2026 International Early Childhood Inclusion Institute

The purposes of the reflection session are:

To set an intention for your time at the Institute.

To reflect on the Keynote and Plenary sessions.

Ensuring that you have an opportunity to connect, reflect, and build community.

Advisory Board

Dawn Meskil

IDEA Preschool Coordinator, NC Department of Public Instruction

Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Bellflower

Reflection, All

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Administrator, Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Policy Maker, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

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

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 →

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Administrator, Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Meeting Children Where They Are: Adapting Instruction for Preschool Children

Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT

Dogwood

Inclusion Institute Problem Solving Process for Making Adaptations (2) (1) docx

To effectively support all preschool children, including those with disabilities, it's essential to understand each child's developmental level and use appropriate adaptations to guide instruction. This session will focus on using developmental indicators to understand a child’s current development and determine the next learning target. Participants will also explore how to adapt the environment, materials, and instruction to meet individual needs. The STEMIE Guide to Adaptations will be used as a framework to support participants as they work through a case study on selecting needed adaptations. ,

Speakers

DelShana LeGrant

IDEA Regional Consultant: Preschool, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Dr. DelShana LeGrant is an IDEA- Preschool Regional Consultant in the Office of Exceptional Children Division of Educator and Student Advancement at the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, Education Consultant for Hines-Gaither Consulting, LLC., Diversity, Equity and... Read More →

Kimberly Terry

IDEA Preschool Consultant: Intensive Support, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

For more than twenty years, Kimberly Terry has dedicated her career to advancing high-quality early care and education for young children with and without disabilities across North Carolina. She has supported early learners and their families, as well as pre-service educators, practicing... Read More →

Inclusion Institute Joshua Case Study docx

Participant Copy of Meeting Children Where They Are Inclusion Institute 2026 pptx

Wednesday May 20, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Dogwood

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Age Group 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Faculty in IHE, Administrator, Therapist/Specialist
Information Level Introductory
Format In-Person

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

Final v.2 ENTORNO MENOS RESTRICTIVO GUI A DE RECURSOS FAMILIARES pdf

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

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 →

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 Chinese Translation Family Resource Guide pdf

Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Bellflower

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Policy Maker, Administrator, Faculty in IHE, Coach, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Family or Family Advocate
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Therapist/Specialist, Individual with Disabilities or Disability Advocate, Researcher and/or Evaluator, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

10:15am EDT

(In-Person) Using the AEPS-3 to Support Inclusion for Young Children

Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT

Redbud

The Assessment, Evaluation, and Programming System (3rd Ed.) is a linked system that includes assessment, goal development, teaching/intervention, and progress monitoring. The presenter, an author of the AEPS-3, will describe each component of the AEPS-3 and how it can be used to support young children in inclusive settings. The presentation will focus on: 1) the importance of using authentic assessment information to development functional goals, 2) a tiered curriculum framework that provides guidance on universal (tier 1), focused (tier 2), and specialized (tier 3) support, 3) how to use the AEPS-3 as an ongoing progress monitoring tool, and 4) how to include families in all aspects of their child's education using AEPS-3. ,

Speakers

Jennifer Grisham

Professor Emeritus, University of Kentucky

Jennifer Grisham, Ed.D. Jennifer Grisham, Ed.D. is a Professor Emeritus in the Interdisciplinary Early Childhood Education program at the University of Kentucky. She taught there for 35 years and was Faculty Director of the UK Early Childhood Lab for 25 years. She taught courses in... Read More →

AEPStoSupportInclusion pdf

Wednesday May 20, 2026 10:15am - 11:45am EDT
Redbud

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Administrator, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Policy Maker, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Researcher and/or Evaluator
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

12:45pm EDT

(Hybrid) Community Inclusion Teams in Early Childhood: Innovation to Implementation

Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT

Dogwood

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

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 →

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 →

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Administrator, Coach, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Family or Family Advocate, Individual with Disabilities or Disability Advocate
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual, In-Person

12:45pm EDT

(In-Person) An Introduction to the Role of the Itinerant Early Childhood Special Educator

Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT

Windflower

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

How does the Itinerant Early Childhood Special Educator (ECSE) support our youngest learners in the early childhood programs they would participate in if they did not have a disability? We understand the importance of allowing all young children to learn alongside their peers, but how do itinerant teachers ensure they provide the proper support to meet high expectations? This session will touch upon how itinerant services meet the needs of young children, describe the role of the itinerant ECSE teacher, as well as the role of the general early childhood teacher. We will then look at a vehicle for embedding instruction through collaboration between educators and families, giving participants a hands-on opportunity to try the tool. We will end by discussing the important first steps for new itinerants. Join us in this introductory session as we delve into the effective practices that empower our youngest learners to reach their full potential.

Speakers

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

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 →

IECSE Schedule pdf

Planning Matrix pdf

An Intro to the Role of the IECSE 2026 pdf

IECSE Schedule docx

Planning Matrix docx

Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Windflower

Age Group 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist
Information Level Introductory
Format In-Person

12:45pm EDT

(In-Person) Finding the Right Fit: Using the Coaching Match Tool to Strengthen Inclusive Practices

Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT

Bellflower

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Effective coaching starts with the right match. In this session, participants will explore the online Coaching Match Tool and related resources. This practical tool helps leaders and coaches align coaching strategies with educator needs, experience, and context. We’ll walk through how the tool works, discuss evidence-based principles behind matching, and share examples of how programs have used these resources to build capacity for inclusion. Participants will leave with actionable steps for integrating the Coaching Match Tool into their own systems, along with access to templates and guides that make implementation easy.

Speakers

Kathleen Artman Meeker

Professor and Director, University of Washington

Kathleen Artman-Meeker serves as a Professor of Early Childhood Special Education and Director of the University of Washington Haring Center for Inclusive Education. Her experiences as a childcare assistant, elementary school special educator, classroom coach, and content developer... Read More →

HO1 CoachScenarioCards docx

Slides FindingRightFit pdf

Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Bellflower

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach
Information Level Intermediate
Format In-Person

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

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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

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.

Sara Carter

Wednesday May 20, 2026 12:45pm - 1:45pm EDT
Moutain Laurel

Age Group 0-3
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Policy Maker
Information Level Intermediate
Format In-Person

2:00pm EDT

(In-Person) Better Together: Partnering with Child Care Providers for Inclusive Experiences

Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

Bellflower

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

This session will focus on intentional strategies to build a partnership between special education service providers and child care providers. Participants will look at reflections from child care educators about partnering and investigate potential solutions to barriers. Participants will also create an individualized plan for both sharing information with child care providers and asking questions to better understand the child care setting.

Speakers

Lindsay N. Giroux

Manager, Inclusion & Behavior Support, Bright Horizons

Leiha Knecht

Assistant Director, Bright Horizons at Research Triangle Park, Bright Horizons

Partnering with Child Care 2026 Inclusion Institute (1) pptx

Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Bellflower

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Therapist/Specialist, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

International Early Childhood Inclusion Institute Presentation May 20, 2026 ppt

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

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.

Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Windflower

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Age Group Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Individual with Disabilities or Disability Advocate, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Coach, Administrator
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

2:00pm EDT

(In-Person) The Japanese Practice of Mimamoru and Lessons on Inclusion

Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT

Moutain Laurel

kozlowski 2026 autonomy inclusion and the power of possibility pdf

What stories do the children in your classroom believe about their own sense of competence? Are children with and without disabilities free to take risks and explore the limits of their abilities? Let’s discuss! Participants will discover the Japanese practice of mimamoru, or "watchful protection" and how this practice can foster inclusion and belonging. You’ll learn from the perspectives of an early childhood professional with a disability and a Japanese educator, following a series of observations in Japanese child care and PreK programs. This interactive session blends personal stories, cross-cultural wisdom, and immediate application. Explore how to rewrite children's narratives from "I need help" to "I can figure this out." Consider your own protective instincts and challenge them with a view of inclusion through the lens of another culture. Leave with a list of strategies to try out, ideas to share with families & colleagues, and one concrete commitment to shift from over-helping to becoming an anchoring presence. The stories children tell themselves are first learned in our programs. We have an incredible opportunity to ensure they are stories of competence and self-assurance.

Speakers

Jani Kozlowski

Technical Assistance Specialist, UNC-FPG

Ryutaro Shintani

Professor, Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts

Dr. Shintani is a professor at the Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts in Kyoto, Japan and a long-time early childhood advocate and leader in their country. They have worked for ten years at a Japanese institution for early childhood educator training, where they have primarily... Read More →

mimamoruslides pdf

Wednesday May 20, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm EDT
Moutain Laurel

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Age Group 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Faculty in IHE, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow, Researcher and/or Evaluator
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Administrator, Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Introductory
Format Virtual

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

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

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

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

Age Group 3-5
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Administrator, Policy Maker
Information Level Intermediate
Format Virtual, In-Person

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

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

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

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

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 →

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Faculty in IHE, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow, Administrator
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Administrator, Family or Family Advocate, Therapist/Specialist, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

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

Speakers

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

Megan Vinh

Faculty, Frank Porter Graham

Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Dogwood

Age Group 3-5
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Administrator, Policy Maker
Information Level Intermediate
Format Virtual, In-Person

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Families as Partners in Assessment

Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT

Bellflower

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

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

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Administrator, Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Intermediate
Format In-Person

4:30pm EDT

(In-Person) Stop, Collaborate & Listen

Wednesday May 20, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT

Azalea

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

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

Age Group Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Individual with Disabilities or Disability Advocate, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Therapist/Specialist
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Beyond the book: Creating a space where every child thrives through sensory inclusion

Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT

Bellflower

Sensory inclusion is more than a set of practices—it is a mindset that shapes how a child experiences the world. Join Durham County Library to explore sensory processing and engagement strategies that help children thrive at school, home, and in the community. This interactive session will feature hands-on exploration of sensory tools, practical guidance for recognizing sensory preferences, and simple, adaptable strategies for fostering inclusive environments for all children. Participants will experience a sensory-integrated library Storytime demonstration that can be replicated in various settings, while learning how sensory integration supports early literacy, encourages children’s choice, sparks curiosity, and creates joyful, engaging experiences that promote healthy development and create a welcoming world for all. ,

Speakers

Sarah Alverson

Community Engagement Administrator, Durham County Library

Sarah Alverson is the Community Engagement Administrator for Durham County Library, with a background as a Children’s Librarian at Stanford L. Warren Library. Sarah graduated from North Carolina Central University in 2008 with a master’s degree in library science and began work... Read More →

Jennifer Jamsky

Accessibility Services Coordinator, Durham County Library

Jennifer has had the privilege of working in and with libraries for over twenty years. She started her career as an undergraduate student assistant, then moved into public library and vendor spheres. Jennifer also has a decade of experience serving the disability community, first... Read More →

Beyond the Book Presentation Slides pdf

Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Bellflower

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Administrator, Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Intermediate
Format In-Person

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) The Adaptation Station: Simple Strategies for Supporting Infants and Toddlers at Home

Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT

Redbud

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Everyday routines can become powerful learning moments for infants and toddlers. In this interactive session, families and practitioners will learn simple, effective ways to adapt home environments, materials, and interactions to better support children with disabilities and developmental delays. Together, we’ll explore how small adjustments during daily activities—like playtime, meals, and caregiving—can open the door to meaningful learning. Participants will also share their own strategies and ideas, creating a collaborative space for inspiration and problem-solving. Attendees will leave with practical tools and a curated list of free resources to continue building inclusive learning opportunities at home.
,

Speakers

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

Allison Jones, M.Ed.

Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute

Allison Jones, M.Ed. is a TA Specialist for the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA) and the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy). She is employed at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at UNC, Chapel Hill. Allison has worked in the field of early childhood... Read More →

Adaptation Station (Inclusion Institute 2026) AR pdf

Notes Catcher for the Adaptation Station Session (May 2026) docx

Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Redbud

Age Group 0-3
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Individual with Disabilities or Disability Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor
Information Level Introductory
Format In-Person

8:30am EDT

(In-Person) Turning Toward: Moving from Challenging to Connected When Behavior Feels Hard

Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT

Dogwood

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Supporting young children when their behavior feels challenging is one of the most common and complex parts of early childhood work. We all have strategies, but even when we use our best tools, those moments can still leave us feeling disconnected, worn down, or unsure of what to do next. Especially when things feel hard, how we use practices matters just as much as which ones we choose. This session focuses on the adult side of supporting young children whose behavior can feel challenging to understand and support. Rather than adding more tools to an already full toolbox, participants will explore a small set of research-supported “quarter turns” to bring more intention to the practices they already use. Participants will leave with practical ways to shift from a focus on behavior or children as challenging toward a broader, belonging-centered approach that supports stronger relationships, more responsive interactions, and inclusive, caring classroom communities.

Speakers

Sally Hansen

Director of Technical Assistance and Development, University of Denver

Sally has been dedicated to early childhood care and education and children's mental health for over two decades, bringing a unique blend of therapeutic, behavioral, and administrative expertise to her work. With experience as a family therapist, early childhood behavior consultant... Read More →

Jackie Joseph

Research Associate Professor, University of Denver

Dr. Jackie Joseph is a Research Associate Professor at the University of Denver, where her work centers on belonging in early childhood. She focuses on partnering with families and supporting inclusive, evidence-informed practices that help every young child grow and reach their full... Read More →

Challenging to Connected 2026 Resource Links pdf

Thursday May 21, 2026 8:30am - 10:00am EDT
Dogwood

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Administrator, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

10:30am EDT

(Hybrid) Healing Generations: Family-Centered Care for Addiction and Trauma at UNC Horizons

Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT

Dogwood

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

We will cover the topics of trauma and substance use disorders. What is trauma? How does it present in families and children and what can we do as early educators or advocates to create a trauma-responsive environment? What is Substance Use Disorder? What are the barriers and stigmas that pregnant and parenting mothers with SUD face when seeking out child care and treatment? We will also discuss what it means to "heal generations" and the holistic and family-centered approach we take to empower families through accessing early education, therapy, intervention, and other services at Horizons and beyond in a trauma-responsive environment.

UNC Horizons Program is a substance use disorder treatment program for pregnant and/or parenting women and their children, including those whose lives have been touched by abuse and violence. In 1993, UNC Horizons was created as a response to a significant need in North Carolina for a treatment and recovery program for pregnant and mothering women – one that helped to resolve the issues of drug use that are specific to women and their families, and one that kept those families together. Now, 250 women are touched each year – more than 5,000 since the program started – by Horizons’ integrated prenatal care and substance use disorder treatment, trauma-informed recovery practices, inpatient and outpatient treatment, career counseling, housing assistance, case management, family therapy and a 5-star child development center for our clients’ children.

Speakers

Haley Dixon

Haley has seven years of experience working in the field of education with a focus in special education and early childhood education. Early in her career, Haley discovered the power in advocacy through education, which has become her driving passion. In addition to working in schools... Read More →

Hendrée E. Jones

Dr. Jones, PhD, LP, is a licensed psychologist and an internationally recognized expert in the development and examination of both behavioral and pharmacologic treatments for pregnant women and their children in risky life situations. She was the Division Director of UNC Horizons... Read More →

UNC Horizons ppt Inclusion Institute 5.21.26 pptx

Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Dogwood

Audience Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Administrator
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual, In-Person

10:30am EDT

(In-Person) Data-Informed Family Advocacy: Strengthening Inclusion & Choice

Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT

Azalea

Families are powerful advocates when equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to understand and interpret data. This session explores how families can use data to advance inclusive practices and make informed school choice decisions. Participants will learn how to help families interpret school and district data, understand equity indicators, and apply this knowledge to advocate for inclusive environments and high-quality educational options. Using DaSy's Look! Think! Act! Framework, practical examples, tools, and interactive discussion, participants will build the skills and confidence needed to support families to influence decisions that promote access, belonging, and positive outcomes for all children.

Speakers

Deepa Srinivasavaradan

Director of Early Childhood Initiatives, SPAN Parent Advocacy Network

Susan Barlow

Director of Special Projects, Parent Network of Western New York

Susan Barlow has over 45 years of experience working with individuals with disabilities and their families in various programs. In 1990 she started the administration of a Case Management Program. She has developed and collaborated on numerous programs and conducted hundreds of... Read More →

Cindy Weber

Early Childhood Training & Technical Assistance Specialist, SPAN Parent Advocacy Network

Cindy Weber serves in multiple roles at SPAN Parent Advocacy Network (SPAN), united by a shared commitment to engaging, empowering, and educating parents.Cindy is the Detection, Connection, and Intervention Project Coordinator and an Early Childhood Training and Technical Assistance... Read More →

Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Azalea

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach, Faculty in IHE, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow, Administrator
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

10:30am EDT

(In-Person) Reimagining Communities and Public Spaces for Children and Families

Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT

Windflower

Playful Learning Landscapes is a national movement to transform ,the places where children and families gather every day into thoughtfully designed hubs for meaningful play and connection. Based on a community co-design process and combined with the science of child development, Playful Learning offers customized spaces for children of all ages and abilities to interact in ways that spark curiosity and exploration. Participants in this session will experience Playful Learning installations, learn the science of Playful Learning, and understand the Playful Learning design process. By considering opportunities for Playful Learning in communities, classrooms, and clinics, we can innovate the physical spaces that surround children and families in support of children’s development and learning. ,

Speakers

Sarah Lytle

Executive Director, Playful Learning Landscapes

Sarah Lytle, Ph.D., is the Executive Director of Playful Learning Landscapes and a Nonresident Fellow at the Brookings Institution with the Center for Universal Education. Sarah has more than a decade of experience in connecting science to practice, working extensively with parents... Read More →

Inclusion Institute PLL compressed pptx

Thursday May 21, 2026 10:30am - 11:30am EDT
Windflower

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Administrator, Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format In-Person

9:00am EDT

(Virtual) More than supporting roles: Partnering with fathers of young children with disabilities

Wednesday June 24, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Inclusion Institute More than Supporting Roles Partnering with Fathers of Young Children with Disabilities pptx

Fathers play an important role in child development and learning, yet their voices and experiences are often under-represented in conversations around family-professional partnerships. This session will highlight the roles of fathers in early child development and explore perspectives and experiences of fathers of children with complex disabilities. We will present strategies to support fathers' engagement in early childhood settings with a discussion around the application of these approaches across diverse Early Intervention and Early Childhood Education contexts. ,

Speakers

Nadya Pancsofar

Professor, The College of New Jersey

Nadya Pancsofar is a Professor at the College of New Jersey in the Department of Special Education, Language, and Literacy. She received her doctorate from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Her teaching focuses on family-centered, culturally responsive, and inclusive... Read More →

Joshuah Carlani

Supervisor of Special Education, PK-12, South Brunswick School District

Joshuah Carlani is a Licensed Behavior Analyst and Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). He currently serves as a Supervisor of Special Education in the South Brunswick Public School District in New Jersey. He has experience as a special education teacher working across K–12... Read More →

Wednesday June 24, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Administrator, Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Researcher and/or Evaluator, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

9:00am EDT

(Virtual) Supporting Foster, Adoptive and Kinship Families

Wednesday June 24, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Children in foster, adoptive, and kinship families often bring unique histories of trauma, loss, and neurodiversity that can significantly impact early learning and behavior. This session equips early childhood professionals with a compassionate, brain-based lens to better understand behaviors that are often misinterpreted as defiance or delay. Participants will learn practical, inclusive strategies to promote safety, regulation, and connection in classrooms and early care settings. The session also highlights the critical role of partnership with caregivers to create consistency and trust across home and school environments. Attendees will leave with tools they can immediately apply to support belonging and resilience for children and families in their care.

Speakers

Melissa Lebling

Family Support and Outreach Specialist, Formed Families Forward

Melissa Lebling is the Family Support and Outreach Specialist for Formed Families Forward in Northern Virginia. She is the mom of seven children and has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland. She spent most of her career in Early Childhood Education, leading and directing... Read More →

Inclusion Institute May 2026 (1) pdf

Wednesday June 24, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Administrator, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

6:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Introduction to an Embedded Learning Framework and Its Use (Part 1 of a 2-part session)

Wednesday June 24, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

We will describe an embedded learning framework for use in birth-to-five contexts. We will discuss the rationale for the framework and the effective practices it includes. We will describe how and why the framework and practices have been adapted over time, based on implementation experiences, user feedback, and research findings. Strategies and resources to support its use will be shared. Discussion with participants on ways the framework and practices have been used successfully in local and state contexts in the United States will set the stage for Part 2 of this session.

Speakers

John Forster

Noah's Ark Inc

John Forster is the Chief Executive Officer of Noah’s Ark Inc., an Australian organisation dedicated to supporting children with developmental delays and disabilities and their families. He is a recognised leader in early childhood intervention, with a strong focus on inclusion... Read More →

Tara McLaughlin

Dr. Tara McLaughlin is an Associate Professor in Early Years Education and the founder and director of the Early Years Research Lab (www.eyrl.nz) at Massey University. She is the new Head of the Institute of Education at Massey University, leading the teams working across academic and professional programmes in education. Before joining Massey University in 2013, she was a Research Scientist at the University of Florida's... Read More →

Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

Dr. Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder is a Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Special Education and Early Childhood Studies, an affiliate Professor Emeritus of Pediatrics, the David Lawrence Jr. Endowed Chair Emeritus, and the founding Director Emeritus of the Anita Zucker Center for Excellence... Read More →

Inclusion Institute 2026 EIEL Part 1 NN pptx

EIEL Framework Six Essential Practices pdf

Supplemental Table 1 14 EIEL Practices pdf

Back Home Sources and Resources pdf

Inclusion Institute 2026 EIEL Part 1 NN pdf

Wednesday June 24, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Administrator, Coach, Researcher and/or Evaluator, Policy Maker
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

7:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Adapting the Embedded Learning Framework for Contextual and Cultural Fit (Part 2 of a 2-part session)

Wednesday June 24, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

In this session, we will expand discussions of the embedded learning framework and its effective practices. We will describe why and how they have been adapted to enhance contextual and cultural fit in two international contexts: New Zealand and Australia. We will discuss examples of current activities and resources supporting the use of the framework and practices in these two contexts. Lessons learned about cross-sector and cross-cultural adaptations will be shared, including opportunities and challenges for different contexts. Participants will have opportunities to engage in discussion with the presenters and other participants about considerations related to the adoption, adaptation, implementation, scale-up, and sustainability of the framework and practices.

Speakers

John Forster

Noah's Ark Inc

Tara McLaughlin

Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

Inclusion Institute 2026 ELS Part 2 pdf

Wednesday June 24, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Administrator, Coach, Researcher and/or Evaluator, Policy Maker
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

8:00am EDT

(Virtual) (In-Person) Understanding Child Media Use for Sensory Regulation: Research by the UNC FaMLab on Media Sensory Curation and Family Media Conflict

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Speakers

Kristen Harrison

Richard Cole Eminent Professor, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

HarrisonFPGChildDevelopmentConferenceVirtual2026 pdf

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Coach, Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Family or Family Advocate, Researcher and/or Evaluator, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

8:00am EDT

(Virtual) The Japanese Practice of Mimamoru and Lessons on Inclusion

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT

Virtual on Zoom

VIRTUALjapanese practice of mimamoru and lessons on inclusion pdf

Speakers

Jani Kozlowski

Technical Assistance Specialist, UNC-FPG

Ryutaro Shintani

Professor, Doshisha Women’s College of Liberal Arts

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Age Group 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider, Coach
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

9:00am EDT

(Virtual) An Introduction to the Role of the Itinerant Early Childhood Special Educator

Thursday June 25, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Speakers

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

Ruth Gallucci

State ECSE AG Liaison, NASDSE

FINAL An Intro to the Role of the IECSE 2026 pptx

IECSE Schedule pdf

Planning Matrix pdf

IECSE Schedule Word docx

Planning Matrix Word docx

Thursday June 25, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 3-5
Audience Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist
Information Level Introductory
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

6:00pm EDT

(Virtual) It's You I Like!: Building Belonging in Our Neighborhoods--Lessons Learned from Fred Rogers (Part 1 of a 2-Part Session)

Thursday June 25, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Creating a welcoming program or neighborhood for children with disabilities and their families can be challenging but the work of Fred Rogers taught us how to embrace inclusion, equity, and diversity. Through this work, he used developmentally appropriate strategies to help us understand child development, different disabilities, implicit biases, and how to support a sense of belonging in our communities. Using Rogers’ six fundamentals of learning and growing (self-worth, trust, curiosity, solitude, looking and listening carefully, play) specifically from the lens of disability, we will focus on examples (e.g., songs, books, episode segments, characters) from Rogers’ work to develop strategies to affirm the value of inclusion and belonging within early childhood programs.

Speakers

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 →

Rogers Belonging WeglarzWard InclusionJune26 pdf

Rogers 6 Fundementals Guide (Fred Rogers Institute) pdf

Thursday June 25, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

7:00pm EDT

(Virtual) It's You I Like!: Building Belonging in Our Neighborhoods-Lessons Learned from Fred Rogers (Part 2 of a 2-Part Session)

Thursday June 25, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

Speakers

Jenna Weglarz-Ward

Associate Professor, University of Nevada, Las Vegas

Thursday June 25, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 0-3, 3-5, Pre-K-3rd Grade
Audience Family or Family Advocate, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

8:00pm EDT

(Virtual) An Inclusive Approach to Playful Early STEM Learning

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT

Virtual on Zoom

Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

All young children have the right to play. Science, technology (computational thinking), engineering, and math (STEM) experiences are opportunities for young children to engage in meaningful play. Research also shows that high-quality early STEM experiences can build foundational critical thinking skills and support later academic achievement. Yet children with disabilities are often denied meaningful opportunities to show what they know or can do. This session will explore how intentional, playful experiences that are designed around children's interests, needs, and thinking can open doors to rich STEM learning for all children. Playful STEM experiences are not just a context for learning, but can be a powerful vehicle for building community, fostering connection, and creating classrooms where every child belongs. Through video demonstrations and hands-on activities, participants will explore practical strategies for applying inclusive STEM in their own settings. Participants will leave with free open-access resources and tools to support all children, including children with disabilities, in early STEM learning.

Speakers

Jessica Amsbary

Technical Assistance Specialist, FPG Child Development Institute at UNC Chapel Hill

Dr. Amsbary is a Technical Assistance Specialist at the FPG Child Development Institute and Program Coordinator of the Early Childhood Intervention and Family Support (ECIFS) Master’s Degree in Education at UNC-Chapel Hill. Her primary research is focused on ensuring early interventions... Read More →

Chih-Ing Lim

Senior Technical Assistance Specialist, Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute

Chih-Ing Lim, Ph.D., is currently Senior Technical Assistance Specialist at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, USA. Chih-Ing is the Co-Chair of the International Early Childhood Inclusion Institute and serves as... Read More →

STEMIE Virtual 2026 pdf

II2026 Handout with links pdf

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom

Age Group 0-3, 3-5
Audience Early Interventionist/Home Visitor, Faculty in IHE, Family or Family Advocate, Student or Post-Doctoral Fellow, Teacher/Teacher Assistant/Itinerant Teacher/Family Child Care Provider, Therapist/Specialist, Trainer/TA Provider/Professional Development Provider
Information Level Appropriate for all levels
Format Virtual
Zoom Links https://inclusioninstitute.fpg.unc.edu/2026-zoom-links/

8:00pm EDT

(Virtual) We Are Not Hard to Reach: Engaging Black Fathers of Children with Disabilities

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT

Virtual on Zoom

This presentation aims to develop a better understanding of the lived experiences of Black fathers of children with disabilities. The diagnosis of disability in a child presents a challenge for many parents and families (Huang, Kellett & St Jon 2010). For most parents learning about their children's disability, shock becomes the first response to dealing with the diagnosis (Hemming & Akurst 2009, Yaacob et al. 2021). Educators and practitioners in social services often regard fathers as "hard to reach". In this session audience members will hear about lived experiences of the Black Father Crew, fathers of children with disabilities from across the United States.

Black Father Crew Bio:
The Black Father Crew is a community-based collective of Black fathers, researchers, and advocates committed to amplifying the voices and experiences of Black fathers of children with disabilities. Through storytelling, participatory research, and collaboration with educators and service providers, the initiative works to reshape early intervention and early childhood practices to be more inclusive, culturally responsive, and family-centered. The Black Father Crew partners with schools, universities, and community organizations to co-create solutions that honor father engagement as essential to child development and family well-being.

Speakers

Brandy James

Brandy James, PhD, is an Assistant Teaching Professor of Early Childhood, Youth, and Family Studies at Ball State University and Lecturer in Family Community Medicine at the University of Arizona. She holds a PhD. In Elementary Education, an M.A. in Counseling, and a M.S. Gerontology... Read More →

Marquis Clark

Head Volleyball Coach, King University

Marquis Clark, M.S. Clark is a native of Dodge City, Kansas, and obtained both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Kansas State University (2004, 2008). He also works as an adjunct professor at East Tennessee State, teaching Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. Clark is the father of... Read More →

Gregory Facey

Member, Board Member, Black Father Crew, AZABSE, NABSE

Gregory Facey, is an education leader in curriculum and leadership. He enjoys working with families and the community to build connections across disability leadership and self advocacy. He is the father of two sons.

Kevin Hall

Kevin Hall, is a Captain with the Portsmouth Fire Department, where he has served for over 15 years. With extensive experience in emergency resoeinse and leadership. He is a proud father of two sons.

LaMarcus Hall

LaMarcus Hall, PhD., received his PhD from Indiana State University in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Science and Master of Education from Georgia Southern University. He is also the author of I Refuse to Let YOU Give Up: To My Teens Who Feel All Hope Is Gone. LaMarcus has... Read More →

Mark Taylor

Mark Taylor is the Executive Director of Down Syndrome Forgotten. Over the last two decades, he has held various roles in education and social services.
He has many years of experience supporting families of children with intellectual disabilities through organizations such as St
... Read More →

Antoine Brown

Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom