Early Childhood Conference featured national education consultant

Early childhood specialists and teachers gathered for the “Wonderfully Made” Early Childhood Conference that took place at Concordia University, Nebraska on June 17, 2015.

“Our annual Early Childhood Conference is a professional development opportunity for those who serve young children, ages birth through second grade,” said Annette Oliver, director of the conference and director of the early childhood education program at Concordia. “This year’s conference offered a rich experience to early childhood teachers who are passionate about the social, academic and spiritual development of our young children.”

Dan St. Romain, a national education consultant, delivered a keynote address titled “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” during the conference. St. Romain provided staff development and consultative services to educators K-12. He focuses on helping educators understand ways to support challenges in behavior in the classroom. He also regularly presents on topics impacting school climate, brain-based instruction, developmentally appropriate educational practices and presentation skills.

The conference also featured Angela Naeve, who has taught vocal music in both public and private schools. Naeve, who spoke at the luncheon, has been involved in camp ministry and traveling music ministry for more than 20 years. She writes and records original songs to communicate the Christian faith in engaging ways for children.

In addition to keynote speakers, the conference included a Scholastic Book Fair and two breakout sessions with a variety of topics, including faith development, social/emotional development, music, art, literacy and leadership.