Facilitated by: Liz Gannon (she/they), RECE, Strive Resource Centre Specialist & Lena Haider (she/her), RECE, Strive Resource Centre Specialist Should food be used in sensory activities? This session explores the benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations of using food in play, while also looking at sustainable and safe alternatives. Educators will reflect on their own practices, and discuss multiple perspectives. Rather than offering one “right” answer, this session will provide you with tools to reflect critically, weigh benefits and drawbacks, and make informed choices that align with your teaching philosophy, community values, and children’s needs. Participants will engage in a hands-on activity by creating a mini sensory kit to inspire classroom use. Liz Gannon (she/they) (left) is a Registered Early Childhood Educator who brings valuable experience to the early years field, having served in various capacities over several years. Passionate about advocating for the early years sector, Liz joined the Strive team in 2023 as an Intern and has since excelled, now serving as a Resource Centre Specialist. Previously, they worked as an educator in a child care center, where she nurtured her belief in the transformative power of literature to foster a sense of belonging among children and their families. They see literature as a window and sliding glass door into their lives. She believes that the Strive Professional Resource Centre provides educators with a vital platform to connect with literature and discover stories that enhance belonging and inclusion in their practice. Lena Haider (she/her) (right) is a registered Early Childhood Educator. She graduated from Fanshawe College in 2016, after earning an Honours Specialization degree in Family Studies from Western University. Lena is passionate about connecting with families, the community, and other Early Years professionals to explore the many ways to collaboratively support healthy child development. Pedagogical Focuses: Belonging - Engagement - Expression - Well-being Standards of Practice: Standard I: Caring and Responsive Relationships, Standard II: Curriculum and Pedagogy, Standard III: Safety, Health and Well-Being in the Learning Environment Registration closes: Wednesday, April 29 at 12:00 PM *Ticket types are based on the county you WORK in. While we welcome participation from outside of the Early Years sector, please note these learning opportunities are intended for early years professionals and the early years lens will be emphasized.