Explore our events to join a trauma-sensitive community building brighter tomorrows for children.
January 30 & 31, 2026
MnAEYC Annual State Conference - Registration now open!
Join us for two inspiring days of learning, connection, and renewal at the 2026 MnAEYC Annual Conference!
Theme: At the Heart of It: Cultivating Resilience and Compassion Explore how care, community, and emotional intelligence shape early learning environments.
Keynotes You Won’t Want to Miss Friday: Jamil Stamschror-Lott – From Awareness to Action: Anti-Oppressive, Trauma-Informed Care • How systemic oppression impacts families and communities • Why traditional trauma-informed care isn’t enough • Actionable strategies for inclusive, healing-centered spaces Saturday: Jamie Bonczyk – Well-being at Work • Reframe well-being as well-becoming for educators and children • Practical strategies for co-regulation and reflective supervision • Connecting trauma-informed practices to advocacy and policy
Sessions featuring 80x3 Staff:
Exploring CICC’s 80x3 Resilient from the Start Resources Facilitated by Leo Howard III and Kellee Nelson
This session introduces participants to CICC’s partnership with the 80x3 initiative at Greater Twin Cities United Way and its trauma-responsive, healing-centered resources. Participants will explore self-study modules, podcasts, and tip sheets designed to support resilience in early childhood settings.
Story Stitch Circles: Building Empathy Through Guided Storytelling Facilitated by Jamie Bonczyk at Noran Aly
Experience Story Stitch, a guided storytelling card game designed to foster empathy and connection across cultures. In this interactive session, early childhood educators will explore how storytelling builds community, deepens understanding, and supports inclusive practices. Participants will play the game, reflect on group dynamics, and leave with actionable insights.
In-person Event Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel, Minnetonka, MN
Understanding NEAR Science: Building Self-Healing Communities Presentation
Join us to learn how childhood adversity impacts our lives, the lives of our children, and the health of our communities. This presentation highlights key findings from the fields of neurobiology, epigenetics, epidemiology, and resilience research, demonstrating the impacts of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) on health and well-being and offering strategies to build resilience.
