Learning Calendar
Click to learn more or scroll down to see upcoming events
Please print and share with staff & colleagues!
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Monthly Webinars
Every month we will be offering two online webinars—one focused on infants and toddlers and one that is general early childhood focused. We will change the night of the week each month it is held in hopes of being able to accommodate more of your schedules.
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In-Person Classes
We teach in-person classes in different towns and cities every month! Check the calendar to find a location near you.
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Learning Communities
If you are looking for ongoing support, new ideas, and ways to improve your practice, we invite you to join a learning community! Connect with providers to support one another in on-going, regular meetings. Learn more by visiting our learning community page.
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Learning Events
Another type of in-person class but multiple classes in a day, like a mini-conference. A learning event is a whole day of classes with up to 8 hours of STARS credit offered.
Rock Springs Learning Event
Join us in Rock Springs for our May Learning Event!
A WYECPLC Learning Event is a full day of classes—like a mini-conference. We offer a full day of in-person classes for anyone who works in early care and education. There will be a different class every hour and door prizes after each session. 8 classes, 8 presenters, 8 hours of training. Participants can attend any or all of the classes and earn up to 8 hours of STARS credit in one day!
Registration Fee: $25.00 (Nonrefundable)
Please reach out with any questions (wyecplc@uwyo.edu)
Agenda Below:
UW Play Institute
University of Wyoming’s Center for Early Learning
Play Institute: Adopting a Pedagogy of Play
Join us at the play institute hosted by the College of Education Center for Early Learning. This event is for all educators working with children from birth-age 8 in public school and early care and education settings.
*PTSB and STARS Credit available
JUNE 29-30, 2026
8am-5pm
University of Wyoming Conference Center
Laramie, WY
REGISTRATION
Registration is now open.
Early bird pricing: $50 (effective until April 30th)
Late registration: $80 (closes June 19th)
Birth-5 Teachers
Kinder-2nd grade teachers
You can pay for multiple registrations on the same transaction by clicking “continue shopping” until all registrants are added.
Use promo code UWPlay2026 when registering for a discounted ticket.
Birth-5 Teachers: Wyoming Quality Counts scholarships can help cover some of the costs of attending this event. Don’t forget to apply 45-days in advance to quality for financial support.
Learning Opportunities
Internationally recognized keynote speaker
Breakout sessions for PreK and K-2
Roundtable discussions
Poster presentations
Interactive workshops
Play lab demonstrations
Featured Keynote
Mia Sundstrom, CEO of the National Institute for Play, will provide two interactive presentations for all conference participants about the science of play and how to leverage the power of play in the classroom.
Mia is the granddaughter of NIFP founder and play expert, Dr. Stuart Brown. She also works as a play and character education consultant for the Office of the Chancellor at the University of Denver. Mia has reached global audiences through her speaking engagements, including recent presentations at Aspen Ideas and the World Expo in Osaka, Japan. She has appeared on podcasts, delivered keynotes, led workshops, and consulted with schools and organizations to leverage the power of play to build strengths of character, enhance learning, improve leadership, strengthen community, and unlock innovation.
Learn more about Mia on her website.
Shareable Flyer
Click the image to download this shareable flyer.
April Webinar (Infant Toddler)
Understanding Emergence: Using Standards as a Lens for Observing Play
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113519
Location: On Zoom, https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81517431456
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Description: When we have the skills and strategies to help us identify what’s happening during children’s play, we can better scaffold and design learning! During this session we will learn how we can practice observation guided by Wyoming’s Early Learning Standards to identify what skills are emerging in our youngest learners.
Facilitated by: Tyler Gonzalez, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Infant Toddler Credential Course
Infant Toddler Credential Course
(Spring/Summer 2026)
Registration link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdoTla4_TanPNk1HqCqw59-NETEChZBFf5Be57LpBFQQVX46A/viewform?usp=header
Location: Class is hybrid—A portion of the classes will be held online on Zoom and the other classes are held in our Google Classroom.
Time: Class is Fridays from 1:00-2:30pm. You do not have to attend every Friday. See course schedule below.
Description: This course focuses on the development of children from birth to three years old and the key role that educators have in supporting and nurturing all aspects of infant-toddler learning and development. It serves as an introductory course to providing high-quality infant toddler care. We explore a range of topics which include infant toddler teacher dispositions, principles of high quality infant toddler care, building relationships with children and families, creating environments that support learning and development, and exploring equity and diversity in an infant toddler classroom. We will learn how to have teacher-child interactions that support infants’ and toddler’s physical and perceptual, social-emotional, cognitive, and language and literacy development. We will discuss principles of inclusion and components of professionalism and ethical practice.
Facilitated by: Char Norris, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Rawlins Class
Honoring Children’s Creative Thinking Through Process Art
RegistrationLink: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113486
Description: This session focuses on process-oriented art as a powerful context for children’s thinking, exploration, and problem solving. Educators will examine what it looks like to offer open-ended materials without predetermined outcomes and how stepping back allows children to make decisions, test ideas, and revise their work. Emphasis will be placed on recognizing learning through the process rather than the finished product.
Facilitatedby: Taylor Dory, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Gillette Class
The Role of Play in Child Development Pt 2
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113397&agent=1
Location: Campbell County Library
Description: During our time together we will recap what we learned about how play impacts brain development. Next we will utilize videos of children playing to gain a deep understanding of what it means to observe young children and plan in order to scaffold their learning.
Facilitated by: Kara Cossel, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Cheyenne Class
Supporting Children’s Big Feelings
Registration link: Register with Melanie at Laramie County Public Library
Location: Cottonwood Room
Description: Infants and toddlers communicate their needs and frustrations primarily through behavior. In this class we will explore age-appropriate strategies to help young children identify their feelings and express them healthily. Additionally we will learn how to move past traditional discipline and reframe our role to be more of a guide and coach for young children. That way we can reduce our own stress while providing the explicit social-emotional teaching toddlers need to thrive.
*Infant Toddler STARS Credit available
Facilitated by: Lauren Carlisle, WYECPLC Program Specialist
Sheridan Class
The Role of Play in Child Development Pt 2
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113564&agent=1
Location: YMCA, Strategy Studio
Description: During our time together we will recap what we learned about how play impacts brain development. Next we will utilize videos of children playing to gain a deep understanding of what it means to observe young children and plan in order to scaffold their learning.
Facilitated by: Kara Cossel WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Casper Learning Event
Join us in Casper for our next Learning Event!
Learning Events are like mini-conferences. We offer a full day of in-person classes for anyone who works in early care and education. There will be a different class every hour and door prizes after each session. Participants can attend any or all of the classes and earn up to 8 hours of STARS credit in one day!
Registration Fee: $25.00 (Nonrefundable)
Please reach out with any questions (wyecplc@uwyo.edu)
Location: Energy Institute Room 100
**There will be two extra classes just for home-based childcare providers.
AGENDA
Click the image to view/print the agenda.
Sheridan Class
The Role of Play in Child Development
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113563&agent=1
Location: Sheridan County YMCA
Description: “Play is not just cute. It’s not extra. It’s not what we do after the “real learning” is finished. Play is where the real learning happens.” -Amanda Morgan. During our time together we will develop a deeper understanding of how play impacts brain development and how we as early educators can create a space where children can engage in high quality play.
Facilitated by: Kara Cossel, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Gillette Class
The Role of Play in Child Development
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113396&agent=1
Location: Campbell County Library
Description: “Play is not just cute. It’s not extra. It’s not what we do after the “real learning” is finished. Play is where the real learning happens.” -Amanda Morgan. During our time together we will develop a deeper understanding of how play impacts brain development and how we as early educators can create a space where children can engage in high quality play.
Facilitated by: Kara Cossel, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Pinedale Class
Meaningful Circle Time: Transforming Our Daily Routine into Impactful Learning
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113490
Description: Come join us as we discuss making our circle times purposeful for the children in our program. During this session, we will collaborate and plan impactful circle times that foster connections, encourage engagement, and align with children’s interests and developmental needs. Together, we will reflect on how to transform this daily routine into an enriching experience for every child.
Facilitated by: Kelce Eckhardt, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
April Preschool Webinar
Connecting Children’s Play and Standards
Registration Link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113491
Location: Zoom, https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81517431456
Description: Play is vital for children’s development. As educators, we can deepen these experiences and extend learning. Join us to explore how we can bridge the gap between play and Wyoming’s Early Learning Standards in our daily teaching.
Time: 6:30-8:00pm
Facilitated by: Kelce Eckhardt, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
March Webinar (Infant Toddler)
Children Taking the Lead: Supporting Problem Solving with Infants and Toddlers
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113553&agent=1
Location: On Zoom, https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81517431456
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Description: Infants and toddlers are natural born scientists. They observe, try hypothesis and draw conclusions. During our time together we will consider what problem solving looks like for this young age group, and discuss what we can do as early childhood professionals to support their problem solving skills.
Facilitated by: Kara Cossel, Learning Specialist
Alpine Class
Intentional Transitions: Supporting Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers Through the Rhythm of the Day
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113615&agent=1
Description: This interactive session explores the critical role of well-planned transitions in supporting infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Participants will reflect on current classroom transitions, examine children’s reactions, and identify opportunities to simplify and improve routines. The session includes research-informed strategies, practical tools, and hands-on reflection activities to help educators create predictable, responsive, and developmentally appropriate transitions that foster emotional security, engagement, and positive behavior.
Facilitated by: Char Norris, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Lander Class
Meaningful Circle Time: Transforming Our Daily Routine into Impactful Learning
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113489
Location: Fremont County Public Library, Conference Rooms A & B (upstairs)
Description: Come join us as we discuss making our circle times purposeful for the children in our program. During this session, we will collaborate and plan impactful circle times that foster connections, encourage engagement, and align with children’s interests and developmental needs. Together, we will reflect on how to transform this daily routine into an enriching experience for every child.
Facilitated by: Kelce Eckhardt
Kemmerer Class
TBD
Registration link: Coming Soon
Location: TBA
Description:
Facilitated by: Char Norris
Sheridan Class
TBD
Registration link: Coming soon!
Description: TBD
Location:
Facilitated by: Char Norris, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Green River Class
TBD
Registration link: Coming soon!
Description: TBD
Location:
Facilitated by: Char Norris, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Casper Class
TBD
Registration link: Coming soon!
Location: University of Wyoming at Casper College—Student Union Building, Room 322
Description:
Facilitated by: Kara Cossel
February Webinar (Infant Toddler)
Beyond Activities: Planning and Implementing Infant–Toddler Curriculum
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113364
Location: On Zoom, https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81517431456
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Description: There are four core ideas that help us talk about what infant–toddler curriculum looks in real, everyday practice: including the role of relationships and routines, a focus on development rather than activities, the importance of observation, and the impact of play and the environment.
In this session we'll dive into the application of these four ideas and further explore how they guide daily planning and decision-making. Using real-life examples from infant–toddler settings, we’ll look at how educators can plan intentionally while remaining flexible and responsive to children’s needs. The goal is to make infant–toddler curriculum feel doable, meaningful, and aligned with everyday work.
Facilitated by: Lauren Carlisle, WYECPLC Infant Toddler Specialist
Cheyenne Class
TBD
Registration link: Coming soon!
Location:
Description: Coming soon!
Facilitated by: Lauren Carlisle, WYECPLC Program Specialist
Family Childcare Webinar
Elevating the Family Childcare Workforce in Wyoming
Registration Link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113256
Description: This is a webinar for Family Childcare providers. This session highlights the unique strengths and professional contributions of Wyoming’s family childcare providers, emphasizing the rich learning environments and individualized relationships they offer children and families. Participants will also receive a provider-created resource designed for inclusion in family welcome materials to support clear, strengths-based communication about their program.
Location: Zoom, https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81517431456
Time: 6:30 - 7:30pm
Facilitated by: Char Norris and Taylor Dory (WYECPLC Learning Specialists)
Lovell Class
Stack, Balance, & Topple-Building Enticing Block Centers
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113237
Description: The block center is often a favorite area for students in your classrooms! In this session, we consider how your block center is engaging students, how we can stretch their learning and skills, and how to incorporate multiple domains of learning while children explore blocks and building materials.
Facilitated by: Tyler Gonzalez
Casper Class
The Role of Play in Child Development
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113368&agent=1
Location: University of Wyoming at Casper College—Student Union Building, Room 315
Description: Play is not just cute. It’s not extra. It’s not what we do after the “real learning” is finished. Play is where the real learning happens.” -Amanda Morgan. During our time together we will develop a deeper understanding of how play impacts brain development and how we as early educators can create a space where children can engage in high quality play.
Facilitated by: Kara Cossel, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Mountain View Class
Intentional Transitions:
Supporting Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers Through the Rhythm of the Day
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113324&agent=1
Location: Thayne Community Center
Course Description: This interactive session explores the critical role of well-planned transitions in supporting infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Participants will reflect on current classroom transitions, examine children’s reactions, and identify opportunities to simplify and improve routines. The session includes research-informed strategies, practical tools, and hands-on reflection activities to help educators create predictable, responsive, and developmentally appropriate transitions that foster emotional security, engagement, and positive behavior.
Facilitated by: Char Norris, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Cody Class
Stack, Balance, & Topple-Building Enticing Block Centers
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113236
Description: The block center is often a favorite area for students in your classrooms! In this session, we consider how your block center is engaging students, how we can stretch their learning and skills, and how to incorporate multiple domains of learning while children explore blocks and building materials.
Facilitated by: Tyler Gonzalez
Topic Study Kick off Meeting
Topic Study
Kick off Meeting
Rethinking Arts and Crafts for Young Children
Course Description: This five-part professional development series supports Early Childhood Educators in deepening their creative practice by enriching material investigation, fostering open-ended creative exploration, and documenting the deep meaning-making inherent in the child's artistic process. If you are ready to change some of your art and craft activities with the winter months ahead this topic study is for you! This topic study will be limited to 15 participants, and the group will be closed to new participants after the first session to ensure continuity and a strong collaborative environment.
Registration Link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113346
Facilitated by: Taylor Dory and Tyler Gonzalez (WYECPLC Learning Specialists)
Worth 10 STARS Credits
Meetings Start January 26 and go through March 23. Meetings are held Mondays from 6:30-7:45pm.
Cheyenne Class
Owning Your Quality: Using Standards to Strengthen Your Family Child Care Program
Registration link: https://forms.gle/X9hR8Cu8TKmJkv9c8
Description: Family child care providers play a vital role in their communities. This session explores how quality standards can help you move beyond licensing, strengthen your program, and stand out as a trusted, professional option. Using NAFCC’s Benchmarks to Quality, participants will reflect on their strengths, explore best practices, and discover ways to confidently grow and communicate the excellence of their care.
>> LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED!
To Register and choose a lunch, please use this link: https://forms.gle/X9hR8Cu8TKmJkv9c8
Facilitated by: Lauren Carlisle, WYECPLC Program Specialist
Star Valley Class
Intentional Transitions:
Supporting Infants, Toddlers, and Preschoolers Through the Rhythm of the Day
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113323&agent=1
Location: Thayne Community Center
Course Description: This interactive session explores the critical role of well-planned transitions in supporting infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Participants will reflect on current classroom transitions, examine children’s reactions, and identify opportunities to simplify and improve routines. The session includes research-informed strategies, practical tools, and hands-on reflection activities to help educators create predictable, responsive, and developmentally appropriate transitions that foster emotional security, engagement, and positive behavior.
Facilitated by: Char Norris, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
January Preschool Webinar
Strategies for Smoother Rest Routines for Preschool Age Children
Registration Link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113255
Description: Go beyond simply setting out materials and learn how to become a curator of play experiences. This session will guide you through practical, actionable strategies for the intentional arrangement of play materials.
Location: Zoom, https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81517431456
Time: 6:30-7:30pm
Facilitated by: Taylor Dory, WYECPLC Learning Specialist
Worland Class
Stack, Balance, & Topple-Building Enticing Block Centers
Registration link: https://wyregistry.org/index.cfm?module=trainingEventEditor&eventID=100113235
Description: The block center is often a favorite area for students in your classrooms! In this session, we consider how your block center is engaging students, how we can stretch their learning and skills, and how to incorporate multiple domains of learning while children explore blocks and building materials.
Facilitated by: Tyler Gonzalez