What if professional learning felt more like dialogue than information delivery? In this episode, Bibi Haniff is joined by guest, Rosalba Bortolotti, founder of Acorn Collaborative, to explore how listening, reflection, and connection can reshape the way educators grow together. Rosalba shares her journey of building communities where educators can slow down, listen deeply, and reflect together. From her exploration of the pedagogy of listening to the art of creating inviting and collaborative learning spaces, Rosalba invites us to see professional growth not as training, but as transformation.

It’s Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day!

Taylor takes over the podcast and, in this episode, she invites listeners to participate in the celebration, recognition, support, and advocacy for early years professionals. Taylor shares the insightful reflections on the impact of ECEs have on children and families, the value of care, and highlights special messages from the Child Development Resource Connection Peel (CDRCP).

Whether you’re an early years professional, a parent, or simply someone who values the role of early learning, this episode is a reminder of why today—and every day—we honour the dedication, compassion, and skill of early childhood professionals

Thank you, early years professionals. Today is for you.

For more professional learning opportunities: https://cdrcp.com/professional-learning/

Peel Region’s Campaign of the experiences of educators: https://peelregion.ca/news/early-childhood-professionals-share-their-joys-challenges-hopes-future

Ontario Coalition for Better Child Care: https://childcareontario.org/child-care-worker-and-early-childhood-educator-appreciation-day-2025/

AECEO: https://www.aeceo.ca/

Esha and Jessica explore the inspiring history of the Lifelong Learning Conference and share what’s ahead for the 2025 Lifelong Learning Symposium. From keynote highlights to this year’s top themes—equity, innovation, and early years professionals appreciation. Get the inside scoop on the event that’s shaping the future of education.

Registration for Day 1: NOW CLOSED

How to register for Day 2: https://youtu.be/K2cnDpMqO1k?si=zcbZw5bcONabpywq

Registration for Day 2: https://upstream1.cdrcp.netference.ca/

In this tidbit episode, Bibi takes a moment to pause and reflect on her experiences with early literacy and incorporating books into child care classrooms. Bibi opens up about her personal journey with books, both as a reader and as an educator. From childhood favourites to classroom staples, she reflects on the transformative power of literature and how books continue to shape minds, spark empathy, and create connection in learning spaces.

Bibi and Taylor dive deep into the critical topic of self-care and educator mental health. As former child care classroom educators themselves, they reflect on the emotional toll the profession can take and why it’s time to normalize rest, boundaries, and well-being in education.

Drawing from personal experiences, Bibi and Taylor explore the pressure to "do it all," and the challenges that contribute to emotional exhaustion in educators. More importantly, they share strategies, practical self-care practices, and accessible resources that helped them and others reclaim balance and joy in both personal and professional life.

Resources from this episode:

College of Early Childhood Educators Wellness Resources: https://www.college-ece.ca/members/wellness-resources/

CDRCP On Demand Webinar - Moving Mindfully with Children by Lisa Clarke: https://app.livestorm.co/cdrcp/moving-mindfully-with-children

More professional learning opportunities like this: https://cdrcp.com/professional-learning/

In this episode, Emma and Taylor dive into the incredible offerings of the Child Development Resource Connection Peel (CDRCP) Resource Centre. They explore how this valuable community resource supports educators, students, and early years professionals through its hands-on materials, curated resource bins, and welcoming environment.

Join them as they unpack how the resource bins not only enhance professional practice, but also provide meaningful support for student field placements and inspire creative program planning in early learning settings. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your journey in the field, this conversation will leave you with practical insights and fresh ideas for enriching your programming and professional growth.

Tune in and get inspired to make the most of your community resources!

CDRCP Resource Centre Homepage: https://cdrcp.com/resource-centre/

Peel Region early years professionals, join us for Lifelong Learning Symposium 2025

Day 1 - In-Person: For leaders and aspiring leaders, for more information or to register HERE

Day 2 - Live Virtual: For all early years professionals and is a Peel Region system closure, registration coming soon!!

The Professional Learning team are in the hot seat as guests this week as this episode dives into the role of the Professional Learning and Resource Specialists at CDRCP and how their work supports quality enhancement across the early years sector. You'll hear firsthand how professional learning goes beyond workshops; acting as a catalyst for reflective practice, continuous growth, and meaningful change. The team shares insights into their day-to-day work, the impact of intentional learning, and how they tailor professional learning for Peel educators and leaders to strengthen quality across programs. Emma, Bibi and Jessica offer valuable advice for professionals in the field and the wider early years community looking to grow, connect, and lead with purpose.

For more professional learning opportunities visit our website: https://cdrcp.com/professional-learning/

In this episode, we’re joined by Ji Eun Park, a passionate and experienced Quality Initiative Mentor at CDRCP. Ji Eun shares valuable insights into her role supporting early childhood educators and programs in enhancing the quality of care and learning environments. We dive into what it means to be a Quality Initiative Mentor, how CDRCP supports quality enhancement, and a look into the new Raising the Bar in Peel profile.