Registration opens December 1 at 7 PM
Facilitated by: Tina Geers, and more!
This year’s Winter Rethink invites educators to pause, reflect, and reconnect with the foundations of How Does Learning Happen? through the joyful and powerful lens of Play.
Our day together will explore how play builds connection, curiosity, and community - not only for children, but for educators and families too.
The morning begins with keynote speaker Tina Geers, who will lead us in Protectors of Play - an inspiring and practical session that celebrates play as a cornerstone of learning and growth. Together, we’ll uncover what it truly means to protect and nurture play:
“Play. Playful Learning. Learning Through Play. Pedagogy of Play. These are just some of the terms we use to advocate for the importance of Play, not only in the early learning years but throughout our learning journey. The brain is wired to play. As playful learners, our role is to foster a playful environment and encourage children to Play to explore, create, problem-solve and discover. Together, we will unpack the power of Play as we become Protectors of Play!”
Throughout the day, educators will share short song and play activities during breaks - joyful reminders of how simple, intentional play experiences can spark connection and wonder. We’ll close the day with a story from local educators, sharing their personal journey with play and how it has shaped their practice.
Join us for Winter Rethink 2026 - a day to celebrate, reflect, and reimagine our role as Protectors of Play.
Doors open at 8:30 AM
Pedagogical Focuses: Engagement - Networking
Tina Geers, owner of Inspired Minds ECC Consulting Inc., more importantly, she is a Protector of Play, an Accidental Educator and an Advocate for Early Childhood Educators! She is an early childhood coach and consultant with 20 years of experience as an educator, coach, mentor, facilitator, and pedagogical leader in childcare. Her educational background includes a diploma in Early Learning and Child Care from GPRC, and she is currently completing her BA in Educational Studies in Early Learning at Ontario Tech University. She is also the founder and president of the non-profit organization, Alberta Early Childhood Play Connection Network (AECPCN), a member of the World Forum Working Group on Play, and a member of IPA Canada and CCCF.
We’ll also hear from local educators as they share play experiences, and enjoy an inspiring Educator Story about their journey with play.
Saturday, February 7, 2026
9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Four Points by Sheraton London
1150 Wellington Rd.,
London, ON, N6E 1M3
Cost
$20 - London, Middlesex, Elgin & Oxford Professionals
$40 - Professionals from Other Counties
Registration closes on Friday, January 30 at 4:00 PM
*Ticket Types are based on the County you WORK in.