EYCDC February 2026 Newsletter
Professional Learning
This NEW professional learning session invites educators to reflect deeply on gender inclusivity and explore practical strategies for creating affirming environments in early learning and child care programs. Grounded in Nova Scotia’s Early Learning Curriculum Framework (NSELCF), the session emphasizes the importance of equitable, diverse, inclusive, and anti-bias practices in supporting children’s holistic development.
Through collaborative dialogue, case studies, role plays, and hands-on activities, participants will examine how gender concepts, bias, and stereotypes influence children’s experiences and explore ways to interrupt bias in everyday interactions. The session also highlights the role of play in identity formation and offers strategies for partnering with families to foster inclusive, culturally responsive environments.
We are offering two online training sessions for GIELE: Gender Inclusive Environments for March 3 & 5 and March 10 & 12.
We have additional sessions available including Culturally Responsive Leadership, Reflective Planning Cycle, Learning with Mi'kma'ki and more!
Click here to view the full schedule and/or to register.
An Exciting New Professional Learning Opportunity!
INCLUSION SUPPORT AND POSITIVE CHILD GUIDANCE
A FREE Professional Learning Series for Inclusion Coordinators and Inclusion Supports
Session 1: Fundamentals of Positive Child Guidance. 3 PL Hours
Online
• February 25, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM FRENCH
• February 25, 6:00 - 9:00 PM ENGLISH
• February 26, 1:00 – 4:00 PM ENGLISH
Session 2: Addressing Challenging Behaviours. 7 PL Hours
Full-day, in-person
• March 28, 2026, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
English: HRM, Sydney, Truro, Kentville, Yarmouth; French: HRM
Session 3: Conversations that Matter: Strengths-Based Coaching to support Positive Behaviour. 6 PL Hours.
Full day, online
• April 18, 2026, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
(English and French options)
What is the series about?
- coaching and mentoring educators
- implementing positive behaviour guidance
- applying proactive, relationship-based approaches
- supporting the social emotional wellbeing of children
- engaging in reflective practice
Who is the series open to?
- Inclusion Coordinators
- Inclusion Supports
- Pedagogical Leaders
- Regional Pre-primary Leads
- Family Home Child Care Consultants
- BAP Managers
Attendance per program is limited to two participants and it is recommended that participants plan to attend all three sessions. See poster for MORE DETAILS.
Developed by Nova Scotia Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, Early Learning and Child Care in partnership with the Nova Scotia Early Childhood Development Intervention Services and the Nova Scotia College of Early Childhood Education
Click here to register!
Library News
We are happy to welcome Lillian Scales, our new Library Clerk, to our NSCECE team! Lillian is a recent graduate from the Library and Information Technician program at Confederation College. Before transitioning to a career in libraries, Lillian was part of the Collections Team at the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21. She attended Mount Allison University for her Bachelor's dress in Art History, before crossing the ocean to earn her Master's in Art History at the University of Glasgow in Scotland. She enjoys spending her time playing board games with friends, watching classic movies, and playing with her niece and nephew (especially if its Lego).
Cozy up in the library this winter by exploring our collection of books and toys! If you are interested in visiting us in person, please book a visit online. We can't wait to welcome you!
PLEASE NOTE: you will need a confirmation from EYCDC before your visit.
February is African Heritage Month
Click here to see community events and browse our lilbrary collection for resources!
Online PD Seminars
Let's begin the new year by learning something new! Take online professional learning sessions in the comfort of your home and at your own pace! Sign up today and get the first 30 days FREE to explore important ECE topics! See what other educators say about them!
Upcoming Programs
- 21 weeks to complete
- 6:30pm-9:30pm / 3 evenings a week
- Delivered online
- Two practicums in your workplace during your working hours.
- Graduate with ECA Certificate (Eligible for Level 1 classification)
- Must have a Level 1 Classification to be eligible
- 20 months to complete
- Evening classes, 1-2 nights/week 6:30 PM-9:30 PM
- 2 practicum placements in your workplace
- 50% asynchronous (Self-study, recorded lectures)
- 50% delivered online
- Graduate with your Level 2 Classification