1. Be present and build bridges 

Be prepared to collaborate with your peers, take in new information, and use others at the session as resources. Put away your devices and be open to learning from the presenters and from other attendees.
 

2. Listen for goals you want to accomplish

 During the training, reflect on areas where you need more help. Choose a couple of strategies from the workshop to apply in your classroom.
 

3. Be ready to take notes 

Jotting down key points and questions will help you remember them later. Use whatever method works for you: pen and paper, a favorite note-taking app, or taking photos of key slides and group brainstorming notes.
 

4. Find a colleague or a community of learners 

Ask the presenter if there will be a way to follow up with other attendees afterward. Make connections and exchange contact information with other attendees during the training. After a few weeks, check in with your new contacts to see how you’re all progressing.
 

5. Set aside time for self-reflection 

Brainstorm on your own, with colleagues, or with someone you met at the training. Think about new strategies you have tried. What worked? What else might you try? Remember, change is hard work, and it rarely happens overnight.
 

6. Celebrate your achievements 

When you try a new strategy that helps you meet a goal, be sure to recognize your achievement and celebrate it! After experiencing positive results, you’ll anticipate future workshops with relish!

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Professional growth is a crucial part of being a teacher. The early education field is always changing, and to support the children in your classroom, you need to stay current. Make the most of every opportunity that comes your way to help children thrive and succeed.

Resources

• NAEYC Professional Development
• “Eight Steps to Advance Your Professional Development in Early Childhood Education”