Procare Software had the pleasure of once again attending the annual NAEYC conference held in Nashville, TN. From November 20th-23rd we were at the beautiful Music City Center among thousands of teachers, program administrators, researchers, and students who gathered together for the largest early childhood education conference in the world to learn about the latest trends and research in the field.
Procare had its own booth where we showcased our entire family of brands, including Kinderlime, KidReports, DayCare Works, and SchoolCare Works. With the opportunity to talk to old friends and new, demonstrate our unique products, and answer any questions that came our way, it was certainly an exciting and eventful three days.
With that being said, our booth was just a snippet of the great events that went on during this yearâs conference. Here are some of our favorite highlights:
Highlights from the NAEYC Conference 2019
Opening Keynote Address
The conference started off on a high note with an inspiring keynote address from Dr. Gail C. Christopher who addressed our responsibility to promote equity and diversity in early childhood education. An award-winning social change agent, Dr. Christopher has an impressive background in holistic health and diversity concepts. She is the President & Founder of the Ntianu Center for Healing and Nature and recently retired from W.K. Kellogg Foundation where she was the driving force behind the America Healing initiative and the Truth, Racial Healing and Transformation effort. It was fantastic to hear her thoughts on how we as childcare educators can take charge and promote diversity in the classroom.
Celebration of Equity and Diversity
Conference attendees had the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations with like-minded individuals by participating in various interest forums at the Celebration of Equity and Diversity. Some of the interest forums included:
Going Global with Your Career
Forum presenters shared their experiences working, studying, and volunteering abroad and focused on specific topics of interest such as adjusting to different cultures, learning different languages, and finding international opportunities for early childhood educators.
Latin Childrenâs Music Artist
We had the pleasure of listening to singer-songwriter Sonia De Los Santos perform who reflected on her experiences growing up in Mexico and the connection she has with her heritage. Sonia was full of energy and amazing songs that truly inspired everyone who saw her!
Meet & Greet with Governing Board Candidates
Attendees gathered to meet the slate for the 2020 Governing Board election where candidates addressed issues facing the association and how they plan to contribute. This yearâs election includes candidates for two At-Large Governing Board members and one Student Governing Board member.
Exploring the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum
After a productive day of learning, attendees had the unique opportunity to explore 30,000 sq. ft. of multi-genre music history at the Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum. This led to a night of live music, hors dâoeuvres, drinks and dancing the night away in celebration of early childhood education.
Final Thoughts
The 2019 NAEYC conference was certainly one to remember, and the Procare team was honored to be back for another year. Itâs always exciting to assemble among some of the greatest leaders in early childhood education and learn about the most current research in the field.
Procare looks forward to staying on top of shifting trends and priorities in the early childhood education field and continuing to provide users with the best management solutions for their childcare center.
Learn more about the products we showcased at the NAEYC 2019 conference and how to improve your child care center!
