Child Care Action Council

Using STEM in Spring Outdoor Play
2025-03-22 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Denver) | Learning to Grow, 535 E Main St, Elma, Washington, 98541, United States
Using STEM in Spring Outdoor Play

This is a new spin on an old favorite class. Children become totally engrossed in creative outdoor play when we provide more than stationary playground equipment and ground cover! Now that we are moving into our Spring months, outside play can be more challenging. This class will inspire you with ideas for enriching your outdoor space during the changing seasons, with loose parts and natural elements that promote more complex play and exploration of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This is the time of year for outdoor fun – let’s get creative!

Instructor: Amy Stevens

Thurston Early Childhood Coalition Training Day Special Event
2025-03-15 10:00 - 15:00
Thurston Early Childhood Coalition Training Day Special Event

A FREE two-class (4 Stars hrs) event with lunch included. Featured classes include

Why Equity Matters – 2hrs Research shows it is critical that there is equity in early learning for children and families of all racial, ethnic, linguistic, and cultural backgrounds. And why is this? Why does equity matter? In this beginner’s level training, we’ll look at the differences between equality and equity and you’ll discuss how it will look in action to create a caring, equitable community of engaged learners.

Calming Connections: De-escalation Strategies for Child Care Providers – 2hrs In this interactive and practical workshop, child care providers will learn effective strategies for de-escalating challenging behaviors and fostering calm, positive connections with young children. By understanding the root causes of frustration and distress, participants will gain tools to prevent conflicts before they arise, as well as techniques to safely manage and de-escalate situations when they do occur.

Instructor: Rose Tiller

In collaboration with the following organizations

*NEW Calming Connections: De-escalation Strategies for ECE Providers
2025-03-15 10:00 - 12:00 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Calming Connections: De-escalation Strategies for ECE Providers

In this interactive and practical workshop, child care providers will learn effective strategies for de-escalating challenging behaviors and fostering calm, positive connections with young children. By understanding the root causes of frustration and distress, participants will gain tools to prevent conflicts before they arise, as well as techniques to safely manage and de-escalate situations when they do occur. This course will cover key concepts such as emotional regulation, active listening, non-verbal communication, and the importance of building strong, trusting relationships with children. Providers will also learn how to recognize early signs of distress, create a calm and supportive environment, and employ strategies that help children return to a state of emotional balance. By the end of the course, participants will feel more confident in their ability to handle challenging situations with empathy and composure, while also supporting children in developing their own emotional regulation skills. Ideal for child care professionals working with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, Calming Connections will help build a foundation for positive behavior and emotional well-being in early childhood settings.

Instructor: Heidi DeVries

*NEW Virtual Trainer Class-Writing Rich Learning Objectives
2025-02-26 18:30 - 20:00
Writing Rich Learning Objectives

As a trainer, do you struggle with writing clear and rich learning objectives? It can be confusing and sometimes difficult. Come learn a great strategy to strengthen your skills and walk away feeling confident in your process. This class is also a great opportunity to connect with other trainers in our state. @public

Instructor: Heidi DeVries

Child Care Basics (begins Feb 12)
2025-02-12 00:00 - 2025-03-19 23:59
This 30-hour, self-paced training series will take place on the DCYF Training site. Please be aware that all assignments must be completed before the end date listed above.

All interactive discussions and learning activities are reviewed by a CCAC Trainer. To participate, students must be able to respond to emails from the trainer and make corrections when required.

Before registering:

Log into https://dcyftraining.com/ to view your account profile. In the registration form below, type your first and last name and email address as they appear in your DCYF Training site account.

To register click on the RSVP below. (If the RSVP link is not available the class is Full.)

EQEL Year 2, Self-Paced
2025-02-10 00:00 - 2025-03-17 23:59
Enhancing Quality of Early Learning (EQEL) Year 2 is a 10-hour training series which builds on content learned in Child Care Basics (CCB) and EQEL Year 1. These classes must be completed before beginning EQEL Year 2.

Please be aware:

This self-paced class will take place on the DCYF Training Portal. All assignments must be completed before the end date listed above.To participate, students must respond to emails from the trainer and make corrections when required.

Before registering:

Log into https://dcyftraining.com/ to view your account profile. In the registration form below, type your first and last name and email address as they appear in your DCYF Training site account.

To register click on the RSVP below. (If the RSVP link is not available the class is Full.)

*NEW Toddler Event- Encouraging Curiosity and To Share or Not to Share
2025-02-08 10:00 - 12:00 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Encouraging Curiosity in Toddlers

AND

To Share or Not to Share-Rethinking Sharing with Children

This class is discussion-based for early childhood educators who want to learn more about exploring the curiosity of toddlers. A 4-page article will be emailed prior to class date. When working with toddlers we often wonder why they are doing something or what they may be thinking during their play/exploration experiences. This discussion article will give us the opportunity to explore and discuss those wonderings and how we may be able to further develop those curious toddler brains through open ended play. This is a discussion-based class for early childhood educators that focuses on the topic of sharing and whether children should have to be made to share something they are playing with. We will discuss what it means to share and what it could be saying to children if they are made to give up something they are using. *Class comes with a toddler related gift

Instructor: Amy Stevens

Through the Eyes of a Child: A Look at Teacher Sensitivity
2025-01-30 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Kitsap Office, 3513 NW Anderson Hill RD, Silverdale, WA, 98383
Through the Eyes of a Child: A Look at Teacher Sensitivity

As caregivers, we try to be sensitive to children’s needs, but sometimes our adult eyes miss the point! In group care, it’s all too easy to get consumed with our own teaching objectives and forget the children’s points of view. Come refresh your perspective about what’s most important and leave this class motivated to improve your awareness of, and responsivity to, the children in your care.

Instructor: Ollie Feldman

Customer Service Through the Child Care Lens
2025-01-28 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Customer Service Through the Child Care Lens

As consumers, we base our purchasing decisions at least in part on the customer service we receive from businesses. The same is true for parents who are in the market for child care. Every child care provider is in the customer service business and that service can make or break the child care. Let’s discuss what good service looks and sounds like!

Instructor: Amy Stevens

EQEL Year 1, Self-Paced
2025-01-27 00:00 - 2025-03-03 23:59
Enhancing Quality of Early Learning (EQEL) Year 1 is a 10-hour training series which builds on content learned in Child Care Basics (CCB). This prerequisite must be completed before beginning EQEL Year 1.

Please be aware:

This self-paced class will take place on the DCYF Training Portal. All assignments must be completed before the end date listed above. To participate, students must respond to emails from the trainer and make corrections when required.

Before registering:

Log into https://dcyftraining.com/ to view your account profile. In the registration form below, type your first and last name and email address as they appear in your DCYF Training site account.

To register click on the RSVP below. (If the RSVP link is not available the class is Full.)

Children's Literature as a Tool for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
2025-01-16 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Children’s Literature as a Tool for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Are you unsure how to highlight diversity in your learning environment beyond baby dolls and posters on the walls? Children’s literature offers a unique opportunity to do just that! Children of all ages, from infants to school age, are drawn to stories that reflect their identities and experiences. Come learn what it means for the books in your environment to be a “mirror” for children and a “window” to the world, as well as how to discern what makes a high-quality book for children.

Instructor: Ollie Feldman

Advanced Trauma Informed Care
2025-01-07 18:30 - 20:00
Advanced Trauma Informed Care

1/7/2025 1/21/25 2/4/2025 2/18/2025 3/4/2025 3/18/2025 4/1/2025 4/15/2025

Are you looking for a deep-dive into the topic of trauma-informed care? Join us for this unique learning experience where you will closely examine what trauma-informed care looks like. Come explore the impact of relationships on neurobiology, learn about the prevalence of different types of trauma, and improve your ability to integrate trauma-informed practices with children, families, and staff. This course will also address self-care and allow you to reflect on how your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can support regulation and resilience for yourself and those you interact with. You will complete the series better prepared to provide individualized, responsive care for the children you serve. Our intention is to include time for you to learn, be heard, pause, and reflect in a respectful space that allows personal growth and inner wisdom to emerge. This class is a long-term commitment providing 2 year’s worth of MERIT credit. Space is limited so participants are asked to carefully consider their interest before registering. Participation requires about 15 hours total of homework, in addition to attendance at 8 live, online classes using Zoom. Full class attendance and homework completion provides 27 hours of credit in MERIT between January 2025 and April 2025. Here’s what a recent participant said about this course: “I just wanted to share that I was definitely not expecting when I signed up for this class how much I was going to learn about myself…and the ways trauma has impacted my life. It’s been such a gentle scaffolding with such useful tools. And I know the tools will work because I see them working in me and the way I treat myself.” *Please check that all dates will work for you as attendance is required to fully complete the class. @public

Instructor: Rose Tiller

Class will take place on Zoom. Once you register a link will be sent to your email to register in Zoom.

Using Nature in Art: An Art Experience
2024-12-16 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Using Nature in Art: An Art Experience

Do you love art and children, and do you need some time for a little self-care? Join us to surround yourself with a “self-care art experience.” You’ll take a nice walk outside to gather natural items and then create your own masterpiece, all while learning about art concepts and gathering ideas for children’s art. Come consider process versus product art, rediscover the variety of materials that can be used with children, and reflect on the calming aspects of art. Leave relaxed and ready to explore art in a new way with children.

Instructor: Heidi DeVries

Race and Racism in ECE- Article Based
2024-12-05 18:30 - 20:30
Race and Racism in ECE

This is a discussion-based class for early childhood teachers who like to learn by reflecting on their own opinions and reactions and by listening to those of other people. Those who register will be emailed a 4-page article to read before class. Racism exists in early childhood education, as it exists in other professions. Let’s read and then think deeply about this together. Come discuss common early childhood practices and policies that may not be equitable and discover why we don’t usually talk about racism in early childhood. Whether you are just beginning your journey of understanding racism and equity, or have been studying it for years, you are welcome to join us. @public

Instructor: Heidi DeVries

Class takes place on Zoom. You will be emailed the link to register in zoom after registering here. You will also receive a copy of the article to read before class or you can download it below.

Race-and-Racism-in-ECEDownload

Planned Experiences for Infants and Toddlers
2024-11-19 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Planned Experiences for Infants and Toddlers

As caregivers of infant and toddlers, we want to do more than pass the time! We need daily planned activities that build trust and support early development. Come refresh your understanding of what our youngest children need, and leave with new ideas for making the most of your time together.

Instructor: Amy Stevens

FLIP IT: Addressing Challenging Behavior
2024-11-16 09:00 - 13:00 | CCAC Kitsap Office, 3513 NW Anderson Hill RD, Silverdale, WA, 98383
FLIP IT: Addressing Challenging Behavior

Do you want to help young children learn about their feelings, gain self-control, and reduce challenging behavior? This class will explore relationships and empathy and then explain the 4 “FLIP IT” steps that caregivers can use right when challenging behavior occurs. The FLIP IT strategy is easy to remember, supports social-emotional development, and can be applied to a variety of challenging situations. Explore how FLIP IT can build your own resilience and help children develop healthy coping skills to last a lifetime.

Instructor: Rose Tiller

A Mindshift in Considering Children's Behaviors: Polyvagal Theory in Practice
2024-11-16 09:00 - 12:00
A Mindshift in Considering Children’s Behaviors: Polyvagal Theory in Practice

Do you wonder why children act the way they do? Are you seeking answers for how to support school-age children and help them through challenging behaviors when the traditional methods have not worked? Come and learn about a theory that will help to broaden your understanding of where children’s behaviors are coming from and how best to support them in the moment. Build your own understanding and compassion for others, as you work to understand how the human body and experiences shape the way we act. @public

Instructor: Heidi DeVries

Class taking place on Zoom. You will receive a link to register in Zoom via email after registering for class.

Supportive, Efficient Routines for Toddlers
2024-10-17 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Supportive, Efficient Routines for Toddlers

This class is best suited for child care center teachers of children ages 1 to 2-1/2. In a toddler classroom, lots of time is spent transitioning between activities and getting groups of children diapered, fed, and down for nap. Does your classroom run like a well-oiled machine? If not, come consider toddler-appropriate strategies for designing supportive routines that build relationships, reduce wait time, teach self-help, foster self-regulation, and make a teacher’s job a little easier.

Instructor: Amy Stevens

Harvest for Healthy Kids: A Farm to Preschool Curriculum
2024-10-15 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Harvest for Healthy Kids: A Farm to Preschool Curriculum

Let’s teach children how to love fruits and vegetables! This class will show you a great way to get kids to try new fruits and vegetables that are local to your area. Using the Harvest for Healthy curriculum (free) online access, you will be able to immediately begin this fun program. Class includes hands-on practice and opportunities to explore some of the activity kits. Come join in the fun of teaching children about fruits and vegetables!

Instructor: Rose Tiller

Understanding the Roots of Behavior
2024-09-21 09:00 - 11:00 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Understanding the Roots of Behavior

Challenging behaviors are often the result of unmet needs. Come hear about five causes of challenging behavior and then learn about the ten important social and emotional needs of children and what you can do to meet those needs. When needs are met through relationships, children will behave better and be ready to learn.

Instructor, Amy Stevens

*NEW (Virtual)Trainer Class- Writing Rich Learning Objectives
2024-09-17 18:30 - 20:00
Writing Rich Learning Objectives

As a trainer, do you struggle with writing clear and rich learning objectives? It can be confusing and sometimes difficult. Come learn a great strategy to strengthen your skills and walk away feeling confident in your process. This class is also a great opportunity to connect with other trainers in our state. @public

Instructor, Heidi DeVries

This class takes place as a live class on Zoom. Once you register for class you will be sent a link to register in Zoom.

Maximizing Learning Time
2024-09-12 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Maximizing Learning Time

When your classroom runs like a well-oiled machine, you canmaximize learning time for children. Learn practical strategies for designing your environment,teaching children your expectations, promoting smooth transitions, and preventing time-consuming behavior problems. This session supports Early Achievers by focusing on skillsmeasured by CLASS, but will provide useful information to all participants. @public

Instructor, Ollie Feldman

Advanced Trauma Informed Care, Module 1-4
2024-09-11 18:30 - 20:00
Advanced Trauma Informed Care

09/11/2024

09/25/2024

10/09/2024

10/23/2024

11/06/2024

11/20/2024

12/04/2024

12/18/2024

Are you looking for a deep-dive into the topic of trauma-informed care? Join us for this unique learning experience where you will closely examine what trauma-informed care looks like. Come explore the impact of relationships on neurobiology, learn about the prevalence of different types of trauma, and improve your ability to integrate trauma-informed practices with children, families, and staff. This course will also address self-care and allow you to reflect on how your own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors can support regulation and resilience for yourself and those you interact with. You will complete the series better prepared to provide individualized, responsive care for the children you serve. Our intention is to include time for you to learn, be heard, pause, and reflect in a respectful space that allows personal growth and inner wisdom to emerge. This class is a long-term commitment providing 2 year’s worth of MERIT credit. Space is limited so participants are asked to carefully consider their interest before registering. Participation requires about 15 hours total of homework, in addition to attendance at 8 live, online classes using Zoom. Full class attendance and homework completion provides 27 hours of credit in MERIT between September, 2024 and December, 2024. Here’s what a recent participant said about this course: “I just wanted to share that I was definitely not expecting when I signed up for this class how much I was going to learn about myself…and the ways trauma has impacted my life. It’s been such a gentle scaffolding with such useful tools. And I know the tools will work because I see them working in me and the way I treat myself.” *Please check that all dates will work for you as attendance is required to fully complete the class.

Instructor: Heidi DeVries

Class will take place on Zoom. Once you register a link will be sent to your email to register in Zoom.

Engaging Families
2024-09-10 18:30 - 20:30 | CCAC Griffin Lane, 3729 Griffin Lane SE, Olympia, WA, 98501, United States
Engaging Families

Sometimes communicating with families is more challenging than communicating with children. This is especially true when we are discussing sensitive topics that can be emotional for teachers and family members. Come explore when and what to communicate, and how to thoughtfully initiate discussions. Learn and practice a format for problem-solving with families in a way that builds relationships and supports children.

Instructor, Heidi DeVries

*New (Virtual) - Juego sensorial sensacional! (….Sensational Sensory Play!)
2024-08-27 18:30 - 20:30
Juego sensorial sensacional!

Los niños aprenden con los cinco sentidos. Aprender maneras de ofrecer actividades divertidas y centros de interés que apoyan el Desarrollo Sensorial y mantener el interés de los niños. También aprender sobre diferentes maneras que el proceso sensorial puede impactar a los niños y su entorno. Date/Fecha: El 27 de agosto, 2024, Time/Hora: 6:30 a 8:30 en la noche

Instructor, Natalie Chavez

Esta clase se llevará a cabo de 6:30 p.m. a 8:30 p.m. como una clase en vivo y en línea. Aquellos que se registren y paguen recibirán por correo electrónico un enlace para registrarse nuevamente en Zoom, nuestra plataforma en línea.

Mini Inspirations Institute - Children's Literature as a Tool for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (Port Angeles)
2024-08-24 14:00 - 16:00 | Country Acres Early Learning and Child Care, 261370 Highway 101, Port Angeles, Washington, 98362, United States
Children’s Literature as a Tool for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Are you unsure how to highlight diversity in your learning environment beyond baby dolls and posters on the walls? Children’s literature offers a unique opportunity to do just that! Children of all ages, from infants to school age, are drawn to stories that reflect their identities and experiences. Come learn what it means for the books in your environment to be a “mirror” for children and a “window” to the world, as well as how to discern what makes a high-quality book for children.

Instructor, Ollie Feldman

Mini Inspirations Institute - Understanding the Roots of Behavior (Port Angeles)
2024-08-24 11:00 - 13:00 | Country Acres Early Learning and Child Care, 261370 Highway 101, Port Angeles, Washington, 98362, United States
Understanding the Roots of Behavior

Challenging behaviors are often the result of unmet needs. Come hear about five causes of challenging behavior and then learn about the ten important social and emotional needs of children and what you can do to meet those needs. When needs are met through relationships, children will behave better and be ready to learn.

Instructor, Rose Tiller

Mini Inspirations Institute - Exploring Toddler Curriculum (Port Angeles)
2024-08-24 11:00 - 13:00 | Country Acres Early Learning and Child Care, 261370 Highway 101, Port Angeles, Washington, 98362, United States
Exploring Toddler Curriculum

This class is for caregivers of children ages 1 to 2-1/2. Is your toddler curriculum based on what parents ask for, on what you think toddlers need to know for kindergarten, or on what the teacher before you had planned? When curriculum is based on research, individual development, and culture, toddlers are more successful and teachers are happier. Come consider whether your curriculum is on the right track or could use a little fine-tuning!

Instructor, Ollie Feldman

Mini Inspirations Institute - Reflecting on Sensory Equity (Port Angeles)
2024-08-24 08:30 - 10:30 | Country Acres Early Learning and Child Care, 261370 Highway 101, Port Angeles, Washington, 98362, United States
Reflecting on Sensory Equity

Have you ever had a child fall apart over wet clothing or refuse to touch paint? If so, maybe you have quickly responded, “It’s ok – you will dry!” or “It’s only paint!” Because we have lots to manage, it can be easy to brush by these incidents while we focus on bigger priorities. Yet “sensory equity” is an important issue that impacts all of us, whether we realize it or not. Come explore your own sensory experiences and how we can equitably support the individual sensory needs of all children in childcare.

Instructor, Rose Tiller

Virtual- Trauma Aware Early Learning This is NOT Advanced Trauma Informed Care 27hr class! (Previously taught as Trauma-Informed Early Learning in 2020)
2024-08-17 09:00 - 12:00
Trauma Aware Early Learning

Do you want to learn more about Trauma and how it affects young children but do not have time for a 27 hour advanced training?? This class is right for you. This 3 hour class will give you a sense of what trauma is and how it affects brain development. It’s the little boy who bangs his head on the wall. It’s the 4-year-old girl who throws the chair in anger. It’s the 2-year-old who hits, bites, pushes, and falls down in a rapid melt-down. These could be the faces of traumatized children. This class will support early childhood educators in discovering why some children behave the way they do. In some cases, we may never know what happened to a child, but we can use what we see and the information we have to support the child with a focus on trauma. Let’s talk about tools and strategies that teachers can use to support traumatized children in the early learning classroom. This is an advanced class for those ready to reflect on the complex root sources of behavior, as they relate to trauma.

Instructor, Heidi DeVries

This class will take place from 9:00am to 12:00 pm as a live, online class. Those who register and pay will be emailed a link to register again with Zoom, our online platform.
