Know What to Do: Delivering
Difficult Messages—Schweikert
604 Zero to Hero: How to Become a GREAT Boss—
Buxton
605 Something Quite Atrocious: A Guide to Crisis
Management—Swain
606 Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, It’s Off to Play We Go: Play in
Creativity and Health—O’Sullivan
10:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Break
11:00 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. CLOSING KEYNOTE
Keep Your Dream Alive: Using Your Power and Influence Effectively—
Schweikert
For details about these session types, see page 7:
• FB: Faith-based session
• Acc: Accreditation session
Association for Early Learning Leaders 30th Annual National Conference How Successful Directors Lead!
PRECONFERENCE—TUESDAY, APRIL 22, 2014
PRECONFERENCE EVENTS
Preconference Institute: The Business Behind
the Magic Tour—8:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
In addition to creating a magical environment for guests
from around the world, Walt and Roy Disney mastered the
art of business. In the end, they determined that creativity/
innovation, leadership excellence, quality service, brand
loyalty, and selection, training and engagement were the
five key principles that would forge an invaluable formula
for success. Not only have these time-tested business
lessons helped establish Disney as one of the world’s
leading brands, but thousands of organizations around the
world have also successfully adapted these principles in
their own pursuit of excellence.
Now you have the unforgettable opportunity to go
behind-the-scenes and experience time-tested Disney
business philoso­phies at one of the leading business
operations in the world firsthand.
This three-hour tour features the five core principles taught
by Disney Institute and shows how they come to life each
day at the Walt Disney World® Resort.
Cost (includes transportation): $200 Members,
$250 Nonmembers
Optional Tour: Explore Local Child Care
Centers—8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Board the bus for our popular child care center tour. Tour
participants will visit local, nationally accredited programs
that exemplify excellence in the care and education of
young children. These tours sell out quickly, so make your
reservation today!
Cost (includes transportation): $40 Members,
$65 Nonmembers
Florida Affiliate Group Luncheon: Leading for
Change in Florida—11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Is your program located in the State of Florida? This
luncheon will provide you with an update on how Florida
is Leading for Change. Updates from the Department
of Children and Families, the Office of Early Learning
and the Children’s Forum will be presented on topics
including licensing, early learning programs and Florida’s
2014 legislative session. Plated lunch and 1 hour CEU is
included in the fee.
Cost: $20 per person
Get Connected! First-Time Attendee/
Ambassadors Meet-Up—5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Is this your first time at Conference? Are you attending
the Conference on your own? Meet with Association
Ambassadors to connect and get oriented.
PRECONFERENCE SESSIONS
(For pricing, see page 11.)
AM1 Instructional Leadership
8:30 a.m. – 11:15 a.m.
A childcare director wears many hats, but the most
important and often overlooked is that of an instructional
leader. The quality of a childcare center will never be
greater than the quality of the instructional leadership. This
session will focus on how to develop and implement an
instructional leadership plan that will lead your staff to
excellence. Participants will learn how to establish goals
and objectives for instructional team meetings, protocols
for using journal articles and written materials for learning
and reflection and protocols for using videotapes of staff
and children for personal growth and reflection. Strategies
for staff accountability in implementation of personal
goals will be addressed.
Presented by Dr. Barbara Sorrels, Executive Director of
The Institute for Childhood Education.
A SPECIAL THANK YOU
TO OUR HOSTS!
Florida Association for Early Learning Leaders
Florida Children’s Forum
Members of the Florida Association for Early Learning
Leaders receive member pricing for all April 22 events. To
receive member pricing for the full conference, you must
be a member of the national Association.
PM1 Dig a Little Deeper: Effective Staff
Trainings
1:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Teachers (and other program staff) spend hours in training
workshops, completing online classes, or attending inservice training, hopefully to learn new skills or improve
current ones. But their managers are often disappointed by
the lack of change or improvement evident in their staff.
What can you do? This workshop will look at how to help
teachers and other program staff connect their learning to
their practices in the classroom with simple and effective
techniques.
Presented by Miriam Dressler, Founder and Owner of
Bloom Training & Consulting.
PM2 I’m Late, I’m Late for a Very Important
Date: Advanced Time Management
1:15 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Being late is terribly stressful especially for busy
professionals! Participants will gain specific knowledge
on “weighting“ priorities, accomplishing critical tasks and
bringing more order to everyday work-life. Managing a
robust child care program demands industry-specific time
management skills that will ensure you are always ontime and on-task.
Presented by Donna Thornton-Roberts, Consultant
and author of Motivating Staff Through Exceptional
Personnel Policies.
Cost: FREE
For additional details and updated information, visit w w w.earlylearningleaders.org/conference.
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SESSION DESCRIPTIONS
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2014
Opening Keynote, Building a Business Through
Storytelling—The power of “story” has been an ever-present
force in the nearly 100-year history of the The Walt Disney
Company. Today, storytelling is considered a critical and relevant
leadership tool for gaining emotional buy-in from stakeholders
and employees. The impact of effective storytelling is felt by
large and small organizations around the world. Learn how
Disney uses the elements of storytelling to pass on the culture
that keeps its business world-class. Through this Disney Institute
presentation, you’ll discover how you can translate your own
organization’s culture in a meaningful way through the power
of storytelling. Presented by the Disney Institute.
101, Does the Glass Slipper Fit? Getting the Best
Candidates—Want better new hires? Join us for this session
all about finding great new employees and setting them up for
success from the start. In this workshop, we’ll consider strategies
to attract better candidates, methods for conducting successful
interviews and tips for making good hiring decisions. Presented
by Miriam Dressler, Founder/Owner of Bloom Training & Consulting.
102, Dealing with Grumpy and Dopey: Coping with
Difficult People (Faith-Based)—In this session, participants
will explore tendencies within our personalities that can make
us difficult for others. A spiritual approach will be considered.
Participants will be invited to review their own history with
difficult people. Presented by Jeanine Bozeman, Ph.D., professor
at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and Rhonda Littleton,
Children’s Minister at First Baptist Church, Simpsonville, SC.
103, Are You a Scrooge McDuck? Lessons in Fiscal
Management—Many of us were teachers before becoming
directors and haven’t really been trained in aspects of running
the center’s business; this session helps to fill that gap. The
information provided is tangible and can be used by each director
upon returning to work. Presented by Bob Siegel, President,
Leadership Reigns, LLC and Association Board Member.
104, Making Magic: Motivating Your Staff—Motivating
employees today takes leaders that are, first and foremost, selfaware and conscious of how they impact the people within their
sphere of influence. This session will help you identify ways to
motivate Early Learning Leaders to become top professionals in
our Industry. Presented by Sally Harris, President of Circle C Ranch
Academy and Association Board Member.
105, You’ve Got a Friend in Me: Personnel Policies
as Management Tools—This session focuses on the
development and revision of a Personnel Policy Manual, including
the legal impact of topics such as recruitment and hiring, at-will
employment status, performance appraisal, hiring, termination
and disciplinary policies. Emphasis is placed on the particular
needs of child care programs. Presented by Dawn Martini, Childcare
Specialist, Ronald V. McGuckin & Associates and Editor-in-Chief of
The Child Care Professional Experience.
106, Hakuna Matata: Start from a Place of Peace—We
all know that teachers set the tone for the classroom. However,
we often don’t fully realize how important a calm environment
is to facilitate learning. In this workshop, participants will be
shown various techniques for calming themselves in times
of stress and during periods of overstimulation. Presented by
Cynthia Bess, Ph.D., Owner of The Bess Choice! Consulting Services.
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107, It’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow: Technology
to Build Enrollment—This session will most resonate with
owners and directors of progressive child care programs seeking to
harness technology to save time and money, build enrollment and
improve communication with customers. Presented by Abhas Jain,
Principal of myKidzDay, LLC.
201, Step in Time: Introduction to the National
Accreditation Commission (Accreditation)—This session
is for directors interested in exploring the option of using the
National Accreditation Commission as their accreditation vehicle.
This session includes tips for using the Accreditation Manual for
program improvement, an overview of the self-study procedures
and participant Q&A panel discussion. Presented by Colleen Tracy
Haddad, Executive Director, Association for Early Learning Leaders.
202, Be Prepared: Disaster Strikes—What Happens
Now?—In this session, participants will learn the importance of
having a Business Continuity Plan, identify potential risks for their
center and create a living document that will become the tool for
“what to do and how to do it” in the event of a high-risk situation.
Presented by Lorraine Montpetit, President of Quebec Association
for Preschool & Professional Development and Luisa Iglio, Executive
Director of Dorval Childcare Center in Dorval, Quebec.
203, One Jump Ahead: What Great Schools Do
Better—This fun and detailed session will go over 12 items
that great schools do better than everyone else. From supervision
to professionalism, this session will help you take your school
to the next level. Presented by Tym Smith, Early Care & Education
Training & Consulting.
204, Whose Castle Is This: Sharing Space—Can’t We
All Just Get Along? (Faith-Based)—You would think that the
adults who teach children how to share would have mastered
this oh-so-important life skill, but that isn’t always the case! This
session will look at common conflict triggers with shared space
and develop prevention and response strategies for making
shared space work! Presented by Lori Buxton, Regional Director of
Lionheart Children’s Academy and Association Board Member.
205, Don’t Get Stuck in Neverland: Organizing Your
Day—Managing a center can be overwhelming, resulting in
chaotic days. This interactive session will present techniques to
manage your time to work smarter, not harder. By planning how
to take control of your time, you will experience more productive
days, less chaos and better outcomes for staff, families and you!
Presented by Kathie Boe, Vice President of Quality and Accreditation,
Knowledge Universe and Association Board Member.
206, When You Wish Upon a Star: Encourage, Inspire,
Lead—The relationship between child care provider and
regulatory personnel is key to improving quality of care. This
workshop will focus on strategies for building relationships and
helping providers understand and implement good practices.
Materials currently used in OK will be demonstrated. Presented
by Barbara Sorrels, Ph.D., Executive Director of The Institute for
Childhood Education.
207, Whistle While You Work: Using Music for a Positive
Learning Environment—In this interactive session, we will
explore how easy it is to create a musically rich environment that
promotes positive learning, engages children and enhances your
classroom. Presented by Jennifer Woda, Music Together, LLC.
THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2014
301, Bibbidi, Bobbidi, “Box”: Accreditation Document
Organization (Accreditation)—This session clarifies the
instructions for completing a useful and well-organized
Document Organization Box for Accreditation through the National
Accreditation Commission. Attendees will receive materials used
by actual validators to verify documentation at the time of the
validation visit. Presented by Chris Poppendorf, VP of Operations for
Active Learning Centers and Sarah Keeth, Validation Visits Coordinator
for the National Accreditation Commission.
302, SupercalifragilisticexpialiFOCUS: The Power of
Focus—Beyond the distractions of phones ringing, parents
dropping by, children crying, staff needing, emails dinging, do you
know what specifically takes up your time? Are you doing what
you do brilliantly? In this session, we’ll explore steps we can take
to refocus our energy and resources to reach for success. Presented
by Bobette Thompson, President/CEO of Child Care Systems of
America, Inc. and Association Board Member.
303, And They Lived Happily Ever After: Motivation
and Morale Boosters—Rewarding your staff is difficult
when the bottom line is stretched so thin. This session provides
meaningful and practical methods that can motivate staff and
reinforce morale without breaking the bank. Presented by Lynette
Galante, Executive Director of Future Generation Early Learning
Centers and Association Board Secretary.
304, Zip-a-Dee-Do-Dah: Joy Tank—This session covers
the how, why and what of the “Joy Tank”, along with hands-on
tools to help administrators avoid burnout in the early childhood
field. Through group activities, participants will identify factors
that contribute to burnout and explore ways to avoid it. Presented
by Pattijo Shaffer, Sr. Executive Director for Program Development at
Lakeview Child Center @ Hamilton.
305, I’ve Got No Strings to Tie Me Down: Playground
Accidents—Playground-related accidents continue to be
some of the most frequent accidents occurring in early education
environments. This workshop will help you understand often
overlooked playground hazards and support your efforts to keep
children safe on your playground. Presented by Michael Swain,
Sr. Loss Control Specialist for THOMCO, a Markel Company and
Association Board Member.
306, Sometimes the Right Path Is Not the Easiest
One: Necessary Endings—There comes a time when a
relationship, business, activity, or habit needs to end. This is a
very difficult process, but necessary. This session will give you
hope and courage to make needed changes in staff and business
practices and get your early education business on track for
renewed success. Presented by Tammy Maus, President and Chief
Executive Officer of Bright Start Early Education Inc.
307, Through the Looking Glass: Taking Good Care
of You—During this interactive session, you’ll take time to
put yourself first on the priority list. Attendees will leave the
session with a personal action plan to handle stress, gain better
balance and wellness and move toward an overall healthier life.
Presented by Mary Hornbeck, Executive Director/Owner of Special
Beginnings Early Learning Centers and President of the Association
for Early Learning Leaders.
Association for Early Learning Leaders 30th Annual National Conference How Successful Directors Lead!
401, Go the Distance: Accreditation (Accreditation)—In
this session, you’ll learn to prepare for and lead your team on the
journey to excellence. We’ll explain the National Accreditation
Commission validation process. Plan for success and prepare for
road bumps and potholes that will appear while you stay on your
path. Presented by Margaret Collins, Director of River Road Church
Preschool and National Accreditation Commission Council member.
402, Understanding Tweedle Dee & Tweedle Dum:
Dealing with Problem Employees—This interactive
session explores different types of “challenging” employees.
Learn how to help them start to succeed and conversely, to
recognize when to let go. Head back to work with fewer ulcers
and headaches, remembering that our programs are only as
good as the weakest (classroom) link. Presented by Bob Siegel,
President of Leadership Reigns, LLC and Association Board Member.
403, To Infinity and Beyond: Making the Most of
Professional Development—Sending your staff to training
is one thing. Following up on what is learned and applying this
to the classroom is another. This session will go over tips to make
the most of your training investments. Presented by Tym Smith,
Early Care & Education Training & Consulting.
404, Be a Nemo, Not a Dory: Respectful, Effective
and Positive Communication—Everyone deserves
respect and kindness! Whenever we communicate, we have to
remember that and act accordingly. This workshop will examine
communication as a whole, and discuss strategies to create prosocial and positive interpersonal interactions between people
of all ages. Presented by Cynthia Bess, Ph.D., Owner of The Bess
Choice! Consulting Services.
405, Through the Rabbit Hole: Teaching 21st Century
Readiness Skills—This session will examine the ways in
which teachers can incorporate tools and resources to foster
21st century learning in the classroom that is representative
of the culture in which students live. Session participants
will learn how to use the 21st century framework to develop
innovative learning for development of 21st century skills for
young learners. Presented by Lisa Olds, VP Education and Program
Development, Kid Orange Tech.
406, A Whole New World: Social Networking—Social
networking is an exciting and complicated new frontier, but
there is a downside to this free and anonymous environment
that concern employers. This session will address issues
such as personnel policy and staff training, potential liability
for programs and employees and positive ways to screen
potential employees during the hiring process by using the
Internet. Presented by Dawn Martini, Childcare Specialist, Ronald
V. McGuckin & Associates and Editor-in-Chief of The Child Care
Professional Experience.
501, Look for the Bare Necessities: Ongoing
Compliance (Accreditation)—Receiving Accreditation is an
extremely exciting and rewarding time for a program. After
celebrating your hard work, it’s important to recognize the
steps your program will continue to take along your pathway
to excellence. This session provides an informative and detailed
overview of the process of accreditation compliance. Presented
by Erin Schmidt, Accreditation Coordinator for the National
Accreditation Commission.
502, You Can Fly… You Can Fly: Quality Begins with
You—This workshop will help you create and develop center
policies, practices and procedures that will support your program
goals and vision and refine your skills as an effective leader. You
will learn how to interview and hire the right employees and
to provide detailed staff orientation and training and effective
professional supervision and meetings. Presented by Catina
Anderson, Early Childhood Adjunct Instructor at Rowan Cabarrus
Community College
503, Who’s the Leader of the Pack? Becoming
the Preferred Employer—Competition for qualified,
skilled, energetic, dependable staff is becoming increasingly
challenging in today’s culture and workforce. The quality of your
center depends on the quality of the staff you recruit! This session
is packed with new, cutting-edge recruitment and retention
techniques that can be quickly and easily implemented in your
HR processes. Presented by Donna Thornton-Roberts, Consultant
and author of Motivating Staff Through Exceptional Personnel
Policies.
504, Well Begun Is Half-Done: Managing Your
Manager—Mary Poppins didn’t have a crystal ball to
foresee troubles ahead, so she kept her carpet bag stocked full
of resources to ward them off. Come prepared to stuff your bag
with tools you need to create or enhance a harmonious work
environment with your manager/director/owner. Presented
by Shannon Hendricks, Director of Early Learning Programs for
Educational First Steps and Association Board Treasurer.
505, Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall: Are You the Most
DYNAMIC Director of All?—Participants will develop a
working definition for a “Dynamic Director”, understand why
people stay and leave the early childhood profession and learn
how to create and lead a team of early childhood professionals.
Ideas will be shared for motivating and energizing leaders and
staff. Presented by Lynn Sitton, Department Chairperson and Professor
for Child Development/Early Childhood at Tyler Junior College.
506, Part of Your World: How to Make State Training
Registries Support You—Professional Development
Registries have emerged over the last decade as important
tools in managing professional development systems in states
throughout the country. This session will provide an overview of
registries, the different types, how they can benefit stakeholders
and inform policy conversations. Presented by Phyllis Kalifeh,
President/CEO of the Children’s Forum.
FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014
601, I Want to Be Like You-O-O: Accreditation Classroom
Coaching (Accreditation)—How do we support our teachers
when we are not in the classroom with them each day? Coaching
in the early childhood classroom is interactive, individualized and
intentional! This session presents a framework for directors to use
in coaching teaching staff in their programs. Specific strategies for
implementing the National Accreditation Commission Standards
will be stressed. Presented by Marilyn Rice, Early Childhood Specialist
for Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of Education and
validator for the National Accreditation Commission.
CEUs offered for every conference
session. No additional fees.
602, Heffalumps and Woozles: Child Care Law—
Focused on issues common to early care and education programs,
this session offers practical techniques for dealing effectively
with problems encountered in the successful administration
of a quality program. Participants will have the opportunity to
discuss their questions about crucial issues facing early care and
education professionals. Presented by Ronald V. McGuckin, the
“Child Care Lawyer” and Association Board Member.
603, If the Time Comes You’ll Know What to Do:
Delivering Difficult Messages—Let’s face it: every
position comes with its share of difficult people and demanding
situations. How effectively do you handle them? Join us for this
session packed with practical tips for regaining your sanity and
delivering difficult messages with poise and professionalism.
Presented by Gigi Schweikert, author of the Winning Ways for Early
Childhood Professionals book series.
604, Zero to Hero: How to Become a GREAT Boss—We
attract who we are, not who we want! We want great employees
and we are ever-watchful for those special people who make
our organizations shine! If we want great, we need to be great!
Join us for this reflective and encouraging session. Presented by
Lori Buxton, Regional Director of Lionheart Children’s Academy and
Association Board Member.
605, Something Quite Atrocious: A Guide to Crisis
Management—As a child care professional, you and your
staff need to know what to do if something terrible were to
happen. This session will give you tools and critical thinking
skills you can use to help make the best decisions when you are
challenged by circumstances beyond your immediate control.
Presented by Michael Swain, Sr. Loss Control Specialist for THOMCO,
a Markel Company and Association Board Member.
606, Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, It’s Off to Play We Go: Play in
Creativity and Health—When did play move from being a
nice thing to offer to being a necessity? When a survey of CEOs
indicated creativity was the number-one competency desired for
the future and when the CDC found that lack of physical activity
leads to obesity and all other types of health concerns. Play is the
emerging alternative to health, creativity and future life success of
children. Presented by Dr. Ellen O’Sullivan, U.S. Play Coalition.
Closing Keynote, Keep Your Dream Alive: Using
your Power and Influence Effectively—As owners and
directors, we set the tone in our programs, but at times we can
feel overwhelmed and unappreciated. Join us for this humorous
and informative session to renew your spirit and commitment.
Learn how to develop strong, professional relationships with
your staff and create a work culture that demands performance
excellence and exceptional customer service. Presented by Gigi
Schweikert, author of the Winning Ways for Early Childhood
Professionals book series.
Faith-based sessions are designed for child care
professionals whose programs are located in faithbased environments.
Accreditation sessions are part of a specially
designed accreditation track that provides
guidance through the self-study process and
inspires programs to become nationally accredited
by the National Accreditation Commission for
Early Care and Education Programs. For additional details and updated information, visit w w w.earlylearningleaders.org/conference.
7
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Catina Anderson has over 17 years’ experience in
early childhood education and is currently an early
childhood adjunct instructor at Rowan Cabarrus
Community College, where she teaches several courses
related to early childhood and administration. She is a
certified trainer in North Carolina and South Carolina
and is pursuing a doctoral degree in higher education
and adult learning.
Miriam Dressler, Founder and Owner of Bloom
Training & Consulting, has been teaching, training
and developing children and adults since 1992. She
provides consulting services to the early childhood
education field for quality improvement and teacher
coaching and is a regular and popular presenter
at early childhood conferences. She is also a lead
validator for the National Accreditation Commission.
Cynthia Bess is a developmental psychologist,
education consultant, author, professional speaker,
popular keynote presenter, college instructor,
early child educator, infant and toddler caregiver,
nursery-school director and an ECERS-R trainer and
rater. Her book, The View from the Little Chair in the
Corner: Improving Teacher Practice and Early Childhood
Learning, synthesizes her experience in these areas.
Lynette Galante is Executive Director of Future
Generation Early Learning Centers. She has been
a part of the Future Generation family for over 10
years and has over 20 years’ experience working in
early childhood education as both a teacher and
administrator. Lynette received a bachelor’s degree
from Marist College. Post-graduation, she has received
a National Administrators Credential. She is also
Secretary of the Association’s Board of Directors.
Kathie Boe is Vice President of Quality and
Accreditation for all Knowledge Universe brands. In
this capacity, she directs the quality initiatives of the
nation’s largest childcare provider. Kathie and her
team support over 2,000 centers/sites in 39 states,
among over 700 of which are nationally accredited.
She has over 35 years’ experience with programs for
young children and holds a bachelor of arts in child
development. She is also an Association Board Member.
Jeanine Bozeman is Senior Professor of Social Work
at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and is
active in private practice with families. Her specialties
include interpersonal relationship skills, death and
loss, social work with individuals and families and
group leadership. Dr. Bozeman holds a master’s degree
in social work from Tulane University and a master of
religious education and doctorate from New Orleans
Baptist Theological Seminary.
Lori Buxton has been part of the early care and
education community since 1995, serving in a variety of
roles. A dynamic trainer, she is dedicated to supporting
those who lead and teach in our field. She is Regional
Director of Lionheart Children’s Academy, Founder/
President of the Gulf Coast Directors Network, Executive
Associate of the Professional Early Education Associates
and serves on the Association’s Board of Directors and
as Chair of the Ambassador Committee.
Margaret Collins has been Director of River Road
Church Preschool for over 25 years. A former Director
of the Year, she has a master of education in early
childhood education and has been a consultant for
childcare centers and workshop presenter in the
field of early childhood. Founder and Past President
of the Richmond Association for Directors of Early
Childhood Education, she also serves on the National
Accreditation Commission Council.
8
Colleen Tracy Haddad is Executive Director for the
Association of Early Learning Leaders. She began her
career in early childhood at Florida State University’s
Lab School and holds a bachelor of arts in child
development. While working with the Florida State
Center for Prevention and Early Intervention Policy,
she completed her master’s degree in early childhood
education with a Pre-K handicap endorsement.
Colleen has been both a teacher and director.
Sally Harris began her career as an occupational
specialist/career counselor. She used her strong training
in team building, motivation, marketing and staff
development to open Circle C Ranch Academy in 1986.
She also formed Megan’s Circle of Hope, a 501(c)3
organization to serve children with special needs. Sally
is an Ambassador for Florida and before joining the
Association Board of Directors, was Ambassador Chair.
Shannon Hendricks is Director of Early Learning
Programs for Educational First Steps in Dallas, TX. Under
her leadership, the agency annually mentors and trains
almost 1,000 early childhood teachers and directors
serving low-income children ages 0 – 5. An enthusiastic
trainer who enjoys sharing her knowledge of team
building through strengths-based leadership, she is also
Treasurer of the Association for Early Learning Leaders.
Mary Hornbeck is Executive Director and Owner
of Special Beginnings Early Learning Centers and
President of the Association for Early Learning Leaders.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in human development
and family life and in 2007 was honored as one of
“25 Women Who Mean Business” by the Kansas
City Business Journal. Mary is a national trainer and
consultant, having written and implemented staff and
parent policy handbooks, developmental assessments
for young children and several leadership trainings.
Luisa Iglios has served as Executive Director of
Dorval Childcare Center in Dorval, Quebec for over 30
years. She is responsible for planning the professional
development workshops for the Quebec Association
for Preschool & Professional Development (QAPPD)
and is co-organizer of their Annual Educators
Conference.
Abhas Jain holds a master of business administration
and has worked for 20 years for Fortune 200
companies. He is currently a principal of myKidzDay,
LLC, which provides an app for child care centers to
help parents stay informed about their children while
they are with the child care provider.
Phyllis Kalifeh is President/CEO of the Children’s
Forum. Her 30-year professional career includes
programs such as Head Start, CCR&R, training for
practitioners and parents and subsidy administration.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood
education, a master’s degree in educational leadership
and a doctorate in education policy and evaluation. She
is also President Elect of The National Registry Alliance.
Sarah Keeth has over 13 years’ experience as an
early childhood professional. Her time management
and organizational abilities fostered a foundation
for success, leading to a preschool director position.
Currently, she is Validation Visit Coordinator and
frequent Validator for the Association for Early
Learning Leaders National Accreditation Commission.
Rhonda Littleton is Children’s Minister at First
Baptist Church Simpsonville in SC. She is a passionate
advocate for children who cannot speak for
themselves. She holds a bachelor of arts in psychology,
a master of arts in Christian education and a doctor of
educational ministry in educational leadership.
Dawn Martini holds a bachelor of science in early
childhood and elementary education. As a behavior
therapist, she played key roles in the integration of
disabled children into the classroom environment.
Now Childcare Specialist at Ronald V. McGuckin &
Associates, she is also Editor-in-Chief of The Child Care
Professional Experience, a free online journal for child
care professionals. Her national lecture portfolio includes
over 40 topics on various issues in the childcare industry.
Tammy Maus is President and Chief Executive Officer
of Bright Start Early Education Inc. She has over 30 years’
experience with programs for young children, including
roles as teacher, center director, area team leader,
district manager and owner. She is a training consultant
with an associate degree in early childhood education,
a bachelor of arts in family life education and is a
candidate for a master’s degree in human relations.
Association for Early Learning Leaders 30th Annual National Conference How Successful Directors Lead!
Ronald V. McGuckin has gained a national
reputation as “The Child Care Lawyer”. He is a
practicing attorney in Bucks County PA, with years
of experience in child care law. He is a lecturer and
consultant, training child care professionals on a
variety of management and legal issues. Co-author
of a variety of publications including Current Issues in
Child Care, Ron has volunteered on numerous boards
and is currently an Association Board Member.
Lorraine Montpetit is President of Quebec
Association for Preschool & Professional Development
and co-organizer of their Annual Educators Conference.
Previously, she served as Executive Director of the
Lachine Child Care Center for over 40 years.
Lisa Olds is Senior Vice President of Education
and Program Development for Kid Orange Tech,
an organization designed to provide kid-friendly
technology solutions to support classrooms, at home,
or on the go. Lisa works with schools, parents and
teachers to provide professional development and
networking opportunities to help infuse technology
solutions into education.
Dr. Ellen O’Sullivan developed expertise in
play during her various roles as a camp counselor,
community recreation director, college professor and
consultant. She has authored a number of textbooks
on marketing and toolkits for implementing various
types of innovations and developed a Play Facilitation
online staff training for the U.S. Play Coalition
intended for use with staff working in early child care,
preschools, camps and afterschool programs.
Chris Poppendorf has been employed by Active
Learning Center since 1994, first as a teacher and
currently as Vice President of Operations. She serves as
a validator for the National Accreditation Commission
and was Director of the Year in 2012.
Marilyn Rice is an Early Childhood Specialist for
Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of
Education and holds a bachelor of science in speech
pathology and audiology and a master’s degree in
early childhood education. She has served as Director
of Curriculum and Training for a multi-site child
development center. A validator for the National
Accreditation Commission, she continues to train on
local, state and national levels.
Erin Schmidt is currently Accreditation Coordinator
with the National Accreditation Commission. She has
worked in the early childhood education field for over
15 years, giving her a wide range of experience from
having been a teacher, director and early childhood
education instructor.
Gigi Schweikert is an internationally known expert
in early childhood education and parenting. She is the
best-selling author of 15 books, including the Winning
Ways for Early Childhood Professionals book series. During
her 25 years of experience, she managed the Johnson
& Johnson Early Education Programs and directed the
United Nations Child Care Centre in New York City, where
she attended Bank Street College of Education.
Michael Swain is Senior Loss Control Specialist
for THOMCO, a Markel Company. He creates and
implements risk management programs in support of
child care, social service, youth recreation programs,
nonprofit organizations, youth clubs and other
industry groups. With 25 years’ industry experience,
he has a broad background in risk management. He is
also an Association Board Member.
Pattijo Shaffer has been in the early childhood
field for 28 years. She has a bachelor of science in child
development and family relations and has served as an
American Academy of Pediatrics instructor, American
Heart Association instructor and Child Development
Associate trainer. She had the first program in New
Jersey to receive the pediatric/adult child-care friendly
childcare award. Her “glass-half-full” attitude inspires
others to join her positive outlook in working in the
early childhood field.
Bobette Thompson is President/CEO of Child
Care Systems of America, Inc., an early education
management and consulting company. All
company-owned sites are accredited by the National
Accreditation Commission. She has participated in the
opening of 25 centers and consulted with numerous
others and serves on state child care committees,
presents at conferences and actively participates with
the Association. She was President of the Association’s
Board of Directors from 2011 – 2012.
Bob Siegel is President of Leadership Reigns, LLC and
serves on the Association Board of Directors and as Board
President of the Early Care and Education Consortium.
He has worked as a long-time child care director, early
childhood education management consultant/trainer
and National Director of Easter Seals Children’s Services.
He provides training and consultation in the areas
of inclusion, staff development and supervision and
business aspects of the childcare industry.
Donna Thornton-Roberts has more than 35 years’
experience leading people and developing child care
programs with a solid record of accomplishments. She
holds a master’s degree in business administration,
an undergraduate degree in management of human
resources and has developed over 40 child care
programs employing thousands of employees over
the past three decades. The author of Motivating
Staff Through Exceptional Personnel Policies, she has
appeared on CBS News This Morning and FamilyNet TV.
Lynn Sitton has been an early childhood professional
for over 30 years. She began her career as a public
kindergarten teacher and earned a master of
education in early childhood education. She has
owned and directed a private preschool and directed
a college laboratory school. Currently, she is the
Department Chairperson and professor for Child
Development/Early Childhood at Tyler Junior College.
Tym Smith has been in the early care and education
profession for over 20 years. In 2006, he started Early
Care and Education Training and Consulting, a training
company dedicated to quality and diversity in all
programs. His training for staff and managers has a
strong focus on motivation and advocacy for young
children. Tym owns and operates three licensed child
care facilities in Texas.
Jennifer Woda has six years’ experience as an
early childhood music and movement director and
specialist, working with children birth through
age seven and their parents and caregivers in a
developmentally appropriate and research-based
music and movement program. She holds a bachelor
of arts in music and a master of music in vocal
performance, as well as Certification Level II status
from Music Together, LLC.
Dr. Barbara Sorrels is Executive Director of The
Institute for Childhood Education, a private professional
development and consulting firm for early childhood
professionals. She holds a bachelor of arts in early
childhood education, a master’s degree in education
and a doctorate in early childhood. She has worked in
the early childhood education field for over 35 years
and founded and directed two early childhood centers
in Washington, DC and Fort Worth, Texas.
For additional details and updated information, visit w w w.earlylearningleaders.org/conference.
9
AN INVITATION…
Dear Friends and Colleagues:
It is an honor to invite you to take part in our 30th
Annual Conference, How Successful Directors Lead!
featuring the Disney Institute—”Telling Your
Program’s Story, Leaving Your Legacy.” This premier
event will be held at the Walt Disney World® Resort
in sunny Lake Buena Vista, Florida on April 23 – 25,
2014.
As a leader, you wear many hats each day. At
Conference, we invite you to remove those hats
and have your bucket filled! We have a slate of
extraordinary presenters and exhibitors from across
the country this year. Let us inspire you to be a
positive leader for your program. We want you to
leave the Conference feeling recharged and ready to
share new ideas with your staff and families.
On behalf of the Association of Early Learning Leaders,
we look forward to meeting you at our 30th Annual
Conference at the Walt Disney World® Resort. Thank
you for your continued hard work and dedication to
the children and families of our country.
You are valued and appreciated!
The Association for Early Learning Leaders is a 501(c)3
organization committed to excellence in the field of early
childhood care and education by promoting leadership
development and enhancing program quality.
Our goal is to strengthen the knowledge, skills and
abilities of owners, directors, emerging leaders and other
early learning professionals to ensure quality programs
for young children.
ACCREDITATION
The Association for Early Learning Leaders’ National
Accreditation Commission offers early care and
education programs the opportunity to demonstrate
and document quality performance using researchbased criteria. Our accreditation system recognizes
the diversity of programs and the uniqueness of each
through the self-study and award process.
Association support and resources will guide
you to success.
For more information on how you can get started with the
accreditation process, join us for a free introductory webinar. Details at
www.earlylearningleaders.org.
Colleen Tracy Haddad
Executive Director
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Mary Hornbeck
President
Lynette Galante
Secretary
Bobette Thompson
Past President
Cathy Henris
Vice President
Shannon Hendricks
Treasurer
Kathie Boe
Lori Buxton
Sally Harris
Leighann Rinker, Ed.D.
Bob Siegel
Michael Swain
Ron McGuckin, J.D.
10
MEMBERSHIP
• Join a professional organization committed to
leadership excellence.
• Create collaborative connections with fellow
professionals through networking opportunities.
• Strengthen your knowledge and skills through
FREE weekly educational training webinars and our
quarterly trade journal, Professional Connections©.
• Access to a variety of quality professional resources,
including legal insights, exclusive member discounts
and quality vendor services.
Association for Early Learning Leaders 30th Annual National Conference How Successful Directors Lead!
CONFERENCE REGISTRATION WORKSHEET
INSTRUCTIONS: Use this worksheet to plan your registration, then visit www.earlylearningleaders.org to
register online*. Early registration pricing ends March 20, 2014 and sessions fill up quickly, so register now!
Don’t have the full cost of registration today? Divide your registration costs into two equal payments.
1. REGISTRATION INFORMATION AND PAYMENT METHOD
Register
Name______________________________________________________________________
3 directors and the
4th attends for only
Title_______________________________________________________________________
$249 (members) or
Organization__________________________________________________________________
$299 (nonmembers)!
Call for promo!
Address_____________________________________________________________________
City _______________________________State_____________ ZIP ____________________
Phone______________________________ Cell Phone _________________________________
Fax________________________________Email ____________________________________
Referred by___________________________________________________________________
 This is my first National Conference.  I ‘m an administrator of a program accredited through the National Accreditation Commission.
 Check
 Visa
 MasterCard
 Discover
 American Express
Name As It Appears on Card__________________________________________________________
Card Number__________________________________________________________________
Expiration Date ___________________ Security Code_______________ Billing Zip Code _____________
Signature____________________________________________________________________
 Check here if you have equal access requirements and list. _______________________________________
 Check here if you have special dietary requirements and list. ______________________________________
 Check here if you prefer vegetarian meals.
Full Conference
Wednesday Only
Friday Only
Early: Until 3/20/2014
Regular: After 3/20/2014
Member
Member
Nonmember
Nonmember
$389
$189
$99
$459
$229
$139
$479
$239
$149
$549
$289
$189
$200
$40
$20
$250
$120
$69
$250
$65
$20
$275
$170
$99
$250
$60
$20
$265
$180
$109
$300
$85
$20
$290
$220
$139
Preconference Events and Sessions
Disney Pre-Institute
Child Care Center Tour
Florida Affiliate Group Luncheon
Disney VIP Package
Preconference Workshops, Morning AND Afternoon
Preconference Workshops, Morning OR Afternoon
4. SESSION SELECTIONS
(Indicate an “X” for each preference and “A” for alternate. You may
attend only one session per session group per day. Mark the
box to the left of the session you are selecting.) Note: Applications
without indicated alternates will not be processed!
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 23, 2014
OPENING KEYNOTE
 Building a Business Through Storytelling
CONCURRENT SESSIONS ONE
101: Does the Glass Slipper Fit? Getting the Best Candidates
102: Dealing with Grumpy and Dopey: Coping with Difficult People (FB)
103: Are You a Scrooge McDuck? Lessons in Fiscal Management
104: Making Magic: Motivating Your Staff
105: You’ve Got a Friend in Me: Personnel Policies as Management Tools
106: Hakuna Matata: Start from a Place of Peace
107: It’s a Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow: Technology to Build Enrollment
CONCURRENT SESSIONS TWO
201: Step in Time: Introduction to the National Accreditation
Commission (Acc)
202: Be Prepared: Disaster Strikes—What Happens Now?
203: One Jump Ahead: What Great Schools Do Better
204: Whose Castle Is This: Sharing Space—Can’t We All Just Get
Along? (FB)
205: Don’t Get Stuck in Neverland: Organizing Your Day
206: When You Wish Upon a Star: Encourage, Inspire, Lead
207: Whistle While You Work: Using Music for a Positive Learning
Environment
2. CONFERENCE AND PRECONFERENCE PRICING
2014 Conference Pricing
CANCELLATION POLICY
All cancellations must be made in writing. Cancellations received on or before
March 1, 2014 are refundable minus a $40 processing fee. Cancellations
received March 2 – 31, 2014 are refundable minus a $125 processing fee.
Cancellations received April 1 – 15, 2014 are refundable minus a $175
processing fee. No refunds for cancellations after April 15, 2014.
3. CONFERENCE AND PRECONFERENCE EVENTS AND SESSIONS
Please support the Association’s effort to “go green” by marking all events/meal functions you plan to attend. This will ensure we have an
accurate attendance count at each event and do not over-order food and beverage. Many events are included in the conference registration cost;
however, if you do not select an event or meal function, you will not be registered for it. Unless noted otherwise, prices are listed above.
THURSDAY, APRIL 24, 2014
CONCURRENT SESSIONS THREE
301: Bibbidi, Bobbidi, “Box”: Accreditation Document Organization (Acc)
302: SupercalifragilisticexpialiFOCUS: The Power of Focus
303: And They Lived Happily Ever After: Motivation and Morale Boosters
304: Zip-a-Dee-Do-Dah: Joy Tank
305: I’ve Got No Strings to Keep Me Down: Playground Accidents
306: Sometimes the Right Path Is Not the Easiest One: Necessary Endings
307: Through the Looking Glass: Taking Good Care of You
GALA LUNCHEON KEYNOTE
 Telling Your Story: Building a Lasting Legacy
CONCURRENT SESSIONS FOUR
401: Go the Distance: Accreditation (Acc)
402: Understanding Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum: Dealing with
Problem Employees
403: To Infinity and Beyond: Making the Most of Professional Development
404: Be a Nemo, Not a Dory: Respectful, Effective and Positive
Communication
405: Through the Rabbit Hole: Teaching 21st Century
Readiness Skills
406: A Whole New World: Social Networking
FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014
Continuing
Education
Units (CEUs)
Granted!
Tuesday
 Preconference Workshop: AM 1: Instructional Leadership............................................................................ $____________
April 22
 Preconference Institute: The Business Behind the Magic Tour....................................................................... $____________
 Optional Tour: Explore Local Child Care Centers............................................................................................. $____________
 Florida Affiliate Group Luncheon: Leading for Change in Florida.................................................................. $____________
 Preconference Workshop: PM 1: Dig a Little Deeper: Effective Staff Trainings.............................................. $____________
 Preconference Workshop: PM 2: I’m Late, I’m Late for a Very Important Date:
Advanced Time Management......................................................................................................................... $____________
 Get Connected! First-Time Attendee/Ambassadors Meet-Up (FREE)........................................................... $____________
Wednesday  Munch and Mingle Luncheon with Exhibitors (FREE for conference registrants, $38/guest).......................... $____________
April 23
 President’s Member Reception (Members only; FREE).................................................................................... $____________
 Diamonds to Denim Line Dance and Karaoke (FREE for conference registrants, $25/guest)........................... $____________
Thursday
 Gala Luncheon (FREE for conference registrants, $49/guest)............................................................................ $____________
April 24
 Disney VIP Package (includes 2 After-Hour park tickets and 1 Epcot® Reception ticket).................................... $____________
REGISTRATION TOTAL $____________
List the names of any guests who will attend special events with you____________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
CONCURRENT SESSIONS FIVE
501: Look for the Bare Necessities: Ongoing Compliance
502: You Can Fly… You Can Fly: Quality Begins with You
503: Who’s the Leader of the Pack? Becoming the Preferred Employer
504: Well Begun Is Half-Done: Managing Your Manager
505: Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall: Are You the Most DYNAMIC Director of All?
506: Part of Your World: How to Make State Training Registries Support You
CONCURRENT SESSIONS SIX
601: I Want to Be Like You-O-O: Accreditation Classroom Coaching (Acc)
602: Heffalumps and Woozles: Child Care Law
603: If the Time Comes You’ll Know What to Do: Delivering Difficult Messages
604: Zero to Hero: How to Become a GREAT Boss
605: Something Quite Atrocious: A Guide to Crisis Management
606: Heigh Ho, Heigh Ho, It’s Off to Play We Go: Play in Creativity and Health
CLOSING KEYNOTE
*If you are unable to register online, print and complete this form and send as follows with your payment:
Email: [email protected], Fax: 512-301-5080
Mail: Association for Early Learning Leaders, 8000 Centre Park Dr., Ste. 170, Austin, TX 78754.
For details about these session types, see page 7:
• FB: Faith-based session
• Acc: Accreditation session
 Keep Your Dream Alive: Using Your Power and Influence Effectively
VENDOR MEMBERS
Thanks to our vendor members for their fine support.
BabyChangingStations.com................408-852-4412................babychangingstations.com
Biosafe Systems..................................888-273-3088..................................... sanidate.com
Capstone.............................................952-224-0546.............................. capstonepub.com
Chatterfun Media................................317-540-5123..................................chatterfun.com
Child Care CRM....................................972-765-7475.............................. childcarecrm.com
Child Care Marketing Solutions...........877-254-4619...................childcare-marketing.com
Child Care Purchasing Alliance............262-751-7170.....................childcarepurchasing.org
Childcarebus.com................................800-933-2412................................childcarebus.com
Cirrus Group LLC..................................248-841-1940............................. daycareworks.com
Constructive Playthings.......................816-761-5900.......................................ustoyco.com
Don Brown Bus Sales...........................845-263-0887...................................... buscrazy.net
EZCARE2/SofterWare, Inc....................215-542-4388..................................softerware.com
Fingersafe USA....................................912-234-6120...................................fingersafe.com
First Quality.........................................570-769-4987................. firstquality.com/x275.php
Happy Child, A Division of American
National Manufacturing, Inc...............800-854-6295 x3002...... americannationalmfg.com
Health Consultants for Child Care........952-472-3915......................... healthconsultantsfor
childcare.com
ICProfessor.com...................................888-345-6788 x 711.........................icprofessor.com
8000 Centre Park Drive
Suite 170
Austin, TX 78754
Limited number of hotel rooms available—
register early!
Reserve your room early with our
group rate of $146. Make it a family
affair—extend your stay at our
group rate!
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
1000 West Buena Vista Drive
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
407-939-1020
www.mydisneymeetings.com/ccp/
Free Airport Transportation Through
Disney Express
Institute for Childhood Education........918-307-0544....................theinstituteforchildhood
education.com
Janiebee.com......................................404-312-4347..................................... janiebee.com
KidReports, LLC...................................303-519-8276...................................kidreports.com
LifeCubby............................................614-432-4917......................................lifecubby.me
Multisensory Fitness, Inc.....................805-483-7258................................... xergames.com
Music Together LLC..............................800-728-2692............................musictogether.com
MyChild...............................................847-749-8646............................... mychildnow.com
myKidzDay, LLC...................................860-830-7121..................................mykidzday.com
PortraitEFX Photography.....................704-541-2807..................................portraitefx.com
Procare Software.................................541-858-3399.........................procaresoftware.com
Rocky Mountain Sunscreen.................303-940-9802.............................. rmsunscreen.com
School Investment Properties, Inc.......888-881-0118.............................childcaresales.com
Share Corporation...............................214-906-5476................................... sharecorp.com
Taylor Bus Sales...................................801-221-2616....................................taylorbus.com
UltraPlay.............................................423-648-5596.....................................ultraplay.com
Walden University...............................210-542-5329.............................waldenu.edu/local
Zono Sanitec.......................................404-394-2232..............................zonosanitech.com