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Registration is open for Trying Together’s UnConference focusing on systemic challenges relating to access to early intervention services on March 8. Other topics will include the impacts of systemic racism, suspensions and expulsions, staffing shortages, and under-investments in early childhood education.

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UnConference: Navigating Early Intervention Partnerships will include expert-led sessions, keynote speeches, a light breakfast with coffee and tea, and a buffet lunch.

Opening remarks will provide an overview of early intervention projects and partnerships developed by Trying Together – including the expansion of the Rapid Response Team, development of the Early Intervention Toolkit, and Early Intervention Equity Analysis.

Participants will attend a large group workshop and panel in the morning. After lunch, they will attend three 30-minute mini workshops.

Keynotes and Workshops

The morning’s keynote presentation will be state Rep. La’Tasha Mayes’ (D-24) “Envisioning Change: The Power of Early Childhood Educator Voice in Early Intervention Advocacy.” During her speech, she will inspire participants to see themselves as having an active role in early intervention advocacy and policy change that leads to a more inclusive early education system.

The morning’s workshops include: 

• “Exploring the Impact of Systemic Challenges on Access to Early Intervention Services: A Collaborative Approach to Supporting Children in Early Childhood Settings,” led by Trying Together’s Emily Neff and Hailee B. Roye
• “Circle Time: Let’s Talk About EI,” a panel discussion featuring experts from Infant/Toddler Early Intervention, Preschool Early Intervention, Infant Early Childhood Mental Health, and Intensive Behavioral Health Services as well as a parent 

The afternoon’s mini workshops include: 

• “Pyramid Model and Prevention Tips for Challenging Behaviors” “Early Intervention Toolkit: Tools and Resources for Early Care and Education Programs” “Early Intervention 101” “Trauma-Informed Classrooms: Supporting Children with Early Childhood Trauma” “Breaking the Stigma: How to Have Difficult Conversations with Families and Young Children”
• “Creating Calm: Interactive Sensory Strategies for Early Childhood Classrooms” 
• “Closing Session: From Awareness to Advocacy Action” 

The UnConference will run from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, March 8 at the Kaufmann Center, located at 1825 Centre Avenue. Tickets cost $25. Space is limited. Registration is now open.

Those who attend the conference will receive PQAS and Act 48 credit hours. Any questions about the UnConference should be emailed to Ben Filio at ben@tryingtogether.org. 

For more information about the event and session details, visit the UnConference: Navigating Early Intervention Partnerships page on the Trying Together website.