Inspired ECE

Inspired Ideas for Early Learning
~ September 2026 ~

A warm and friendly daycare with pillows set out for cirle tme and books on disply

Welcome to the first Inspired ECE newsletter

Hello,

I’m Julie Hansen, an Early Childhood Educator, consultant, author, and founder of Inspired ECE. For more than 25 years, I’ve worked in early learning as an educator, director, supervisor, centre manager, facilitator, and writer, with a focus on supporting educators, children, families, and early years programs.

I’m starting this newsletter to stay connected with the educators, childcare teams, and early years professionals I’ve worked with or heard from over the years. Each issue will include practical ideas, reflective prompts, helpful resources, and workshop updates to support your everyday practice.

Starting Strong: Responsive Transitions into Childcare Programs

A child's transition into an early learning program is more than a first day—it's the beginning of a relationship. This interactive workshop explores how responsive, relationship-based practices can help children and families feel safe, welcomed, and supported during this important time.

Participants will discover practical strategies for creating individualized transition experiences, building strong partnerships with families, supporting children's emotional well-being, and fostering a sense of belonging from day one. Through reflection, discussion, and real-world examples, educators will leave with evidence-informed ideas they can immediately apply in their own programs to help every child start strong.

FROM INSTAGRAM
A Practice Moment

A toddler crouching down to clean up toys in a daycare

Each month, I’ll be sharing a visual practice moment from Instagram. These posts offer a closer look at environments, materials, invitations, and the small decisions that shape children’s daily experiences.

View Post on Instagram

This month’s featured post is a reminder that goodbyes matter. When families quietly sneak away at drop-off, children may feel confused or unsure about what happened. A predictable goodbye ritual, such as a hug, a special phrase, one book together, or a wave from the window, can help children understand that separation is temporary and that their family will return. As educators, we can support families by discussing goodbye routines early, establishing a consistent plan, and helping each child feel safe, seen, and supported during daily transitions.

Follow Inspired ECE on Instagram

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BOOK OF THE MONTH
Lisa Murphy on Play: The Foundation of Children's Learning

Lisa Murphy Play The Foundation of Children's Learning Book Cover

This month’s featured book is a wonderful reminder that play is not separate from learning. Play is the foundation. Lisa Murphy’s work invites educators to look closely at what children are doing, what they are exploring, and how everyday moments of play support growth across all areas of development.

View the Book of the Month

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TOOLS FOR INSPIRED PRACTICE
Process Art Invitations

Cotton Ball Pinting Example

Cotton Ball Painting

  • Supports small motor skill development

  • Provides opportunities for creativity and individuality

Magnet Wand and Jingle Bell Painting

Magnet Wand and Jingle Bell Painting

  • Science art experience

  • Fosters hand-eye coordination

View the Paint Pack

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UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
Inspired ECE Workshops and Speaking Engagements

SEPTEMBER 17
South Peace CCRR

Guidance Strategies for School Age Programs

OCTOBER 7
ECDA of PEI

Sustaining Responsive Practice: Beyond the First Days: Sustaining Responsive Relationships in Early Learning Settings

Julie is now booking fall professional development sessions for ECE teams, childcare centres, CCRRs, and early learning organizations.

Book a Workshop

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A NOTE FROM JULIE

Thank you for being part of the Inspired ECE community. Whether we have met through a workshop, a professional development day, a podcast, a conference, or an online conversation, I am grateful to stay connected with educators and leaders who care deeply about children, families, and the work we do every day.

Julie Hansen, Early Childhood Educator, Consultant and Author

Julie Hansen

Early Childhood Educator, Consultant and Author

Julie Hansen, Early Childhood Educator, Consultant and Author

Affiliate note: Some links in this newsletter may be affiliate links. I only share books, materials, and resources that connect with my work and may be helpful for ECE teams.

You are receiving this email because you have attended, booked, or enquired about an Inspired ECE workshop, or have connected with Julie Hansen through Inspired ECE. You can unsubscribe at any time using the link below.