Discover Opportunities and Upcoming Events!
Stay connected and informed with TRAC's event calendar! Explore upcoming training sessions, professional development opportunities, and community events designed to support early care and learning professionals.
Our calendar is your go-to resource for staying engaged and discovering ways to grow, connect, and make an impact in East Central Indiana. Visit regularly to see what’s happening near you!
Don’t see a training you want? Request One!
Join us for an upcoming event.
Join TRAC and our network of collaborators in shaping the future of early care and learning.
Together, we’re building a strong pipeline of opportunities that empower children, support families, and strengthen our communities.
Don’t see a training you want? Request one!
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
FREE Diaper Giveaway
FREE Diaper Giveaway!
Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana and the Henry County Community Action Network for Maternal and Infant Health are teaming up to support local families!
Each bundle includes:
Free diapers
Baby wipes
Infant/toddler books
Location:
The Salvation Army
2500 Washington St,
New Castle, IN 47362
First come, first served – supplies are limited!
Event Dates:
Tuesday, December 9 | 4:30 – 6:30 PM
Mark your calendars and spread the word!
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
Indiana Early Childhood Education Day
Save the Date!
🗓️ Join us for Indiana Early Childhood Education Day on February 5, 2026, at the Indiana Statehouse South Atrium.
Learn more about the importance of early childhood education and how you can get involved. In partnership with Early Learning Indiana, United Way of Central Indiana, and Early Education Works. An affiliate of NAEYC.
MORE TO COME!
FREE Diaper Giveaway and Baby Boo Community Baby Shower
FREE Diaper Giveaway!
Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana and the Henry County Community Action Network for Maternal and Infant Health are teaming up to support local families!
Baby Boo is a family event!
Come and enjoy games, win prizes, and rock your baby in a cute costume!
Each bundle includes:
Free diapers
Baby wipes
Infant/toddler books
Location:
The Salvation Army
2500 Washington St,
New Castle, IN 47362
First come, first served – supplies are limited!
Event Dates:
Saturday, October 25th | 12–2 PM
Mark your calendars and spread the word!
From Awareness to Advocacy: How Early Educators Support Families of Neurodivergent Children
Join Becker’s for this interactive session!
🌟 From Awareness to Advocacy: How Early Educators Support Families of Neurodivergent Children
📅 Date & Time:
October 22, 2025 | 1:00 PM (ET) (ZOOM)
Every family’s journey with a neurodivergent child is unique—and educators play a vital role in making that journey welcoming, collaborative, and strengths-centered. Together, we’ll explore how to foster trusting partnerships with families, recognize early signs of neurodivergence, and advocate for children’s needs.
Participants will walk away with:
Practical tools and strategies for supporting neurodivergent learners
Reflective practices to strengthen educator-family collaboration
Actionable ideas to deepen family engagement in any early childhood setting
Stand Up for Children
📢 Stand Up for Children Summit 📢
Indiana’s children need our support more than ever. Join us as we come together to share ideas, learn about key changes, and take action for our children’s future.
🗓 Date: Tuesday, October 21, 2025
⏰Time: 6:00 PM
📍Location: East Central Educational Service Center
2601 14th Street, New Castle, IN 47362
🔑 Key Issues We’ll Address:
On My Way PreK enrollment slashed by 60%
Stricter eligibility for vouchers
Over 20,000 childcare vouchers cut across Indiana
👥 Who Should Attend: Indiana voters, educators, parents, business and community leaders, media, legislators, and all who care about supporting children.
💡 Why It Matters:
Fewer children are able to attend childcare.
More parents are unable to work.
🎟 Reserve your FREE ticket now!
Together, we can stand up for Indiana’s children and families. 💙👶👩👩👦
Practice-Based Coaching - PBC (2-Days)
Practice-Based Coaching - PBC
2-Day Training
Learn to use the Practice-Based Coaching model to support Classroom staff in implementing Pyramid Model teaching practices in the classrooms
Target Audience: Personnel who will be coaching classroom staff for programs serving infants, toddlers, and/or two-year-old children.
Training Costs Covered Through the EYI Grant.
Breakfast and Lunch Provided!
Location: Grant County United Way 215 South Adams Street Marion, IN,
Date/Time: Monday & Tuesday, October 13th & 14th, 2025 - 9:00 AM 4:00 PM
If you have questions, email Robyn Duffy at rduffy@careyservices.com
HERE Registration Deadline: September 22, 2025
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
ECI Childcare Impact & Action Plan Presentation
East Central Indiana Leaders
Childcare isn’t just about families—it impacts the entire community and the future of our workforce.
Join us for the ECI Childcare Impact & Action Plan Presentation - Presented by TPMA
Date/Time: Wednesday, October 1st - 1:00 – 3:00 PM (Virtual via Zoom)
Presented by TPMA, this session will share:
County-level data on childcare access
How childcare affects employers’ bottom lines
Actionable insights to help communities grow, compete, and thrive
Questions? Email lastipp@bsu.edu
Let’s work together to build stronger communities through childcare!
(Zoom link provided after registration)
(INAEYC) Listening Session in Bloomington
📣 Your Voice Matters, Indianapolis! 📣
Are you an early childhood educator, provider, or advocate in the Indy area? We want to hear from you!
Join INAEYC for an important Listening Session where you can share your experiences, insights, and ideas to help shape the future of early childhood education in Indiana. Let's connect, collaborate, and create positive change together.
🗓️ When: September 30, 2025 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
📍 Where: Monroe County Public Library - Downtown, 303 Kirkwood Ave, Bloomington, IN 47408
Space is limited, so please register to save your seat. We can't wait to see you there!
Read, Explore, Discover! STEM & Literacy Workshop for Early Learning Educators
Read, Explore, Discover! STEM & Literacy Wkshp for Early Learning Educators
Join us for a fun workshop where we will dive into STEM and literacy activities for early learning educators to explore and discover!
Date and time
Saturday, September 27 · 9 am - 12 pm
Location
Love Community Center
1850 North Main Street Rushville, IN 46173
Agenda
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM - Light Breakfast & Registration
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM - Make & Take Activities + Speaker
About this event
Welcome to the Read, Explore, Discover! STEM & Literacy Workshop for Early Learning Educators event! Join us at the Love Community Center for a fun and interactive workshop designed to enhance your teaching skills. Dive into the world of STEM and literacy with hands-on activities and engaging discussions. Don't miss this chance to connect with fellow educators and explore innovative ways to inspire young learners. Register now and let's explore together!
This event is open to early learning educators, daycare providers, preschool teachers, and assistants in the ECI TRAC region! Activities will focus on the birth to 5 age group.
Participants will receive 6-7 books and supplies for coordinating literacy and STEM-making activities (valued at over $ 150). Best of all, the event is FREE!
Hosted by ECI TRAC, First5 Rush Co Early Learning Coalition, Henry County Child Care Network, and Fayette County Early Learning Coalition.
For questions, email arika@rushelc.org
Choreography with your Co-Teacher
✨ Choreography with Your Co-Teacher ✨
Teaching alongside another adult in the classroom can sometimes feel like a dance—smooth and in sync one moment, a little offbeat the next. This virtual session will explore the everyday “choreography” of co-teaching, from dividing responsibilities to strengthening communication and teamwork.
Join Dr. Beth Trammell for a candid (and fun!) conversation filled with real-life stories, laughter, and practical strategies to help you and your co-teacher feel more connected and effective in the classroom.
📅 Thursday, September 25, 2025
🕔 5:15–6:45 PM
💻 Virtual Only (Zoom link sent to registrants)
🎟️ FREE for non-PLI members with promo code ECITRAC (limited spots available!)
👉 Don’t miss this chance to sharpen your teamwork and bring more harmony to your classroom!
(INAEYC) Listening Session in Indianapolis
📣 Your Voice Matters, Indianapolis! 📣
Are you an early childhood educator, provider, or advocate in the Indy area? We want to hear from you!
Join INAEYC for an important Listening Session where you can share your experiences, insights, and ideas to help shape the future of early childhood education in Indiana. Let's connect, collaborate, and create positive change together.
🗓️ When: September 24, 2025 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
📍 Where: United Way of Central Indiana (Ruth Lilly Family Board Room, 2nd Floor) 2955 N. Meridian St., Indianapolis, IN
Space is limited, so please register to save your seat. We can't wait to see you there!
Linking Literacy and Social-Emotional Development
Linking Literacy and Social-Emotional Development
Learn strategies to link Early Literacy to Social and Emotional Development.
Target Audience: The training is geared toward classroom teachers, but the strategies can be used in any setting for programs that work with children from birth to age five.
Training Costs Covered Through the EYI Grant.
Lunch Provided!
Bring your favorite children’s book(s) to share & practice!
Location: Thriving 121 E South A St., Gas City, IN
Date/Time: September 22, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm
If you have questions, email Robyn Duffy at rduffy@careyservices.com
HERE Registration Deadline: September 8, 2025
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
Public Policy & Advocacy 101 on ZOOM Meeting
Public Policy & Advocacy 101
Welcome/Opening Remarks
Dr. Hanan Osman, Executive Director, INAEYC
Federal Overview and Federal Advocacy 101
Paola Andujar, Senior Policy Specialist, NAEYC
Indiana Legislative Process Overview and State Advocacy 101
Heather Harris, Partner, Barnes & Thornburg LLP
2025 Session Summary and Status of Early Childhood in Indiana
Sam Snideman, Vice President of Government Relations, United Way of Central Indiana
Developmentally Appropriate Practices in Real Life
Developmentally Appropriate Practices in Real Life
Teaching young children takes more than just book knowledge of developmental stages. A great teacher knows how to apply that knowledge in the classroom to best support every child.
Join Dr. Beth Trammell for a candid conversation about the things you didn’t learn in your development courses—the surprises you never expected, and the moments when you’re not quite sure what to do.
Together, we’ll explore the many ways development manifests in children and how it can manifest differently in each child.
📅 Wednesday, September 10, 2025
🕐 1:00–2:30 PM
💻 Virtual Only (Zoom link sent to registrants)
👩🏫 Instructor: Dr. Beth Trammell
🎟️ FREE for non-PLI members with promo code ECITRAC (limited spots available!)
Parent Retreat
Rising with Love - Parent Retreat
Are you a parent?
Would you like to learn more effective ways to communicate with your kids?
Do you like supporting other parents and sharing your parenting journey?
Call to register - 765-660-2128
Teaching Pyramid Infant Toddler Observation Scales - TPITOS (2-Days)
Teaching Pyramid Infant Toddler Observation Scales - TPITOS
2-Day Training
Learn to administer and become certified in the TPITOS. This Scale allows observers to identify the Pyramid Model practices being used well by classroom staff and the practices where coaching may be helpful.
Target Audience: Personnel who complete classroom observations for programs
serving infants, toddlers, and/or two-year-old children.
Training Costs Covered Through the EYI Grant.
Breakfast and Lunch Provided!
Location: Grant County United Way 215 South Adams Street Marion, IN,
Date/Time: Monday & Tuesday, August 25-26, 2025 - 9:00 AM 4:00 PM
If you have questions, email Robyn Duffy at rduffy@careyservices.com
Registration Deadline: August 4, 2025
Cultivating Connection: Building Relationships and Community from the Start
Looking for practical ways to build a positive classroom environment this year? Don't miss this FREE webinar from Becker's!
Join them for "Cultivating Connection: Building Relationships and Community from the Start."
In this session, you’ll get powerful strategies for building a classroom where children feel secure and ready to learn.
🗓️ Date: Wednesday, August 20, 2025
⏰ Time: 1:00 PM ET ✅ Cost: FREE
Key Topics:
Building trust through everyday interactions
Creating routines that support self-regulation and joy
Welcoming families as partners
This is a fantastic, no-cost professional development opportunity. Secure your spot today!
Family Child Care Home Business Series Info Session
FREE LAPTOP & PRINTER for Family Child Care Providers!
Want to boost your family child care home business? Join BY5 for a FREE 8-week training series covering everything from contracts to marketing and financial management!
ATTEND OUR FREE INFO SESSION to learn more:
Date: Tuesday, August 13th
Time: 6:00 PM
Here's the AMAZING part: Participants who complete the training receive a FREE LAPTOP AND PRINTER!*
Who should attend the info session? Any family child care provider in East Central Indiana!
About the Training Series:
8 weeks long, starting September 6th and running until October 25th.
Meets once a week.
First and last sessions are in person, remaining sessions via Zoom.
Registration for the training series OPENS on August 13th after the info session.
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to grow your business and receive free technology!
Questions? Contact Katie Lehman at katie@muncieby5.org or 765.216.7423.
FREE Diaper Giveaway
FREE Diaper Giveaway!
Second Harvest Food Bank of East Central Indiana and the Henry County Community Action Network for Maternal and Infant Health are teaming up to support local families!
Each bundle includes:
Free diapers
Baby wipes
Infant/toddler books
Location:
The Salvation Army
2500 Washington St,
New Castle, IN 47362
First come, first served – supplies are limited!
Event Dates:
Tuesday, August 12th | 4:30–6:30 PM
Mark your calendars and spread the word!
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
Center for Early Learning Virtual Professional Development Conference: Inclusive Practices in Early Childhood
Center for Early Learning Virtual Professional Development Conference: Inclusive Practices in Early Childhood
SUMMARY
Inclusive Practices in Early Childhood
The Center for Early Learning at Purdue University is hosting a free half-day professional development conference designed for pre-service and in-service teachers in early childhood. This year, the two sessions are focused on inclusive practices in early childhood. There will also be post-session breakout rooms for participants to discuss and share ideas to learn from each other. After the event, participants will receive a certificate for three hours of professional development.
Registration is free but limited to 200 spots. Register today to secure your attendance at the 2025 conference!
SCHEDULE
August 4, 2025
9:00 am – 9:10 am: Welcome and Opening Remarks
9:10 am - 10:00 am: Presentation by Dr. Lisa M. López– Dual language learning in early childhood.
10:00 am -10:25 am: Breakout Session 1
10:25 am -10:40 am: Break
10:40 am - 11:30 am: Presentation by Dr. Kate Zinsser– Social-emotional learning in early childhood.
11:30 am- 11:55 am: Breakout Session 2
11:55 am -12:00 pm: Closing Remarks
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
For questions regarding the content of the event, please contact cel@purdue.edu
For questions regarding your registration, please contact a registration assistant at confreg@purdue.edu
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
Conscious Discipline Workshop
Jay County Drug Prevention Coalition Sponsors
CONSCIOUS DISCIPLINE Workshop: Transform your approach to discipline. Learn to understand the deeper messages behind behavior, implement practical and effective techniques, and strengthen relationships while fostering self-regulation in children. Gain confidence in managing challenges—all while prioritizing your own well-being!
Date: Wednesday, July 30, 2025 - 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Location: The Rock Church, 1605 N Meridian St., Portland, IN 47371
Instructor: Jenny Spencer, MA - Certified Instructor
FREE GIVEAWAYS & DOOR PRIZES
FREE LUNCH PROVIDE
FREE WORKSHOP — NO COST TO YOU
Westminster Preschools Annual Conference
Westminster Preschools Annual Conference - You're invited!!!
9:00: Welcome
9:30: Keynote, Dani Svantner and Wendy Turcott. “The Power of Connection. Presence over Compliance”
10:45: Breakout Sessions
Noon: Lunch and Annual Required CACFP Training
1:15: Breakout Sessions
2:30: Breakout Sessions
3:45: Wrap Up, Goal Setting, and Takeaways Session
Highlights Include: Understanding Your Triggers, Sensory, Children’s Perspective and Observation, Leadership and Professionalism
$35 Per Person
Includes the following:
Lunch
7 Hours of Training
Certificate of Training Hours provided
The PLAY Project
🎉 Calling All Early Childhood Educators in East Central Indiana! 🎉
On July 22nd, at Minnetrista Museums and Gardens for The PLAY Project, a hands-on training focused on play-based therapy techniques to strengthen attachment, communication, and connection through Theraplay.
🧸 This 90-minute session will equip you with practical skills to support young learners — and you’ll receive a $40 gift card for participating!
But that’s not all — after the training, you’ll have a chance to host a Family Night at your program, complete with a free meal and gift cards for families! 💛
🗓 Date: July 22, 2025
🕕 Time: 6:00 – 7:30 PM
📍 Location: Minnetrista – Indiana Room, 1200 N Minnetrista Pkwy, Muncie, IN 47303
Hosted by BY5 and generously funded by Early Learning Indiana.
👉 Register now – space is limited!
DDI (Developmental Delay Identification) Training
Join us for a FREE DDI (Developmental Delay Identification) Training session! Learn more about early childhood developmental delays and how to identify and support young learners.
This training will cover:
Milestones
Early Identification
Resources & Supports
The session will be led by Dr. Brittany Bales, Associate Teaching Professor of Special Education.
DATE: Tuesday, July 22, 2025
TIME: 6:00 PM EDT
LOCATION: The Calm Corner, 1125 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN 46952
Don't miss this valuable opportunity!
Register now at https://form.jotform.com/251765885691171
For more information, contact bnbales@bsu.edu.
#DevelopmentalDelay #EarlyChildhood #SpecialEducation #Parenting #Education #FreeTraining
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
Decrease Attention-Getting and Tantrum Behaviors: Practical Solutions
Join us for a FREE ($280 Value—at No Cost to You!) webinar designed to equip early care and learning educators with real-world strategies for managing and reducing disruptive behaviors in the classroom.
Presented by: Lisa Rogers, Behavior Intervention Specialist
Training Date: Tuesday, July 1 | 9:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Learn how to address behaviors like:
Screaming
Roaming
Blurting out
Tantrums
And more!
You'll gain tools to:
Turn tough behaviors into teachable moments
Foster self-regulation and problem-solving
Use consequences that teach (not punish)
Access a comprehensive digital handbook full of ready-to-use strategies for Preschool–2nd Grade
Questions? Contact Liane Nickey – lnickey@hclcchnetwork.com
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
CPR/FIRST AID & AED TRAINING
Included in the CPR/First Aid & AED Training
Adult and Pediatric CPR/First Aid and AED
Blended-learning option
2-year certification through the American Red Cross at completion
CPR breathing barrier
Make every learning opportunity count
We develop the Early Care and Learning workforce because they are the foundation of every industry in our region, driving growth, and supporting families.
