As an early childhood educator in Newfoundland and Labrador, you’re required to complete professional development hours each year to maintain your certification. Workshops are a common and accessible way to meet that requirement, and when you choose the right ones, they can do more than check a box. They can inspire your thinking, strengthen your practice, and reconnect you to the “why” of your work.

But how do you make the most of a single session?

Start with your mindset. Approach workshops as a chance to explore new ideas, reflect on your current practices, and connect with others in the field. Even if the topic feels familiar, there’s always an opportunity to go deeper.

Here are a few ways to get more out of your workshop experience:

Before the workshop: Set an intention. What are you hoping to learn or reflect on?
During the workshop: Take notes on what stands out, not just information, but questions you want to explore further.
After the workshop: Talk to a colleague about what you learned, or try one small change in your daily practice.
Reflect: Consider how the content aligns with your values, goals, and the children and families you work with.

Remember, professional development isn’t just about information, it’s about transformation. The value comes from how you carry your learning forward.

Whether you attend a session through AECENL, join a community of practice, or participate in a one-time workshop, it’s your engagement with the material that makes the learning meaningful.

So the next time you sign up for a session, go in with curiosity and come out with something that sticks.

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