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Wednesday, May 20
 

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Engaging Families and Community Members While Centering Children's Humanity and Rightful Presence in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) Implementation in Early Learning Settings
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Redbud
Feedback Survey
As families seeking early intervention support become increasingly diverse, so must our commitment to designing learning environments and supports where each child's and family's unique qualities  ,are acknowledged, valued, and supported.  ,Multi-tiered System of Supports (MTSS) offers a framework for meeting families and students' diverse needs and assets but MTSS fulfills its promise only when implemented in ways that affirm families' and students' full humanity and their rightful presence in all learning and community spaces.
Speakers
avatar for Seena Skelton

Seena Skelton

Founder/ Principal Consultant, Makeeba Consulting, LLC
Dr. Seena M. Skelton is a nationally recognized leader in educational justice, inclusion, and systemic school transformation, with over 28 years of experience. She serves as the Leadership Development and Research Project Director for SWIFT Education Center at the Life Span Institute... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Redbud
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Every Child, Every Classroom: Navigating the Path to Early Childhood Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Moutain Laurel
Feedback Survey
Are you working to create a classroom or program that demonstrates belonging? Are you hoping to find strategies to build collaborative, supportive relationships with families, specialists, and community partners? Then this workshop is for you! Join us for an interactive workshop that bridges the gap between research and reality, with practical applications of inclusive practices in early childhood education. Explore indicators of high quality inclusion that can be used to assess your classroom, program or community and discover strategies for sustainable implementation. Learn about an Illinois school district that moved from segregated to inclusive settings and is continuing to expand into the wider community. Bring your questions and ideas – leave with a plan!
Speakers
avatar for Jani Kozlowski

Jani Kozlowski

Technical Assistance Specialist, UNC-FPG
Jani Kozlowski, MA is a passionate early childhood professional, author, and speaker focused on supporting children and their families during the most critical period of development. She currently leads initiatives focused on early childhood inclusion and personnel development at... Read More →
avatar for Melissa McCullough

Melissa McCullough

Principal, East Moline School District
Melissa McCullough is a dynamic leader and social work professional with over 20 years of experience in public education and mental health, holding a Master of Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) and a Master of Social Work (MSW). They serve as a Principal for East Moline, Illinois School... Read More →
Every Child, Every Classroom Resource List pdf
could do should do activity pdf
everychildeveryclassroomslidesmay2026 pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Moutain Laurel
  Concurrent, Community and local level

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) The Bridge to Belonging: Building True Partnerships in Our Child's Early Years
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Bellflower
Feedback Survey
You are your child’s first teacher and their strongest advocate. This workshop is designed for families to explore how we can work together to ensure your child doesn't just attend school, but truly belongs. Explore the definition of inclusion, what it looks like for families, and how to work hand in hand with educators and providers. Walk away with key information to make confident decisions and to advocate for your child.
 ,
Speakers
avatar for Kathleen Gibson

Kathleen Gibson

Early Childhood Specialist, Parent Educational Advocacy Training Center
As PEATC's Early Childhood Specialist, Kathleen Gibson helps empower families of young children with disabilities across Virginia with the knowledge and tools to be successful advocates. With over ten years of experience in disability and special education, she emphasizes the importance... Read More →
avatar for Erin Reisdorf

Erin Reisdorf

Education and Community engagement coordinator, Parent Network of WNY
Erin is a dedicated professional at Parent Network of WNY, where she has spent the last five years empowering families to navigate complex systems. As a parent of two boys—one with Level 2 Autism and severe ADHD, and one with ADHD—she blends her professional expertise with deep personal experience. Erin is driven by a passion for adv... Read More →
2026 05 Inclusion Institute Presentation Bridge to Belonging pdf
All About Me Handout pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Bellflower
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) WE CAN AND WE MUST: Practical Strategies Advancing Inclusion and Belonging for Every Child
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Windflower
Feedback Survey
This session will highlight key strategies to advance meaningful inclusion and belonging and is designed for educators, educational leaders, and family partners across states, communities, and programs. Building inclusive communities requires intentional collaboration, both horizontally across programs and vertically within each program’s administrative structure, each tailored to the unique context of the state, community, and program. Participants will explore core principles, mindsets, and evidence-informed practices that strengthen inclusive opportunities for every child. The session will feature successful policies, guidance, and actionable strategies that can be implemented at multiple levels of the system and across programs. Corresponding tools and resources will be shared to support sustained implementation and cross-role partnership.
Speakers
avatar for Ruth Gallucci

Ruth Gallucci

State ECSE AG Liaison, NASDSE
Ruth Gallucci serves as the National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) State Early Childhood Special Education & IDEA Data Manager Affinity Group Liaison, as well as a Technical Assistance Consultant for the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA) and the Center... Read More →
avatar for Debbie Cate

Debbie Cate

TA Specialist, ECTA/DaSy
Debbie Cate is a technical assistance (TA) specialist with the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute (FPG) at the University of North Carolina (UNC). Her work within the Trohanis Technical Assistance Projects is with the Early Childhood TA Center (ECTA) and the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy) Center. Her current work supports states in their provision of early childhood special education services in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), for children ages birth through... Read More →
We Can and We Must Practical Strategies pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Windflower
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) A Least Restricted Environment (LRE) Toolkit for Families of Young Children
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Bellflower
Feedback Survey
Join us to learn how we created a toolkit for families that is designed for families by families to help them advocate for inclusion from the start. The toolkit is designed to support families in navigating inclusion in the early childhood system. Each resource is accompanied with links and guidance to help families and providers understand and use the tools effectively. We will share our strategies for marketing the toolkit and engaging stakeholders in sharing the toolkit across our state.
Speakers
avatar for Ann Kremer

Ann Kremer

Director, Early CHOICES
Ann Kremer is the Project Director for Early CHOICES a preschool inclusion initiative of the Illinois State Board of Education. The mission of Early CHOICES is to increase high quality inclusive opportunities for young children. Ann has a masters of education in early childhood education... Read More →
avatar for Tareema Jean-Baptiste

Tareema Jean-Baptiste

Early Childhood Special Education Family Professional Development Resource Specialist, STAR NET Region V
Tareema Jean-Baptiste is the Early Childhood Special Education Family Professional Development Resource Specialist for Star Net Region V (City of Chicago). A dedicated expert in special education and family advocacy, Tareema brings both professional depth and personal passion to her work.As a fierce advoc... Read More →
IECISI NC 2026 handout pdf
ECLRE Family Toolkit Resource Guide 23 pdf
Final v.2 ENTORNO MENOS RESTRICTIVO GUI A DE RECURSOS FAMILIARES pdf
FINAL Chinese Translation Family Resource Guide pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Bellflower
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Building Belonging for Infants and Toddlers: Strategies for Inclusive Child Care Experiences
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Dogwood
Feedback Survey
Families of infants and toddlers regularly seek out child care for their children--however for children with disabilities finding care that not only provides access for their families but a true sense of belonging remains challenging. This session will provide research, resources, and strategies for supporting inclusive child care systems for infants and toddlers with disabilities and developmental delays. We will focus on state and program-level barriers and opportunities for Part C early intervention and child care systems to work together to create meaningful and inclusive experiences for families. Participants will leave with reflection tools to bring back home to impact infants and toddlers in their states and communities.
Speakers
avatar for Jenna Weglarz-Ward

Jenna Weglarz-Ward

Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Dr. Weglarz-Ward is an associate professor across early childhood and special education programs at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Her work centers around supporting inclusive experiences for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families--with a focus on family partnership... Read More →
IT Inclusion in Childcare Inclusion Institute 2026 pdf
ADDITIONAL IT Inclusion in Childcare Inclusion Institute 2026 pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Dogwood
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Pediatrics and Child Welfare: Partnering to Support Families Experiencing Heightened Adversities
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Moutain Laurel
Feedback Survey
We know that infants and toddlers thrive when surrounded by responsive and caring adults. We also know that families with young children often experience high levels of stress, particularly when they are involved with Child Welfare Systems.  This session will provide an overview of an innovative collaboration designed to support families navigating this experience in Arkansas. HealthySteps and Safe Babies Programs are working together to support pathways to improve access to quality medical homes for children and families who are experiencing heightened adversities and/or involvement with the Child Welfare System with the goal of increasing relationships beyond the pediatric community and continuity for children in foster care with established medical homes. HealthySteps is a program that adds the expertise of a child development and behavioral health promotion and prevention expert, a HealthySteps Specialist, to the pediatric primary care team. Safe Babies is an approach driven by a vision of prevention and mobilized through collaborative partnerships within communities and states to meet the urgent developmental needs of babies and toddlers. Safe Babies applies the science of early childhood to the practices of Child Welfare with an innovative team-based approach to improve outcomes for children and families impacted by greater adversities and family separation.
Participants will learn more about both programs, successes, challenges, and lessons learned from the collaboration in Arkansas, and opportunities for future innovations.

Speakers
avatar for Natalie Tackitt

Natalie Tackitt

HealthySteps Coordinator, ZERO TO THREE
Natalie Tackitt is the North Carolina Coordinator for HealthySteps, a program of ZERO TO THREE. She has over 30 years’ experience in a variety of educational settings including pre-schools, Parenting Education in home visiting, school and pediatric settings, elementary classroom... Read More →
avatar for Darneshia Allen

Darneshia Allen

Training/Technical Assistance Integration Manager, Safe Babies, ZERO TO THREE
Darneshia Allen offers over 30 years of experience working with young children. Her background includes intensive work with families in urban communities, years of experience in Early Care and Education, which ultimately led to the development of a Pre-K 4 program. She joined ZERO... Read More →
2026 IECII for upload pptx
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Moutain Laurel
  Concurrent, Community and local level

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Understanding Child Media Use for Sensory Regulation: Research by the UNC FaMLab on Media Sensory Curation and Family Media Conflict
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Windflower
Feedback Survey
Many families, especially those with neurodivergent children, struggle to manage their children',s media use. This session presents original research by a UNC professor who is herself autistic, with autistic children. The presentation weaves original theory and research findings together with personal stories to humanize the struggle for both parents and children, and offers suggestions for building a family discourse around sensory experiences to help parents identify non-media alternatives that support their children',s sensory regulation.
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Harrison

Kristen Harrison

Richard Cole Eminent Professor, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Kristen Harrison holds the Richard Cole Eminent Professorship in the Hussman School of Journalism and Media at UNC, where she runs the Family and Media Lab. She studies media psychology, with a special focus on how media portray and affect our bodies.
Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Windflower
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

12:45pm EDT

(Hybrid) Community Inclusion Teams in Early Childhood: Innovation to Implementation
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Dogwood
Feedback Survey
Presenters will share stories from a variety of communities that have used the ECTA Community Indicators to leverage local partnerships to support children based on family strengths and needs. During this time, participants will 1) explore examples of challenges solved at the local level through intentional community partnerships, 2) reflect on potential partnerships in their own communities, and 3) consider both opportunities and challenges for building impactful community partnerships in their local context. Questions for reflection and conversation during this part of the session will include:
  • What can we learn from intentionally constructed community partnerships to improve outcomes for children and families within the community?
  • How have community partners efficiently used family voice to improve opportunities for young children?
  • What has been the impact of community partnerships on children, families, educators, and leaders?
  • How could strategies be adapted for your local community?
Speakers
avatar for Ben Riepe

Ben Riepe

Senior Project Manager, University of Denver
Ben Riepe, MA, is a Senior Project Manager for the Marsico Institute for Early Learning at the University of Denver. He has dedicated the last 25 years to supporting young children in inclusive settings. As a Head Start teacher, coach, and trainer, he supported high-fidelity program-wide... Read More →
avatar for Melissa Griffin

Melissa Griffin

Technical Assistance Coordinator, SC Partnerships for Inclusion
Melissa Griffin is the Technical Assistance Coordinator for South Carolina Partnerships for Inclusion (SCPI). In this role, she leads the implementation of a tiered framework of supports for early childhood specialists and oversees service delivery for districts partnering with SCPI to strengthen early c... Read More →
avatar for Dana Bennett

Dana Bennett

Technical Assistant Specialist, SC Partnerships for Inclusion
Dana Bennett holds a Master's Degree in Education and has 18 years of teaching experience in both special education and 4K classrooms within the public school system. She has also served as a family childcare teacher and an Inclusion Specialist. For the past four years, Dana has worked... Read More →
Commuinty Road Map 2pages pdf
FPG 2026 Community Inclusion Teams pdf
Ecomap jpeg
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Dogwood
  Concurrent, Community and local level

12:45pm EDT

(Hybrid) From Vision to Practice: The Revised DEC-NAEYC Joint Position Statement on Early Childhood Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Redbud
Feedback Survey
Creating inclusive early learning environments takes intention, collaboration, and action. Grounded in the shared mission of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Division for Early Childhood (DEC), the Joint Position Statement on Early Childhood Inclusion calls on all of us to move from vision to practice. In this session, you’ll learn what’s new in the currently being-revised statement, have an opportunity to share your feedback, and explore concrete ways everyone of us can apply these principles to strengthen inclusion and belonging across early childhood environments.
Speakers
avatar for Peggy Kemp

Peggy Kemp

Executive Director, Division for Early Childhood (DEC)
Peggy is the Executive Director of the Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children (DEC). Dr. Kemp is a recognized leader and tireless advocate devoted to quality services to young children with disabilities, their families, and the professionals who serve... Read More →
avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Faculty, Frank Porter Graham
Megan Vinh, PhD, is a senior technical assistance specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, she leads projects aimed at improving access, experiences, and outcomes for children with disabilities within the early... Read More →
MH

Mary Harrill

Senior Director, Higher Education, National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Mary Harrill is senior director of higher education at the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC).
Draft Inclusion Statement April 2026 docx
DEC Position Statement on Ethical Practice Executive Summary pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Redbud
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

12:45pm EDT

(In-Person) Many Ways to Show you Care with Fred Rogers Productions
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Azalea
Feedback Survey
This series of joy-filled, short documentaries and music video feature children showing how they care for their families. The videos are part of a multi-platform content initiative for children ages 2-6, their families, and caregivers. This session will share content and resources that can be accessed right away to share with young learners and families in regard to caregiving.  ,,This session will highlight the beauty of all families.
Speakers
avatar for Mallory Mbalia

Mallory Mbalia

Director of Learning and Education, Fred Rogers Productions
As Director of Learning and Education at Fred Rogers Productions, Mallory Mbalia advises and collaborates with colleagues to further realize the organization's educational mission for children and families. She previously served as Director of Education at PBS North Carolina in Education... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Azalea
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

12:45pm EDT

(In-Person) Strategies for Supporting Participation and Learning for Children with Vision and Hearing Needs
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Moutain Laurel
Feedback Survey
Children with low-incidents conditions often need specialized intervention strategies to fully participate in home and classroom activities. Until now, the strategies were implemented by specialists and largely unknown to caregivers and teachers. FIPP has partnered with the Early Learning and Sensory Support Team to develop guides for working with children with low incidents conditions using strategies any can implement. ,
Speakers
avatar for Kris Everhart

Kris Everhart

Associate Director, Family, Infant and Preschool Program
Kris Everhart is the Associate Director of the Family, Infant and Preschool Program in Morganton, North Carolina. Kris is a speech-language pathologist with nearly 30 years of experience working in early intervention with families of infants and toddlers.
SC
Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Moutain Laurel
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

2:00pm EDT

(In-Person) Beyond Disability History and Awareness Month: Turning Policy into Inclusive Practice in Early Childhood
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Windflower
Feedback Survey
Some children with disabilities grow up with limited opportunities to see themselves reflected in their communities or to understand disability as an important part of who people are and how they experience the world. Disability History and Awareness efforts, such as statewide initiatives like North Carolina’s Disability History and Awareness Month, offer an important opportunity to change that narrative.
This session will explore how policy and awareness initiatives can go beyond recognition to meaningful action in early childhood and elementary settings. Using North Carolina’s legislation as an example, participants will learn about the advocacy and policy journey behind Disability History and Awareness Month and consider how similar efforts might be advanced in their own states or communities.
The session will also highlight practical strategies for introducing disability awareness in developmentally appropriate ways in early learning environments. Participants will explore how early education can support children with disabilities in developing a stronger sense of identity and confidence in advocating for themselves, while also helping all children build understanding, connection, and inclusive relationships. Participants will leave with ideas and strategies they can apply in their own contexts to move from awareness to action and create learning environments where all children feel seen, valued, and included.
Speakers
avatar for Philip Woodward

Philip Woodward

Systems Change Manager, North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilites (NCCDD)
Manages community living initiatives. Has been Hard of Hearing since age four, wears hearing aids, reads lips, and knows American Sign Language (ASL). Very interested in friendships and Personal Support Network development for people with disabilities.
International Early Childhood Inclusion Institute Presentation May 20, 2026 ppt
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Windflower
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

2:00pm EDT

(Virtual) From Awareness to Belonging: Partnering with Families to Create Sesame Street’s Autism Resources
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Azalea, Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
In this session, we will share the history of the Sesame Street and Autism initiative and how Julia came to life, highlighting the collaboration and research that shaped her introduction to Sesame Street. We’ll also explore how Sesame Street’s bilingual Autism tools can strengthen partnerships among families, early educators, and community providers in inclusive early childhood settings. Participants will learn how resources can help build connections, support routines, and affirm each child’s individuality, while gaining practical strategies to integrate these tools into family engagement and classroom practice. 

Note: The presenter for this session is presenting virtually. 
Speakers
avatar for Rocio Galarza

Rocio Galarza

VP, Educational Programs, Sesame Workshop
In this role, Rocío leads the development of educational content and research for a wide range of multimedia projects. As an expert in early childhood educational development and the needs of young children, Rocío works with advisors to ensure that the content of Sesame Street’s... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Azalea, Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

3:15pm EDT

(Hybrid) A Retrospective on Inclusion: Building and Sustaining Inclusive Early Childhood Systems Over Time: Part 1 of a 2-Part Session
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Dogwood
Feedback Survey
Data demonstrating inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities has long been stagnant. This is largely because it is very difficult for states to unify and align systems that support high-quality inclusion across fragmented early childhood environments (e.g. public schools, Head Start, community-based childcare and home-based care.) This session showcases the journey for two states two years after receiving intensive technical assistance aimed at implementing inclusive practices statewide. Leaders will highlight bright spots, showcasing how they have supported systems with a shared purpose around inclusive early childhood education. Leaders will also share the persistent challenges that hinder progress for children, families and providers in programs. Facilitators will guide discussions that help participants to uncover innovative, cross-sector solutions to ensure access, participation and belonging for children with disabilities across the system. Participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies to support implementation and sustainability of policies and practices in their own mixed-delivery early childhood systems.
Speakers
avatar for Alissa Rausch

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Faculty, Frank Porter Graham
Megan Vinh, PhD, is a senior technical assistance specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, she leads projects aimed at improving access, experiences, and outcomes for children with disabilities within the early... Read More →
Statewide Implementation Retrospective pptx
Resources from Partners docx
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Dogwood
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

3:15pm EDT

(Hybrid) When the Roads Don’t Meet: Improving Pathways to Early Intervention and Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Redbud
Feedback Survey
This session explores the intersections between early identification, early intervention, and inclusion in early childhood systems. Using a Fragile X case example and cross-system research findings, presenters will examine where families encounter barriers and highlight practical strategies to improve referrals, coordination, navigation supports, and inclusive participation outcomes.
Speakers
avatar for Karen Zyskind
avatar for Sheresa Blanchard

Sheresa Blanchard

Senior Education Researcher & Technical Assistance Specialist, SRI International/Education Division
Sheresa B. Blanchard, PhD, is a senior education researcher and technical assistance specialist at SRI with over 25 years of experience in education, early childhood, special education, and early intervention. She is currently the co-lead for the DaSy/ECTA Cross-Center Child Find... Read More →
avatar for Samantha Scott
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Redbud
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

3:15pm EDT

(In-Person) Authentic Assessment and Multilingual Learners: How Parents and Educators Interpret Child Development and Learning
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Azalea
Feedback Survey
Children are often misunderstood due to limitations of an assessment system. Misunderstandings can be a misdiagnosis, mistaken information leading to failures in interventions and curriculum for children, particularly multilingual learners, as well as misinterpretations of test results. Professional development is needed for ongoing improvement of assessment practices in the early childhood workforce. Presentation goals that can be applied immediately are: (1) gain understanding about early childhood authentic assessment, & impact on children and families including those from multilingual backgrounds, and (2) understand how different disciplines perceive the role and purpose of assessment, authentic assessment, and quality indicators/standards for assessing young children. Research will be shared on authentic assessment practices and participants will have the opportunity to discuss and reflect on the learnings and what this means in practice and how practitioners can co-produce services for children with families.
Speakers
avatar for Marisa Macy

Marisa Macy

Professor, University of Wyoming
Marisa Macy is a full professor in the College of Education in the School of Teacher Education at the University of Wyoming. She holds the John P. Ellbogen Foundation Professorship of Early Childhood Education.Macy has more than 25 years of experience as an educator. She started her... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Azalea
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

3:15pm EDT

(In-Person) Bridging the Gap: Linking CDC's Learn the Signs. Act Early (LTSAE) and the Division for Early Childhood (DEC) Recommended Practices to Strengthen Early Childhood Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Bellflower
Feedback Survey
This session will explore how Learn the Signs. Act Early (LTSAE) and the DEC Recommended Practices can be integrated to advance high‑quality early childhood inclusion. Participants will examine specifically how early identification, responsive instruction, and collaborative teaming can strengthen equitable access, participation, and support for all children across early childhood settings. The session will be led by presenters serving as both Act Early and DEC aRPy Ambassadors that have experience supporting the implementation of family-engaged developmental monitoring and the Recommended Practices in diverse programs. Presenters will share recommendations and examples from two states illustrating how programs have enhanced inclusion through early identification, cross‑system collaboration, and intentional use of the DEC Recommend Practices.
Speakers
avatar for Melissa Crist

Melissa Crist

Director of Early Childhood Programs, University of Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development
Melissa Crist, M.S., is the Director of Early Childhood Programs at the Idaho Center on Disabilities and Human Development (CDHD). Melissa directs multiple early childhood projects at the CDHD including IdahoSTARS which houses the state Quality Rating and Improvement System, state... Read More →
avatar for Deepa Srinivasavaradan

Deepa Srinivasavaradan

Director of Early Childhood Initiatives, SPAN Parent Advocacy Network
Deepa Srinivasavaradan is the State Parent Lead and Director of Early Childhood Initiatives at the SPAN Parent Advocacy Network in New Jersey. In this role, she leads several early childhood projects, including the NJ Inclusive Child Care Project, and also serves as the Association... Read More →
EC Inclusion Institute DEC RPs and LTSAE pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Bellflower
  Concurrent, Community and local level

3:15pm EDT

(In-Person) Maximizing Your Strengths: The Power of Lived Experience
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Moutain Laurel
Feedback Survey
There are lots of valuable resources and modules for families with young children.  ,Sometimes the modules and trainings do not provide specific language or tools for children with disabilities.  ,This can sometimes lead to families feeling unsupported and in the weeds.  ,The goal of my session is to help families and providers understand the value of lived experience through identifying family strengths, recognizing the challenges that arise with the absence of support in specific areas, and learning how to ask for help and be heard.
Speakers
avatar for Sanaa Sharrieff

Sanaa Sharrieff

Community Partner Engagement Coordinator, DHHS
Sanaa Sharrieff is a parent leader whose lived experience provides some insight into her work. She supports equitable outcomes for children and families. She currently serves as Community Partner Engagement Coordinator in the newly formed CSPD Department of the Early Intervention... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Moutain Laurel
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

3:15pm EDT

(In-Person) When OTs and Educators Partner Well: A Practical Model for Building Inclusive Early Childhood Programs Together
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Windflower
Feedback Survey
The session opens with an honest look at why OT and educator partnerships so frequently break down, even when both parties are deeply committed to inclusion. From there, participants are introduced to a practical partnership framework built around three pillars: shared language, shared observation, and shared planning. Each pillar is unpacked with concrete examples drawn from real classroom and clinic partnerships, including strategies for co-developing sensory and regulation support plans that educators can actually implement without requiring clinical expertise. The session includes facilitated small group discussion and a collaborative planning activity that participants can bring back to their own settings. The final portion addresses how to bring families into the partnership as equal contributors rather than recipients of information, which aligns directly with the 2026 Institute theme of Powerful Partnerships.
Speakers
avatar for Brittni Winslow

Brittni Winslow

OTR/L, CEO, Owner, Emerge Pediatric Therapy
Brittni Winslow, OTR/L, is a pediatric occupational therapist with over 14 years of clinical experience specializing in sensory integration, executive function, and neurodiversity-affirming practice. She is the CEO and owner of Emerge Pediatric Therapy, a multi-location practice serving... Read More →
When OTs & Educators Partner Well pptx
Wednesday May 20, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT
Windflower
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

4:30pm EDT

(Hybrid) A Retrospective on Inclusion: Building and Sustaining Inclusive Early Childhood Systems Over Time: Part 2 of a 2-Part Session
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Dogwood
Feedback Survey
Data demonstrating inclusive opportunities for children with disabilities has long been stagnant. This is largely because it is very difficult for states to unify and align systems that support high-quality inclusion across fragmented early childhood environments (e.g. public schools, Head Start, community-based childcare and home-based care.) This session showcases the journey for two states two years after receiving intensive technical assistance aimed at implementing inclusive practices statewide. Leaders will highlight bright spots, showcasing how they have supported systems with a shared purpose around inclusive early childhood education. Leaders will also share the persistent challenges that hinder progress for children, families and providers in programs. Facilitators will guide discussions that help participants to uncover innovative, cross-sector solutions to ensure access, participation and belonging for children with disabilities across the system. Participants will leave with a toolkit of strategies to support implementation and sustainability of policies and practices in their own mixed-delivery early childhood systems.
Speakers
avatar for Alissa Rausch

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

avatar for Megan Vinh

Megan Vinh

Faculty, Frank Porter Graham
Megan Vinh, PhD, is a senior technical assistance specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, she leads projects aimed at improving access, experiences, and outcomes for children with disabilities within the early... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Dogwood
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

4:30pm EDT

(Hybrid) Finding Our North Star: Defining What We’re Fighting For in Early Childhood Inclusion
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Redbud
Feedback Survey
In the complex world of early childhood inclusion, it can be difficult to stay grounded in what truly matters. This panel explores how mothers at different stages of the journey define their “North Star” and use it to guide decisions and advocacy. Those just beginning share the uncertainty and questions they face, while more experienced mothers reflect on how their perspectives have evolved over time. Together, they offer insight into navigating systems, shifting priorities, and staying focused on the child.
Speakers
avatar for Sarah Buesching

Sarah Buesching

Sarah Buesching is an early childhood educator with over 15 years experience working with young children. She is the mom to two boys, the oldest of whom has Down syndrome and Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy.
avatar for Christy Cooper

Christy Cooper

Assistant Director, North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance
Christy Cooper is the Assistant Director for the North Carolina Down Syndrome Alliance. She joined the NCDSA staff in August 2024 after years of being both a volunteer and a parent supported by the organization. Christy worked for the Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network as their Family... Read More →
avatar for Kim Tizzard

Kim Tizzard

Director of Family Support, Autism Society of North Carolina
Kim Tizzard has been with the Autism Society of North Carolina (ASNC) for a little over 21 years. In her current role as Director of Family Support, Ms. Tizzard oversees the work of ASNC's Autism Resource Specialists and Support Groups across the State. She advocates for a blended... Read More →
avatar for Christy Koury

Christy Koury

Christy Koury is a freelance copywriter and editor and mother of three daughters, two of whom have mitochondrial disease and autism.
avatar for Nailah Wright

Nailah Wright

Nailah Wright is a Networking Sales Account Manager, wife, and mom of two children. One who has ASD and ADHD.
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Redbud
  Concurrent, Community and local level

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Families as Partners in Assessment
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Bellflower
Feedback Survey
Family engagement is a cornerstone of equitable and effective assessment practices in inclusive early childhood education. This presentation explores how families can be meaningfully positioned as partners—not simply informants—in the assessment process. Drawing on culturally and linguistically responsive frameworks, the session highlights strategies for collaborating with families to gather authentic information about children’s strengths, needs, and everyday learning contexts. Participants will examine approaches that honor family expertise, promote shared decision-making, and support assessment practices that are inclusive, strengths-based, and developmentally appropriate. Practical examples and reflective tools will be shared to help educators and practitioners build reciprocal partnerships that enhance assessment quality and improve outcomes for young children and their families.
Speakers
avatar for Serra Acar

Serra Acar

Associate Professor, University of Massachusetts Boston
Dr. Serra Acar is an Associate Professor in the Early Education and Care in Inclusive Settings Program at the University of Massachusetts Boston. She earned her doctoral degree in the Early Intervention Program from the University of Oregon. Dr. Acar's primary research interests are... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Bellflower
  Concurrent, Community and local level

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Rising Together: Fostering Wellness in Home Visiting and Early Intervention
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Windflower
Feedback Survey
The Institute for Home Visiting Workforce Development (Workforce Institute) ,is advancing a National Strategy for the Home Visiting Workforce to strengthen support for home visitors, focusing on wellbeing, career pathways, and workforce stability. This session will explore evidence-based strategies to improve workforce well-being, with specific implications for Early Intervention (EI) professionals. Through interactive engagement, participants will identify current initiatives and co-create personal action plans for sustainability. ,
Speakers
avatar for Katari Coleman, PhD

Katari Coleman, PhD

Senior Project Director, Education Development Center, Inc.
Katari Coleman, an early childhood education thought leader and expert, leads innovative efforts to advance all children’s and success. She has expertise in child development, out-of-school time (OST) care, early childhood and OST workforce development, family engagement, parent... Read More →
avatar for Pritay Washington

Pritay Washington

Training & Technical Assistance Associate, Education Development Center, Inc.
Pritay Washington is an experienced trainer and manager who supports early childhood and out-of-school time programs in improving service quality to promote school readiness and youth success. She specializes in designing professional learning, delivering outcomes-focused technical... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Windflower
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Stop, Collaborate & Listen
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Azalea
Feedback Survey
A workshop to help educators and staff learn to adequately take a moment to communicate and ,collaborate ,with parents effectively. Participants will be able to recognize the benefits of parent and professional relationships, which promote well-being and academic achievement. Participants will also have the opportunity to identify various communication styles that help bridge gaps. By the ,end ,of the session, participants will summarize the importance of effective communication and utilize their tools.
Speakers
avatar for Triahnna Miles

Triahnna Miles

Parent Educator, Exceptional Children's Assistance Center
Triahnna Miles joined ECAC in 2023 as a Parent Educator. She is a spouse of a disabled, US Army veteran. Prior to joining ECAC, Triahnna worked as an Exceptional Children’s teacher (severe emotional disability, co-op, and resource) with grades 6-8, a Registered Behavioral Technician... Read More →
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Azalea
  Concurrent, Community and local level

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) “Keeping Kids Connected: What Families (and Professionals) Need to Know About Exclusionary Discipline in Early Childhood Settings (and What to Do When It Happens)
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Moutain Laurel
Feedback Survey
Preschoolers are suspended at nearly three times the rate of their school‑aged counterparts, with disparities across gender, race, and disability status placing some young children at significantly greater risk than others. While certain forms of exclusionary discipline are widely recognized, many young children experience “informal” or “soft” exclusion—practices that families and even early childhood professionals may not identify as exclusionary at all.

In this session, attendees will learn about and discuss what exclusionary discipline looks like in early childhood settings, how it affects children and families, and what we can do together to reduce its use and support more inclusive, developmentally appropriate practices.
Speakers
avatar for Kristen Paul

Kristen Paul

Director of Early Childhood Programs, The Parents' Place of Maryland
Kristen Paul has worked with children and families for over 25 years in a variety of capacities, including as a high school science teacher, Federal agency education advisor, college administrator, and in family support for Birth to Five programs. In addition to her current role as... Read More →
Keeping Kids Connected What Families and Professionals Needs to Know About Exclusionary Discipline in Early Childhood pdf
Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Moutain Laurel
  Concurrent, National/state/system level
 
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