ECEC Professional Learning Network

Overview

A Learning Circle focused on creating safe, inclusive ECEC environments starts with understanding the diversity of children we work with.

About the Session

The session will be co-facilitated by Amanda Tobler, Alasdair Roy, and Dr Karen Oakley, Clinical Neuropsychologist and Senior Lecturer in Educational Psychology at the University of Canberra.

This session will provide a facilitated discussion to unpack the indicators and implications of neurodevelopmental conditions and neurodiversity in early childhood.

A particular focus will be on understanding and responding to behaviours within a neurodevelopmental framework. Practical strategies will be explored to support staff in having conversations with parents, providing referral pathways, working with allied health, and developing and implementing accommodations, adjustments and strategies to support neurodiverse children’s development.

What are Learning Circles? - Facilitated group discussions where participants share experiences, reflect on practice, and deepen understanding around a shared topic or challenge.

Who Should Attend

This event is ideal for anyone working in the ECEC sector who is interested in promoting educator wellbeing - whether for themselves, their colleagues, or their teams.

Expected Outcomes

By the end of the session, you will have:

• Explored the implications of neurodevelopmental conditions and neurodiversity in early childhood
• Developed a deeper understanding of behaviour and strategies to responding to behaviour within a neurodevelopmental framework
• gained practical tips and strategies to enhance inclusive practices within your own setting.

You will leave with fresh ideas to share with colleagues, leaders, and teams - contributing to a stronger culture of safe, inclusive practice across the sector.

Participant Expectations

Professional Learning Network events are interactive, and active participation is expected.

For those attending online, cameras and microphones should be switched on throughout the session to support group interaction.

Participants are encouraged to share their experiences and ideas, contribute thoughtfully to group discussions, and help foster an inclusive and respectful learning environment where every voice is heard and valued.

The Network is an initiative of the ACT Government’s Set up for Success: An Early Childhood Strategy for the ACT and delivered by ELM.