The Stout Conference

My presentations at Stout went pretty well. My first group was highly interactive and my second was not, so I got a little taste of both. I was organized and stayed on track, so that was a big plus! Also, my technology worked just fine. I seemed to have a good report with the audience in each group. I'm hoping I can get copies of my evaluations so I can see what I can improve on for next time.

I'd like to blog about one presentation that I really enjoyed. It was called, "The six habits of highly effective teachers," and it was given by Dr. Judy Herr. Her presentation was fabulous. It was her personal take on the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People as it relates to teaching. If you ever get the chance to hear her speak, do so! I definitely will be looking into some of her books for my staff.

Some newly discovered resources that I'd like to share!
Early Childhood News
Early Childhood Focus
The Foundation for Child Development
Council for Professional Recognition
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards
The National Prekindergarten Center
Videatives
PreKnow
ECE-SOS

Love and Logic

On Saturday, I worked at a Love and Logic class as part of my volunteer efforts with my local NAEYC affiliate. Saturday was our kick off for the Week of the Young Child. Attendance for the class was great. Love and Logic is a positive approach to parenting that can be easily applied to teaching. A short summary of the basics can be found here and a nice summary can be found here. I really like Love and Logic, it pairs nicely with my center's curriculum, the Creative Curriculum.

Love and Logic Links and Resources
Love and Logic Project Real
Love and Logic Experiment Day 2
Creating a Love and Logic Classroom
How to use Love and Logic in the Classroom
Love and Logic: Learning and Growing through Mistakes

Another One Bites the Dust

No, I'm not quitting! I had another staff give her two week notice that she is leaving. I started March 3rd and three staff have given their notice during that time! All staff were considering leaving before I stepped it, but it has been a lot to deal with in my first month of work! I'd love to hear some ideas about how to recruit quality preschool teachers and keep them!