Creating Gender-Inclusive Early Learning Environments
Date:
January 22, 2026 @ 8:30 am – 2:30 pm
Price:
Topics:
- Early Childhood Education
- |
- Equity
Instructor(s):
Dr. Laura Pascoe
Event Type:
Virtual
Professional Learning Hours:
5
Intended Audience:
PreK-Grade 2 teachers, early childhood educators.
Participants must attend all events:
- Event Date
- Event Date
From the colors we associate with boys and girls to the roles we assign in storybooks, gender cues shape how children see themselves and others long before they can name them. This interactive workshop helps early childhood educators recognize how gender messages influence children’s developing sense of self. We’ll explore how rigid gender norms can limit how children dress, play, form friendships, express emotion, feel about their bodies, and imagine their futures. Participants will examine how these patterns appear in early childhood classrooms—and learn to use moments of discomfort or uncertainty as tools for growth rather than barriers to inclusion.
Drawing on behavioral insights and nudge theory, participants will identify small, practical changes that make inclusion the easy, everyday default. Each educator will leave with an Early Childhood Nudge Action Plan—concrete tools, language, and next steps to support their own confidence, engage families and administrators, and help every child feel safe, seen, and free to be their authentic self.
Participants will:
- Recognize how gender norms and socialization shape children’s development, play, friendships, and sense of self.
- Gain a clear, developmentally appropriate understanding of gender diversity, identity, expression, assigned sex, and sexual orientation.
- Build confidence in navigating gender-related comments and moments of discomfort with curiosity, empathy, and clarity.
- Leave equipped with an Early Childhood Nudge Action Plan—including sample language, strategies, and concrete steps.
