A worldwide pandemic and the resulting disruption of daily routines can cause corresponding upheaval for children, who may not be able to understand the changes in their lives. Parents, caregivers and teachers may find it difficult to help children through hard times.
On Saturday, April 25, Voices for Children San Antonio, District 4 City Councilwoman Adriana Rocha-García, Ph.D., and District 26 State Senator José Menéndez are partnering with local organizations to present a free virtual professional development session focusing on early childhood care and education. The program will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The workshop will focus on children's physical and mental health. Sessions and presenters include:
9 a.m. Welcome and Introduction to Issues - Kathleen Fletcher, Ph.D, MPH, Voices for Children CEO; Adriana Rocha-García, District 4 City Councilwoman; State Senator José Menéndez, Chair, Blue Ribbon Task Force
9:15-10 a.m. Asthma, RSV & COVID-19: Nothing to Kid About - Mandi Svatek, M.D., UTHSCSA Pediatrics/Medical Director, SA Kids BREATHE
10:15-11 a.m. A Thing or Two About Domestic Violence - Marta Prada Peláez, President & CEO, Family Violence Prevention Services
11:15 a.m.-12 noon Trauma Informed Care in the Early Childhood Setting: Why Is This Something to Consider? - Melissa Williamson, Ed.D., Professional Learning Project Manager, Frog Street
12:15-1 p.m. Early Mental Health: The Importance of Relationships and Interactions in the Midst of Crisis - Fred Cárdenas, Early Childhood Wellbeing Program Manager, Family Service Association
The presentation is free and open to the public, and registration is required. Cllck here to sign up. Four hours' professional development certification is available.
Children and COVID-19 is sponsored by District 26 State Senator José Menéndez; District 4 City Councilwoman Adriana Rocha-García, Ph.D.; S.A. Kids BREATHE; Family Violence Prevention Services; Frog Street; Family Service Association; the United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County; and the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children.