Calling all Early Years Educators!
Join us at the 9th ANPS Early Conference 2024:
“Playful Beginnings: Unlocking Learning & Wellbeing in Early Childhood.”

Our aim is to provide a one-day conference focused on skills, knowledge, practices, and practical teaching solutions and innovations, designed with the specific needs of teachers in mind. The objective of the ECC is to provide practical, hands-on, and immediate strategies that teachers can use in early childhood classrooms.
This one-day conference will inspire and shape the minds of the schools, learners, and educators.

🗓️ Day/Date: Saturday, 23 November 2024, 8 AM – 2.30 PM WIB
🏫 Venue: British School Jakarta, Bintaro Jaya, Jl. Jombang Raya Sektor 9, Pd. Pucung, Kec. Pd. Aren, Kota Tangerang Selatan, Banten 15427
💼 Registration details:

Conference Fee:
ANPS Members: Rp 499,000/pax
Non Members: Rp 699,000/pax
(seats are limited)
Register today: https://bit.ly/ANPSECC24

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

SPEAKERS

Amelia Sunyoto
Preschool Coordinator- SIS Pantai Indah Kapuk
Learning Through Play: Essential Math Concepts for Preschoolers

Abstract: This presentation demonstrates how fun, engaging math games can help preschoolers grasp key mathematical concepts such as counting, comparing numbers, categorisation, cardinality, and one-to-one correspondence.

Activities like number path and dot games are especially effective for fostering early math skills, while also encouraging problem-solving, persistence, and a positive attitude toward learning. By incorporating these developmentally appropriate games, children not only gain a solid understanding of foundational math ideas but also build habits that support school readiness.

The presentation will provide participants with ready-to-use, hands-on activities designed to make math learning enjoyable. Additionally, observing how children interact with these games offers valuable insights into their current abilities and helps teachers plan for their next steps in learning. This playful, interactive approach nurtures a love of math and encourages deeper engagement in young learners.
Bio: Ms. Amelia serves as the Preschool Coordinator at Singapore School Pantai Indah Kapuk, where she oversees curriculum development and teacher training, focusing on creating engaging, developmentally appropriate learning environments. With a background in Early Childhood and Childhood Education, she is licensed by the state of New York as a certified teacher. With extensive experience as a reading and math specialist for students from Kindergarten to Grade 5, Ms. Amelia has a deep understanding of early literacy and numeracy development. Her passion for nurturing young learners and supporting educators is evident in her commitment to promoting high-quality early childhood education.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: This presentation equips educators with strategies to teach preschoolers key math concepts through engaging games. Participants will gain ready-to-use activities, insights into student interactions, and methods to foster problem-solving and a positive attitude towards learning, ultimately nurturing a love for math and supporting school readiness in young learners.

Astrid HW-Levi, EdD
Co-Founder and Executive Principal – Playhouse Academy
Neurodiversity-Affirmative Early Childhood Education: Why and How?

Abstract: Imagine a young child at school feeling overwhelmed—perhaps by the bright lights, a loud bell, or an uncomfortable uniform. Then, the schedule changes unexpectedly, making the child anxious. Just when the child wants to be alone, it is time for a group activity, so they hide their feelings. By the time they get home, all that pressure builds up, and the emotions finally erupt.

Neurodiversity-affirmative education in early childhood embraces and supports the diverse ways children’s brains develop and function. It acknowledges that variations in thinking, learning, and behaviour are natural aspects of human diversity—not problems or disorders to be fixed. This approach nurtures an inclusive environment where all children are valued for their unique strengths and learning styles. Diversity itself holds inherent value. In order to flourish as global societies, we need all kinds of people and minds. Being neurodiversity-affirmative means recognising and celebrating the value that this diversity brings.

In this workshop, we will explore key aspects of neurodiversity-affirmative education in early childhood and discover classroom strategies designed to promote children’s well-being, self-acceptance, and success from an early age.
Bio: Astrid HW-Levi, EdD is a dedicated educator with a passion for early childhood development and inclusive education. As the co-founder and executive principal of Playhouse Academy, she fosters supportive learning environments where children of all abilities can thrive. With extensive experience in early childhood education, child psychology, and curriculum development, Astrid focuses on creating sensory-friendly classrooms that celebrate each child’s unique strengths.

In addition to her classroom and leadership work, Astrid leads parental engagement programs and conducts workshops to help parents, educators, and school leaders support children’s growth. Her innovative approach and commitment to nurturing potential have made her a respected leader in early education.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: The seminar on neurodiversity-affirmative education will equip participants with a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and provide practical strategies for creating inclusive, supportive classrooms. Early childhood educators will learn how to better communicate with families, foster children’s emotional well-being, and promote self-acceptance. Attendees will also gain confidence in addressing sensory needs and creating sensory-friendly spaces, while building valuable support networks for ongoing collaboration.

Christania Anthonny
EY Teacher and Head of Staff Wellbeing Committee – North Jakarta Intercultural School
The Magic of Falling

Abstract: Mistakes are an essential part of learning, and embracing them is key to fostering a growth mindset in early childhood education. In this workshop, “The Magic of Falling,” we empower early years educators to transform the way mistakes are viewed in the classroom, creating an environment where children feel safe to explore, fail, and try again. Participants will explore strategies such as “3 Tries,” where children are encouraged to attempt tasks up to three times before seeking help, fostering perseverance and independence. We’ll also introduce “PositiviTREE,” a daily practice of cultivating positive thoughts and language, both in school and at home, nurturing a culture of optimism. Finally, “Fill in the Basket” brings a focus on positive affirmations during circle time, encouraging children to celebrate each other’s efforts and contributions.
Bio: Christania Anthonny has been working in the education field since 2014, with a strong focus on early childhood education. Over the years, she has taken on roles such as shadow teacher, teaching assistant (TA), homeroom teacher, and now serves as the Head of the Staff Wellbeing Committee. Christania is passionate about teaching, conducting workshops, and continuously seeking professional growth through attending educational seminars and workshops. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, with a potential focus on special needs education.
Audience will have different mindset – growth mindset – in implementing their teaching in the classroom and apply the strategies given in the workshop
Expected outcomes of the presentation: This workshop equips educators with practical tools to instill resilience, positivity, and a love for learning—turning every fall into an opportunity for growth. Join us as we embrace the beauty of mistakes and help children grow stronger through every challenge!

Elizabeth Westwood
Head of Primary – British School Jakarta
Free and Deliberate Play in Early Childhood

Abstract: During this workshop we will be exploring the role of play for our youngest learners and how different types of play have different, and neuroscientifically valid, purposes. Play enhances the cognitive, physical, social, and emotional well-being of children and young people. It allows them to explore the world and understand themselves better. Deliberate play is using the environment and provocations within it to develop specific skills and learning intentions, whereas free play not only continues children’s physical development, it also develops their cognitive functions such as the ability to problem solve. Come and see what this looks like here at BSJ.
Bio: Elizabeth Westwood has been an educator since 2000, teaching and leading in England for 10 years before moving internationally. She has worked in Oman, Qatar and China before Indonesia and has taught children from ages 2 – 18. This is Elizabeth’s second time as a Head of Primary, previously holding the position in Shanghai, China in a British International school. Elizabeth’s love of learning and curiosity extends into all areas of her life and she is a firm believer that all educators are lifelong learners.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: Participants will have an opportunity to experience how the environment can be an enabling factor with practical take-aways as well as a deeper understanding of the research behind this as not only a pedagogy but as a necessity.

Evita Puhawan
Academic Coordinator – Kiddie Planet A Montessori Plus Preschool
Resilience in Action: Tools to Help Young Children Bounce Back and Thrive

Abstract: In today’s fast-paced digital world, children often struggle to keep up, leaving little time to pause and recover from challenges. This workshop aims to equip Early Childhood Educators with practical strategies to nurture resilience, psychological adaptability, and emotional regulation in early childhood settings. These skills are crucial for children’s well-being, helping them navigate life’s hurdles with confidence. 

In this workshop, participants will learn and explore the V.I.B.E.S. approach, which offers a comprehensive framework for developing emotional strength in the early childhood settings. By implementing these tools, early childhood educators can create supportive environments that empower children to thrive and develop resilience, ensuring a solid foundation for their future emotional and social well-being. Moreover, educators can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. As the saying goes, “Resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges, but about developing the tools to rise after each fall.” With empathy and effective strategies, we can help children build the strength they need to thrive amidst modern-day demands.
Evita De Vera-Puhawan is a Licensed Professional Teacher who graduated from the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. She also holds a master’s degree in early childhood education. With over 19 years of experience as an educator across Bahrain, Qatar, Indonesia, and the Philippines, she has made significant contributions in the field of early childhood education.
Bio: As the Academic Coordinator of Kiddie Planet, a Montessori Plus Preschool in PIK, Evita successfully led the institution to earn an “A” grade from BAN PAUD and several prestigious awards, including Best Creative and Innovative Preschool of the Year (2016) and Best School of the Year (2018). A passionate leader, Evita believes that children thrive when they are supported by caring and motivating adults who help them reach their full potential.

Evita has presented at numerous conferences, including ANPS Early Childhood Conference (2017, 2018, 2022) and Teacher’s Conference (2018-2019). She is also a dedicated member of Toastmasters International, where she has represented Indonesia in international contests and mentored other public speakers.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: Through this workshop, early childhood educators will be able to use the V.I.B.E.S strategy and apply it in their classroom to help develop the social and emotional well-being of their students. I hope that teachers will feel equipped to create a supportive environment that will help their young learners develop resilience at an early age.

Georgina Iraheta
EY teacher – Jakarta Intercultural School
Materials in EC

Abstract: This session, Materials in EC explores the dynamic use of open-ended materials to foster children’s creativity, symbolic thinking, and flexibility. These versatile materials, with no predetermined purpose, invite limitless possibilities for imaginative play and hands-on exploration. Participants will discover how to create thoughtful learning invitations, organize and present materials to be visually inviting, and encourage deeper engagement.
Objectives:
– Understand the value of open-ended materials in fostering creativity, symbolic thinking, and flexibility in young learners.
– Gain practical strategies for creating learning invitations that encourage varied and meaningful engagement with materials.
– Learn how to organize and present open-ended materials in ways that are visually inviting and accessible and promote hands-on exploration and autonomy.
Bio: Georgina Iraheta is an Early Childhood teacher at Jakarta Intercultural School (JIS). She has 23 years of experience in teaching, curriculum coordination, and educational leadership and has worked in diverse international settings, including El Salvador, China, Qatar, Angola, Cambodia, and Rwanda. Georgina holds a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and has co-authored a publication for the International Baccalaureate Organization on learning through play. Additionally, she leads her own NGO, which provides professional development for teachers in El Salvador and conducts workshops focusing on play-based learning. Recently, Georgina served as an EC Advisor for the Program Learning Through Play in Rwanda.
Expected outcomes of the presentation:
Enhanced Understanding of Open-Ended Materials: Participants will leave with a deep understanding of the role of open-ended materials in fostering creativity, symbolic thinking, and cognitive flexibility in young learners.

Practical Strategies for Learning Invitations: Attendees will gain actionable strategies for designing and implementing learning invitations that encourage exploration and meaningful engagement with open-ended materials.

Improved Classroom Setup: Participants will learn how to organize and present materials in ways that are visually inviting and accessible to children, fostering autonomy and hands-on exploration.

Increased Confidence in Facilitating Play: Educators will feel more confident in facilitating and observing children’s imaginative play, understanding how to support and extend learning in flexible and child-led ways.

Collaborative Reflection and Idea Sharing: Through hands-on activities and group discussions, participants will collaborate and share insights, leaving with a richer perspective on how to integrate open-ended materials effectively in diverse classroom settings.

Lyndsy Duet
Elementary School Counselor – Jakarta Intercultural School
Emotional Regulation Strategies for Early Childhood

Abstract: Fostering emotional regulation is essential for children’s social, emotional, and cognitive development, particularly in early childhood education. This workshop will present strategies for teaching emotional regulation, designed specifically for children ages 2-5. Participants will explore how to introduce the emotions and the Zones of Regulation—red, yellow, green, and blue—in a playful and age-appropriate manner, enabling young children to identify and articulate their emotions as well as determine a best-fit coping strategy for their energy level.
Bio: Lyndsy Duet has been an elementary counselor at Jakarta Intercultural School for the past 8 years. Lyndsy is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Nationally Certified Counselor in the US and has additional training in Solution Focused Brief Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Lyndsy enjoys working with teachers, students, and families using strengths-based techniques to help them develop a sense of agency and problem-solving skills.
By the end of the session, participants will leave with practical tools and resources to implement emotional regulation strategies in their classrooms, promoting emotional literacy and resilience among their students.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: Educators will learn strategies to create a supportive classroom environment that encourages self-awareness and self-regulation. Additionally, we will discuss how to involve families in reinforcing these skills at home, fostering a cohesive approach to social-emotional learning.

Marilou De Leon
Principal – Kipina Kids Kelapa Gading 2
Reflective Growth: Enhancing Collaboration
Between Teachers, Parents, and Leaders in Early Childhood Education

Abstract: In early childhood education, effective collaboration between teachers, parents, and school leaders is essential to creating supportive and engaging learning environments. This presentation explores how reflective practices can be used to strengthen these key relationships, allowing all stakeholders to work together more effectively to support children’s development. By integrating reflective tools like the GROW Model and Gibbs Reflective Cycle, this session will demonstrate how structured reflection can help identify challenges, enhance communication, and create shared goals.

Participants will learn practical strategies for fostering open dialogue, building trust, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. Real-world case studies from preschool settings will illustrate how these reflective practices can be applied to common situations, from classroom management to parent-teacher communication, ensuring a holistic approach to collaboration. Hands-on activities will further engage participants in exploring scenarios where teachers, parents, and leaders can reflect on their experiences and take actionable steps toward collective growth.

By the end of the session, attendees will be equipped with the skills to lead meaningful conversations, foster deeper connections, and implement reflection-driven strategies that contribute to the overall well-being and success of both students and the preschool community.
Bio: Marilou De Leon-Simpas is the current principal of Kipina Kids Kelapa Gading 2 and an accomplished educator with over 15 years of experience in preschool and primary education. She holds a Bachelor of Secondary Education in Biology and is a licensed teacher in the Philippines. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education, Marilou has dedicated her career to enriching the learning experiences of young students with her engaging and playful teaching style.

With a commitment to humanistic, transformative, and reflective leadership, Marilou strives to inspire educators and create an inclusive, supportive environment for both students and staff. Her extensive experience spans various curricula, including IB PYP, Cambridge, and Singapore systems, where she specializes in preschool and lower primary education.

Marilou has also made significant contributions as a facilitator at the ANPS conferences, leading sessions on social and emotional learning during distance learning and effective use of digital tools for hybrid learning. In addition to her work with ANPS, she has led numerous workshops at events such as Edufriendz Singapore and Teach Acad. A strong advocate for collaborative partnerships with parents, Marilou recognizes their vital role in student development. With multiple teaching and training certifications, she continually strives for professional growth while empowering educators to create inclusive and supportive classrooms across Indonesia.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: Participants will gain a clear understanding of the GROW Model and Gibbs Reflective Cycle and how they can be applied in early childhood settings. Real-world scenarios will provide insights into common challenges faced in preschool settings, equipping participants with strategies to address similar situations in their own environments. Each participant will develop actionable plans for implementing reflective practices in their settings, tailored to their specific challenges and opportunities for growth.

Reina-Marie Cruz Arcinas
Principal – Kipina Kids Kemang
Executive Functions: The Building Blocks of Academic Success

Abstract: In early childhood education, the development of executive functions—cognitive processes that include working memory, mental flexibility, and inhibitory control—is crucial for fostering academic success. This presentation will explore the role of these foundational skills in preschool settings, emphasizing their impact on learning, behavior, and social interactions.

Participants will gain insights into how executive functions influence children’s ability to focus, follow instructions, and manage emotions, all of which are essential for a productive learning environment. We will discuss practical strategies for educators to enhance executive function development through play-based activities, structured routines, and supportive classroom practices.

Furthermore, the session will highlight the importance of creating an inclusive environment that nurtures diverse learning styles and backgrounds, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to develop these critical skills. By understanding and prioritizing executive functions, preschool leaders and educators can effectively support children’s academic journeys and promote their overall well-being.
Bio: With 20 years of experience in early childhood and primary education, Reina is a dedicated school leader passionate about fostering engaging and inclusive learning environments. As the principal of Kipina Kids Kemang, she oversees educational programs and operations for students from diverse backgrounds. Reina’s leadership is characterized by an inquiry-based, student-centered approach, utilizing guided play to promote both academic and personal growth.

Reina collaborates closely with teachers to design and implement a curriculum aligned with the Finnish curriculum and PYP framework, ensuring it meets the needs of all learners. She values effective communication with parents and the community, striving to build trusting and supportive relationships. Committed to continuous professional development, Reina has completed certificates from Harvard Graduate School of Education and Harvard Business School Online, enhancing her skills in educational leadership and administration.

Her ultimate goal is to inspire and empower students and educators to achieve excellence and make a positive impact in the world.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: Participants will gain practical strategies to enhance executive function development in young learners and will understand the critical role these skills play in fostering academic success and positive classroom environments. Additionally, they will leave equipped to implement inclusive practices that support the diverse needs of all students.

Rosalynn Tamara
Academic Directress – Cinnamon Montessori School / Montessori Haus Asia
7 Preparations Into Montessori Handwriting Sequences

Abstract: Handwritting Skills can be honed as Early as Preschool level. Through intense and Hands-on learning, we can support children to be ready for their handwriting journey in The late Preschool years. Children are learning to control their movement, having precise yet careful techinques to write words, and also skillful in encoding The words through Montessori way.
Bio: Ms.Rosa is The founder and Academic Directress of Cinnamon Montessori School and Montessori Haus Asia. She is well-Know for her passion in Montessori And Early Childhood Education. Her works can be found in Montessori Haus Asia and Bentang publications for Montessori books. Her Lecture is warmth and Easy to Understand for teachers and parents.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: Participants have The Understanding of The process in handwritting skills that children need to performed. Participants have better knowledge in using The Montessori materials. Participants can gain information about The pillars of handwriting in Early childhood Education.

Simran Sinha
PYP Educator – Bali Island School
Play Based Learning

Abstract: Play-based learning aims to foster holistic development in early childhood learners by promoting cognitive, social, emotional, and physical growth. Through engaging in playful activities, children explore their environment, develop problem-solving skills, and enhance creativity. This approach encourages collaboration and communication as they interact with peers, helping to build social skills and emotional resilience. Ultimately, play-based learning lays a strong foundation for lifelong learning by making education enjoyable and relevant to young learners.
Bio: Simran is a dedicated PYP Educator and CIS Evaluator with over nine years of experience in the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) framework. Currently, she work as a PYP Homeroom Teacher at Bali Island School, where she strive to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment for her students.

With a strong foundation in Early Childhood Learning and a certification in Play-Based Learning, Simran emphasize the importance of creativity and exploration in education. She has successfully integrated innovative methodologies from Project Zero and the Lego Foundation into her teaching practices, enhancing student engagement and collaboration.

Additionally, she is a trained Reggio Emilia Educator, valuing the role of the environment as the third teacher and promoting child-led inquiry. Her commitment to professional development and best practices in education ensures that she provides a rich and meaningful learning experience for all her students.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: My workshop on play-based learning will equip early childhood educators with practical strategies and techniques to effectively integrate play into their teaching practices. By exploring the principles of play-based learning, educators will gain insights into how to create engaging learning environments that stimulate children’s curiosity and creativity. The workshop will also provide hands-on activities and collaborative discussions, enabling educators to share experiences and develop tailored approaches for their unique classrooms. Ultimately, participants will leave with the tools and confidence needed to enhance their teaching and foster a love for learning in their students.

Tunas Muda Team: Lisbet, Renilda Shinta Syukur and Kristian Gale
Teacher – Tunas Muda School Kedoya
Building Knowledge Through Hands-On and Sensorial Experiences

Abstract:
This workshop explores practical transdisciplinary learning with hands-on exploration of the children’s senses to build their understanding of the world around them, which enable them to explore, experiment, and engage directly with their environment. By using their senses, such as touch, sight, smell, taste, and sound, they can connect their understanding of the concepts to the real world, fostering their thinking skills, and problem-solving skills. Participants will learn how to create a supportive environment that engages the senses and incorporates tactile, visual, auditory, and kinesthetic experiences.
This hands-on session will inspire educators to use creative tools and techniques such as sensory bins, play dough, nature walks, and exercise of practical life skills in language, math, and inquiry-based activities. By the end of the session, attendees will leave with “takeaway” activities and a deeper understanding of the multi-sensory teaching approaches.
Bio:
Renilda has been teaching since 2001. She is currently a Pre-Kindergarten teacher and Early Childhood Year Coordinator at Tunas Muda School Kedoya, She holds a bachelor degree from Sanata Dharma University, Yogyakarta majoring in English Language Education. She strongly believes creating supportive space will benefit the children to engage in their own learning, which enables them to build confidence and creativity.

Lisbet is an energetic and passionate teacher with almost 10 years of experience teaching in Tunas Muda Kedoya from 2015 until now. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree from Atma Jaya Catholic University, Jakarta majoring in Faculty of English Language Education. She believes in empowering children by fostering curiosity, movements, and meaningful learning experiences. Dedicated to hands-on activities, she aims to inspire children to be more confident and creative.

Kristian Gale Villarta, is an early childhood educator at Tunas Muda School for almost 8 years. She graduated in the Philippines with a bachelor’s degree in Special Education and a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. With more than ten years of teaching experience, she believes that children’s needs should be prioritized and that learning should be fun and engaging.
Expected outcomes of the presentation: Early Years teachers will be more inspired to use these transdisciplinary learning hands-on activities in order to support the children’s sensorial development.
Event Details
  • Days
    Hours
    Min
    Sec
  • Start Date
    November 23, 2024 8:00 am
  • End Date
    November 23, 2024 2:30 pm
  • Status
    Upcoming
  • Location
  • Category
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