Ongoing Learning

“Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best.” – Bob Talbert

We are proud to have been part of the Professional Learning Pilot which was a limited-time opportunity for professional learning and mentorship in not-for-profit child care programs. This was supported by one-time funding through the Canada-Ontario Early Childhood Workforce Agreement. The goal of the Pilot initiative was to lay a foundation for sector-wide professional learning in the childcare and early years sector through an investment in the professional workforce. An equity and inclusion lens will be applied to all aspects of the Pilot.

The program is designed to increase awareness and knowledge of child care and early years staff in the following four priority areas:

Anti-racism and inclusive practices
Incorporating Indigenous perspectives and pedagogies
Mental health and well-being for children, families, and staff, and
Supporting children with special needs through inclusive approaches

We appreciate the support of the City of Ottawa for allowing us to be part of this initiative and for all the support, guidance they have offered in the implementation of this pilot project.

Today, our staff continue to pursue ongoing learning for - not only themselves - but for the children and families we serve and the constant need for equity and diversity.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion with Kevin Bray

Virtual | Toronto, ON

Kevin Bray is an award-winning freelance consultant who supports the creation of inclusive and affirming learning environments. He was a secondary educator for over 30 years and spent the latter part of his education career working as a consultant promoting awareness and understanding about gender and sexual diversity, racism, poverty and classism, and mental health.

Kevin Bray Professional Flyer .pdf

16th Anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Kosovo

Ottawa, ON

We were very grateful to have been invited to the 16th anniversary of the Independence of the Republic of Kosovo & 15 years of Diplomatic Relations between the Republic of Kosovo and Canada! Conny, Courtney, and Nezi, our supply staff member and part of the RCCC Family, had a wonderful time at the event.

Mādahòkì Farm

Nepean, ON

Mādahòkì Farm was a wonderful experience. Our staff, some supply staff, and two Board Members attended the day of learning. The impact of learning was very powerful, as it came from real lived experiences of First Nations people. We were graced with dances of the First Nations and the beauty of their regalia; and also learned the origin of Dreamcatchers and made our own as well.

On top of also making bannock by the fire, we had made reconciliation rocks that we later placed on the farm's walking trail. It was such all such a great experience. Oh - and we had some delicious Bison and Soy Burgers too!

Plan your visit to Mādahòkì Farm!

Metis Nation of Ontario

Niagara-on-the-Lake, QC

The Metis Nation of Ontario conference was so memorable! Jen, Eunice, and Arlene learned so much history and perspectives of the Metis People. On top of learning and sharing this experience together, they were graced with meeting, singing, and dancing alongside Sharon and Randy (Sharon's daughter) from Sharon, Lois, and Bram!

Conscious Discipline
Creating A School Family

Orlando, FL

This 2-day conference was about Creating a School Family, a philosophy guided by Conscious Discipline. This approach encourages educators to consciously respond to daily conflict by transforming it into an opportunity to teach critical life skills.

The Conscious Discipline® focus begins with providing safety, both physically and emotionally, for all children; then creates an environment that aids in healthy connections with all. Conny and Arlene learned so much and cannot wait to share the philosophy with the rest of the team!

Black History
Month Gala

Gatineau, QC

We were blessed to have 3 of our staff attend the Black History Month Gala 2023 | February & Forever event at the Canadian Museum of History. The speakers included the Right Honourable Michaelle Jean, Canadian Businessman, Wes Hall and Mr. Terrence Floyd, brother of the late George Floyd.

Julie, Nancy, and Arlene had an amazing time. The perspectives and achievements of the Black community were awe-inspiring and greatly appreciated.

Our Journey Together

Building Our Bundles

London, ON

This 2-day conference presented by First Nations Early Learning (FNEL) | Firefly, was such a great learning experience! Indigenous pedagogy is very much similar to How Does Learning Happen? and what we currently do as Early Childhood Educators.
Kristine and Arlene learned and were graciously gifted the art of making a Medicine Bag, a group game, and this Indigenous Song!
Here are some resources offered by FNEL.

ColourBlind Workshop