Here are some sample topics covered by our Professional Workshop Series:

 

This workshop is designed to develop an understanding of sensory integration and sensory dysfunction in preschool children.  Participants learn about ways to identify sensory needs and how it plays a role in classroom behavior. Cooke facilitators present hands-on strategies to address specific sensory integration issues. Participants also learn techniques to modify classroom environment and activities to address individual needs.

 

Teachers learn to objectively define challenging behavior, examine its causes and create behavior modification plans to lead to positive classroom environments. The focus is the discussion of strategies to promote positive behaviors while decreasing negative behaviors.

 

Teachers are presented with background information about Howard Gardner’s multiple intelligences theory, which proposes that individuals have learning style preferences and how it can be applied to the classroom environment.  Multiple intelligence theory proposes that individuals have learning style preferences that are heightened when presented through different modalities, e.g. kinesthetic (movement), musical, visual spatial, mathematical/logical reasoning, verbal.  Facilitators create opportunities to apply knowledge through small group hands-on activities, which require participants to design a multi-sensory lesson plans related to a specific theme.

 

The connection between language and play during preschool years is explored, highlighting the different developmental stages of each. Participants learn the different functions of language, the importance of dramatic play and strategies to promote language in play. Small groups work to develop play scripts typical for preschool settings.

 

Teachers are presented with social-emotional developmental milestones for children ages 3-6. Participants are asked to work in small groups, with Cooke facilitators, to identify strategies for intervening with difficult behaviors were also discussed.