Early Childhood
Education Conference
Addressing the Mental Wellness of Preschoolers
Workshop J
This workshop will examine several areas: First, through an opening activity, this workshop will explore our biases when it comes to mental health and wellness when it comes to children and society. Second, a child’s emotional and social development (feelings and expectations of others) occurs in the context of relationships with those caring for them. This workshop explores the importance of relationships for all children and their mental wellness. Third, this workshop will explore ACEs – Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trauma, and their effect on children’s mental and physical health. Lastly, this workshop will review simple practical strategies that can help all children’s mental health and why they are developmentally appropriate. Strategies will include existing practices and why they are beneficial and new ones to help with children’s development. ONLY TWO SESSIONS
Paul Armstrong is a fixture at the Child Resource Connect (formally the Prince George's Child Resource Center) and the Prince George's County childcare community since 1993. In addition to his role as an Early Childhood Mental Health Counselor for Project Win, Paul teaches early childhood education, workshops, classes, and seminars for the resource center. Known for his passion advocating for the rights of children with special needs and inclusion, Paul Armstrong was probably awarded the ARC of Prince George's County 2010 Award of Excellence for Advocacy for his efforts to educate people, parents, and childcare providers about The Americans With Disabilities Act, its effect on childcare, and the importance of inclusion in society as well as childcare settings. In addition to attending Hofstra University; B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies (Human Development focus), Paul has completed the Early Childhood Mental Health Certification Program provided by the University of Maryland.
Core of Knowledge: 2.0 Clock Hours of Special Needs