Learning Link

In this episode of The Learning Link, host Bibi offers an exciting first look at CDRCP’s 2026 professional learning lineup by introducing a dynamic group of new presenters and facilitators. Listeners will learn about upcoming sessions designed to support educators, leaders, and childcare professionals through practical strategies, inclusive practices, and innovative approaches to early learning.

Join Jessica, our Professional Learning Supervisor, this week as she unveils the newly renamed community of practice: EduConnect. These sessions create a welcoming space for educators to connect, share fresh ideas, spark inspiration, and grow together as a professional community. Each session is thoughtfully tailored to one of three areas: Licensed Home Child Care, Before and After School Programs, and Licensed Child Care. Explore upcoming EduConnect sessions along with a wide range of other professional learning opportunities by visiting our Professional Learning Calendar. You’ll find both in‑person and live virtual options to support your learning needs:https://cdrcpoptin.azurewebsites.net/

Tune in as the Professional Learning team shares their standout moments from 2025. Bibi reflects on the year’s largest events, the newest innovations, and the lessons learned while developing two of CDRCP’s newest initiatives: the Learning Link and the Learning Hub. Take a moment to revisit the successes that shaped 2025 and get excited for what’s ahead in 2026! CDRCP extends a heartfelt thank-you to our listeners for supporting such a dynamic, diverse, and transformative year. We look forward to continuing our commitment to early years professionals, whether you’re learning hands-on at our in-person sessions, engaging deeply during virtual workshops, exploring fresh articles on the Learning Hub, or tuning in to this podcast. We will see you again in the new year!January - March professional learning opportunities are out now! Visit our professional learning calendar to find in-person or live virtual sessions that support your needs: https://cdrcpoptin.azurewebsites.net/

In this episode, Jennifer Logan and Taylor Davis dive into the vital role of mentorship in the early years, exploring how connection, collaboration, and shared learning are shaping the field today. Together, they reflect on the current state of retention and recognition for early years professionals in Ontario, and discuss how both formal and informal mentorship practices can help educators thrive in their professional journeys.Taylor and Jennifer discuss the insights Jennifer has gathered through stepping into the role of Mentorship Project Coordinator at CDRCP, highlighting the organization’s first steps into mentorship with the upcoming pilot launching this November. Jennifer highlights what inspires her exploration of group mentorship versus one-on-one mentorship and how collective reflection may be one piece of the puzzle in creating a sustainable early years sector in Peel. Peel educators... stay tuned! A new Mentorship Pilot program will be coming to Peel soon! Keep an eye out for more information on the pilot, to be released through CDRCP's community messaging systems and CDRCP's social media pages at the end of November. Follow @CDRCP on all social media platforms For more professional learning opportunities like this: https://cdrcp.com/professional-learning/ Sources from this episode: The Early Years: Beginning Early Childhood Educators’ Induction Experiences and Needs in British Columbia (2016) article by Dr. Laura DoanHow Does Learning Happen? Ontario’s Pedagogy for the Early Years https://www.publications.gov.on.ca/how-does-learning-happen-ontarios-pedagogy-for-the-early-years New Teacher Induction Program (NTIP) https://www.ontario.ca/page/new-teacher-induction-program College of Early Childhood Educators CPL Resource: Mentoring https://www.college-ece.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/CPL-Resource-Mentoring.pdf College of Early Childhood Educators Practice Note: Professional Relationships https://www.college-ece.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/PN_Professional_Relationships_EN_FINAL.pdf Knowing our Numbers: Regional Municipality of Peel Knowing our numbers https://knowingournumbers.ca/media/filer_public/regional-reports/kon-peel.pdf

What if professional learning felt more like dialogue than information delivery? In this episode, Bibi Haniff is joined by guest, Rosalba Bortolotti, founder of Acorn Collaborative, to explore how listening, reflection, and connection can reshape the way educators grow together. Rosalba shares her journey of building communities where educators can slow down, listen deeply, and reflect together. From her exploration of the pedagogy of listening to the art of creating inviting and collaborative learning spaces, Rosalba invites us to see professional growth not as training, but as transformation.

It’s Child Care Worker and Early Childhood Educator Appreciation Day!Taylor takes over the podcast and, in this episode, she invites listeners to participate in the celebration, recognition, support, and advocacy for early years professionals. Taylor shares the insightful reflections on the impact of ECEs have on children and families, the value of care, and highlights special messages from the Child Development Resource Connection Peel (CDRCP).Whether you’re an early years professional, a parent, or simply someone who values the role of early learning, this episode is a reminder of why today—and every day—we honour the dedication, compassion, and skill of early childhood professionalsThank you, early years professionals. Today is for you.For more professional learning opportunities: https://cdrcp.com/professional-learning/Peel Region’s Campaign of the experiences of educators: https://peelregion.ca/news/early-childhood-professionals-share-their-joys-challenges-hopes-futureOntario Coalition for Better Child Care: https://childcareontario.org/child-care-worker-and-early-childhood-educator-appreciation-day-2025/AECEO: https://www.aeceo.ca/

Esha and Jessica explore the inspiring history of the Lifelong Learning Conference and share what’s ahead for the 2025 Lifelong Learning Symposium. From keynote highlights to this year’s top themes—equity, innovation, and early years professionals appreciation. Get the inside scoop on the event that’s shaping the future of education.Registration for Day 1: NOW CLOSEDHow to register for Day 2: https://youtu.be/K2cnDpMqO1k?si=zcbZw5bcONabpywqRegistration for Day 2: https://upstream1.cdrcp.netference.ca/

In this tidbit episode, Bibi takes a moment to pause and reflect on her experiences with early literacy and incorporating books into child care classrooms. Bibi opens up about her personal journey with books, both as a reader and as an educator. From childhood favourites to classroom staples, she reflects on the transformative power of literature and how books continue to shape minds, spark empathy, and create connection in learning spaces.

Bibi and Taylor dive deep into the critical topic of self-care and educator mental health. As former child care classroom educators themselves, they reflect on the emotional toll the profession can take and why it’s time to normalize rest, boundaries, and well-being in education.Drawing from personal experiences, Bibi and Taylor explore the pressure to "do it all," and the challenges that contribute to emotional exhaustion in educators. More importantly, they share strategies, practical self-care practices, and accessible resources that helped them and others reclaim balance and joy in both personal and professional life.Resources from this episode: College of Early Childhood Educators Wellness Resources: https://www.college-ece.ca/members/wellness-resources/ CDRCP On Demand Webinar - Moving Mindfully with Children by Lisa Clarke: https://app.livestorm.co/cdrcp/moving-mindfully-with-children More professional learning opportunities like this: https://cdrcp.com/professional-learning/

In this episode, Emma and Taylor dive into the incredible offerings of the Child Development Resource Connection Peel (CDRCP) Resource Centre. They explore how this valuable community resource supports educators, students, and early years professionals through its hands-on materials, curated resource bins, and welcoming environment.Join them as they unpack how the resource bins not only enhance professional practice, but also provide meaningful support for student field placements and inspire creative program planning in early learning settings. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting your journey in the field, this conversation will leave you with practical insights and fresh ideas for enriching your programming and professional growth.Tune in and get inspired to make the most of your community resources!CDRCP Resource Centre Homepage: https://cdrcp.com/resource-centre/Peel Region early years professionals, join us for Lifelong Learning Symposium 2025Day 1 - In-Person: For leaders and aspiring leaders, for more information or to register HEREDay 2 - Live Virtual: For all early years professionals and is a Peel Region system closure, registration coming soon!!

The Professional Learning team are in the hot seat as guests this week as this episode dives into the role of the Professional Learning and Resource Specialists at CDRCP and how their work supports quality enhancement across the early years sector. You'll hear firsthand how professional learning goes beyond workshops; acting as a catalyst for reflective practice, continuous growth, and meaningful change. The team shares insights into their day-to-day work, the impact of intentional learning, and how they tailor professional learning for Peel educators and leaders to strengthen quality across programs. Emma, Bibi and Jessica offer valuable advice for professionals in the field and the wider early years community looking to grow, connect, and lead with purpose. For more professional learning opportunities visit our website: https://cdrcp.com/professional-learning/

In this episode, we’re joined by Ji Eun Park, a passionate and experienced Quality Initiative Mentor at CDRCP. Ji Eun shares valuable insights into her role supporting early childhood educators and programs in enhancing the quality of care and learning environments. We dive into what it means to be a Quality Initiative Mentor, how CDRCP supports quality enhancement, and a look into the new Raising the Bar in Peel profile.

In this episode, we sit down with Navneet Samra, one of CDRCP's EarlyON Program Supervisors, to explore how EarlyON programs are creating safe, welcoming spaces for children and their caregivers. Navneet shares the heart behind EarlyON's play-based learning approach, the importance of culturally responsive programming, and how EarlyON centres are helping families build lasting connections. Check out the EarlyON page on the CDRCP website for more information and upcoming programs: https://cdrcp.com/earlyon/

In this episode, we sit down with Aubrey Aquino, a Community Information Resource Specialist at CDRCP and a part of our InfoPeel team. This episode explores the innovative work happening behind the scenes at InfoPeel. Aubrey shares how InfoPeel is transforming the way families in Peel Region access services for children and youth—making support more accessible, coordinated, and effective. From navigating complex systems to creating seamless pathways for care, Aubrey dives into the challenges families often face and how Kids Pathways Peel steps in to bridge the gaps. Whether you're a parent, service provider, or community advocate, this episode is packed with valuable information and actionable resources. Tune in and discover how InfoPeel is helping kids—and their caregivers—find the support they need, when they need it.