Early childhood education conference being hosted at NSU-BA

The Oklahoma Association for the Education of Young Children (OKAEYC) is hosting its annual conference in Broken Arrow this month. 

The event will take place on July 27 from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Northeastern State University’s Broken Arrow campus — 3100 New Orleans St. in the Education Building.

OKAEYC is an affiliate of both the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Southern Early Childhood Association (SECA). The theme of this year’s conference is “How Full Is Your Bucket?,” focusing on self-care and well-being for childcare providers and early educators. 

Inspired by the impactful works of Tom Rath, Donald O. Clifton, Mary Reckmeyer, and Tom Rath. The conference aims to empower and rejuvenate those dedicated to early childhood education.

Keynote speaker Dawn Keller, Director of School Counseling at Southwestern Oklahoma State University, will delve into the profound concepts of emotional well-being, positivity, and community-building within early childhood education. 

With experience ranging from childcare provider to school counselor, Dawn is dedicated to supporting educators in their noble work with children. The event will also feature opening remarks by Representative Suzanne Schreiber, a long-time advocate for children and early education and care in Oklahoma.

OKAEYC invites early educators to “renew, reimagine, and rekindle their passion for leadership in the field.” Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with a variety of speakers, participate in breakout sessions, and connect with other professionals in the field of childcare and early education.

Registration costs are $60 for students and OKAEYC members and $75 for non-members. The conference promises to be an enriching experience with numerous opportunities for professional growth and networking.

About OKAEYC

The Oklahoma Association for the Education of Young Children (OKAEYC) is committed to promoting high-quality early learning for all young children by connecting practice, policy, and research. As an affiliate of NAEYC and SECA, OKAEYC supports the professional development of early childhood educators and advocates for effective policies in the field of early