From Curiosity to Connection: An Artful Approach to Belonging and Foundational Literacy in Early Childhood
Aug 03, 2026 9:00AM—Aug 04, 2026 3:00PM
Location
St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, San Juan Capistrano, CA
Cost Pricing: $550
Categories Curriculum & Pedagogy, Equity & Inclusion, In-Person, Social & Emotional Learning, Summer Institute
From Curiosity to Connection: An Artful Approach to Belonging and Foundational Literacy in Early Childhood
SESSION 1: August 3, 2026 | 9:00am - 3:00pm
SESSION 2: August 4, 2026 | 9:00am - 3:00pm
ABOUT THIS IN-PERSON SUMMER INSTITUTE
Join us for the 2026 St. Margaret’s Summer Institute, a two-day professional learning experience designed for Early Childhood educators and leaders (Preschool–Early Elementary). CATDC is delighted to be partnering with SMES this year, welcoming two expert facilitators who will guide participants through a cohesive, immersive day and a half of learning focused on belonging, literacy, identity, and joyful early learning.
The early years are critical for building the foundational reading and writing skills that set students up for long-term academic success. Facilitated by Rebecca Bellingham and Veronica Scott, authors of The Artful Approach to Exploring Identity and Fostering Belonging, and The Artful Read Aloud, this interactive experience highlights how purposeful play activities, storytelling, community poems, expressive movement, and “artful read-alouds” can bring early literacy to life—honoring children’s identities, amplifying their voices, and fostering the belonging that underpins joyful learning and academic excellence.
In this workshop, participants will:
- Explore the power of picture books to teach about identity, help children think critically, and learn for our own self-growth as adults.
- Try out methods for leading “artful read alouds” that expose children to complex vocabulary + ideas, help them build background knowledge, and foster bookjoy and belonging all at once!
- Learn how to curate a “windows and mirrors” library for young children with tips for choosing texts that support community conversations.
- Develop fresh, joyful methods for exploring identity at the beginning of the year using original poems that help children express themselves and learn about each other.
Held on the vibrant campus of St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, this immersive experience blends theory, practice, and reflection, celebrating the art and heart of early childhood education. Educators will leave with practical strategies, renewed inspiration, and a deeper understanding of how literacy, belonging, and joyful learning are inextricably linked.
ABOUT THE FACILITATORS
Veronica Scott and Rebecca Bellingham are the authors of The Artful Approach to Exploring Identity and Fostering Belonging, and The Artful Read Aloud. They bring their experience as K-8 educators, school leaders, and artists to offer a creative and engaging approach to professional development and student leadership. They met leading literacy and DEIB professional development at Francis Parker in San Diego.
Most recently, they’ve worked with schools and organizations like Learning for Justice (formerly Teaching Tolerance), Polytechnic School, High Tech High Elementary, Columbia University Teachers College, Horizons National, Shady Hill’s Teacher Training Center, San Diego Unified School District, and the WNET Media Group. As teaching artists, Veronica and Rebecca lean into the power of picture books, poetry, and pop culture to inspire young people and empower educators. You can learn more about their work here.
HOST AND PARTNER SCHOOL
CATDC partners with member schools to host our in-person programs, providing educators the opportunity to learn with peers in diverse settings. We are thrilled to partner with St. Margaret's Episcopal School on this Summer Institute, welcoming the larger independent school community on their campus for two days of learning and collaboration.
Cancellation Policy
Life happens. We understand that there will be times when you cannot attend a workshop that you have registered and paid for. We strive to be as helpful and flexible as possible when things out of your control happen. Please visit our FAQ page for detailed information about our cancellation policy and answers to frequently asked questions about enrollment and membership.