July 2026 Early Childhood Days of Play

How do we ensure play for 'all' actually includes everyone? This session is a direct response to SPED educators seeking practical ways to adapt play-based literacy for students with diverse physical, cognitive, and sensory needs. We will move past the one-size-fits-all approach to explore the ‘Ms. Mary Method’ of scaffolding: adapting environments, modifying materials, and using visual supports to make play accessible. From sensory-heavy story bins to adaptive role-play, you’ll gain a toolkit of inclusive strategies that honor every child’s developmental stage while fostering a genuine love for stories.

Don't just close the book when the story ends! Transform your read-alouds into dynamic springboards for foundational literacy. This session moves beyond passive listening, demonstrating how to pair high-quality picture books with playful extensions targeting phonological awareness, oral language, and early writing. We'll explore a curated list of titles and the specific movement, sensory, and dramatic play invitations that bring their themes to life. Participants will leave with a practical framework for turning any story into a multi-sensory learning adventure that keeps the joy of discovery at the heart of the classroom.

Don't just close the book when the story ends! Transform your read-alouds into dynamic springboards for foundational literacy. This session moves beyond passive listening, demonstrating how to pair high-quality picture books with playful extensions targeting phonological awareness, oral language, and early writing. We'll explore a curated list of titles and the specific movement, sensory, and dramatic play invitations that bring their themes to life. Participants will leave with a practical framework for turning any story into a multi-sensory learning adventure that keeps the joy of discovery at the heart of the classroom.