The 2016 US Play Coalition: Midwest Play Conference is an inaugural event that will bring playful professionals, educators, parents, play advocates, and community members together. Attendees will have the opportunity to network and learn about local efforts to promote play throughout the Midwest.
Lisa Murphy’s keynote speech is sure to inspire educators and parents to create environments that are relevant, meaningful, play-based and grounded in nurturing relationships. Additionally, regional professionals from a variety of fields will engage attendees in discussion through talks and hands-on workshops covering various play topics.
Experience activities that support and develop one’s understanding of the importance of play in the lives of youth and adults.
Learn about topics related to play, such as: nature & outdoor play, play in early childhood education, play and wellness, social-emotional development and play, creating safe play spaces, creative play, and socio-dramatic & cultural play.
Grow professionally in career development as early childhood educators, in-home and center based child care providers, health and wellness service providers, outdoor and recreation professionals, and others.
Time
Sessions
7:45 am
Breakfast bites, coffee/Registration
8:45 am
Opening Remarks and Introduction of Keynote
9:00 - 10:15 am
Keynote Speaker- Lisa Murphy - Ostrander Title: What if today was their only day?
In this motivational keynote address, Lisa shares the powerful story of her first day of school and how, and why, that one day solidified her decision to become an educator. Lisa’s message is two-fold: First, are we, as a profession committed to creating environments that are relevant, meaningful, play-based and grounded in nurturing relationships? Additionally, professionals who work with children won’t be able to dedicate the time, effort or work required to create high quality, play-based early childhood environments if they have forgotten WHY they do this work. Why do you do what you do?
253/4/5 Brainstorm/Wrap it Up: Where do we go from here?
5:00 - 7:00 pm
Play Reception @ Children’s Museum of Southern MN for Play Time
Conference: Breakfast bites and box lunch (included in registration price)
Reception: Appetizers & Play @ Children’s Museum of Southern MN (included in registration price). Please indicate on the registration site if you are able to attend the Reception.Family members, including your kiddos, are invited too!
The Midwest Play Conference is made possible in Partnership with:
Questions: If you have questions about the training or how to register, contact Continuing Education & Professional Development at 507-389-1094, or 1-800-311-3142, or cepd@mnsu.edu
