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Tuesday, May 19
 

4:30pm EDT

(Virtual) Reflection/Networking Session: Virtual Participants
Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Meredith H Villines

Meredith H Villines

EI/ECSE Systems Coordinator, Oregon Department of Education
With 20+ years of working in early care and education, I am currently at the Oregon Department of Education, in the Office of Enhancing Student Opportunities. My primary roles have been a classroom teacher in inclusive childcare and preschools, lead teacher in an Early Childhood Special... Read More →
Tuesday May 19, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Reflection, All
 
Wednesday, June 24
 

8:00am EDT

(Virtual) Inclusive Systems, and Early Relational Health : Leadership Strategies for Young Children and Families
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
This session centers the growing intersection of inclusion, relational health, and systems level early relational health (psychological safety) But we supports for young children and their families. Participants will explore how implementation leaders can strengthen systems through practices that prioritize connection, emotional regulation, family voice, and reflective leadership.
Drawing from current work in early childhood mental health, Pyramid Model implementation, and family belonging frameworks, the session offers practical strategies for integrating inclusion and emotional wellness into professional development systems, community partnerships, and family engagement structures. Participants will examine how leadership teams can move from isolated practices toward a coherent systems approach that supports educators, families, and children through a lens of belonging, dignity, and prevention.
 This session is especially relevant for leaders/ professionals interested in bridging inclusion work with early childhood mental health and cross sector collaboration.
Participant Outcomes
Participants will:
  • Deepen understanding of relational health as a foundation for inclusion
  • Explore systems strategies that connect mental wellness with Pyramid implementation
  • Strengthen family belonging and community partnership structures
  • Apply reflective leadership strategies to systems level change
  • Leave with tools to align inclusion and mental health priorities across teams

Speakers
avatar for Yolanda Sosa

Yolanda Sosa

Yolanda Sosa has worked for 30 years in Early Intervention/ Childhood. She has been an International Consultant/Presenter in Mental Health and for Pyramid Model Consortium for 25 years; presenting in national, international conferences and training institutes; coaching on Trauma-Informed... Read More →
inclusion leadership erh NC 2026 Yolanda Sosa pdf
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

8:00am EDT

(Virtual) “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 June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
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 Inclusion Institute 2026 pdf
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

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
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Nadya Pancsofar

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 →
avatar for Joshuah Carlani

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 →
Inclusion Institute More than Supporting Roles Partnering with Fathers of Young Children with Disabilities pptx
Wednesday June 24, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

9:00am EDT

(Virtual) Supporting Foster, Adoptive and Kinship Families
Wednesday June 24, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Melissa Lebling

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
  Concurrent, Community and local level

10:00am EDT

(Virtual) Empowering Families in Early Intervention: Free Online Resources for Using Evidence-Based Practice with Autistic Toddlers
Wednesday June 24, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
Join us to explore free, practical online modules created to help families of autistic toddlers become active partners in early intervention. Find out about resources that explain autism, highlight the important role of families in the EI process, and introduce evidence-based practices that families can use in everyday routines. Participants will have time to preview the modules, discover ready-to-use supports, and consider ways to share and apply these resources in their own work with families.
Speakers
avatar for Jessica Amsbary

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 →
avatar for Ann Sam

Ann Sam

Advanced Research Scientist, FPG Child Development Institute, UNC Chapel Hill
Ann Sam, PhD, is a senior research scientist, at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute. Her research and professional development interests are rooted in her direct experience as a public-school teacher working in preschool and kindergarten classrooms with students with... Read More →
Parent Implemented Intervention for Toddlers Brief Packet, Nowell et al, 2022 pdf
Empowering Families Inclusion Institute Virtual 2026 (ver 6 23 2026) pdf
Wednesday June 24, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

10:00am EDT

(Virtual) Using the AEPS-3 in International Contexts
Wednesday June 24, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
The Assessment, Evaluation, and Programming System - 3rd Edition (AEPS-3) has gained recognition in a variety of international contexts due to its adherence to recommended practices for serving young children with disabilities. In this presentation, the presenter will describe the process of validating a tool, developed in the United States, for use in countries with different languages and cultures. The presenter has wide experience conducting this work and will share the opportunities and barriers of adapting tools like the AEPS-3. Those not working in international contexts will find the presentation useful as they consider how measures they are using address the needs of the diverse populations of children and families they serve. ,
Speakers
avatar for Jennifer Grisham

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 →
Adapting the AEPS 3 Intl Contexts pdf
Wednesday June 24, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

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
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for John Forster

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 →
avatar for Tara McLaughlin

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 →
avatar for Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

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

6:00pm EDT

(Virtual) The “F-Words for Child Development”: Bring the ideas to life for young children and their families (Part 1 of a 2-Part Session)
Wednesday June 24, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
This two-part session introduces the F-words for Child Development – family, fun, friends, functioning, fitness and future – within the evolving landscape of early childhood inclusion and developmental practice. Co-presented by researchers, a parent partner, and a clinical partner, it integrates research evidence, lived experience, and clinical insight. Participants will explore key concepts, the field’s shift toward functioning and participation, and practical tools to support implementation. Real-world examples will highlight the ways in which the F-words can be used across settings. Attendees will leave with clear, actionable ideas for applying the F-words in practice and everyday life, with time for discussion and questions.
Speakers
avatar for Lynda Moore

Lynda Moore

Parent Partner, CanChild, McMaster University
Lynda Moore is a parent to a young child with complex health. She is a presenter and parent partner in research with CanChild co-instructing Family Engagement in Research and various F-Words projects. She is part of the BC F-Words Foundation training team and resides on Vancouver... Read More →
avatar for Peter Rosenbaum

Peter Rosenbaum

Professor of Paediatrics, McMaster University
Peter Rosenbaum is a Professor of Pediatrics at McMaster, and a Developmental Pediatrician and researcher in the field of childhood-onset disability. He has a career-long interest in the wellbeing of families and the most effective ways for us as service providers to support their... Read More →
avatar for Rachel Teplicky

Rachel Teplicky

Business and Engagement Officer, CanChild, McMaster University
Rachel Teplicky is an occupational therapist and a leader in pediatric rehabilitation with over 25 years of experience. As Business and Engagement Officer at CanChild, she leads national and international efforts to turn research into policy and practice, including the widely adopted F-words for Child Develo... Read More →
EB
Wednesday June 24, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for John Forster

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 →
avatar for Tara McLaughlin

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 →
avatar for Patricia (“Pat”) Snyder

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 ELS Part 2 pdf
Wednesday June 24, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

7:00pm EDT

(Virtual) The “F-Words for Child Development”: Bring the ideas to life for young children and their families (Part 2 of a 2-Part Session)
Wednesday June 24, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
This two-part session introduces the F-words for Child Development – family, fun, friends, functioning, fitness and future – within the evolving landscape of early childhood inclusion and developmental practice. Co-presented by researchers, a parent partner, and a clinical partner, it integrates research evidence, lived experience, and clinical insight. Participants will explore key concepts, the field’s shift toward functioning and participation, and practical tools to support implementation. Real-world examples will highlight the ways in which the F-words can be used across settings. Attendees will leave with clear, actionable ideas for applying the F-words in practice and everyday life, with time for discussion and questions.
Speakers
avatar for Lynda Moore

Lynda Moore

Parent Partner, CanChild, McMaster University
Lynda Moore is a parent to a young child with complex health. She is a presenter and parent partner in research with CanChild co-instructing Family Engagement in Research and various F-Words projects. She is part of the BC F-Words Foundation training team and resides on Vancouver... Read More →
avatar for Peter Rosenbaum

Peter Rosenbaum

Professor of Paediatrics, McMaster University
Peter Rosenbaum is a Professor of Pediatrics at McMaster, and a Developmental Pediatrician and researcher in the field of childhood-onset disability. He has a career-long interest in the wellbeing of families and the most effective ways for us as service providers to support their... Read More →
avatar for Rachel Teplicky

Rachel Teplicky

Business and Engagement Officer, CanChild, McMaster University
Rachel Teplicky is an occupational therapist and a leader in pediatric rehabilitation with over 25 years of experience. As Business and Engagement Officer at CanChild, she leads national and international efforts to turn research into policy and practice, including the widely adopted F-words for Child Develo... Read More →
EB
Wednesday June 24, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

8:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Inclusion Without a Blueprint: Community Practices and Realities from Malaysia
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
What does early childhood inclusion look like when there is no mandate, no strong system-level support, and limited resources? Based on experience in the Malaysian context, this session explores classroom realities, the enabling factors and entry points that make inclusion achievable in low-resourced settings. The session also considers who and what holds inclusion together in practice: families and informal community partnerships. Drawing on reflections from working with community partners and teachers, the session highlights how language, culture, and local adaptation shape practice, and reflects on the tensions between deficit-based language and rights-based approaches to inclusion.

Speakers
avatar for Lai Thin Ng

Lai Thin Ng

Lai Thin is an inclusive education specialist from Malaysia. She authored Small Steps, Big Changes for Preschool Inclusion—Malaysia’s first resource centred on presuming competence and access for children with disabilities.She is currently the Project Lead at the National Early Childhood Intervention Council (NECIC), where she supports the strengthening of early childhood intervention practices and... Read More →
2026 inclusion without blueprint pptx
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent

8:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Targeting Higher Quality: Early Childhood Inclusive Education Practice in China
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
Based on a five-year project and research funded by the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China and UNICEF, this presentation will share the findings from experience of practitioners and researchers on inclusive preschool education in 37 kindergartens across seven pilot areas in China. It focuses on how multiple stakeholders, including university researchers, regional resource centers, preschool teachers, and health departments, collaborate and integrate resources to enhance teachers' inclusive education competencies, improve the quality of inclusive education in kindergartens, and ensure that more children can access and participate in high-quality early childhood education.

Speakers
avatar for Xueyun Su

Xueyun Su

Deputy Dean, China Research Institute of Care and Education of Infants and Young Children, East China Normal University
Su Xueyun, Ph.D. in Special Education, is a Professor and Doctoral Supervisor serving as the Associate Dean of the China Research Institute of Care and Education of Infants and Young Children in East China Normal University (ECNU). She also holds key roles including Standing Council Member of the Early Childhood Education Professional Committee of the Chinese Society of Education.She has long been dedicated to research in preschool inclusive education, early intervention, and child development, exerting profound... Read More →
Xueyun SU Early Childhood Inclusion institute PPT 0623 pdf
Wednesday June 24, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, National/state/system level
 
Thursday, June 25
 

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
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.
HarrisonFPGChildDevelopmentConferenceVirtual2026 pdf
HarrisonFPGChildDevelopmentConferenceVirtual2026 pdf
Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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
Feedback Survey
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
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 Ryutaro Shintani

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 →
VIRTUALjapanese practice of mimamoru and lessons on inclusion pdf
Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00am - 8:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

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
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Alissa Rausch

Alissa Rausch

University of Denver

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

9:00am EDT

(Virtual) Supporting Peer Relationships for Autistic Preschoolers: Practical Evidence-Based Strategies for Inclusive Classrooms
Thursday June 25, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
Peer interactions are at the heart of meaningful inclusion in early childhood settings. In this session, participants will explore how video modeling and social narratives can be used to support autistic preschoolers in building social engagement, participation, and connections with peers. This session will feature examples, video clips, and free resources that can be used in inclusive classrooms to make evidence-based practices practical and immediately useful.
Speakers
avatar for Ann Sam

Ann Sam

Advanced Research Scientist, FPG Child Development Institute, UNC Chapel Hill
Ann Sam, PhD, is a senior research scientist, at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute. Her research and professional development interests are rooted in her direct experience as a public-school teacher working in preschool and kindergarten classrooms with students with... Read More →
avatar for Jessica Amsbary

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 →
Supporting Peer Relationships pdf
Thursday June 25, 2026 9:00am - 9:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

10:00am EDT

(Virtual) Designing and Implementing Blended Preparation and Professional Development: A Discussion
Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
There is limited guidance for faculty and professional development providers interested in designing and implementing ‘blended’ personnel preparation or professional development programs (i.e., ones that attempt to blend both general and special education theory and practice). This session will provide practical guidance and resources for applying a blended approach to preparation and professional development across the continuum of early childhood personnel preparation and support. Participants will engage in interactive and collaborative exploration of resources as they apply to their individual contexts.
Speakers
CC

Ching-I Chen

Associate Professor, Kent State University
avatar for Naomi Rahn

Naomi Rahn

Associate Professor, University of Wisconcin-Whitewater
Dr. Rahn is an associate professor of special education at University of Wisconsin–Whitewater. She has taught at several universities and has worked in the field as an early childhood special education teacher and early interventionist. Her areas of interest include naturalistic... Read More →
Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

10:00am EDT

(Virtual) Why the Routines-Based Interview Is a Cross-Cultural Success
Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
The RBI was developed in the United States, where it has undergone trials with different cultures. With international implementation of the Routines-Based Model, the RBI has also been exported to culture overseas, in Australasia, the Far East, Central Europe, and Southern Europe. This presentation will address cross-cultural adaptations and how these have remained faithful to the model.
Speakers
avatar for Robin McWilliam

Robin McWilliam

Professor, The University of Alabama
Robin is a professor of Education at The University of Alabama, where he is the director of the Evidence-based International Early Intervention Office (EIEIO). He is also the founder and director of The RAM Group, a collection of experts on the Routines-Based Model.
CS

Cami Stevenson

Administrator and Associate Director, Multnomah Early Childhood Program and EIEIO

Why the Routines Based Interview Is a Cross Cultural Success pdf
Thursday June 25, 2026 10:00am - 10:50am EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, National/state/system level

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

6:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Scaffolding Caregiver Learning
Thursday June 25, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
The home visiting workforce often struggles with how to maximize caregiver learning during home visits. This session focuses on strategies to scaffold caregiver learning during home visits including supported practice, prompting, intentional modeling, reflection, and how to use the PICCOLO to reinforce and expand responsive strategies. We will discuss how to decide what level of scaffolding each caregiver needs and when to apply each scaffolding strategy.

Session handouts can be viewed at this link: https://hihello.com/hi/fippscaffoldingcaregiverlearning

Speakers
avatar for Teran Frick

Teran Frick

Teacher Leadership Specialist, Family, Infant and Preschool Program (FIPP)
Teran earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in early childhood education, specializing in both general and special education, from Kansas State University. She also holds a Ph.D. in special education from the University of Kansas, focusing on early intervention research... Read More →
Thursday June 25, 2026 6:00pm - 6:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

7:00pm EDT

(Virtual) Creating Professional Development with Adult Learning Principles
Thursday June 25, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
In this interactive session, participants will explore six essential principles of adult learning and experience what it looks like to design professional development that honors how adults actually learn. Through activities, discussion, reading, writing, and reflection, participants will examine where these principles already show up in their practice—and discover new, practical ways to strengthen them.
Rather than simply learning ,about adult learning theory, participants will experience each principle in action. Along the way, they’ll uncover why each principle matters and how to intentionally apply them when facilitating presentations, coaching sessions, and staff meetings. Participants will leave with concrete ideas, fresh perspectives, and a deeper understanding of how to design and facilitate professional learning experiences that are engaging, meaningful, and effective for adults.
Speakers
avatar for Sally Hansen

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 →
avatar for Jackie Joseph

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 →
Thursday June 25, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Community and local level

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
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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
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 →
Thursday June 25, 2026 7:00pm - 7:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Learning/natural environments (e.g. home or classroom)

8:00pm EDT

(Virtual) An Inclusive Approach to Playful Early STEM Learning
Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00pm - 8:50pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
Feedback Survey
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
avatar for Jessica Amsbary

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 →
avatar for Chih-Ing Lim

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

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
Feedback Survey
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
BJ

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 →
avatar for Marquis Clark

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 →
avatar for Gregory Facey

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.
KH

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.
LH

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 →
MT

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 →
AB
Thursday June 25, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm EDT
Virtual on Zoom
  Concurrent, Community and local level
 
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