KidStart Conference

While it was rainy and wet outside, inside there was warmth, laughter, learning and dancing at the KidStart Conference. Barnardos KidStart, a home-based care provider, hosts this annual conference to provide their fantastic caregivers with high quality professional development.

Three marvellous presenters provided workshops at the KidStart Conference.

Duncan Robertson, the Active Movement advisor with Harbour Sport, presented an interactive workshop on the essential movement skills which give children the head start they need to be academically successful.

Duncan provided everyone with new, fun ideas that can be practised daily with children from zero to five years of age.

Caregivers had a great time trying some of these activities. At one stage we had 12 caregivers acting out a zoo; we had bears, elephants, snails and kangaroos too!

Yvonne Duncan QSA, a trained mediator, illustrated to the caregivers in her workshop how they can all be winners when they are involved in any type of conflict. This very highly interactive workshop gave the caregivers valuable skills which can be applied to their own lives, both professionally and personally.

Jenny Christianson, a highly skilled musician, presented a magical workshop based on the functions of music and the power of music to enhance childrens’ learning. The caregiver’s passion and enjoyment of music was re-ignited as they played with instruments, and danced to the enchanting, exotic tunes.

The day ended on a high note with dancing, and a celebration of another successful and empowering conference. We are now all looking forward to the KidStart Conference 2009!