Joint Initiatives

PRE-LICENCIA PARA HOGARES DE CUIDO INFANTIL FAMILIARES
2024-04-17 09:30 - 13:00, 2024-04-18 09:30 - 13:00, 2024-04-19 09:30 - 13:00 (America/Denver)
NUEVA! PRE-LICENCIA PARA HOGARES DE CUIDO INFANTIL FAMILIARES
15-19 de Abril | 9:30 am – 1:00 pm
La capacitacion Previa a la Licencia para un Hogar de Cuido Infantil Familiar es una requerida de 15 horas. Los participantes deberán asistir los 5 dias y completar los 7 modulos para recibir el certificado de finalización.
Regístrese aquí en PDIS | $50

Conflict Resolution Within Your Workplace
2024-04-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Online
Whether a program would like to be prepared if conflict arises, or needs strategies to address current challenges, this training will offer information related to employee engagement and retention, workplace culture, and resilience.

Guiding Growth: Mastering The Implementation of Developmentally Appropriate Practices in Early Childhood Education
2024-04-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Online
Guiding Growth: Mastering The Implementation of Developmentally Appropriate Practices in Early Childhood Education
This training session is tailored to early childhood educators seeking to master the implementation of developmentally appropriate practices. Through interactive workshops, case studies, and hands-on activities, participants will delve into the core principles of child development and explore how to effectively apply these principles in educational settings. From understanding individual learning styles to creating inclusive environments, this training will equip educators with the tools and knowledge needed to foster holistic growth and development in young learners. By embracing evidence-based strategies and fostering reflective practice, participants will leave empowered to create engaging
and supportive learning experiences that honor each child’s unique journey of discovery and growth.

Health + Well-Being Committee Meeting
2024-04-24 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-07-24 12:00 - 13:30 | Online
The Health + Well-Being Committee is a subcommittee of the Alliance for Kids Council and meets quarterly (January, April, July, and October). The committee is made up of agencies and individuals working collaboratively to guide the work of Alliance for Kids in meeting the goals and objectives of its Strategic Plan, which are aligned with the Early Childhood Colorado Framework.
Meeting details will be shared with committee members via email. If you have an interest in joining this committee, please contact Bernadine McCarron, Foundations Wellness Manager, at bmccarron@jointinitiatives.org.

Challenging Behavior in Children
2024-05-02 18:30 - 20:00 | Online
In a classroom environment, one of the biggest obstacles you may face is dealing with children with challenging behavior. There’s often a reason behind their behavior, or it might
be their only way of telling you something’s wrong. With all behavior being a form of communication, this training will help you understand the causes of challenging behavior and learn effective classroom strategies.
This training is presented by Cassy Reyes, Foundations Trauma Coach + Trainer.
View full flyer HERE.

Leading Excellence: Empowering Early Childhood Education Leaders
2024-05-07 18:00 - 20:00 | Online
Leading Excellence: Empowering Early Childhood Education Leaders
This training delves into the vital aspects of leadership within early childhood education. Attendees will learn how to develop a vision for the organization and how to identify and recruit talented individuals who align with those values. Participants will explore effective strategies for mentoring and guiding educators to excel in their roles, fostering a nurturing environment for staff and students. Additionally, the course will cover professional leadership principles, empowering participants to cultivate a culture of continuous learning and growth within their educational communities. With practical insights and actionable techniques, this class equips aspiring and seasoned leaders alike with the skills and knowledge to drive positive change and elevate the quality of early childhood education programs.

Family Friendly City Summit | Thursday
2024-05-09 08:30 - 15:00 | The Penrose House, 1661 Mesa Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
Purpose of Summit:
To leverage the newly-created Early Childhood Business Council, the Summit will bring together business and other community leaders in partnership with early childhood education professionals to create diverse strategies to solve the child care crisis. Invitees will include professionals representing the area’s 400+ early childhood (childcare) programs, along with sector leaders from the health, education, media, philanthropy, government, and social services sectors.
Format:
The Summit will bring delegates representing traditional child care providers and new partners to serve within delegations that will engage in strategic planning breakout groups. Each delegation will represent diverse segments of the community and will be comprised of approximately 10-12 members.
The delegations will meet simultaneously to explore approaches and strategies within the framework of how the community can work together across sectors to address the significant child care (early childhood education) gap in the Pikes Peak Region. To guide them through this process, pre-determined questions will be given to support dialogue.
Summit Overview, Agenda, and Delegate Roles
There is no cost to participate.
Contacts:
SherryLynn Boyles, Joint Initiatives CEO, sboyles@jointinitiatives.org, (210) 296-8577
Cindy Aubrey, PPUW CEO, cindy@ppunitedway.org

Family Friendly City Summit | Saturday
2024-05-11 11:30 - 14:30 | The Penrose House, 1661 Mesa Avenue, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
THE FAMILY FRIENDLY CITY SUMMIT
Focusing on Early Childhood Solutions for Businesses
The Summit is convening early childhood providers on a Saturday to provide the greatest opportunity for engagement. The Saturday meeting follows a meeting two days prior on Thursday when more businesses could engage. The Saturday meeting will provide an opportunity for early childhood providers to review the ideas that came out of Thursday’s meeting and add your own. You will be asked to lend your expertise to explore and prioritize strategies.
View the Summit Invitation HERE.
11:30 am Excellence in Early Childhood Awards Ceremony
Nominations online form available at jointinitiatives.org
Download the EC Awards Nomination Flyer for details.
Click to submit a nomination.
Who should attend?
Child care business owners, directors, early childhood policy leaders,
early childhood school district leadership, early childhood advocates, etc.
Two people per organization are invited.
RSVP or for more information:
Andrew Drescher at adrescher@jointinitiatives.org

Leading Edge™ For Childcare Providers (Center-Based)
2024-05-18 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-05-25 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-06-01 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-06-08 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-06-15 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-06-22 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-06-29 09:00 - 12:00 | Online
Leading Edge™ For Childcare Providers (Center-Based)
In partnership with Joint Initiatives for Youth + Families/Foundations, the Pikes Peak Small Business Development Center LEADING EDGE™ for Childcare Providers helps both licensed child care providers (Center-based) and start-ups. The six-week program assists child care providers in strengthening business practices when coping with the challenges of the ever-changing landscape of the Colorado workforce.

Roundtable | Early Childhood Centers
2024-05-29 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
JOIN US!
The JI/UPK team’s monthly Roundtable will be held on FEBRUARY 23rd. The agenda will consist of CDEC updates and planning for the 2024-25 UPK year.
Child Care Centers | 1–2 pm
Family Child Care Homes | 6–7 pm
Download the Roundtable flyer HERE.

Building a Bright Future
2024-06-04 18:00 - 20:00 | Online
Building a Bright Future: Nurturing Staff Retention and Creating Positive Workplace Environments in Early Childhood Settings
This training session is designed to empower early childhood educators and administrators in fostering environments that support staff retention and cultivate positive workplace dynamics. Through interactive discussions, practical strategies, and collaborative activities, participants will explore the essential elements of creating a nurturing and supportive workplace culture. Topics will include effective communication techniques, team building exercises, recognizing and addressing burnout, promoting work-life balance, and implementing strategies for professional growth and development. Whether you’re an educator, supervisor, or administrator, this training will equip you with the tools and insights needed to cultivate a thriving and resilient early childhood
community.

Summer Group by Skill Builders
2024-06-17 09:30 - 2024-08-02 12:00 | Skill Builders, 437 Windchime Place
At Summer Skills Groups, every activity is carefully crafted to provide a balance of learning, exploration, and enjoyment. Our experienced facilitators create a supportive and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.
Join us this summer for an unforgettable experience where your child can grow, learn, and make lasting memories!
More info on the program, dates, and times is available HERE. (Please note the 12 pm ending time on flyer is correct.)
Register HERE.
Skills Development Focus:

Emotion Regulation: Equip your child with the tools to understand and manage their emotions effectively.

Social Skills: Foster meaningful connections and friendships through interactive group activities.

Impulse Control: Teach children how to pause, think, and make thoughtful decisions.

Positive Attachments: Cultivate healthy relationships and bonds with peers and mentors.

Communication Skills: Enhance verbal and non-verbal communication abilities for clearer expression.

Healthy Coping Strategies: Introduce coping mechanisms that promote resilience and well-being.

Diverse Range of Activities:

Role-Play: Encourage imaginative play to explore different perspectives and situations.

Art: Spark creativity and self-expression through various art mediums and projects.

Mindfulness and Meditation: Foster inner peace and emotional awareness through mindfulness exercises.

Music/Dance: Engage in rhythmic activities to promote coordination and self-confidence.

Problem-Solving Games: Strengthen critical thinking and problem-solving skills through interactive games.

Physical Movement: Promote physical health and well-being through fun and energizing movement activities.

Narrative and Storytelling: Develop language skills and imagination through storytelling sessions.

Understanding Resiliency in Young Children
2024-06-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Joint Initiatives for Youth + Families, 1600 N. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO, 80909, United States
Children and youth with special healthcare needs (CYSHCN) experience childhood adversities and trauma at a much higher rate (2X) than children without special healthcare needs. CYSHCN are more susceptible to trauma for a variety of reasons. Join us to learn about trauma and resiliency in CYSHCN and how to help them gain skills to face future adversities.

Universal Pre-K Office Hours for ECE Providers
2024-07-29 13:00 - 14:00, 2024-07-29 18:00 - 19:00 | Online
Early childhood providers are invited to Universal Pre-K Office Hours, where you can have your question answered in real-time by JI staff regarding the direct placement process for the 2024-25 UPK year.
Join Office Hours HERE (Zoom)
Meeting ID: 418 525 8570
Passcode: UPK
One tap mobile: 719.359.4580

Understanding Resiliency in Young Children
2024-08-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Online
Children and youth with special healthcare needs (CYSHCN) experience childhood adversities and trauma at a much higher rate (2X) than children without special healthcare needs. CYSHCN are more susceptible to trauma for a variety of reasons. Join us for this virtual training to learn about trauma and resiliency in CYSHCN and how to help them gain skills to face future adversities. You will have the opportunity to walk through examples of how to help this population to develop or reinforce resiliency.
Instructor: Kyrsten Hall, MPH

Beyond the ACEs Score | Parts 1, 2, and 3
2024-09-19 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-10-03 18:00 - 20:00, 2024-10-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Joint Initiatives for Youth + Families, 1600 N. Union Blvd., Colorado Springs, CO, 80909, United States
Promoting Positive Childhood Experiences: Through the Lens of the Neurosequential Model in Early Childhood Education.
Parts 1, 2, and 3 build upon each other. Children’s mental health training provides early childhood educators an opportunity to better understand the impact of childhood trauma and how to implement strategies to prevent or reduce the effects. Through building nurturing relationships, providing positive experiences, and offering safe environments for children to live, play, and learn, individuals can contribute to the healthy development and well being of all children in our community.

Part 1: Toxic stress, often precipitated by adversity in childhood, is the body’s response to lasting and serious stress. This type of stress affects how the brain and the body grow and develop, often causing lifelong behavioral and physical health issues. Join us to learn how Adverse Childhood Experiences may have impacted your life personally, those whom you love, or those whom you work with.
In Part 2, participants will learn ‘why’ adversity, especially in the early stages of development, creates the foundation for all future growth.
In Part 3, participants will address the question, “So, now what?” Participants will be introduced to primary concepts of the Neurosequential Model in Education to start creating relationships and environments where all children can flourish.

Instructor: Paula Hergert, M.A.Ed.
Part 1 • September 19 | Register HERE
Part 2 • October 3 | Register HERE
Part 3 • October 17 | Register HERE

Career Navigator Virtual Office Hours
2024-10-07 11:30 - 14:30
FREE SUPPORT TO PURSUE OR ADVANCE YOUR CAREER!
Do you need guidance navigating the many paths toward a rewarding career in early childhood? Have you been in the field and would like to know the opportunities for advancing your career? Joint Initiatives offers free career navigation! It includes PDIS support, assistance with college enrollment or applying for the Advancing Early Childhood Educators program (below), answering CDA questions, portfolio support, + more!
NEW! Virtual Office Hours via Zoom!
1st and 3rd Mondays | 11:30 am–2:30 pm
¡Ofrecemos nuestros servicios en Español!
For the Career Navigation flyer in Spanish, click HERE.
Download our Navigator Flyer for details and the link to virtual office hours or visit our BuildMyECECareer.com to schedule a free time to chat.
SHARE THE OPPORTUNITY
If you know someone considering a career in early childhood education, BuildMyECECareer.com has complete details for getting started, including inspiring videos highlighting those in the field!
Advancing Early Childhood Educators FLYER 11.8.24

Child Care Focus Group for Parents + Caregivers
2024-10-16 13:00 - 14:00
We’re inviting parents of young children (ages birth–5) to join an in-person focus group and share their experiences and insights on early childhood care, education, and access. The purpose of these focus groups is to understand the unique needs of our community and explore opportunities for expanding Early Head Start programs where they’re needed most.

This event is offered in person. Focus group is limited to 8 participants, and you must reside in El Paso County, Colorado.
Child care is offered upon request through the registration page.
After the focus group, all adult participants will receive a $125 Walmart gift card as a thank you for your time. Limit one gift card per household. ID will be required, and the address must match the address on your registration.
Download flyer HERE.
