Back by Popular Demand – repeat workshop
Introduction to Persona Dolls – A Virtual Workshop
Wednesday 6/17/2020 6:00pm to 7:30pm $30 Please click here to register
Presented by: Jill Adamson and Berenice Vallejo
In this workshop we will talk about how to use persona dolls to expand social emotional curriculum in the classroom and expand anti-bias curriculum. We have found persona dolls to be an extremely engaging and effective part of the curriculum. Persona dolls are used to bring up challenging topics, big and small, that children deal with on a regular basis. These dolls mirror the lives of children in the class and play out different scenarios that children regularly encounter. Children get to know each of the dolls and they become a part of the life of the class.
This workshop will cover:
- What are persona dolls?
- Demonstration of how to introduce persona dolls into the classroom
- How are they different from dramatic play dolls?
- How do you create their identities to reflect the cultural and social context of the community?
- Where do you keep persona dolls in the classroom?
- What scenarios are persona dolls used for?
- When do you use persona dolls?
During the workshop, we will recreate different persona doll scenarios that reflect important topics that come up in a children’s lives including:
- Anti-Bias Scenarios
- English as a Second Language
- Race
- Conflict Resolution in the Classroom
- Acts of Kindness
- COVID-19 Face Masks
- Death
Read what Teachers and Parents had to say about the Persona Dolls workshop
“This workshop was incredible! I appreciate the thoroughness of how and when to use persona dolls with children, your passion and wonderful creativity! I loved the authentic demonstrations of the various scenarios that you shared with us with using the persona dolls.” ~Teacher
“Through this meaningful workshop, I am energized, excited, and committed to adding them into my teaching practice. I am certain they will be a valuable addition to the lives of children in my life!” ~Parent/Teacher
“These workshops have been such a grounding experience in the midst of the pandemic. Being able to spend more time think about practices and learning from educators has truly been such a special opportunity. I wholeheartedly appreciate everything you’ve done to make this possible!” ~Keri Brewer – Educator – Hana Fenichel
“I enjoyed everything very much. There was so much information I did not know. I have been in the field for over 25 years and in this approach for the last 5 years, and I learned so much. I am always looking for webinars to enrich myself as a professional.” ~Veronica Hendricks ~Teacher
“This was a wonderful experience. It was nice to see how you use the persona dolls; how naturally it seemed that the conversation flows when you were demonstrating how to use the dolls.” ~Teacher
“Thank you for the opportunity to see how you use the Persona Dolls. Each Scenario was so related to topics we see our children face. I just wish some day I can be as good as you in using the dolls.” ~Teacher
“I loved the experience and the innocence that came along with using the dolls as a tool to help discuss challenges. The remainder of using the dolls for happy moments is crucial too and I appreciate how that was acknowledged. I am excited to begin implementing the dolls as a tool to adjust back to the classroom, in whatever form that may be, and use them as an outlet of expression.” ~Teacher
“Branches is on the forefront of early childhood development and is a resource for the most innovative and best practices in the field. Their community outreach programs are an invaluable resource.” ~Beth Sayoun – Teacher Magic – Years Nursery School
Through images and learning stories, Patricia and Christina will share how we have adapted our classrooms, materials and, curriculum to support children’s emotional and social connections during physical distancing.
Together we will explore:
- How can we see COVID-19 constraints as opportunities for creative problem solving and new possibilities?
- How can we create engaged and connected classrooms by interesting spaces and engaging environments?
- How can we engage children in collaborative learning while maintaining physical distancing?
- How can we create interactive setups that encourage collaborative learning and collaboration?
- How can we help children still build empathetic and connected relationships with their teachers and peers?
- What materials can support the connection and problem solving between children?
- How do we create an environment that supports self-directed, engaged learning?
- How can positive psychology be used to create warm and joyful classrooms?
- How can children help create classroom agreements to keep everyone safe?
Introduction to Creating Online Extracurriculars
A Hands-On and Virtual Workshop
Wednesday 7/1/2020 6:30pm to 8:00pm $30 Please click here to register
Presented by Franceska Schifrin
In this workshop we will discuss how to use extracurricular activities at home, to create a base for children learning to use materials, develop self-confidence, and expand and extend the classroom curriculum. We will include numerous hands-on and how – to demonstrations that can be done with simple materials from the home.
These are some of the topics this workshop will cover:
- What are extracurricular activities?
- Why is it important for children to have fun?
- How can extracurricular activities develop independence and self-confidence?
- How can extracurriculars expand social and emotional awareness?
- How can these activities encourage dialogue and understanding of environmental responsibilities?
- How can extracurricular activities become a bridge between home and school in this time of Covid-19?
- What is the role of the parent in the extracurricular experience?
- Numerous how -to demonstrations that can be presented virtually to children.
- A materials list for educators to consider.
All workshops will be presented via Zoom and tickets are to be purchased via EventBrite
