Class Overview
Children move, explore, wonder, play and learn with their whole being, their minds, bodies and hearts. Adults can support this learning with a careful and caring approach that understands and respects the importance of children’s movement, thinking and feeling. This introductory workshop will explore the philosophy of Dr. Emmi Pikler, which advocates a peaceful and respectful approach to caring for babies and toddlers. Research from the Pikler Institute in Budapest, Hungary suggests that young children thrive when they are seen as participants in their own care and initiators of their own explorations and play. We will explore how careful and attentive physical care facilitates a child’s sense of competence. Participants will deepen their knowledge about infant-toddler care and education in order to provide peaceful and respectful care to babies and toddlers. This 3-day workshop will use a variety of experiential activities, as well as discussion and lecture. It is open to everyone who is interested in increasing their knowledge of how to care for infants and toddlers at home or in center care. Read more…
Elsa Chahin – An in-demand speaker, writer, teacher and infant-toddler consultant, Elsa Chahin has served as a keynote speaker and presenter at over 80 national and international conferences and seminars on the topic of caring for babies with respect; and has recently co-authored In Loving Hands with Anna Tardos.
One of only two certified and accredited Pikler® Trainers in North America, Ms. Chahin is currently President of the internationally renown non-profit corporation, Pikler/Lóczy USA. With extensive training in the field, Ms. Chahin, is a gifted facilitator that brings her expertise in her consulting and advisory positions to new parents and professionals.
A staunch advocate of early childhood education and development, Ms. Chahin, a working group leader for Word Forum Foundation, RIE® Associate, and PITC trainer, is that rare leader who not only brings passion and commitment to her work, but a deep knowledge coupled with both insight and generosity.
Beverly Kovach, MN – Mrs. Kovach began her early childhood profession upon founding Little Learners Lodge in 1977. She eventually transitioned from her family therapy work to train and consult with early childhood centers full time. Beverly currently serves as Vice President of Pikler/Lóczy USA and as a certified Pikler® trainer, is endorsed by Anna Tardos to train in the Piklerain pedagoghy.
Mrs. Kovach, who also serves as mentor trainer for Resources for Infant Educarers® (RIE) Associate and Montessori (0-3), has authored several books relating to infant and toddler care including, Being With Babies, and Being With Babies And Toddlers; as well as a newly-released video series.. Her specialty involves consulting and mentoring Infant and Toddler caregivers who work in centers.
Susan Patrick, PhD – Dr. Patrick serves as treasurer of Pikler/ Lóczy USA and is the coauthor of, Being with Infants and Toddlers: A Curriculum that Works for Caregivers. Dr. Patrick is an assistant professor at Northeastern State University and is the lead faculty for a recently initiated Early Care – Birth to Three Bachelor’s Degree Program.
She teaches undergraduate courses related to early care and development and maintains a research focus on the relationships and organizational structures that best support the caregivers of infants and toddlers. Dr. Patrick lives in Tulsa, Oklahoma and enjoys collaborating with others who are inspired by the Pikler® approach.