Beyond Belonging: Sparking and Maintaining Conscious Connections

Where we place our attention matters. In this keynote, we will examine a more expansive way to think about belonging and the early years. Through a mindfulness and social justice lens, we will consider the (un)conscious connections we make every day. Together we will explore how to enhance relationships with young children, families, and even ourselves by being more intentional about where we place our attention. 

Biography

Dr. Elizabeth Joy Erwin is Professor at Montclair State University in the Department of Teaching and Learning where she prepares graduate and doctoral students to think critically, reflect deeply and teach inclusively. Over the past 30 years, her academic career has reflected a solid commitment to equity, innovation, and excellence for young children with disabilities and their families. Early work in this area was shaped by answering questions about “why” inclusive education matters, but has shifted over the years to focus on “how” to promote inclusive, just, and mindful school communities for young learners across a range of human variation.

Dr. Erwin’s work continues to be firmly grounded in a social action framework, aimed at transforming limiting beliefs, exclusionary practices and systemic injustices – locally, nationally, and globally. Current themes that spark Dr. Erwin’s interest in new projects as well as those currently in varying stages of development are: Inclusive Communities/Inclusive Teaching, Well-Being/Mindfulness, and Innovations in Research/Reflective Inquiry.

As the author of multiple books and chapters, Dr. Erwin is also published widely in prestigious academic journals. Her latest book “The Power of Presence” focuses on mindfulness practices and early childhood education from a social action lens about partnering with children to promote justice in the world and peace within. Across the United Stated and internationally, Dr. Erwin continues to speak regularly at professional conferences, meetings, and summits. Elizabeth currently lives in New York City where she practices yoga and meditation every day.

Resources

Elizabeth Erwin’s latest book, The Power of Presence: A Guide to Mindfulness Practices in Early Childhood on partnering with young children to promote justice in the world and peace within.

2024 educational and cultural travel immersion retreat to advance teacher’s professional development: Mindfulness and Education Retreat Bali 2024.