Data Systems for Early Childhood Development in Atlantic Canada: A Collective Discussion to Share Current Progress and Explore Aspirations for the Future
The Connections Project is funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. The project involves a series of collective discussions with early childhood policymakers, researchers, and practitioners from across Atlantic Canada. The goal is to build an understanding of current research efforts and to explore opportunities for Atlantic Canadian professionals to work together in collaborative research.
Dr. Magdalena Janus, Professor at McMaster University and Co-Developer of the Early Development Instrument (EDI), facilitated a collective conversation about the importance of measuring and monitoring early childhood development. As an introduction to the series, she provided a broad summary of up-to-date EDI findings from various regions in the context of social determinants of health. She concluded by exploring the potential of the Atlantic provinces’ experience to inform both regional and national discourse.
Mo Dresch illustrated a fantastic graphic capturing the discussions had in the seminar which can be seen in this graphic summary.
Dr. David Philpott, Early Childhood Researcher and Policy Informer in Newfoundland & Labrador, facilitated a collective conversation about his experience with recommending early childhood data systems and greater collaboration among the Atlantic provinces. He focused on the three areas of inclusive education, student mental health, and the early years. He shared his aspirations for the future using data repositories and discussed the benefits for both service delivery and public policy development
Mo Dresch illustrated a beautiful graphic capturing the discussions had in the seminar which can be seen in this graphic summary.
Dr. Gregory Paterson is the Qualitative Research Analyst Lead with the New Brunswick Institute for Research, Data and Training (NB-IRDT) at the University of New Brunswick (UNB). Greg facilitated a collective discussion about NB-IRDT’s use of data repositories and how the Institute is engaging in a five-year longitudinal study to support evidence-informed policy for early childhood education. In addition, Greg shared examples of how NB-IRDT’s work is delivering linkable data to provide data informed policy for many departments with the Government of New Brunswick and other non-government agencies.
Mo Dresch illustrated a beautiful graphic capturing the discussions had in the seminar which can be seen in this graphic summary.
Dr. Jessie-Lee McIsaac, Assistant Professor and Tier II Canada Research Chair in Early Childhood Diversity and Transitions with the Faculty of Education and Department of Child and Youth Study at Mount Saint Vincent University, facilitated a collective discussion about the policy landscape for early childhood development and why it is important in Nova Scotia. She shared her previous and ongoing experience with EDI and other early childhood and education data systems. Providing aspirations for the future, she discussed linking data across systems and programs with examples.
Mo Dresch illustrated a beautiful graphic capturing the discussions had in the seminar which can be seen in this graphic summary.
Dr. Bill Montelpare, Professor at the University of Prince Edward Island and Margaret and Wallace McCain Chair in Human Development and Health, facilitated a collective conversation that reviewed the background, rationale, methodology, and expectations for a prospective longitudinal birth cohort, in a general sense, and how such an initiative can be brought to scale across Atlantic Canada. He provided examples of how the birth cohort can address issues of child health and development and how it can be used to develop policies and programs that will enhance early childhood development.
Mo Dresch illustrated a fantastic graphic capturing the discussions had in the seminar which can be seen in this graphic summary.
Seminar Series: Expanding Connections to Support Early Childhood Development in Nova Scotia
The objectives of the online seminar series include:
1) To build on existing knowledge and identifying new understandings in early childhood,
2) To facilitate collaboration and relationship-building among policy-makers, practitioners, service providers, families, and researchers, and
3) To implement and evaluate an online learning platform for research seminars.
This video is a recording of the April 2021 seminar hosted by the ECCRC as a part of the MSVU SSHRC Connections Project, Expanding Connections to Support Early Childhood Development in Nova Scotia. Dr. Misty Rossiter (UPEI, registered dietician) and Dr. Jessie-Lee McIsaac (MSVU, ECCRC), address what’s happening now in early childhood programs to support responsive feeding, and the areas needing more attention to support healthy eating among young children. Key strategies for enhancing responsive feeding environments for young children are shared to provide tangible actions for early childhood educators.
Dr. Misty Rossiter (UPEI) and Dr. Jessie-Lee McIsaac (MSVU) share 5 strategies for enhancing healthy eating among young children.
This video is a recording of the March 2021 seminar hosted by the ECCRC as a part of the MSVU SSHRC Connections Project, Expanding Connections to Support Early Childhood Development in Nova Scotia. Madison MacQuarrie, Project Coordinator at the ECCRC at Mount Saint Vincent University, share findings from our research study on how Maritime Families are impacted by the pandemic. She discusses strategies that early childhood educators can use to help build connections with families to support children during this time.
Madison MacQuarrie, Project Coordinator at ECCRC, share 8 tips for parents and caregivers when talking to children about COVID-19.
This video is a recording of the February 2021 seminar hosted by the ECCRC as a part of the MSVU SSHRC Connections Project, Expanding Connections to Support Early Childhood Development in Nova Scotia. Stephanie McCabe and Marla Smith, Project and Research Coordinator at the ECCRC at Mount Saint Vincent University, share information and resources with early childhood professionals to help enhance their communication with families to support children’s social and emotional development at childcare and at home.
Stephanie McCabe and Marla Smith, Project and Research Coordinators at ECCRC, share tips for families and early childhood professionals to help support children’s social and emotional development during COVID-19.
This video is a recording of the June 2019 seminar hosted by the ECCRC. Guest hosts Misty Rossiter and Linda Mann talk about the importance of healthy feeding environments in the early years.
This video is a recording of the September 23, 2019 seminar hosted by the ECCRC. Guest host Julia Dadds and storyteller Anne Briscombe give a presentation on the importance of responsive relationships and high quality environments.
This video is a recording of the October 2019 seminar hosted by the ECCRC. Guest host Isabel Smith and storyteller Kelly Arnold give a presentation about some of the challenges and solutions when dealing with intervention for preschoolers with ASD.
This video is a recording of the November 2019 seminar hosted by the ECCRC. Guest hosts Christine McLean and Matt Sampson explain the benefits of play for children, as well as how to explain these benefits to the skeptical.
Promoting Equity in Early Childhood: A Storytelling Series to Build Atlantic Connections
Our storytelling series was part of a project funded by SSHRC (Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council) led by Dr. Jessie- Lee McIsaac (Tier II Canada Research Chair in Early Childhood: Diversity and Transition) at the Early Childhood Collaborative Research Centre located at Mount Saint Vincent University in 2023.
This project is also supported by the Margaret and Wallace McCain Family Foundation in partnership with universities, government departments, and early childhood associations across Atlantic Canada. Thank you to the funders and partners who made this work possible.
These storytelling sessions took the form of a three-part series and aimed to mobilize Atlantic-wide research and practice. The purpose of this project is to build connections and showcase research and practice focused on equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (or EDIA) in early learning and child care. Each session highlighted speakers from across Atlantic Canada on key topics critical to EDIA.
“Nurturing our Worlds: Celebrating Language and Connection”
Erin Pilling is a student in the Master of Education program at UPEI. In addition to her role as a student, Erin works as a Project Assistant with the UPEI Faculty of Education Literacy and Numeracy Outreach Project, where she explores her passion for supporting children’s mental well-being through community-centred, play-based learning. In her spare time, Erin can be found spending quality time with family and friends.
Aura Otero
“Finding resilience in immigration”
I arrived in Canada during the pandemic in November 2020 during the pandemic with my family of 4, now 6.
While I was on maternity with our first Canadian born, I took a part time with the Charlotte County Multicultural Association, as an Inclusion Project Coordinator to provide resources and support newcomer families. I have currently transitioned as a settlement practitioner and I love connecting and assisting newcomers while building our community.
Immigration is not easy, but given the right information, support and resources makes the transition smoother and bearable. A lot happens during the first weeks of arrival and support is totally needed. There is always space to help even when it’s not mentioned.
Mojca D’Arcy Ann Bas
“Roots and Wings: Together we can Grow and Belong”
I am an Early Childhood Educator originally from Slovenia. In 2009, I moved to Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, and instantly fell in love with the province’s breathtaking landscapes, welcoming communities, and rich culture. What started as a professional opportunity blossomed into a lifelong commitment to supporting children, families, and fellow ECE’s.
My journey in early childhood education began during my time in the United States, where I worked as a nanny. It was there that I discovered my passion for nurturing young minds and supporting their growth. This passion motivated me to pursue an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education in the USA, followed by a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Slovenia. After settling in Canada, I completed a Bachelor of Education in Post-Secondary Education to enhance my understanding of adult education and help me in my role as a Registrar of Child Care Services Certification. Currently, I am pursuing a master’s in museum education, exploring innovative ways to blend education and culture to create meaningful experiences for children, families and ECE’s.
I believe collaboration and understanding are keys to fostering thriving communities. As Early Childhood Educators, we bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and skills to the table. By supporting one another, we create spaces where children, their families and ECE’s can grow, blossom, and feel a true sense of belonging.
When I’m not immersed in the world of education, I enjoy indulging my creative and curious sides. You can often find me exploring museums, learning about the stories behind the artifacts, or unwinding with a good book in a cozy coffee shop. I also love working with my hands, whether that’s behind a buzzing sewing machine or crafting something new.
This journey has been a blend of learning, growth, and connection, and I am deeply grateful to be part of a field that allows me to make a difference every day.
Jackie Youngkyoung Lee
“When Curriculum Embraces your Culture”
My name is Jackie Youngkyoung Lee, and I am originally from South Korea. I arrived in Halifax in the summer of 2011 to study early childhood education as an international student. Fast forward 13 years later, here I am, teaching future early childhood educators through the NSCC EAL ECE Pathway Program.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this opportunity to connect with the newcomers and to support them in achieving their goal of being Level 2 and Level 3 ECEs!
The title of my story is “When Curriculum Embraces Your Culture.”
I am Cynthia Urtubia, Early Childhood Educator by profession originally from Chile. I arrived to the beautiful Nova Scotia almost 6 years ago.
The Wolfville Children’s Centre was the first place that welcomed me as an ECE and encouraged me to incorporate my culture and background into my practice.
Currently, as a faculty member at NSCC, I enjoy supporting learners in achieving their goals. My passion for Early Childhood Education has allowed me to enjoy over 15 years of experience in this field. With a background in Curriculum development, I have worked in
various educational settings. In classrooms, academic coordination, and mentoring schools in the educational system in Chile.
Outside of work, I enjoy connecting with people and exploring the beautiful places this province offers. I am in love with the Nova Scotia landscape! I enjoy walking and taking pictures while admiring the sunset. I am looking forward to connecting with other educators and contributing to our community of learning.
Omobosola Lasisi (NL)
“Vision for the future”
My name is Omobosola Lasisi, though many refer to me as Mrs. B. I am an early childhood educator based in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Originally from Nigeria, my journey into education was inspired by watching my father, a school principal, positively influence the lives of his students. I earned my Teacher’s Certificate in 1985 and worked as a primary school teacher for several years before becoming a full-time homemaker to raise my four children. Due to my husband’s job, our family relocated to several countries, including Cameroon, Angola, and the United States, before settling in Newfoundland in 2016. By that time, my children were off to university, which allowed me to return to education.
In 2017, I transitioned back into the field after earning a Diploma in Child Care Provider from Ashworth College in the U.S. While working as an early childhood educator in Newfoundland, I furthered my qualifications with a Diploma in Therapeutic Recreation from Academy Canada in 2020 and a Diploma in Early Childhood Education from Keyin College in 2022. I am a strong believer in the power of education, and I am deeply passionate about shaping young lives through my work.
Camila Alonso (NB)
“Communication without borders”
I am an extrovertive Brazilian educator working with 2-3-year-olds from different backgrounds. I have 1 year of experience in the area and 20+ years as a communicator.
I speak 4 languages and am passionate about fostering creativity and critical thinking in children. I am committed to building strong partnerships with families to support each child’s unique development. Outside the classroom, I enjoy going for walks and hikes with my 2 rescued dogs and exploring new educational resources to enhance my teaching practice.
Anudeep Makker (NS)
“The loop of learning: a story of hopes and aspiration”
My name is Anudeep Makker, I go by a short name, Anu. I am an Early Childhood Educator at the Child Study Centre, Mount Saint Vincent University. I immigrated to Canada from New Delhi, India in 2020. I am passionate about early childhood education and consider myself fortunate to be able to teach with, ‘two hearts’, Indian and Candian. This thought stems from my belief in collaboration, inclusion, respect for diversity and admiration for children.
I was born in New Delhi, India and lived in an extended family with parents, grandparents, uncles and aunts throughout my childhood. I live in Halifax with my family. I recently became a Canadian citizen.
I completed my high school education in Delhi and then took admission into University of Delhi to pursue a degree in Early and elementary education. After finishing school, I began working with a nongovernmental organization to create teaching and learning materials for small public schools to promote play based teaching of numeracy and literacy in early years. I took to full time teaching in preprimary in 2009 and went back to studies in 2016 to do my master’s in English literature.
Amanpreet Kaur (PEI)
“Together we can do great things”
My name is Amanpreet Kaur, and I studied at CDI College in Montreal. In August 2022, I moved to Prince Edward Island, where I now work at Little Blessings Childcare Centre, supporting young children’s growth and development.
I am passionate about early childhood education and fostering a nurturing learning environment.
‘Mi’kmaw ECE program in Mi’kma’ki’
Nicholas (Nik) Phillips is a Treaty Education Policy Analyst for the provincial department of Office of L’nu Affairs, and a faculty member of the Nova Scotia Community College, teaching Early Childhood Education and the Poqji-kina’masulti’kw tel-kina’mujik mijua’ji’jk (Mi’kmaq Early Childhood Education) program. He is a member of Mulin Sipu (Millbrook Mi’kmaw Nation). As a young two-spirited knowledge holder, Nik embodies the practice of Etuaptmumk (two-eyed seeing), bringing a wealth of Indigenous and Western knowledge to his life and work. He holds the belief that reconciliation is imbedded in our ability to share, listen, and understand one another. He is a well rounded person who believes in supporting others in their own places of knowing. Nik holds a BA (Honours) and MA (Child and Youth Study) from Mount Saint Vincent University. He is an active member of community who advocates for language, culture, inclusivity, and equity.
‘Embracing and celebrating diversity: implementing cultural programming into our everyday practices’
Debbie is the Child Development Coordinator with First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre. With roots in Mi’kmaq ancestry, Debbie is dedicated to sharing her heritage with the community and is particularly passionate about immersing the children in indigenous culture teachings. Outside of work, Debbie is a devoted mother to her 17-year-old daughter from China, who is the pride and joy of her life. She is also a well-known local fibre artist, known for her traditional granny square creations in the community.
‘Show me your ways: The entanglement of family literacy through play’
Dr. Gabriela Arias de Sanchez is an assistant professor at the University of Prince Edward Island Faculty of Education specializing in early years pedagogies. Her current research focuses on the revitalization of play pedagogies in formal education systems. Gabriela cannot resist Latino music. She will dance until the last song is played.
‘Show me your ways: The entanglement of family literacy through play’
Emily Cook-McDonald is a UPEI MEd student specializing in arts education and multi-literacies. Emily leads the UPEI Literacy and Numeracy Outreach Project, providing play-based educational opportunities for children and families throughout Prince Edward Island. When not at work, you can find her enjoying beach walks or cheering on her kids from the sidelines of a soccer field.
‘Honoring linguistic cultures of New Brunswick Children and Families’
Kristen has over 15 years of early childhood experience. Her career has expanded over the years through many pathways, including pedagogical research, program and curriculum development, and supporting ongoing professional learning and reflective practice. Within her current role as a program consultant, with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, Kristen is dedicated to strengthening the early childhood workforce by providing access to innovative ECE training and professional learning opportunities across the province.
‘Honoring linguistic cultures of New Brunswick Children and Families’
Stacey works as an Early Learning Consultant for the Dept. of Education and Early Childhood Development. She currently facilitates the 90-hr Introduction to Early Childhood Education online course and is passionate about supporting new educators as they learn about the New Brunswick Curriculum Framework for Early Learning and Childcare-English and Best Practices in the field of Early Learning and Childcare.
Adam Braye (NL/NS)
‘Life outside the lines: Supporting gender diversity in the early years’
Adam, originally from St. John’s, Newfoundland has worked with children and youth in various capacities and contexts for over 15 years. Currently, he is a consultant/instructor at the Jane Norman College. He actively advocates for the transgender community and offers workshops on Supporting Gender Diversity in the Early Years.
The core of his practice is creating a healthy community through positive relationships. They believe creating a connection between people, allowing people to feel seen, heard and valued is the foundation to success.
Pam Whitty (NB)
‘Gender fluidity as equitable practice’
Pam has had the pleasure and privilege of working in Early Childhood Education for almost 50 years. She recently retired from 30 years as a professor Early Childhood and Critical Studies at UNB.
She lives on the unceded lands of the Wolastoqey Peoples in Fredericton, New Brunswick. Currently, she is working on ECE projects in gender-expansiveness and digital literacies.
Moashella Shortte (NS)
‘Making Room for All in the Circle of Change’
Moashella is a mother, educator, author, and child and youth advocate. She spent her formative working years in the field of ECE in one of Nova Scotia’s largest Black communities. She currently serves as lead faculty for the Africentric Cohort of the ECE program at the Nova Scotia Community College.
Moashella defines her mission as providing learners with exceptional learning experiences that will help them build a strong, positive foundation for learning for life!
Megan Griffith (NB)
Human Rights and Accommodation in Early Learning
Megan has held several roles within the Government of New Brunswick, with responsibilities for information privacy, legislative affairs, and policy. In her current role as Registrar for the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, Megan focuses on compliance and process improvement, as well as increasing the awareness of rights and responsibilities regarding human rights across the province.
Jill Shaw is the Director at Centreville Child Care, a non profit designated centre located in Centreville, NB. She has been in the child care field since 1982. Starting out in her home in Royalton, moving on to preschool educator and then establishing Centreville Child Care in 2005. She currently manages 3 locations, 21 employees, and 82 childcare spaces. Along with the board of directors, she is currently working on a new facility expansion project in her community to help meet the need of the current child care crises.
She has been married to Ronnie for 41 years and has 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren. She is an active member at her church and loves to also work with the children there. Jill’s passion is that all children will feel loved, heard and respected within her centres and throughout her community.
Jenn is the Executive Director of the Early Childhood Development Association of PEI, she has been with the ECDA since March of 2020, prior to that she held a variety of roles within the Early Learning and Childcare Sector, both in PEI and Alberta. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Arts with a Major in Sociology, a Bachelor of Education specializing in Indigenous Studies and Literacy in the Early Years, as well as a Certificate in Early Childhood Education from NBCC. Jenn was born and raised in the Valley, but has settled her life in Hazelbrook with her dog Molly.
Megan McPhee (PEI)
The tools we need
Megan is the Professional Learning Coordinator/Assistant Executive Director of the Early Childhood Development Association of PEI, she has been with the ECDA since November of 2019, prior to that she spent her time creating beautiful messes with three and four year old children for 12 years. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Political Science and a minor in English from UPEI as well as a diploma in Early Childhood Care and Education from Holland College. She is an Island girl through and through, and lives in the country with her partner and 6 pets.
Dr. Shanon Phelan (NS)
Pursuing Inclusion in Early Learning & Childcare: Stories from Mothers of Children Experiencing Disability
Dr. Shanon Phelan, is an Associate Professor in the School of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Health, and is cross appointed to the Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, at Dalhousie University. Shanon’s research aims to understand and improve inclusion, belonging, and well-being for children who experience disability and their families.
Colleen Diggins (NS)
Pursuing Inclusion in Early Learning & Childcare: Stories from Mothers of Children Experiencing Disability
Colleen Diggins is a MSc Occupational Science student, School of Occupational Therapy, Dalhousie University, and an occupational therapist with over 20 years of experience in pediatrics. Her research aims to understand the invisible work mothers do in pursuit of inclusive early learning and childcare for their children who experience disability.
Rhea Dale (NFL)Rhea Dale (NFL)
Inclusion not guaranteed: The battles of a mom and child care advocate
Rhea has lived in Labrador since 2009. Rhea has three young children and they love being active outdoors, going to the cabin and spending time together. Rhea also has two dogs and a cat. Rhea works in the field of Child Development and Autism Services as well as a past long term member of the board that runs their local daycare. Rhea is passionate and an advocate for inclusion in the field of early childhood education.
Moashella Shortte is a mother, educator, author, and child and youth advocate. She currently serves as lead faculty for the Africentric Cohort of the ECE program at the Nova Scotia Community College. She spent her formative working years in the field of ECE in one of Nova Scotia’s largest Black communities.
Moashella defines her mission as providing learners with exceptional learning experiences that will help them build a strong, positive foundation for learning for life!
Debbie Ingram- Fireside Chat Story Teller
Debbie Ingram is the Child Development Coordinator with First Light St. John’s Friendship Centre. With roots in Mi’kmaq ancestry, Debbie is dedicated to sharing her heritage with the community and is particularly passionate about immersing the children in indigenous culture teachings. Outside of work, Debbie is a devoted mother to her 17-year-old daughter from China, who is the pride and joy of her life. She is also a well-known local fiber artist, known for her traditional granny square creations in the community.
Nathalie Nadeau- Fireside Chat Storyteller
Nathalie Nadeau serves as the Executive Director of CHANCES Inc., a non-profit and charitable organization. With a mission centered on delivering holistic child development and parental support programs, CHANCES Inc. is unwavering in its commitment to diversity, serving as a pillar of strength and support for countless families.
Before her tenure at CHANCES Inc., Nathalie held the position of Executive Director for Child, Family, and Community Wellness within the Government of the Northwest Territories. Her vast experience spans over 17 years in pivotal leadership roles, predominantly working with vulnerable populations. Nathalie’s dedication lies in early childhood development and learning, coupled with a deep-rooted belief in family-centered care and services. Her academic achievements include a Bachelor of Social Work and a Master of Business Administration, both from Université de Moncton.
Danielle Larry- Fireside Chat Storyteller
Danielle Larry is Mi’gmaq of the Bear clan from Esgenoopetitj First Nation. She has over 15 years’ experience learning and working as a Support Worker, Educational Assistant, Early Childhood Educator and an instructor in the ECE program at NBCC. She has recently taken on a new role as Indigenous Curriculum Specialist for Early Learning for the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development in New Brunswick.
She is a strong advocate for proper First Nation representation and equity in education; for all children. She hopes to help consult and create new resources that will better serve Early Childhood and the province of New Brunswick on ensuring “Everyone at their best”.
Tayitu- Fireside Chat Storyteller
Tayitu is a supervisor of our largest ECE center for the Care for Newcomer Program at ISANS. She has been in the field of Early Childhood Education since 2000 in varies capacities. As an Immigrant and a mother of four children, working with newcomer children and their families is her great passion.
