This workshop was created to help support educators and parents understand literacy! We will address frequently asked questions, such as:
• How do kids really learn how to read? Do they learn how to read in the same way they learn language- through exposure?
• Why does it appear that so many more children are struggling with learning how to read? Did COVID play a part?
• At what age are children ready to learn how to read and how do I support them at home and at school?
There is so much information available, but it can become overwhelming trying to 'untangle' it all! I am so excited to bring you this workshop, in which I will share what I have learned over my years of 'untangling' research and trailing/applying literacy programs first hand in my sessions with children. I have compiled all the information to provide you with the WHY and HOW you can help children become successful readers! I will walk you through the research, talk about the difference between two mainstream approaches (balanced literacy and science of reading) and offer simple, practical, and fun ideas that you can take back to your home and/or classroom!
Melissa Gagnon is the owner of Empower Communication Services. She completed her undergraduate degree in Health Science at the University of Western Ontario and her Masters in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Toronto. Melissa has been working as a Speech-Language Pathologist for over a decade with both children and adults.
She is passionate about educating families and empowering them to help their child(ren) become successful communicators and readers! She has a specialized interest in literacy and has pursued multiple continuing education programs in an effort to understand how children become successful readers and how to best teach literacy.
Melissa has used this knowledge to develop intensive summer literacy programs, preschool literacy programs, offer library workshops for families, and create content for training therapists on how to incorporate literacy in their therapy sessions.
Aside from being a business owner and Speech Language Pathologist, Melissa is a mom to two children and enjoys photography in her spare time.
Anisha Angella is an Early Childhood Education (ECE) Specialist who has been in the industry for over 14+ years. With a degree in Early Childhood Education Studies, Anisha has held many roles over the years. She has led childcare programs, taught college programs, and worked as a senior manager overseeing 45+ childcare locations. She is also the CEO and Founder of The Early Childhood Coach — a powerhouse for all things childcare consulting, coaching, and training. Her success has allowed her to gain exposure through Authority Magazine and The Today Show. Anisha wants to see other members of the ECE community succeed and loves to share her wealth of knowledge through speaking at a variety of events. Anisha’s speaking engagements focus on diversity in ECE, leadership, mental health and burnout in ECE, and effective communication with parents and staff. She has spoken at over 50 events worldwide and is always looking forward to her next engagement.
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