DuPage Children's Museum to host early learning math symposium
DuPage Children's Museum invites early childhood educators and parents to join DCM's talented and credentialed early learning professionals for a workshop that will offer many practical and hands-on experiences for all participants.
The museum's s third annual early learning symposium called "Math Right From The Start: Understanding The Basics" takes place from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Friday, June 10 and from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, June 11, at the museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville. Light refreshments are served on Friday, and a continental breakfast and box lunch on Saturday.
The keynote speaker is Angela Andrews, a recent recipient of the Lifetime Achievement in Mathematics Award from the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics for her body of work in the field of early childhood/primary mathematics education.
Contrary to some opinions, beginning math concepts are not simple. Andrews' keynote address on Friday will focus on educators having a firm understanding of five basic number concepts. Teachers and parents will learn about the concepts, why they are so important, ways for teachers and parents to build understanding of the concepts, and what should be avoided when working to develop the concepts with learners.
Saturday includes breakout sessions designed to meet the needs of Kindergarten through 2nd grade educators. Through play-based activities leveraging common core standards, participants will learn how to assess and implement the five basic number concepts with confidence, in their classroom. There will also be a lunchtime panel discussion on Engaging Parents in Early Math.
"I am so excited to be part of this important event! If primary teachers have a firm conceptual understanding of five basic number concepts, they can help their students build foundation knowledge that will ensure success in higher math - and in life. It's always a great pleasure to talk with parents and teachers about making math fun and exciting for young children. Angela Andrews is a master in the field of early childhood/primary mathematics education, and we are so fortunate to have her leading this year's symposium," said Margaret Hanly, the museum's director of early learning and community outreach.
Participants can earn up to 5.5 PD clock hours or CEUs. Register for one or both days. The cost to attend both days is $70 per person. The cost to attend Friday only is $25 per person, and Saturday only is $50 per person. Register at dupagechildrens.org/symposium or call (630) 637-8000. For questions, email Margaret Hanly at mhanly@dupagechildrensmuseum.org.