The critical role of play in child development and the importance of caregiver self-care will be the focus of Mid-Hudson Leadership Day (MHVLD), an all-day event that will bring together child-care professionals and parents/guardians for an impactful day of learning and networking. The gathering, hosted by Family of Woodstock, Inc. and Ulster BOCES, will take place on Friday, November 8, from 8:00 AM to 3:30 PM at the Mountain View Mexican Restaurant, located at 423 Broadway Route 9W, Ulster Park. 

This special event will feature renowned keynote speaker Jeff Johnson, an early childhood expert, who will lead a session entitled Embracing Play. The day’s interactive presentations will delve into child-led play as well as strategies for creating nurturing, responsive, and emotionally supportive environments in play-based programs.

“Play is one of the most powerful tools we have to foster healthy development in children,” said Kerry Wolfeil, team leader of Child Care Services for Family of Woodstock, Inc. “Mid-Hudson Valley Leadership Day,” she explained, “is dedicated to helping caregivers and educators cultivate environments where play can flourish, while also recognizing the importance of their own well-being.”

“This year's agenda,” said Michelle Friedel, a New Visions Education instructor at the Ulster BOCES Career & Technical Education Center, “will focus on caregiver self-care, recognizing the vital role it plays in maintaining emotionally supportive environments for children.”  Friedel, who has a Master of Science in Early Childhood Education, continued, “When caregivers are stressed or burnt out, it’s difficult to provide the nurturing spaces that young learners need to thrive. In addition to self-care, we’ll dive deep into the importance of genuine play, exploring topics like heavy work, the eight sensory systems, schema play, and more. We’ll also cover the significance of risk-taking, rough and tumble play, weapons and superhero play, the importance of consent, and the role of loose parts in fostering creativity.” 

In addition to professional learning, participants will have the opportunity to network with fellow early childhood professionals and parents. Attendees will also enjoy two meals and gain access to valuable resources and exhibitors.

The registration fee for the event is $100, which includes 6.5 hours of professional development, meals, and networking opportunities. Financial assistance is available for those who need it. For more information, contact Kerry Wolfeil at kwolfeil@fowinc.org or call 845-331-7080, ext. 134. Please note that children are not permitted at the event.

To register, visit: https://bit.ly/3BEdtZJ