ACA Victoria reflects on the success of the Navigating Behaviour Conference

The Australian Childcare Alliance (ACA) Victoria has announced the successful conclusion of the ACA Victoria Navigating Behaviour Conference which was held at Pullman Melbourne on the Park on 23-24 August 2024.

 

More than 500 early childhood professionals, educators, and experts from across the nation gathered at the conference to explore and understand the complexities behind behaviour in early childhood settings.

 

Uncle Shane Charles opened the event with an ‘unforgettable’ Welcome to Country that set a considerate and heart-warming tone for the event.

 

Keynote speakers included Dr. Justin Coulson, Lael Stone, and Dr. Billy Garvey, a renowned developmental paediatrician. Each speaker provided invaluable insights and practical strategies to help educators better understand and support the diverse behavioural needs of children in their care.

 

In addition to the keynote addresses, the conference offered a range of presentations led by experts such as Dr. Kaylene Henderson, Catharine Hydon, Robyn Papworth, Kelly Goodsir, Louise Dorrat, Andrea Broughton, Lukas Ritson, Nick Hedges, and the Victorian Inclusion Agency. 

 

These sessions provided attendees with hands-on learning experiences and fostered meaningful discussions on the latest research, tools, and approaches to managing challenging behaviours in early childhood environments.

 

A dynamic panel discussion with Approved Providers rounded out the program. Facilitated by ACA Victoria President Tonii Tran, the panel featured sector leaders Paula Papanicolauo, Angela Hunt, Max Bergh and Nick Moutzouris, all of whom have Exceeding rated services. 

 

The panel shared their experiences, challenges, and successes in managing behaviour in their services, offering insights and practical strategies, and fostering a deeper understanding of how to achieve an Exceeding rating at any service.

 

“The Navigating Behaviour Conference 2024 has been a powerful gathering of minds, equipping our educators and providers with the tools they need to support every child,” Ms Tran said. 

 

“There was a clear thread that wove between the speakers and I’m excited to see where these ideas take each and every attendee at the conference. The energy and engagement from everyone involved have been truly inspiring.”

 

Conference organisers have been “thrilled” by the positive feedback and the enthusiasm shown by attendees and valued exhibitors.

 

The conference also featured an exhibition hall showcasing the latest resources, technologies, and services available to early childhood professionals, providing attendees with valuable networking opportunities and the chance to explore innovative solutions to enhance their practice.

 

ACA Victoria thanked event Platinum sponsors Child Care Super and Guild Insurance, whose contributions were invaluable. Gold sponsor, Modern Teaching Aids (MTA), along with Silver sponsor Kinder M8, Bronze sponsor Officeworks, and Coffee sponsor Higgins Coatings all played crucial roles in ensuring a high-calibre conference experience.

 

As ACA Victoria continues its mission to advocate for high-quality early childhood education and care, the success of the 2024 Navigating Behaviour Conference underscores the importance of ongoing professional development and collaboration within the sector. 

 

ACA Victoria’s commitment to continuous learning and improvement is essential for ensuring that educators are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of their profession.

 

To view images from the event, click here.

 

For more information about the ACA Victoria 2024 Navigating Behaviour Conference or to learn more about upcoming events and initiatives, please visit https://vic.childcarealliance.org.au/