For the first time since March of 2020, we are excited to resume our annual and in-person pre-service staff training event at the State College of Florida Lakewood Ranch Campus!

Children First staff gathered for a full day of professional development and training on July 27. VP of Programs Kathleen Sullivan and VP of Philanthropy Jessica Rogers started off the morning by recognizing staff for their achievements in earning credentials and certifications, such as bachelor’s and master’s degrees and the Family Development Credential.

Staff then had the opportunity to discuss Recapturing Joy from Natalie Johnson of ViDL Solutions, and choose from two breakout sessions with presentations including Trauma Informed Care and Dealing with Difficult Situations.

The day ended with “laughter yoga” and an exciting raffle where several staff won gifts such as educational classroom items from Lakeshore Learning, Children First “swag” and more. Three lucky staff members also received a paid day off!

Staff are continuing to meet by specific sites and regions to discuss important topics such as health and safety, classroom set-ups and protocols, home visits, curriculum and lesson planning, referral processes, practice based coaching, and more.

As we look ahead to what we know will be the best school year yet, we are deeply appreciative to our community partners, like SCF Lakewood Ranch for the beautiful meeting space, for helping our staff refresh and refocus so we can continue providing the highest level of service possible.