The inaugural Early Childhood Educator Summit which encapsulated the theme “Shaping the future, one child at a time” concluded successfully on September 12th at BMICH. This event, the first of its kind organised by the Lyceum Education Group, witnessed the wholehearted participation of Early Childhood Educators from across the island representing all Lyceum Schools and other leading schools in primary education. Distinguished guests including Principals, Vice-Principals, Career Guidance Counsellors and invitees from leading schools also attended.

Ms. Hishana Martinez, Coordinator of the event warmly welcomed the gathering and expressed delight in the ethos of the summit that would enhance the quality of child-care and foster networking opportunities for all. The Summit highlighted a host of salient themes that are deemed to be critical for child development, inclusive of Mental Health, Resilience, Play and the impact of Nature versus Nurture. The event was a forerunner for the Early Childhood Educators Association (ECEA) which will be instrumental in giving leadership to Educators on the importance and sustainability of child-centric processes that will ensure that childhood for each child in concern, is upheld as a very enriching period.

The keynote speaker, Ms. Rebecca Kingsley-Jones representing the University of The West of England Bristol shared her expertise of over 30 years. Her theme “The Voice of the Learner - Empowering Children to develop skills for the future”, included the emphasis on play, nature and viewing the real-world from the perspective of a child. Dr. Chaminda Weerasiriwardena, Senior Counsellor and Psychotherapist, who touched on the topic of “Nurturing resilience: The role of an early childhood educator”, emphasised the importance of resilience and eustress for the development of the brain and positive behaviour amidst childhood challenges.

Well-known Psychologist, Ms. Rasini Bandara’s topic “Why it is necessary to mould a healthy mind from childhood”, was punctuated by interesting insights and anecdotes that highlighted the importance of giving the child relevance and understanding in many contexts at school and at home. A Panel Discussion that ensued featured professionals who took on the challenge of answering questions of vital importance from the audience relating to developmental stages, child-play, the importance of questioning and the need for holistic processes for children to adapt to their environments and develop their potential.

The eminent panel comprised of Ms. Rebecca Kingsley-Jones, Associate Director, Education and Early Childhood, University of the West of England; Teacher and Teacher Trainer specialising in Early Years Education, Ms. Cherie Umagiliya and Speech Language Pathologist, Dr. Nimeera Weerarathne. An informative and interactive quiz and excellent fellowship complemented the successful Summit. In his concluding remarks Mr. Nilanka Imbuldeniya, Director General of Lyceum Education Sector thanked all the teachers for their love and passion and invited them to become an integral part of the Early Childhood Educators Association.