What you can see at a NAEYC conference

If you haven’t been to a NAEYC conference before, then here are a few photos I took of my trip to the California National Association for the Education of Young Children conference so you can see a little bit about what it is like…

For me, one of the best parts of the conference is the exhibition hall…

There are all kinds of exhibitors that come from publishers and authors, musicians, and those selling toys, furniture, and art supplies. As I walk around, I put together quite the wish list of all the things I would love to have…

At many of the booths, you can make things or pick up free little samples like bags, pens, key-chains, high-lighters, and even art supplies! In years past, I used to load up on all of these goodies but this year I decided to keep it light so I didn’t have to carry around so many things 🙂

And then there are all the cute little groups that come in and supply some entertainment throughout each day on the Celebration stage…

Another highlight is all the people you get to meet or hook up with! I have been to quite a few of these annual conferences and each year, I like to make sure I “Say Hello” to some of my favorite singers like…

Greg and Steve

Charlotte Diamond

(by the way, if you click on each photo it will take you to their website!)

Mr. Scott the Music Man
Red Grammer
Heidi from Heidi Songs

Here they are putting on a little spur of the moment concert in the exhibition hall…

And then there are authors you can meet too like my sweet friends…

Karen Nemeth

and…

Debbie Clement

And when I am really lucky, I get invited to join a few author/friends for drinks and a chance to try and “solve the world problems” 🙂

Deborah J. Stewart, Karen Nemeth, Beth Alley Wise, and Judi Coffey

Of course, one of the main reasons for coming to any conference is so you can learn new ideas about early childhood education…

There is a session for just about every topic you can think of from teaching toddlers, developing strategies for positive discipline, fun science for preschoolers, messy art for preschoolers, simple songs for preschoolers…

…to how to become a published author and how to evaluate your preschool staff!  There are far more topics then that but the range of topics and the number of presenters will certainly keep you hopping from session to session to get it all in…

Next year the NAEYC conference will be in Orlando Florida and I plan to be there. And if all goes well, I plan to present again! So mark your calendar and hopefully, I will get to see you there too!

Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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