Wayfinding in Early Years Conference, 4 October | Event in Jasper | AllEvents

Wayfinding in Early Years Conference

Wayfinding Conference Team

Highlights

Sat, 04 Oct, 2025 at 08:00 am

Jasper Arena and Activity Centre

Starting at CAD 175

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Date & Location

Sat, 04 Oct, 2025 at 08:00 am - Sun, 05 Oct, 2025 at 01:00 pm (GMT-06:00)

Jasper Arena and Activity Centre

303 Bonhomme Street, Jasper, Canada

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About the event

Wayfinding in Early Years Conference
Let's navigate through the world of early childhood education together at the Wayfinding in Early Years Conference!

About this Event

Welcome to the Wayfinding in Early Years Conference!

Date: October 4-5, 2025

Location: Jasper Activity Centre

Join us in Jasper for Wayfinding in the Early Years: Identity, Behaviour, and Belonging — a day and a half of learning, networking, and inspiration for early childhood educators, caregivers, and families. This conference explores inclusive, evidence-based strategies to support children’s development, identity, behaviour, and sense of belonging through a gender-informed lens. Through expert speakers, interactive and meaningful dialogue, participants will gain practical tools, fresh perspectives, and innovative approaches for navigating the early years.

The conference is a 1.5 day event that participants will journey through as a group. You don't need to sign up for individual sessions. There will be 7 speakers spread over the Saturday and Sunday covering topics from:


  • Behaviour management in early childhood
  • Indigenous ways of knowing
  • Magic and play in early learning
  • Media representation and identity development in early childhood
  • Understanding child mental health and diagnosis protocols
  • Advocacy in the Early Learning and Child Care industry

....and more!

Our presenters are made up of Alberta-based, front line workers with a focus on building a robust community for childhood development and growth.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together — register now to secure your spot!






Friday, October 3, 2025


🕑: 05:00 PM - 06:30 PM
Conference Registration and Package Pick up

Info: Join us early to register, see the venue, and connect with colleagues before the conference kicks off on Saturday.



Saturday, October 4, 2025


🕑: 08:00 AM - 08:45 AM
Registration

Info: Check in at the registration desk, pick up your conference materials, and enjoy a morning coffee before the program begins.



🕑: 09:00 AM - 09:45 AM
Welcome and Information

Info: Welcome and housekeeping items by conference organizers, land acknowledgement by a local knowledge keeper, and opening remarks by the AECEA Executive Director



🕑: 09:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Behaviour Wayfinding in Early Childhood
Host: Aynsley Graham

Info: With more than 10 years of experience and an MSc in Human Ecology, Aynsley brings a child-centered approach to behaviour management. She will introduce her framework and strategies designed to simplify and support practice.



🕑: 11:15 AM - 12:30 AM
Bridging Identities: Embracing Gender Diversity Through Indigenous Wisdom
Host: Sherry Duncan

Info: An innovative educator and facilitator, this presenter combines traditional Métis knowledge with modern teaching approaches. From co-developing an Indigenous-focused ELCC Certificate with Treaty 8 and NorQuest College to leading land-based initiatives and professional development workshops, their work uplifts educators, parents, and communities through relationships, cultural integrity, and lifelong learning



🕑: 12:30 AM - 01:00 PM
Lunch - provided by the conference

Info: Lunch will be provided. Options for Gluten Free, Vegetarian and Vegan diets will be available.



🕑: 01:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Everything You Want To Know About Psychological Assessment in Early Childhood
Host: Alara Hedebring

Info: With over 15 years of experience, psychologist Alara Hedebring specializes in early childhood assessment and supporting neurodiverse learners. In this session, she will demystify the assessment process, share practical strategies, and show how strengths-based reports can empower children, families, and educators.



🕑: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Tours of Local Childcare programs

Info: During registration their will be a option to sign up for a tour of Wildflowers Childcare, the local early learning program and their Out of School Care program as well.



🕑: 02:00 PM - 03:00 PM
Alberta Leaders Caucus for Early Learning Discussion
Host: Rebecca Leong

🕑: 03:00 PM - 04:00 PM
Directing the Way: What it Means to Lead in Early Learning
Host: Christine Villeneuve

Info: Leadership in early childhood is shifting — but what does it really mean to lead in this field? In this session, presenters will introduce themselves and spark a timely conversation on the importance of leadership in shaping the future of early learning.



🕑: 04:00 PM - 05:00 AM
Representation in Media
Host: Elise Graham

Info: With years of experience leading programs that empower diverse youth in film, Elise has spoken at panels and EDI events across the country. In this session, she will unpack the importance of representation in media and its impact on identity and inclusion.



Sunday, October 5, 2025


🕑: 08:30 AM - 09:00 AM
Coffee and Information

🕑: 09:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Harnessing Wonder: Behaviour and Imaginative Play Through a Magician’s Lens
Host: Ian Pidgeon

Info: Blending his talents as a magician and puppeteer, Ian invites educators to rediscover the magic of play in early learning. His session shows how wonder and imagination can spark connection, growth, and joy for both children and adults.



🕑: 10:15 AM - 11:15 AM
The Value of Educators: Building a Stronger Professional Identity
Host: Madeline Kleinfeld

Info: Educators are the foundation of early learning. In this session, participants will explore how connection, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing can strengthen professional identity, while celebrating and amplifying the vital contributions of those in the ELCC field



🕑: 11:15 AM - 01:00 PM
Q & A with all conference participants

Info: To close our time together, all presenters will join in a panel discussion. This is your opportunity to ask questions, share reflections, and connect the insights from the past 1.5 days.




Also check out other Business events in Jasper, Entertainment events in Jasper, Workshops in Jasper.

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Ticket Info

Tickets for Wayfinding in Early Years Conference can be booked here.

Ticket type Ticket price
General Admission - Early Bird Rate 175 CAD
General Admission - Regular Rate 225 CAD
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Nearby Hotels

Jasper Arena and Activity Centre, 303 Bonhomme Street, Jasper, Canada
Tickets from CAD 175

Host Details

Wayfinding Conference Team

Wayfinding Conference Team

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Wayfinding in Early Years Conference, 4 October | Event in Jasper | AllEvents
Wayfinding in Early Years Conference
Sat, 04 Oct, 2025 at 08:00 am
CAD 175