Trying Together

The Mindful Mindset
2020-07-20 12:00 (America/New_York)
Are you interested in learning how to incorporate mindful practices into your early learning classroom? Join Trying Together for our three-week, self-paced course, “The Mindful Mindset.”
About
Through this three-week online course, participants will learn about incorporating mindful practices into their early learning classrooms. Mindfulness has been shown to improve children’s attention spans, social skills, and emotional coping skills. It is also an imperative tool for educators to improve their practice by being more present and understanding with their learners. Even as we face the everyday onslaught of stimuli and emotion, we all possess the capacity for mindfulness.
All registrations must be submitted by Wednesday, July 15. Space is limited.
Course Details

Timeline: July 20 – August 10, 2020 (Three Weeks, Self-Guided)
Instructor: Sarah Byrne-Houser and Mimi Loughead
CKC: K6.4 C2
CDA Subject Area: Maintaining a commitment to professionalism.
Three PQAS and ACT 48 hours available.

Registration
To register and learn more, visit the course webpage.
Please note that participants will not have to attend the virtual course every day during the three-week period. Rather, participants can log on to the virtual course platform at any time during the three-week period to complete the session.
More Information
For more information, contact Community Engagement Assistant Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.

COVID-19 Supplies Distribution Event for Child Care Providers
2020-07-22 13:00 - 15:00 | Global Links, 700 Trumbull Drive, Pittsburgh, PA, 15205, United States
About
Trying Together, Global Links, and Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC) Region 5 are partnering to ensure that 650 licensed child care operators in Allegheny County are fully equipped with the protective and cleaning supplies they need to maintain a safe, clean, and healthy environment for children and employees.
All licensed child care providers in Allegheny County are eligible to receive cleaning supplies and safety equipment. Providers must have their tax identification (EIN) numbers read for staff at the distribution site.
What’s Included
Child care operators are invited to visit a distribution location to receive:

an infrared, no-touch thermometer;

gloves for diaper changes and cleaning;

hand sanitizer;

disinfectant;

reusable cloth masks;

reusable clear plastic face shield; and

one case of tissues.

Available Dates and Locations

Distribution at Global Links | Register
Wednesday, July 22 | 1 – 3 p.m.
700 Trumbull Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15205

Distribution at LaRoche University | Register
Thursday, July 23 | 1 – 3 p.m.
9000 Babcock Boulevard, Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Distribution at Edgewood Town Centre | Register
Friday, July 24 | 1 – 3 p.m.
1763 South Braddock Avenue, Swissvale, PA 15218

See a map of each distribution location.
Registration
To ensure enough supplies are available, please register for the date and location of your choice via the PPE Supply Pickup Form. Each provider must sign up separately. Providers with multiple locations should sign up for each program, specifying the program name on each form.
More Information
The purchase and distribution of supplies are made possible through the generous support of local foundations. For more information, call 412.350.3577 or visit elrc5.alleghenycounty.us.

Virtual Service Delivery Webinar Series
2020-07-22 14:00 - 15:00
To support family-facing providers in their online work with children and families, Brazelton Touchpoints Center is offering a series of free one-hour webinars and an online learning community that will explore how to manage the challenges posed by virtual service delivery and share strategies providers have found for building and sustaining strong relationships with families virtually.
About
In partnership with Parents as Teachers and the Rapid Response Virtual Home Visiting (RR-VHV) Collaborative, Brazelton Touchpoints Center will build on lessons learned from virtual home visiting, adapted for all family-facing providers.
All professionals who work with families of young children—including those who work in health care, early care and education, early intervention, child welfare, and family support—are encouraged to attend these webinars. Brazelton Touchpoints Center is pairing the webinars with an online learning community where webinar participants can engage with one another and BTC facilitators on topics and strategies discussed in the webinars.
Featured Webinars

Engaging Families Using a Strengths-Based Approach in the Virtual World
Wednesday, July 22 | 2 – 3 p.m. | Register

Partnering with Families Virtually
Wednesday, August 5 | 2 – 3 p.m. | Register

Providing Staff Support and Supervision Virtually
Wednesday, August 19 | 2 – 3 p.m. | Register

Developmental Screenings on Your Screen
Wednesday, September 2 | 2 – 3 p.m. | Register

Challenging Conversations with Families Virtually
Wednesday, September 16 | 2 – 3 p.m. | Register

Taking Care of Yourself as a Virtual Service Provider
Wednesday, September 30 | 2 – 3 p.m. | Register

Registration
To register and learn more, visit the Brazelton Touchpoints Center website. Participants can register for the entire series or for individual webinars.
More Information
For questions, email touchpoints@childrens.harvard.edu.

Connections and Conversations: Advocacy 101
2020-07-22 18:00 - 19:00
Are you interested in learning about the budget process and state government in Pennsylvania? Join Trying Together on July 22 at 6 p.m. for our online session, “Connections and Conversations: Advocacy 101.”
About
Connections and Conversations Virtual Check-Ins are interactive sessions that highlight topics of interest to the field of early childhood education. Participants will engage in virtual discussions via Zoom with child development experts while interacting with early learning practitioners to share questions, experiences, and expertise about the highlighted topic.
This session will highlight the budget process and state government in Pennsylvania. Participants will receive an overview of the Early Learning Pennsylvania (ELPA) campaigns, how early childhood education programs are impacted by the budget process, and ways professionals and families can use their experiences and knowledge to advocate. This session will also identify advocacy actions attendees can participate in or lead to advocate for early childhood.
Participants will receive the course Zoom link via email within 24 hours before the start date for the course. For questions, contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org or Sarah Grubb at sarah.elrc5@alleghenycounty.us.
Session Details

Session Date: Wednesday, July 22 | 6 – 7 p.m
Instructors: Emily Neff, Cristina Codario, and Lindsey Ramsey
CKC: K6.10 C1
CDA Subject Area: Maintaining a commitment to professionalism.
Registrations must be submitted by Monday, July 20. Space is limited.
Sessions will be offered biweekly and will offer one hour of PQAS credit. Act 48 credit will not be offered.

Registration
To register and learn more, visit the course webpage.
Session Rules and Guidelines
These virtual discussions are designed to provide educators the opportunity to grow professionally and share knowledge on early childhood topics. During the meeting, participants should follow the guidelines below to ensure a successful virtual meeting for all participants.

Please allow all participants a chance to speak. Listen respectfully and actively.
Commit to learning about each other, not to debating the topic.
Embrace differences of opinion as healthy and support each person’s authentic self-expression.
Participants will be muted for the beginning portion of the session.
Participants may use the “Raise Hand” feature in Zoom to request an opportunity to comment or ask a question. Individuals will be temporarily unmuted by the moderator.
Participants may type a comment or question in the Chat or may send comments or questions directly to the moderator for them to share.
To receive PQAS credit, you must complete an evaluation at the end of the session and include your PD Registry number.
Have fun, make connections, and engage in the conversations!

More Information
For questions or more information, please contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.

COVID-19 Supplies Distribution Event for Child Care Providers
2020-07-23 13:00 - 15:00 | LaRoche University, 9000 Babcock Boulevard, Pittsburgh, 15237

Examining the Complexity of Multiracial Identity
2020-07-23 20:30 - 21:30
Did you know that roughly one in seven infants in the United States is multiracial or multiethnic? Join EmbraceRace on July 23 for “Raising Multiracial Children, Part 1: Examining the Complexity of Multiracial Identity” as they explore what it means to be multiracial and how caregivers can support the positive development of their child’s multiracial identity.
About
During this first webinar of a two-part series on raising multiracial kids, presenters will break down some of the complexities of identifying with more than one race, including the pivotal role caregivers and families play in shaping how multiracial children come to understand themselves and the world around them.
Speakers will describe the challenges and strengths of identifying with more than one racial group, highlighting examples from recent research and drawing from their own personal experiences as multiracial individuals and parents of multiracial children. Comments and questions are welcome.
Registration
To register and learn more, visit the event webpage.

COVID-19 Supplies Distribution Event for Child Care Providers
2020-07-24 13:00 - 15:00 | Edgewood Town Centre, 1763 South Braddock Avenue, Swissvale, 15218

Culturally Responsive Parent Engagement
2020-07-28 15:00 - 16:15
Are you interested in learning how to create a more culturally and linguistically responsive early learning environment? Join the National Center on Parent, Family, and Community Engagement (NCPFCE) on July 28 for their webinar, “Culturally Responsive Parent Engagement.”
About
In this webinar, participants will explore tools, resources, and ideas they can use to create a more culturally and linguistically responsive environment. Join fellow educators to learn how it can help families engage in their child’s early learning and hear from programs that have successfully engaged families from diverse backgrounds as leaders and advocates.
This webinar is best suited for Head Start and Early Head Start directors, managers, family services staff, and parent leaders; T/TA providers; and early childhood leaders who support children and their families.
Registration
To register and learn more, visit the event webpage. Participants will receive a certificate of participation upon completion of the webinar.
More Information
For questions, contact NCPFCE at pfcewebinars@ecetta.info or 855.208.0909.

Dismantling Anti-Blackness in Multiracial Families
2020-07-28 20:30 - 21:30
Join EmbraceRace on July 28 for “Raising Multiracial Children, Part 2: Dismantling Anti-Blackness in Multiracial Families” as they explore how to actively reject white supremacy and anti-Blackness in multiracial families.
About
During the second webinar of this two-part series on anti-racist parenting and multiracial children, presenters will discuss anti-Blackness and how anti-Black messaging shows up in multiracial families (including non-Black families). Referencing recent examples from social media, presenters breakdown three common myths that perpetuate anti-Blackness within multiracial families and describe how these myths negatively impact the identity development of multiracial Black children specifically.
To conclude the series, presenters will offer tangible steps that parents and caregivers can take now to actively reject white supremacy and anti-Blackness and build resilience as a multiracial family. Questions and comments are welcome.
Registration
To register and learn more, visit the event webpage.

Wait, My Grief Has a Shape? | Webinar
2020-08-05 14:00 - 15:00
Join Highmark Caring Place on August 5 for their webinar, “Wait, My Grief Has a Shape? Understanding the Loss Experience for Our Children and Ourselves.”
About
Grief is often experienced not as a set of linear stages, but as a spiral where emotions come and go in intensity. In their webinar, Highmark Caring Place will discuss the spiral shape of grief and explain the differences in these spirals between adults and children. In understanding our grief experiences, and those of our children, we are better able to manage our own grief and support others in their grief journeys.
Learning Objectives
By attending, participants will be able to:

recognize the distinctions between various models of grief,
identify common grief responses, and
discuss the differences in grief between adults and children.

Registration
To register, visit the event webpage. Registrations must be submitted no later than Tuesday, August 4.
More Information
For questions, contact Patrick McKelvey at patrick.mckelvey@highmark.com.
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Connections and Conversations: The Power of Self-Compassion
2020-08-05 18:00 - 19:00
Are you interested in learning about the important role authentic relationships play in the early learning and development of young children? Join Trying Together on August 5 at 6 p.m. for our online session, “Connections and Conversations: The Power of Self-Compassion.”
About
Connections and Conversations Virtual Check-Ins are interactive sessions that highlight topics of interest to the field of early childhood education. Participants will engage in virtual discussions via Zoom with child development experts while interacting with early learning practitioners to share questions, experiences, and expertise about the highlighted topic.
This session will highlight how children benefit greatly from authentic relationships with the adults in their lives. It will explore how the critical messages we learned from our childhood affect our interactions and relationships with children in our care. We will utilize self-reflection as a tool to develop self-compassion to build our intentional use of compassion in early learning environments.
Participants will receive the course Zoom link via email within 24 hours before the start date for the course. For questions, contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org or Sarah Grubb at sarah.elrc5@alleghenycounty.us.
Session Details

Session Date: Wednesday, August 5 | 6 – 7 p.m
Instructors: Mimi Loughead
CKC: K6.4 C2
CDA Subject Area: Supporting children’s social and emotional development.
Registrations must be submitted by Monday, August 3. Space is limited.
Sessions will be offered biweekly and will offer one hour of PQAS credit. Act 48 credit will not be offered.

Registration
To register and learn more, visit the course webpage.
Session Rules and Guidelines
These virtual discussions are designed to provide educators the opportunity to grow professionally and share knowledge on early childhood topics. During the meeting, participants should follow the guidelines below to ensure a successful virtual meeting for all participants.

Please allow all participants a chance to speak. Listen respectfully and actively.
Commit to learning about each other, not to debating the topic.
Embrace differences of opinion as healthy and support each person’s authentic self-expression.
Participants will be muted for the beginning portion of the session.
Participants may use the “Raise Hand” feature in Zoom to request an opportunity to comment or ask a question. Individuals will be temporarily unmuted by the moderator.
Participants may type a comment or question in the Chat or may send comments or questions directly to the moderator for them to share.
To receive PQAS credit, you must complete an evaluation at the end of the session and include your PD Registry number.
Have fun, make connections, and engage in the conversations!

More Information
For questions or more information, please contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.

Virtual Community of Practice Meetings
2020-08-08 10:00 - 11:00
Are you interested in discussing topics of interest and current trends with fellow professionals in the early childhood field? Join ELRC Region 5 for their virtual Community of Practice sessions!
About
Community of Practice sessions provide early learning professionals with opportunities to discuss topics of interest, current trends in the early childhood field, and offer insight and inspiration to their fellow professionals.
In August, these virtual sessions will provide an overview of using the Pennsylvania Professional Development (PD) Registry. Participants will learn how to use the PD Registry as a tool to organize staff and will receive support and clear instruction on renewal requirements for the Keystone STARS program.
Available Sessions

Saturday, August 8
10 a.m. | Zoom Meetings | Register

Thursday, August 20
10 a.m. | Zoom Meetings | Register
1 p.m. | Zoom Meetings | Register

More Information
Information about the meetings will be sent to participants following registration. For questions, contact ELRC Region 5 at elrc5@alleghenycounty.us or 412.350.3577.
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Virtual Job Fair (Child Care)
2020-08-08 10:00 - 12:00
Are you interested in making a difference in the lives of young children? Join the Homewood Child Care Alliance on August 8 and August 11 for their Virtual Job Fair!
About
The Homewood Child Care Alliance (HCCA) includes individual child care programs (family, group, and center). Many of the programs, located in Homewood and its surrounding areas, are seeking applicants for early care and education positions that work Monday through Friday in various shifts between the hours of 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Registration
Interviews are open on Saturday, August 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and Tuesday, August 11 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Schedule your interview by registering today! All registrations must be submitted by August 5 at 9 a.m.
More Information
For more information or for assistance, please call 724.333.5213.
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IEPs and the 2020-21 School Year: What Families Need to Know
2020-08-11 12:00 - 13:30
Are you the parent or caregiver of a student with an IEP? Join the PEAL Center on August 11 for the webinar, “Students with IEPs and the 2020-21 School Year: What Families Need to Know.”
About
On August 11, Carole Clancy, Director of the Bureau of Special Education at the Pennsylvania Department of Education, will join the PEAL Center for a live presentation to offer an overview of guidance being provided to schools regarding students with IEPs. Director Clancy will discuss the following:

COVID-19 compensatory services;
instructional days and hours;
the use of masks at schools; and
COVID-19’s impact on evaluation, re-evaluation, and delayed eligibility determinations.

Participants are encouraged to submit any questions they may have for the presenter in advance by completing this online form. Questions must be submitted no later than August 3, 2020.
Registration
This live event will be available on the PEAL Center Facebook page and will be recorded for those unable to attend. A webinar recording will be available on the Facebook event page after the session ends.
Training will be delivered in English, with Spanish and American Sign Language (ASL) translation available. Captioning in other languages is available if participants download the Microsoft Translator app.
More Information
For questions or more information, contact info@pealcenter.org or 1.866.950.1040.
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Antiracist Dialogues for Action: Antiracist Out-of-School Time Programs
2020-08-12 17:00 - 18:30
Are you interested in learning, sharing knowledge, and working together with fellow changemakers to dismantle racism and injustice? Join ELIE Circle on August 12 for “Antiracist Dialogues for Action: Antiracist Out-of-School Time Programs.”
About
On August 12, ELIE Circle will hold the second virtual meeting of the Antiracist Dialogues for Action – convenings for out-of-school time educators (e.g., afterschool staff, librarians, teaching artists, researchers) to learn, share knowledge, and work together to dismantle racism and injustice.
The dialogues consist of the following:

a 30-minute presentation providing context, research, and historical perspectives on main dialogue topics;

a 45-minute small group dialogue on a related subtopic for participants to a) share collective knowledge and b) work with other educators to determine goals and next steps; and

a 15-minute closing and larger group share out.

All dialogues are designed for educators which includes those that are working directly with young people in any capacity and those at out-of-school-time organizations without direct contact. These dialogues are categorized in two categories: Educators and Youth Work.
Registration
To register and learn more, visit the event webpage.

Child Care Virtual Conference
2020-08-18 17:45 - 21:30
Join Child Care Lounge and other early learning professionals on August 18 for the Child Care Virtual Conference!
About
The Child Care Virtual Conference will feature over 15 live sessions. Registration includes access to three live Zoom sessions and one month of free access to all recorded sessions. Certificates will be issued for each class that had documented attendance.
Featured Topics
Presenters will explore a variety of child care topics, including, but not limited to, the following:

preventing teacher burnout,

supporting young children who display challenging behaviors,

establishing a DAP classroom through virtual learning,

fostering social skills while maintaining social distancing,

thriving in a responsive classroom, and

strategies to surviving a recession.

To see an overview of each session, visit the PD Registry website.
Registration
To register and learn more, visit the Child Care Lounge website. After you register, you will receive a link to the Conference portal as well as a passcode for entry.
More Information
For questions, contact Joni Levine at 412.885.5172 or joni@childcarelounge.com.
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Magda Gerber’s Philosophy of Care for Infants & Toddlers
2020-08-19 18:00 - 19:00
Are you interested in learning how to create a safe, challenging, predictable environment for young children in your care? Join Trying Together on August 19 for our interactive session, “Magda Gerber’s Philosophy of Care for Infants & Toddlers.”
About
Connections and Conversations Virtual Check-Ins are interactive sessions that highlight topics of interest to the field of early childhood education. Participants will engage in virtual discussions via Zoom with child development experts while interacting with early learning practitioners to share questions, experiences, and expertise about the highlighted topic.
In this session, participants will explore the core principles of Magda Gerber’s RIE philosophical approach to educaring for infants and toddlers in the early childhood setting. The basis of the RIE approach is respecting and trusting the individual child’s authentic self. Participants will have an opportunity to engage in conversations around developmentally appropriate practice for infants and toddlers while reflecting on how to best create a safe, challenging, predictable environment for all children.
Participants will receive the course Zoom link via email within 24 hours before the start date for the course. For questions, contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.
Session Details

Session Date: Wednesday, August 19 | 6 – 7 p.m

Instructor: Katie Gullone

CKC: K1.7 C2

Registrations must be submitted by Monday, August 17. Space is limited.

Sessions will be offered biweekly and will offer one hour of PQAS credit. Act 48 credit will not be offered.

Learning Objectives

Reflect on the RIE principles and philosophical approach when caring for infants and toddlers.

Discuss and analyze strategies that best support developmentally appropriate practice for infants and toddlers in the early childhood classroom setting.

Registration
To register for this session, complete our online registration form.
Session Rules and Guidelines
These virtual discussions are designed to provide educators the opportunity to grow professionally and share knowledge on early childhood topics. During the meeting, participants should follow the guidelines below to ensure a successful virtual meeting for all participants.

Please allow all participants a chance to speak. Listen respectfully and actively.

Commit to learning about each other, not to debating the topic.

Embrace differences of opinion as healthy and support each person’s authentic self-expression.

Participants will be muted for the beginning portion of the session.

Participants may use the “Raise Hand” feature in Zoom to request an opportunity to comment or ask a question. Individuals will be temporarily unmuted by the moderator.

Participants may type a comment or question in the Chat or may send comments or questions directly to the moderator for them to share.

To receive PQAS credit, you must complete an evaluation at the end of the session and include your PD Registry number.

Have fun, make connections, and engage in the conversations!

More Information
For questions or more information, please contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.

Virtual Back to Out-of-School-Time Conference
2020-08-24 10:00 - 11:30
Join Allegheny Partners for Out-of-School-Time (APOST) from August 24–September 10, 2020 for their Virtual Back to Out-of-School-Time Conference!
About
Over a period of three weeks, the Virtual Back to Out-of-School-Time Conference will offer relevant workshops to assist professionals in continuing to provide high-quality programming for youth during this challenging time. This Conference is open to any youth practitioner who desires to increase their skills in working with youth in out-of-school-time programs or mentoring relationships.
If there is a workshop that you would like to attend but are not able to due to schedule conflicts, recordings and resources for all workshop offerings will be available for at least one month after all of the workshops have concluded.
Available Workshops

A Summer in Review: Conducting In-Person Programming in the Foreseeable Future
Monday, August 24 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Wellness for Black Young People in a Racist Society during COVID-19
Tuesday, August 25 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

How to Handle Your Workforce Post COVID-19? – Organizational Skill Gaps with Leaner Staffing
Wednesday, August 26 | 10:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Outdoor STEM in an Online Classroom
Thursday, August 27 | 2 – 3:30 p.m.

Keeping Kids Entertained and Learning During COVID-19 and Beyond
Friday, August 28 | 1 – 2 p.m.

Engaging Your Students with Project-Based Learning Online
Monday, August 31 | 1 – 2:30 p.m.

What You Need to Know about the Current Pandemic
Tuesday, September 1 | 1 – 2 p.m.

Lessons Learned: OST in the Virtual Space and Zoom into Hands-On Learning
Wednesday, September 2 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Increasing Program Enrollment by Advertising on the Allegheny County Child Care Finder
Thursday, September 3 | 1 – 2 p.m.

Deep and Simple Interactions in OST Virtual Programming and Yes, And’ing a Virtually New Normal
Tuesday, September 8 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

PBS 101 Middle School Track
Wednesday, September 9 | 1 – 2 p.m.

Making Academic Content Exciting with Narrative Games
Thursday, September 10 | 10 – 11:30 a.m.

Registration
To view all workshop descriptions and register, visit the full Conference Agenda. Registration links will be included at the bottom of each event description.
More Information
For questions, contact Jaron Paul via email at jaron.paul@unitedwayswpa.org.

Building a Pipeline for African American Students in Technology
2020-08-25 14:00 - 15:30
Join the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for African Americans (WHIEEAA) on August 25 for their webinar, “Building a Pipeline for African American Students in Technology.”
About
WHIEEAA established the African American Education (AfAmEd) Connector Roundtable Series in June 2020 to address gaps and opportunities for African Americans students and families, and to highlight programs, policies, and practices that accelerate the learning and development of Black students of all ages.
This discussion, moderated by newly appointed Executive Director Terris Todd, will enable participants to have access to information, resources, best and promising practices from ED, other federal agencies, and the field. WHIEEAA will highlight ways to successfully engage and systematically support Black students through access to technology and exposure to career opportunities.
Registration
To register, visit the event webpage.
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Why Care about Child Care?
2020-08-26 19:00 - 20:00
Are you a parent who needs child care? Are you interested in learning how to get help paying for child care? Are you worried about your child’s kindergarten readiness? Join the Pennsylvania Child Care Association on August 26 to explore these topics and more in their webinar, “Why Care about Child Care?”
Register
This webinar will act as an introduction for parents and other caregivers (grandparents, guardians, foster families, etc.) to the child care landscape in Pennsylvania. To register, visit the event webpage.
Submit A Question
You may ask questions in advance (anonymously if you prefer) by emailing shawn.towey@pacca.org, or you can enter them in the chatbox during the session.
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CDA Credential Course: Registration Deadline
2020-08-31 17:00
Important Note: This course is full. If you are an early learning professional in the North Side of Pittsburgh, please register for our other CDA course that will run from September 14, 2020 – May 31, 2021.
About
Are you an early educator who is working with young children? Are you looking to take the first step in advancing your career? Join your peers and Trying Together for this nine-month online CDA course where you will:

focus on Competency Standards and Best Practices that support healthy early development in young children;
complete online coursework;
receive support from an experienced instructor; and
receive a nationally recognized credential upon completion.

Session Details

Course Timeline: September 8, 2020 – May 31, 2021
Delivery: Online (Schoology and Zoom)
Course Instructor: Theresa Hetler
CDA Orientation Date: August 31, 2020
Registration closes on August 31, 2020. Space is limited.

Registration
This course is currently full. To stay up-to-date on available courses, sign up to receive the Trying Together newsletter and/or follow Trying Together on Facebook and Twitter.
Please note that this listing is not a one-day, in-person event. This online course runs from September 8, 2020 to May 31, 2020. More information will be provided after registration.
More Information
For questions or more information, please contact Theresa Hetler at theresa@tryingtogether.org.
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From Mourning to Meaning-Making
2020-09-02 14:00 - 15:00
Join Highmark Caring Place on September 2 for their webinar, “From Mourning to Meaning-Making: How to Meet the Needs of Grieving Families.”
About
This webinar will discuss the ways in which grief and mourning are both unique and universal. Presenters will look at Alan Wolfelt’s six “reconciliation needs” and discuss the ways mourners can recognize and address these basic grief needs in order to find hope and healing.
This is a free webinar. When registered, you will receive a Zoom link the evening before the webinar. No Continuing Education Units (CEUs) will be provided. Presentation materials can be provided upon request.
Learning Objectives
By attending, participants will be able to:

explore both the personal and the communal elements of grief,
understand Alan Wolfelt’s “reconciliation needs” model of mourning,” and
discuss creative and helpful ways of addressing the needs of mourning.

Registration
To register, visit the event webpage. Registrations must be submitted no later than September 1 at 6 p.m.
More Information
For questions, contact Patrick McKelvey at patrick.mckelvey@highmark.com.
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CDA Credential Course (North Side): Registration Deadline
2020-09-02 17:00
About
Are you an early educator in the North Side of Pittsburgh who is working with young children? Are you looking to take the first step in advancing your career? Join your peers and Trying Together for this nine-month online CDA course where you will:

focus on Competency Standards and Best Practices that support healthy early development in young children;
complete online coursework;
receive support from an experienced instructor; and
receive a nationally recognized credential upon completion.

Session Details

Course Timeline: September 14, 2020 – May 31, 2021
Delivery: Online (Schoology and Zoom)
Course Instructor: Theresa Hetler
CDA Orientation Date: September 2, 2020
Registration closes on September 2, 2020. Space is limited.

Registration
To register, complete our online form.
Please note that this listing is not a one-day, in-person event. This online course runs from September 14, 2020 to May 31, 2020. More information will be provided after registration.
More Information
For questions or more information, please contact Theresa Hetler at theresa@tryingtogether.org.
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Supporting Children's Emotional Wellness with Digital Technologies
2020-09-02 18:00 - 19:00
More than ever before, early childhood practitioners play a critical role in supporting children’s social and emotional wellness. When used intentionally, digital technologies can serve as tools to help children navigate emotions and express thoughts and feelings. Join Trying Together on September 2 for a conversation on promoting children’s communication skills and emotional development through the use of technology and media. Participants will engage in discussion and reflection on their current practice and the impact of COVID-19.
About
Connections and Conversations Virtual Check-Ins are interactive sessions that highlight topics of interest to the field of early childhood education. Participants will engage in virtual discussions via Zoom with child development experts while interacting with early learning practitioners to share questions, experiences, and expertise about the highlighted topic.
Participants will receive the course Zoom link via email within 24 hours before the start date for the course. For questions, contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.
Session Details

Session Date: Wednesday, September 2 | 6 – 7 p.m.

Instructor: Katie Gullone

CKC: K1.4 C2

Registrations must be submitted by Monday, August 31. Space is limited.

Sessions will be offered biweekly and will offer one hour of PQAS credit. Act 48 credit will not be offered.

Learning Objectives

Identify strategies to address children’s social and emotional development through the use of technology and media.

Reflect on current practice and the role of technology tools in early childhood environments.

Registration
To register for this session, complete our online registration form.
Session Rules and Guidelines
These virtual discussions are designed to provide educators the opportunity to grow professionally and share knowledge on early childhood topics. During the meeting, participants should follow the guidelines below to ensure a successful virtual meeting for all participants.

Please allow all participants a chance to speak. Listen respectfully and actively.

Commit to learning about each other, not to debating the topic.

Embrace differences of opinion as healthy and support each person’s authentic self-expression.

Participants will be muted for the beginning portion of the session.

Participants may use the “Raise Hand” feature in Zoom to request an opportunity to comment or ask a question. Individuals will be temporarily unmuted by the moderator.

Participants may type a comment or question in the Chat or may send comments or questions directly to the moderator for them to share.

To receive PQAS credit, you must complete an evaluation at the end of the session and include your PD Registry number.

Have fun, make connections, and engage in the conversations!

More Information
For questions or more information, please contact Rosie Hogan at rosie@tryingtogether.org.

Helping Parents & Caregivers Navigate a School Year Like No Other
2020-09-02 19:00 - 19:30
Are you interested in hearing from the country’s leading experts about topics such as social-emotional wellness, mental health, learning resources, tech safety, and more? Join Remake Learning and other presenting organizations for the “So Now What?” virtual series!
About
The series will bring the country’s leading experts in education and childhood development, including PBS Kids, Common Sense Media, Learning Heroes, and UPMC Children’s Hospital, together with parents and caregivers to share and learn from one another. Presenters will cover a range of topics specific to this moment in time, including:

social-emotional wellness,
mental health,
learning resources,
communication,
tech safety,
and much more.

Available Sessions
The series includes the following sessions:

COVID-19 and Kids Health: An Evidence-Based Practical Guide & FAQ
Wednesday, September 2 from 7 – 7:30 p.m.

Supporting Young Children’s Social and Emotional Wellness as We Return to School
Wednesday, September 9 from 7 – 7:30 p.m.

Tweens, Teens, and Mental Health
Wednesday, September 9 from 8 – 8:30 p.m.

Ready to Partner: 5 Steps for a Different Kind of School Year for Families and Schools
Wednesday, September 16 from 7 – 7:30 p.m.

How to be Safe Online and Balance Tech Usage in a World of Virtual Learning
Wednesday, September 23 from 7 – 7:30 p.m.

Learning Resources for Families
Wednesday, September 30 from 7 – 7:30 p.m.

Registration
To register, complete the online registration form.
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Facts about COVID-19 and Quality Child Care
2020-09-02 19:00 - 20:00
Are you looking to access child care services during the COVID-19 health crisis? Join the Pennsylvania Child Care Association on September 2 for their webinar, “Facts about COVID-19 and High-Quality Child Care.”
About
Child care is highly regulated in Pennsylvania and the Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) has responded to COVID-19 with updated regulations and guidelines to keep children and providers safe. However, some of these are suggestions, not requirements; some clash with best practices for child development; and some are difficult to implement with very young children.
In this webinar, participants will learn about the pros and cons of different child care settings, what to expect from child care providers, and which questions to ask if you’re still searching for one that’s right for you and your child. The session will feature Susan Coffin, MD, MPH, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s leading expert of COVID-19 and a great resource in creating CHOP’s FAQ for centers and families; a parent; and child care providers from both center-based and home-based settings.
Register
This webinar is best suited for parents and caretakers of children birth to age five. To register, visit the event webpage.
Submit A Question
You may ask questions in advance (anonymously if you prefer) by emailing shawn.towey@pacca.org, or you can enter them in the chatbox during the session.
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COVID-19’s Impact on Early Childhood and ACEs
2020-09-10 13:00 - 14:00
Are you interested in hearing guidance from experts on early childhood development, adverse childhood experiences, and the impact of COVID-19 on children? Join the NIHCM Foundation on September 10 for their webinar, “Protecting Our Children: COVID-19’s Impact on Early Childhood and ACEs.”
About
Although most children are not at high risk for contracting COVID-19, the pandemic has disrupted their lives and exacerbated challenges to children’s health and well-being. This webinar will convene experts to provide information and guidance on early childhood development, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the impact of COVID-19 on children.
Speakers will discuss the following topics:

the importance of early childhood experiences in lifelong health and how adversity affects both the developing brain and other physiological systems;

what ACEs initiatives are doing to respond to COVID-19 and the opportunities and challenges the pandemic has produced for professionals in the field; and

lessons from a health plan’s investment in programming that addresses ACEs, including education on ACEs for teachers, policymakers, and health care professionals.

Registration
To learn more and register, visit the event webpage.

Virtual Community of Practice Meetings
2020-09-12 10:00 - 11:00
Are you interested in discussing topics of interest and current trends with fellow professionals in the early childhood field? Join ELRC Region 5 for their virtual Community of Practice sessions!
About
Community of Practice sessions provide early learning professionals with opportunities to discuss topics of interest, current trends in the early childhood field, and offer insight and inspiration to their fellow professionals.
In September, these virtual sessions will discuss the most current school-age care updates, information, trends, resources, and professional development opportunities. Participants will connect with out-of-school-time partners and professionals, and they will receive support as new or existing school-age care programs. The session will also focus on supporting virtual learning, daily schedules, and keeping the children engaged.
Available Sessions

Saturday, September 12: School-Age Care Updates
10 a.m. | Zoom Meetings | Attend the Session

Thursday, September 17: School-Age Care Updates
10 a.m. | Zoom Meetings | Attend the Session
1 p.m. | Zoom Meetings | Attend the Session

More Information
For questions, contact ELRC Region 5 at elrc5@alleghenycounty.us or 412.350.3577.
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Together Toward Transformation: Roundtable Series
2020-09-12 13:30 - 15:30
Are you interested in discussing opportunities to build a child care system that actually works for children, families, child care providers, and employers? Join Child Care Aware of America this September for “Together Toward Transformation: A CCAoA Roundtable Series.”
Available Sessions

Parents & Families
Saturday, September 12, 2020 | 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Register

Employers*
Thursday, September 17, 2020 | 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. | Request to Attend

Child Care Providers
Saturday, September 26, 2020 | 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. | Request to Attend

*The Employers session is intended for local businesses, corporations, or any non-child care business that has been impacted by their employees’ child care challenges and are interested in improving the child care system.
Registration
Seating is limited. To register and learn more, visit the Child Care Aware website.
More Information
For questions, contact Marlana Kelly at events@usa.childcareaware.org or 703.341.4115.

Virtual UnConference: Caring in a "New Normal"
2020-09-14 10:00 - 11:30
Join Trying Together from September 14–23, 2020 for our second free Virtual UnConference: Caring in a ‘New Normal’. PQAS and Act 48 credit hours will be available. Registration is required.
About
Virtual UnConference: Caring in a ‘New Normal’ will feature a panel discussion and three workshops on topics including finance, interacting with young children, and social-emotional health during the COVID-19 health crisis. This UnConference will build on guidance shared during our first Virtual UnConference: Re-Opening to Our ‘New Normal’. To watch a recording, visit our UnConference page.
Featured Workshops

Positive Interactions During the Pandemic
Monday, September 14, 2020 | 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | Register
In this workshop, Sarah Grubb from ELRC Region 5 will walk early childhood educators through the essential elements of positive interaction, the educator’s role in co-regulation, and strategies for supporting children best through positive, day-to-day interactions.

A Conversation on How to Support the Social/Emotional Needs of Children
Thursday, September 17, 2020 | 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. | Register
Join Diana Schwab for a conversation and Q&A focused on the social and emotional needs of children. In this workshop, participants will discuss early childhood social and emotional development with a particular focus on how children communicate social and emotional needs through behavior. This workshop will also discuss how to focus a child’s behaviors as a communication of developmental strengths and vulnerabilities, as well as mental health needs.
Building a Foundation for Your Organization’s Financial Wellness
Monday, September 21, 2020 | 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Register
This workshop will discuss the importance of building a business plan and budget as the foundation of your organization’s financial wellness, especially during this time of changing external forces due to COVID-19. Presenter Chris Pentrack of Supporting Strategies will suggest beginner tools and methods to build these items, as well as resources for additional assistance. Presenters will discuss topics such as profit and loss statements, balance sheets, monitoring, and forecasting cash for the organization.

Providing Safe and Healthy Care in Child Care Now and Beyond the Pandemic
Wednesday, September 23, 2020 | 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. | Register
This workshop will feature a panel of directors who will discuss the measurements currently being followed to prevent the spread of illness in their individual child care programs. A portion of the conversation will include health and wellness tips that can help support your staff and teachers during these challenging times. The discussion will conclude by identifying which health and safety practices will most likely be permanently incorporated into everyday practice moving forward beyond COVID-19.

Registration
Registration for this UnConference is being completed on the PD Registry. If you do not have a PD Registry account, please complete this online form to create one. If you are unable to create an account, please contact Jasmine Davis at jasmine@tryingtogether.org for more information.
Click the links below to register for each workshop you are interested in. Registration is required.

Positive Interactions During the Pandemic
Monday, September 14, 2020 | 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

A Conversation on How to Support the Social/Emotional Needs of Children
Thursday, September 17, 2020 | 10:00 – 11:30 a.m.

Building a Foundation for Your Organization’s Financial Wellness
Monday, September 21, 2020 | 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.

Providing Safe and Healthy Care in Child Care Now and Beyond the Pandemic
Wednesday, September 23, 2020 | 1:30 – 3:00 p.m.

More Information
For questions, contact UnConference Director Yu-Ling Cheng at conference@tryingtogether.org.
