Continuing Education

For the Love of Jessie—A Gender Non-Conforming Preschooler

Description:

In this expanded workshop (originally offered Winter 2013), early childhood educators and professionals will explore how to create a positive, enriching preschool experience for a child that is gender variant. Using real classroom experiences, participants will discuss how to facilitate peer understanding and acceptance of a gender variant classmate in the early childhood setting, as well as ways to promote gender-neutralizing toys, colors, and clothing. Parent education will be discussed, and participants will leave with an enhanced understanding of creating an atmosphere of caring, respect, and acceptance for all children, while encouraging them to embrace and celebrate their individuality.

Instructors:

Frisch has a master's degree from Erikson Institute. Robin has worked with children and families for more than 25 years. Most recently, Robin worked as the Director and Lead Teacher for an Early Learning Center in Naperville, Illinois, with a child who is gender non-conforming. Robin attended the Gender Spectrum Conference in Berkeley, California in 2011 to stay updated on the latest research. Robin also attended a professional workshop entitled "It Takes a Village: Creating Conditions of Acceptance for Non-Conforming Children and Youth. Robin presented a workshop at the conference titled "For the Love of Jessie" which described what was done at the Early Learning Center to create a positive and accepting environment for this child and his family. Robin also has been working with area school districts with gender non-conforming students to provide guidance. Robin's goal is to continue to educate other early childhood professionals.