This past Saturday May 2, Skyline College’s Early Childhood Education Department, held the 7th annual Early Intervention Conference. This year’s theme was, “Music, Movement, and Young Children’s Brain Development.” Conference Coordinator and Skyline College faculty member Elaine Francisco brought together national and local professionals for keynotes and workshops. After opening remarks from Dean of Business Christine Roumbanis, and ECE/EDU Coordinator Kate Williams Browne, award winning children’s song writer Jim Gill was able to get the crowd of over 280 early childhood professionals and students up and moving. Dr. James Adams, Educational psychologist and Skyline College faculty member ended the conference by sharing his knowledge of the importance of play in the lives and cognitive development of young children.
Workshops were presented by author/consultant Todd Wanerman, parent and autism expert Joseph Coffin, certified Baniel practitioner Kinga Czegeni, and adaptive yoga teacher and Cabrillo College faculty member Sharon Took-Zozaya. Skyline College Early Childhood graduates Caroline Aristekessian and Zena Taresena shared their stories of continuing their education and careers in Early Childhood Special Education.
All conference attendees were given certificates for professional growth. As they sang & danced their way off-campus, they clearly gained practical skills to use in the important work they do with young children of varying abilities.
Article by Kristina Brower
