About Westman Early Learning
Westman Early Learning brings early childhood leaders and educators together for meaningful, high‑quality professional development in Western Manitoba. Our events are designed to be restorative, practical, and deeply connected to the realities of early learning work. We create spaces where professionals can reflect, learn, and strengthen the relationships that support children and families. By uplifting the people who shape early years programs, we help build a strong, connected, and inspired early learning community.
Mission Statement
Westman Early Learning strengthens early childhood education in Western Manitoba by creating professional learning experiences that inspire, connect, and empower the people who support young children. Our mission is to offer restorative, research‑informed, and community‑rooted professional development that honours educators’ expertise, nurtures leadership, and builds strong relationships across the early years sector. We are committed to fostering a connected, reflective, and resilient early learning community where children, families, and professionals can thrive.
History
History of Professional Learning Events
Westman Early Learning has been hosting regional early childhood education conferences and professional development events since 2014. Each gathering brings educators, leaders, and community partners together to learn, reflect, and strengthen early years practice across Western Manitoba.
2025 – Diverse Minds, Bright Futures
- Engaging in Neurodevelopmental Play with Kally-Anna Clinton
- Neurodiversity at Work with Jocelyne Lalonde
- Fry No More with Shannon Gander
Finding Your Work – Life Rhythm with Megan Foster (Directors & Managers Spring Event)
2024 – The Power of Connection with Dr. Jean Clinton (Annual Conference)
– Leading Bravely with Cas Ackland (Directors & Managers Spring Event)
2023 – Cultivating Curious Minds
- Kisa MacIsaac
- Pam Nightingale
- Bookmates,
- Roads to Rhythm Music Therapy
- Melinda Alden
2022 – Listen Together, Learn Together, Act Together
- Learning Through Play with Pierre Harrison
- Taking Steps Toward Truth & Reconciliation with Deb Tacan
2021 – Raising Resilient Children with Tammy Schamuhn, Institute of Child Psychology
2019 – Inclusion: All of Our Children Belong with Marc Battle
2018 – Remembering to Play with Vince Gowman
2017 – Connecting Kids to Nature with Jill Bienenstock
2016 – Bodies in Motion with Ron Blatz, Fit Kids Healthy Kids, Bookmates, and Calm’n Sense Yoga for Kids
2015 – Family Engagement and Partnerships with Dr. Debra Pushor, University of Saskatchewan
2014 – Supporting Children and Youth with Kevin Chief, Minister of Children and Youth Opportunities
Program Growth
Westman Early Learning has continued to expand its professional learning offerings to better support early childhood leaders and educators across the region. In addition to the annual October conference, the organization introduced a spring Directors & Managers professional learning event, providing leadership‑focused development tailored to those guiding early years programs. To further strengthen community connections and highlight local resources, Westman Early Learning also added an annual tradeshow, giving educators and program leaders the opportunity to explore materials, services, and innovations that enrich early learning environments.
These events have been made possible through the generous support of community partners. Conference sponsors have included the YMCA of Brandon, Brandon Healthy Families Teams, Assiniboine College, and Christie’s Office Plus, whose contributions help ensure high‑quality, accessible professional development for the early years sector.
