Developing a Sense of Place in the Early Years: Sparking Curiosity and Wonder with Mentor Texts
Presented by Klara Redford & Michelle McKay
Date, Time, and Room
| Thursday, February 19, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM | Civic North (max. 120) |
| Friday, February 20, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 10:15 AM | Civic North (max. 120) |
Description
Come join us as we explore the possibilities and power of using mentor texts as sparks for inquiry and learning with students in the Early Years (K-3) as we #getoutside and develop a sense of Place and build relationships with the land, whether that be in the community, a naturalized space or the schoolyard.
We will begin by diving into how we can slow down and notice the environment to engage in authentic literacy and inquiry opportunities through walking. Practical suggestions and ideas will be shared about how mentor texts can be used to support these learning experiences as well as how educators can make thinking and learning visible.
Our session will include a Padlet of resources for educators to take with them and ideas they can implement in the classroom, tomorrow! This session is targeted to the Early Years (K-3) but all are welcome.
| Presented in English | JK/SK | Author, Inquiry, Outdoor Education |


