2025 MNSAA Conference: Track 2

The first weeks of school are more than a beginning—they are the blueprint for the year ahead. Strong Start, Smart Practice is an engaging and practical workshop designed to equip preschool professionals with the tools, strategies, and mindset to build a thriving classroom from day one.

Participants will explore how to intentionally establish routines, build trusting relationships, and introduce expectations in a way that nurtures children’s development and autonomy. At the same time, educators will “unwrap” the principles of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP), translating theory into meaningful, real-world application across all domains of early learning.

Through interactive reflection, collaborative discussion, and hands-on strategy sharing, attendees will leave with a refreshed understanding of what it means to teach responsively—and a concrete plan for launching the year with clarity, confidence, and care.