The Power of Play: Small Supports, Big Outcomes 10/20/2026
10:30 am - 11:45 am
Discover how intentional scaffolding within play can strengthen social interaction, communication, problem-solving, and engagement for young children with diverse learning needs. Participants will explore practical strategies for creating inclusive play experiences through environmental design, visual supports, collaborative teaching, and partnerships with families. Walk away with strategies and tools that can be immediately applied across early learning environments.
Objectives
Participants will:
Identify how intentional scaffolding during play supports children’s development, engagement, and participation.
Explore strategies that promote independence and inclusion within play-based learning experiences.
Apply techniques for expanding communication and sustaining meaningful interactions.
Identify ways to use visual supports and thoughtfully designed environments to increase access to play.
Key Takeaways
Participants will leave with:
Ready-to-use tools and supports for facilitating meaningful play.
Practical strategies for collaborating with educational partners and families.
Ideas that can be immediately incorporated into early learning environments.
An individualized action step for strengthening play-based learning and participation.
Event Details
Audience
Early Childhood Educators, Support Staff, Administrators
Conference Coordinator(s)
CalECSE
Partners
CalECSE
Included
materials
Location
Hyatt Regency San Francisco Airport Conference Center 1333 Bayshore Highway Burlingame, California,, CA 94010 Map | Driving Directions Note: CalECSE 4th annual symposium Maps and directions provided by Google® Maps. Please verify map and driving directions for accuracy prior to attending event.
