Teachers from across the region gathered in October for the first-ever Spark and Play: Igniting Young Minds conference, a professional development day focused on early childhood learning, wellness, and community connection.
Organized by Lana Lane and Lori Haygarth, the event brought together preschool, daycare, and early-grade teachers for a day of learning and encouragement.
Lane said the idea was simple, to support those who spend their days shaping young minds.
“The event is for any adult working with our youth, from child care to Grade 2,” Lane said. “We wanted to provide a professional development day that gives teachers and care providers some tools for their toolkit.”
While organizers hoped to draw 125 participants, Lane said the smaller turnout of about 70 people helped build stronger conversations and networking.
“We needed to set the stage and provide an opportunity for whoever could be here,” Lane said. “The positive feedback and the workshops made it worthwhile. We’ll grow from here.”
The conference featured Laurie McIntosh, a kindergarten teacher from Lethbridge and keynote speaker known for her work on teacher wellness. She said events like this remind educators of their value in a demanding profession.
“It’s so important to connect with early educators who don’t always get the validation they deserve,” McIntosh said. “My job today was to help acknowledge and affirm the wonderful work they’re already doing and give them strategies to keep creating community.”
McIntosh said her message to every teacher was simple.
“They’re incredible,” she said. “They didn’t need me to be here in order to be incredible. It’s about finding that within themselves and knowing they’re enough in everything they do.”
Both speakers emphasized the importance of community, for educators, families, and children alike.
“The biggest thing we can collaborate on with families is connection,” McIntosh said. “Share stories, talk about what’s happening in the classroom, and tell kids how amazing their teachers are.”
Lane agreed that connection begins at home.
“Kids need to know they’re acknowledged and that they matter,” she said. “Whether it’s reading a book, playing outside, or sitting down for supper together, that time helps them feel ready to learn.”
McIntosh said community is also the best strategy for educators coping with burnout or isolation.
“Nobody was meant to do this alone,” she said. “Find community wherever you can, a colleague, a friend, a neighbour, someone who reminds you you’re doing more than enough.”
For Lane, the day’s goal was simple, to remind teachers that learning never stops.
“Showing up means you’re building your toolkit and becoming better,” she said. “There’s always something new to learn.”
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