Join us for the state鈥檚 premier early childhood conference presented annually by 大象传媒 First Steps and the Early Childhood Advisory Council.
DoubleTree by Hilton Columbia S.C.
The 2024 SC Summit on Early Childhood: Where We Begin, presented by the Institute for Child Success,听will be held at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Columbia on Thursday, December 5, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
This year鈥檚 Summit is designed for early childhood leaders like you who are dedicated to shaping the future of 大象传媒鈥檚 youngest citizens, from pregnancy through preschool. Together, we鈥檒l explore the innovative programs, effective policies, and supportive communities that are essential to fostering healthy development.
With inspiring keynote presentations by Dr. Dana L. Suskind, renowned professor of Surgery and Pediatrics at the University of Chicago, and John L.S. Simpkins, advocate and champion for children, families, and communities, this summit offers valuable insights from leading voices in the field. Since 2015, the SC Summit has served as a collaborative platform for professionals to exchange ideas, share groundbreaking research, and strategize on ways to create a stronger foundation for our children.
Join us for an opportunity to connect, learn, and lead the way in early childhood education!
Dr. Dana L. Suskind
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John L.S. Simpkins
Enjoy a light breakfast with pre-conference networking.
After a brief welcome from SC First Steps leadership, a representative from our presenting sponsor, Institute for Child Success, will introduce keynote speaker Dr. Dana Suskind.
In her talk, 鈥淭he Age of AI: How We Can Promote Healthy, Equitable Child Development in Today鈥檚 World,鈥 Dr. Suskind will discuss the science of early brain development, the impact of a child鈥檚 early environment and experiences, and the importance of supporting and empowering parents and caregivers in their role as brain architects. She will share her latest work, which leverages technology to support parents and optimize early development, and discuss how technology opens the door to truly achieving impact at scale.
CHOOSE JUST ONE SESSION TO ATTEND
Breakout Session - Presenter: Carol Lapin, Nurturing Parenting |
Empowering Fathers: Connecting the Dots |
Many studies are showing that children benefit from engaged fathers. A father who is both involved in the daily activities of his children and who spends time playing with them are linked to increased cognitive development, more positive peer interaction, high levels of school readiness, and better problem-solving skills. Fathers have a unique opportunity to shape the lives of their children. This workshop will focus on ways to help fathers understand their value and empower them to be the father their children need. |
Breakout Session - Presenter: Cathy Moore, ThinkShops and smartEDGE at Clemson University Learning Institute |
Navigating Conflict and Difficult Conversations |
This session aims to equip participants with skills and strategies for effectively managing conflict, engaging in difficult conversations, and leading with dignity. Together, we will reframe the common negative view of conflict into one that focuses on the opportunities for productive, creative, and effective solutions that healthy conflict provides. Participants will establish a culture that promotes the following outcomes: Reframe the Perception of Conflict; Engage in Productive Struggle; Develop Compassionate Feedback |
Breakout Session - Presenter: Darneshia Allen, ZERO TO THREE |
The Power of Place - Building Relationships to Harness Cross-Systems Collaboration |
This session will capture the value of shared knowledge and experience in cross-sector work with young children and their families with an emphasis on collaborations and strategic considerations for building relationships that increase access to quality across the spectrum of care to improve outcomes for families. |
Breakout Session - Presenters: Kate K. Chappell & Victoria H. Davis, University of 大象传媒 College of Nursing, & Amy Shapley-Farrell, Childcare Ready for All (CRAwl) and BabyCoach |
We recognize, we respond! Preparing to support children with developmental and health needs |
Early childhood professionals often identify signs of developmental delays or other health conditions through screenings or time spent working with a child. In this scenario-based session, participants will navigate acute response, referral and follow up care for developmental and health concerns including autism spectrum disorder, seizures, and muscle weakness or motor delays. This session, led by nurse practitioners and an experienced disability advocate, will offer strategies for communication with children鈥檚 caregivers in both acute and non-emergent health and developmental concerns. The presenters will also share local, state, and national resources to support working with children with specific healthcare needs. |
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Visit our exhibitor tables as you head to the ballroom for lunch. Grab a plate and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch.
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CHOOSE JUST ONE SESSION TO ATTEND
Breakout Session - Panelists: Kimberly Isaac-House, Homeless No More, Mike King, SC Department of Education, Crystal Ratliff, SC Technical College System Office |
Community Development: Expanding Opportunities for Families (part 1) |
In this panel session, moderated by Doug Taylor, Dr. Crystal Ratliff, Mike King, and Kimberly House will discuss programs and strategies that help parents achieve success for their families, as well as the importance of creating supports for families: housing, literacy, and educational pathways. |
Breakout Session - Panelists: |
For the Love of Children's Museum |
Join a panel of leaders from the state's children's museums as they share how they are creating a sense of community by bringing children and families together to explore shared experiences. These museums offer unique and impactful opportunities for children to make sense of the world through interactive, hands-on, and multisensory learning that encourages critical thinking and strengthens community bonds.听 |
Breakout Session - Presenter: Cathy Moore, ThinkShops and smartEDGE at Clemson University Learning Institute |
Navigating Conflict and Difficult Conversations (repeat) |
This session aims to equip participants with skills and strategies for effectively managing conflict, engaging in difficult conversations, and leading with dignity. Together, we will reframe the common negative view of conflict into one that focuses on the opportunities for productive, creative, and effective solutions that healthy conflict provides. Participants will establish a culture that promotes the following outcomes: Reframe the Perception of Conflict; Engage in Productive Struggle; Develop Compassionate Feedback |
Breakout Session - Presenter: Darneshia Allen, ZERO TO THREE |
The Power of Place - Building Relationships to Harness Cross-Systems Collaboration (repeat) |
This session will capture the value of shared knowledge and experience in cross-sector work with young children and their families with an emphasis on collaborations and strategic considerations for building relationships that increase access to quality across the spectrum of care to improve outcomes for families. |
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CHOOSE JUST ONE SESSION TO ATTEND
Breakout Session - Presenter: Kenna Hoover, SC First Steps |
Building a Strong Foundation: The Five Pillars of Early Literacy |
Would you want to live in a structure with a poor foundation? Just as a sturdy home requires a solid base, our youngest learners need a strong foundation in early literacy to ensure lifelong success. This session will highlight the critical importance of early literacy as we explore the five key pillars: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Join us as we dive into the latest research and uncover practical tips and strategies for incorporating these pillars into our daily practices. Together, educators, parents, researchers, and policymakers can lay the groundwork that empowers children with the skills they need to thrive both academically and personally. Let鈥檚 work together to build a robust foundation for the future of our learners! |
Breakout Session - Facilitator |
Community Development (part 2): Build your Two-Gen Plan |
Join a panel of leaders from the state's children's museums as they share how they are creating a sense of community by bringing children and families together to explore shared experiences. These museums offer unique and impactful opportunities for children to make sense of the world through interactive, hands-on, and multisensory learning that encourages critical thinking and strengthens community bonds.听 |
Breakout Session - Facilitator: Tyshica McConner, SC First Steps |
Empowering Service: Amplifying Your AmeriCorps Impact through Engagement and Paricipation |
First Steps AmeriCorps members are invited for an inspiring and interactive session designed to encourage members to take their service to the next level. In this workshop, we will explore the transformative power of active participation and engagement in your service projects and communities. Learn how your involvement can not only deepen your personal growth but also magnify the positive outcomes of the communities you serve. |
Breakout Session - Presenter: Caitlin Woodard, SCETV |
Thoughtful Media Integration to Learn & Grow Together |
Get ready for a fun and interactive workshop where learning meets play! Discover how to boost children's character development and executive function skills using the magic of creative play and exploration. We鈥檒l show you how to use both digital and hands-on tools featuring your favorite PBS KIDS characters to make learning exciting for kids and grown-ups alike. Spark curiosity with engaging media clips, then dive into collaborative, hands-on activities like storytelling, dramatic play, and arts and crafts. Our Family & Community Learning model brings families together for multi-generational fun while building essential life skills for young children. Come play, learn, and grow with us! |
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Tickets for the Thursday, December 5 conference are $75 each. In addition to the great presentations, the price covers a light breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. Space is limited so get your tickets early.
Yes! There's ample parking at the Doubletree. Registration/check-in will be by the conference entrance at the back.听
Sponsorship opportunities are still available, and exhibit space is limited. Please reach out to Karen Oliver for more information, koliver@scfirststeps.org.
Yes! Session credit will be awarded through S.C. Endeavors and the S.C. Department of Education.
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As an attendee, you'll be able to do the following in the app:
Check in to the event venue using your QR code
View and join events that you have registered for
Bookmark sessions
Check in to in-person sessions using your QR code (which will also be on your nametag)
Engage with other attendees via the live chat
Join the conversation by responding to polls or submitting questions
Comment in the lobby feed
Join gamification challenges and view the leaderboard
Explore speaker and attendee profiles
Connect with other attendees through the People tab
View scheduled meetings with attendees
Request meetings with other attendees
Reject or approve meeting requests from other attendees
Explore exhibitor booths and engage with booth representatives
Share your information with exhibitors using your QR Code
That is in the works! Please check back. The information will be added under this question when available.
Translation services are available.