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Revitalize your skills and ignite your teaching passion this summer so that you soar this September and beyond!
JOIN US AT CANADA'S ONLY VIRTUAL CONFERENCE FOR ELEMENTARY EDUCATORS
Friday, July 21st – Sunday, July 23rd, 2023
Your pass includes access to all recordings until July 28th. Extended access available.
The search for high quality, relevant and engaging PD is over.
Look no further than Camp Kinder 2023! Our virtual conference is packed with 30 pre-recorded sessions and an unforgettable weekend of live events, games, giveaways, and movement breaks.
As a Canadian educator, you’ll connect with others from across the country and gain access to practical, engaging, and FUN workshops that will help you make next school year one for the record books!
Join us and make this summer one to remember!
CAMP KINDER IS BACK FOR SUMMER 2023
Join us for a weekend of learning, connection and fun.
Camp Kinder 2023 is coming back bigger and better than ever before.
From incredible workshops to fabulous live events and pre-recorded “just for fun” sessions to boot, Camp Kinder 2023 is the event of the summer.
We can’t wait to see you there!
30 Pre-Recorded Workshops
CK23 has more workshops than ever before that are filled with realistic and engaging strategies to bring back to your classroom.
12 Live Events
With 3 QnA Panels to answer your burning questions, moderated camper connection chat times, campfire parties, yoga, crafting and more this weekend is maxed on fun.
A HUGE THANK YOU TO OUR CAMP KINDER 2023 PARTNERS
WE’VE ALL BEEN THERE.
Sitting through yet another irrelevant workshop that leaves you feeling uninspired and frustrated.
You want to attend professional development that’s actually helpful and relevant to your classroom. You don’t want to waste your time on fluff that doesn’t work for your students. At Camp Kinder, we understand that your time is valuable and you deserve PD that meets your needs. We’re all about keeping it fun and engaging, so you can learn while having a good time!
DOES THIS SOUND LIKE YOU?
You want to fall back in love with teaching and be excited to head back to school in September.
You want to learn from educators like you who know what current classrooms are actually like.
You want to create a support network with like-minded educators who just get it… and get you.
This summer, say goodbye to the boring PD of your past.
WHAT
30 incredible virtual workshops by passionate educators across Canada + a weekend of fun live events & games! Practical sessions created FOR educators, BY educators.
WHEN
The party starts on July 21st with a kick-off event and the first day of pre-recorded workshops. New workshops will be added on July 22nd and 23rd with amazing live events all weekend.
WHERE
Log into the virtual event from the comfort of your favourite summer spot. Meet up with a friend and watch the sessions together, or make a new friend by chatting in our exclusive Facebook group!
This PD is for educators like you, by educators like you.
CANADIAN EDUCATORS LOVE CAMP KINDER!
CK23 WEEKEND SCHEDULE
Camp Kinder runs July 21-23rd, 2023. Need more time? You can hang out in the Campground until July 28th and have the option to extend your access!
Friday, july 21
Day One
Camp Kinder is BACK!
- 10 pre-recorded worksohps
- Daily Movement Break
- Daily Camper Connection Chat
- LIVE Morning Meeting
- LIVE QnA Panel: Community & Inclusion
- LIVE Campfire Kick-Off Party
SATUrday, july 22
Day Two
The fun continues!
- 10 pre-recorded worksohps
- Daily Movement Break
- Daily Camper Connection Chat
- LIVE Morning Mindfulness
- LIVE Craft Corner
- LIVE QnA Panel: Ask Us Anything
Sunday, July 23
Day Three
NEW for 2023! An extra day of learning.
- 10 pre-recorded worksohps
- Daily Movement Break
- Daily Camper Connection Chat
- LIVE QnA Panel: Community & Inclusion
- LIVE Yoga Break
- LIVE Closing Campfire
CAMP KINDER HAS MORE THAN JUST WORKSHOPS!
CAMP ACTIVITIES
3 LIVE CAMPFIRE EVENTS WITH MARIAH
The weekend is jam-packed with games, giveaways, and plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow educators from across the country. Start your Friday morning off right with a fun-filled morning meeting, and join us again later in the day for the Campfire Kickoff party, where you can win amazing prizes and play games with your fellow campers. Finally, close out the weekend with a bang at the Closing Campfire party, where we’ll celebrate the memories we’ve made. Replays will be uploaded after the live events.
LIVE YOGA WITH JESSIE
Jessie is leading a playful “Camp Kinder” style yoga practice that’s perfect for all levels. Let go of stress and tension as you roll, shake, and move with self-compassion. There will be plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself with movement invitations throughout the practice. Bring your camp swag and meet us on the mat! Replay will be uploaded after the live event.
LIVE CRAFT CORNER WITH LIZ
It’s time to unleash your creativity and have some fun! Join Liz in the Craft Corner for a one-hour live crafting session where you’ll get to make something special just for you. We can’t reveal the exact craft just yet, but we promise it will be trendy and totally Instagram-worthy! A supply sheet will be provided in advance, so you can gather everything you need to make this project a success. Replay will be uploaded after the live event.
MOVEMENT BREAK WITH HOLLY
Ready to get your blood pumping? Join KeepFit Women Toronto’s Head Coach Holly for 15 minutes of functional movement that’s perfect for all fitness levels. Using only your bodyweight as resistance, this high-energy movement break will leave you feeling strong and invigorated. Don’t forget to bring a chair for extra support! Pre-recorded and available on demand.
MOVEMENT BREAK WITH MEGHAN
Join Creativity Coach & Yoga Teacher, Meghan Johnston for a yoga practice that will help you connect with your creative rhythms. This feel-good practice includes gentle movement, breath work, and meditation to help you tap into your inner magic. All you need is yourself, but bring a blanket and journal for extra comfort. Pre-recorded and available on demand.
MOVEMENT BREAK WITH MEL
Get ready to move and groove with Mel at Camp Kinder 2023! Mel’s bringing The Movement’s Release class: a choreographed movement session that allows you to find your own flow. Let your nervous system regulate and your soul ignite with this fun and empowering movement break. You’re the driver, so let your body tell you where to go! Pre-recorded and available on demand.
LIVE MORNING MINDFULNESS WITH JESS
Join Registered Social Worker and therapist, Jessica Shewbridge, in an interactive discussion on mindfulness. Learn about the science behind mindfulness, its power over how we feel, and techniques to harness your breath and five senses to create a sense of peace and calm anytime, anywhere. Build your resiliency and avoid burnout with this empowering workshop. Replay will be uploaded after the live event.
DAILY CAMPER CONNECTION CHATS WITH TAPP
Connect with your fellow campers and build a cross-Canada support network in our moderated and inclusive space with the TAPP team. Participate by video, audio, or typing and foster new friendships while enjoying the Camp Kinder community.
DAILY QNA PANELS WITH EDUCATION EXPERTS
Get ready to have your burning questions answered by a diverse and knowledgeable panel of experts. Our three live Q&A sessions will leave you feeling inspired and equipped with new strategies to implement in your own classroom. The panels are divided into three categories: Community & Inclusion, Ask Us Anything (General Questions) and Special Education. Replays will be uploaded after the live events!
Sounds amazing, right?
THE ONLY THING BETTER THAN OUR INCREDIBLE PRIZES?
OUR INCREDIBLE PRESENTERS.
MEET YOUR 2023 CAMP COUNSELLORS:
Alessandra
“Music in the Primary Classroom” empowers educators to integrate music into their curriculum, even without formal training. This workshop teaches how to incorporate music across subjects, including planning and assessment strategies. Don’t let music be sidelined; provide ample opportunities for students to engage in this enriching art form.
Amanda
To make primary and French Immersion classrooms safer for 2SLGBTQIA+ students, this session introduces vocabulary and explores real-life examples. Focusing on language, decor, and resources, attendees learn how to create more queer-inclusive spaces. Participants leave with further learning opportunities and actionable ideas for their classrooms.
Amanda
Creating classroom spaces that promote belonging and well-being can be challenging for both new and experienced kindergarten educators. This workshop provides ideas and solutions for setting up responsive environments that accommodate all students, ensuring confidence and independence throughout the school year.
Amy
French teaching can be tough, but Madame Amy from 123 Petits Pas is here to make it fun and engaging. With her innovative workshop, she introduces movement games, mystery, laughter, and song to revitalize French education. The aim is to help students view French learning as a valuable means of communication while playing and interacting with others.
Annabelle
Navigating relationships in kindergarten teaching teams can be challenging, but it’s essential for a positive learning environment. Drawing from diverse experiences, this session explores compromising, listening, and working with different personalities without losing yourself or your passion. It emphasizes that strong teamwork doesn’t require being best friends, but rather a shared commitment to students’ well-being.
Avery + Alannah
Teaching post-COVID students demands emotional regulation and patience. If you’re struggling with meltdowns, yelling, or emotional exhaustion, this workshop offers five tools and strategies to help restore calm. Avery and Alannah bring a curious and humble perspective to managing big behavior, ensuring that you’re better equipped to handle emotional storms in the classroom.
Breyen
Learn how to create an inclusive classroom with diverse books and materials in this workshop. Breyen provides a step-by-step guide on sourcing affordable resources representing various cultures, genders, and abilities. Leave with a book list, art materials list, and simple lesson plans for embracing diversity in your classroom.
Brittany
Discover the potential of the dramatic area in a kindergarten classroom, a space for creativity and learning. This workshop helps educators understand the benefits of dramatic play and how to assess learning using the Four Frames. Gain a fresh perspective on transforming standard “play furniture” into endless possibilities.
Dani
Community circles are essential for successful classroom management. In this session, learn the background of community circles and receive an actionable framework with free tools. Gain confidence in implementing this valuable routine to foster connection and fulfillment in your primary program.
Incia
Introduce storytelling, movement, and relaxation to improve students’ attention, self-regulation, and emotional resilience. This workshop offers strategies and tools to enhance classroom experiences, cultivating calmer, healthier, and happier students.
Jasmine
Establish thriving relationships with your students’ families and overcome imposter syndrome in this workshop. Jasmine shares insights on creating healthy parent/guardian relationships and their importance for classroom success, transforming your performance as an educator.
Jess
Avoid burnout by maintaining mental health through regular self-care rather than intense, infrequent sessions. This presentation discusses burnout factors and offers strategies to prevent it, ensuring a sustainable and healthy approach to emotional well-being
Jamie
If you’re feeling burnt out or seeking a change from classroom teaching, but want to stay in education, this workshop can help you find your “why” and explore other opportunities. Reflect on your readiness for a potential transition and consider PD, job, and career opportunities within educational organizations.
Kat
Not sure what to pack in your Wonder Wagon? Don’t worry, Kat has done all the work for you. Join her, as she shares her list of must have materials for outdoor education adventures. Kat will point you in the right direction to source everything you need. She will help you shop at home and around your classroom, as well as provide links and sources where you can purchase materials.
Kate
Learn effective strategies to handle sudden student outbursts with Kate. Walk away with specific tips and techniques to implement immediately, preparing you for any challenging situations that may arise during the new school year.
Katie
Overcome stress and anxiety about evaluations with Katie’s guidance on acing your Teaching Performance Appraisal. Receive tips on lesson selection, documentation, and student preparation to ensure a successful evaluation experience.
Kelly
Discover how to support students and families in reclaiming their Francophone language and heritage with Kelly’s simple strategies for a fully French play-based learning environment. Begin the year with renewed confidence, helping French immersion and French students speak “en français” regardless of their starting knowledge.
Krista
In this workshop, learn to create an Autism-friendly classroom by understanding why students with ASD require visuals. Gain tips and tricks for making lessons and activities more accessible, benefiting not only students on the spectrum but all learners in K-2 general or special education classrooms.
Lauren
Explore outdoor mathematical learning opportunities in this session. Learn core routines for establishing an outdoor classroom and examine real-life examples of primary students uncovering math concepts through personal inquiries and investigations in nature.
Mariah
Develop a weekly schedule and daily routine that works for you with Mariah’s guidance. Create a flow that leaves you feeling accomplished, confident, and energized at the end of the day, and helps your students effectively self-regulate.
Marissa
Dive into loose parts play with Marissa’s step-by-step guide. Learn where to source materials, build a collection on a budget, and discover storage solutions, ideas for different grade levels, and more. Leave feeling confident in implementing loose parts in your classroom.
Nicole
Nicole shares simple and easy ways to incorporate dance and movement into your classroom. Gain ready-to-go activities and ideas for using dance to foster skills across your program, and build the confidence to experience the joy of dance with your students.
Nicole + Sydney
Discover the benefits of team teaching in this workshop for both new and experienced educators. Learn the who, what, when, where, why, and how of team teaching, and consider adding collaboration to your practice and classroom to improve your experience.
Sabrina
Transform your digital space into an organized filing cabinet with this workshop on managing digital resources. Learn tips and tricks for organizing content on OneDrive™, Google Drive™, or your desktop, and save time searching through files by using folder creation, color coding, and categorization.
Sarah
Learn about playdough and sensory play in the classroom with Sarah from Little Birds At Play. Discover the whys of playdough and sensory learning, examples of children learning through play, organization tricks, sourcing items, and safety tips. Leave ready to introduce playdough and sensory learning into your classroom or home.
Sophia
Discover tips and tricks for cooking with your kindie class in this workshop. Learn about the benefits, curricular links, and simple ways to incorporate cooking into your classroom, even if you’re not a chef. Suitable for kindergarten and primary teachers.
Tara
In this workshop, learn how to use unplugged coding to develop students’ creative problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking, communication, and reasoning skills without using a computer. Join Tara for practical ideas, games, inexpensive coding kit suggestions, and more, connecting it to assessment, inquiry, and outdoor learning.
Taryn
Revitalize French Immersion teaching with Taryn’s Projects and Play approach, emphasizing process, creativity, and community. Foster student-directed learning, choice, and curriculum discovery through unique final projects that promote creativity, independence, and critical thinking. Learn how to get started, incorporate inquiries and project-based play, assess and report on projects, and find inspiration in subject examples.
Zara
Address the challenge of meeting diverse students’ needs with Zara’s culturally responsive pedagogy for kindergarten. Learn strategies to ensure students feel represented in their learning environment and take away practical ideas for implementation in your own classroom.
Up your teaching game by learning from this incredible group of passionate elementary experts!
Is Camp Kinder right for you?
You are a Canadian educator who teaches a primary grade
You want practical, inspiring and engaging PD
You want to learn & grow as an educator
You want to build strong connections & relationships
You need something exciting to look forward to
You’re ready to make next school year the best ever
PSSST I SEE YOU! YOU’RE STILL HERE….
So let's hangout at camp!
You’ve had a tough time in the classroom lately. Teaching has been challenging, and it’s been hard to keep up. But it’s not too late to reignite your love for teaching and take back control of your classroom.
That’s why we created Camp Kinder – a virtual conference designed to help Canadian educators connect, learn, and play. With 30 workshops led by passionate educators from across the country, you’ll have the opportunity to learn practical strategies and tools that will help you improve your classroom experience for both you and your students.
But Camp Kinder isn’t just about the workshops – it’s about the community. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with educators from across the country who understand what you’re going through and are there to offer support and inspiration. You’ll build lasting friendships with like-minded people who are just as passionate about teaching as you are.
And let’s not forget about the fun! Our weekend of live events, giveaways, and games is sure to put a smile on your face and help you relax and unwind after a challenging year.
Don’t let another year go by without investing in your own professional development and well-being. Join us at Camp Kinder and take the first step towards falling back in love with teaching. You won’t regret it – and who knows, you might even make some forever friends along the way.
LAST YEAR'S ATTENDEES CAN'T STOP RAVING ABOUT CAMP KINDER
"Camp Kinder is a wonderful online professional
development experience!
Full of workshops, learning and fun with a supportive community of passionate educators. All of it from the comfort of your own home. The flexibility to attend the workshops of your choice on your own time is amazing for busy professionals and parents. Thank you for the unique experience. I am already excited for next year!” – Jenn McGregor, On
"Camp Kinder is the PD you have been wishing you were attending when you are bored out of your mind listening to the same workshop you've been in year after year."
"Hey there, I'm Mariah, Founder of Camp Kinder, and I've got the story to share.
In March 2020, I was co-chairing the OCETFO annual PD Day and organizing an incredible learning experience for kindergarten teachers in my school board. Unfortunately, we all know how things turned out and our plans were halted. But those plans and ideas never left me. For over two years, they've been burning inside me, waiting for the right moment to come to life. And that moment is now, with Camp Kinder.
I knew I couldn't do it alone, which is why I'm thrilled to be collaborating with outstanding educators and small businesses to bring you an amazing event. Camp Kinder is the PD you've been dreaming of attending instead of being bored out of your mind listening to the same old workshops year after year. With over 30 practical and inspiring sessions, you'll leave Camp feeling excited and ready to take on the next school year.
Our motto is simple: Connect. Learn. Play. I want you to reignite your love for kindergarten, feel empowered and enthusiastic about your job, and build lasting friendships with educators across the country. That's why I created Camp Kinder - the ultimate place to do all that and more.
Plus, who doesn't want to go to camp? It's the perfect place to connect with like-minded people, learn new things, and have a ton of fun. So join us at Camp Kinder and get ready for an experience that will leave you feeling inspired, refreshed, and ready to take on the world.
– MARIAH
CEO A Playful Purpose: Learning for Littles Inc.
Founder of Camp Kinder
YOUR PD COULD BE FREE
Unions across Canada reimburse their members for attending Camp Kinder! Simply email your local to ask about accessing PD funds.
👉 Search the name of your local and contact information. Example: Ottawa ETFO contact information
👉 Look the title office administrator OR email the general inquiry address- they will direct you to the right person!
👉 Copy paste the message below to the body of your email and have your receipt ready to attach.
Hello, I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to inquire about accessing union funds for professional development for the upcoming summer. I am excited to be attending Camp Kinder, the virtual conference for Canadian elementary educators happening from July 21 to July 23, 2023. This year, the conference will feature 30 practical and inspiring workshops with topics ranging from math in the outdoors to supporting LGBTQ+ students to managing student outbursts. You can find more information about the conference here. Please see my receipt attached to this email and let me know if you require any additional information to process my request. Thank you and have a great day!
- SIGN IN FROM YOUR FAVOURITE DEVICE
- ORGANIZED & EASY TO NAVIGATE
- TECH SUPPORT AT THE READY
CAMP KINDER AT A GLANCE
30 amazing PRERECORDED WORKSHOPS
12 ENGAGING LIVE EVENTS & GAMES
3 INCLUSIVE MOVEMENT BREAKS
COUNTLESS FREE RESOURCES
1000$ in FABULOUS PRIZES
A TRULY SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Want more time to enjoy Camp Kinder? No problem! When you register, you’ll have access to the Campground and all 30 workshops until July 28th. And, if you want even more time to dive deeper into your learning, you can add an extended pass at checkout for a low fee. It’s a stress-free way to keep the inspiration flowing all year long!
FLASH 24-HOUR OFFER!
JOIN US AT OUR UNMISSABLE EVENT THIS JULY SO YOU CAN THRIVE THIS SEPTEMBER
$154 CAD
$77 CAD
Join now for unlimited access to:
-All 12 Live Events
-Exclusive community group
-CK Virtual Magazine
-Over $300 in Freebies
-Live QnA Panels
-3 Movement Breaks
-Games + Giveaways for incredible prizes
+ All replays + recordings until July 2024
Refund policy in effect until july 20, 2023
Have a question about Camp Kinder?
Most local unions have funds you can access for PD opportunities. At the end of the conference you will be given a certificate of completion that you can submit with your receipt. Please check with your individual local or school board for full criteria to see if Camp Kinder applies.
Yes! Everyone is welcome. Out of the 30 sessions, only a handful have a true “kindergarten” focus so you will have plenty of amazing workshops to choose from! The truth is we just love the name Camp Kinder so much we didn’t want to change it.
Camp Kinder workshops open on July 21st with 10 released on Friday, Saturday and Sunday respectively. Included in your registration is access to Camp Kinder until July 28th! Need more time? Awesome! Select the extended pass at checkout and you will be able to access everything for the year!
Totally! All of the workshops will be pre-recorded. The lives are a place to have fun and connect, but you can chat and bond with presenters and other campers in our community Facebook group. You can watch the replays of all the live events after they have been uploaded!
Yes! Camp Kinder is an excellent addition to your teaching portfolio or resume. You will be granted a certificate at the end of the weekend that you can print out and include in your files.
We have a balance of educators presenting who teach in French and in English. While the workshops will be offered in English, the content will be applicable to kindergarten educators regardless of language of instruction. *The exception being Amy and Kelly’s workshops which have a French focus.
All of them! Unlike in person PD, you don’t need to pick and choose your workshops! Your registration fee includes access until July 28th and then you can extend to a monthly park pass.
Welcome! We Canadians are very friendly and would love to welcome you to camp. The presenter team is 100% Canadian, but we won’t be referencing specific curriculum or programs since they vary province to province. Check out the workshop descriptions and if you are interested in them, please join us!
First of all, KUDOS for showing such passion and interest in your field all ready. The education world is SO lucky to have you. You are more than welcome to attend- and we offer a student discount. Send an email to mariah@aplayfulpurpose.com with proof of enrolment and she’ll give you our student discount code. See you at Camp!!
If at any point before July 2oth you feel Camp Kinder is no longer a fit for you we will issue you a full discount- no questions asked. Due to the nature of the conference, once the content is live we will be unable to issue refunds.
© A Playful Purpose: Learning for Littles Inc. 2023
