As we embrace this season of gratitude, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt thanks to our early childhood education community. Your unwavering dedication to nurturing and educating young children inspires us all and strengthens the foundation of our future.

In November, we were honored to attend the NAEYC Annual Conference, a powerful opportunity to learn and collaborate with peers from across the nation. We also celebrated with over 200 early childhood education providers at our Western Massachusetts Conference, where connections were made, ideas were shared, and inspiration flowed.

As we reflect during this time of thankfulness, we are reminded of the importance of family, friends, and the communities that support us. Together, we make a profound difference in the lives of children and families.

We have some exciting news to share—be sure to read below for updates and announcements you won’t want to miss!

Wishing you a season filled with joy, gratitude, and togetherness,

Dr. Cheryl Hovey, MAAEYC President

MAAEYC brings early childhood conference back to the Berkshires

November 13, 2024

BUW helps advocate for changes to this year's conference and partners with BTCF to sponsor 46 educators to attend

As MAAEYC President Cheryl Hovey opened the conference, she told the more than 200 professionals in attendance, “together we have the power to shape the future, one playful moment at a time.” 

This year’s conference focused on how to help kids heal from trauma through optimism and play, and featured Anthony “Ant” Toombs Sr., senior playmaker guide and outreach specialist for the Life is Good Playmaker Project (LiGPP). Throughout his 15 years with LiGPP, he has helped thousands of early childhood professionals create more safe, loving and joyful environments for children to engage, connect and explore. 

In March 2022, Alica Ginsberg, early childhood career pathway grant coordinator at Berkshire Community College, accompanied a handful of students to the MAAEYC Conference in Worcester. Toombs was the speaker. 

“I became determined to help bring this fantastic speaker and program to the Berkshires,” she said. Here’s why. 

“For years, and especially since COVID, I have seen teachers, directors and programs in general struggling with dysregulated behaviors from our youngest children in the community,” said Ginsberg. “Our teachers deserve to know how to support these children and create environments that are healthy and responsive to the child's needs, no matter how challenging.” 

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