Preschool professionals are in a unique position to see the immense impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on our youngest learners. They are also witness to the many ways this time of restrictions, strict protocols, and social distancing has affected children’s development in areas of social skills, emotional regulation, and meeting developmental milestones.

These monthly Zoom sessions are created as a space to ask questions, and discuss issues relevant to special needs inclusion and development. We look forward to helping answer your pressing questions, and discussing any concerns you may have about your students.

Drop-in Sessions with Special Education Consultant

Our monthly consultations for preschool professionals are an informal, drop-in discussion space to gain insight, connect with colleagues, and receive concrete ideas to take back to your classroom. The sessions are facilitated by Special Education consultant, Cara Dressler.

Join us if you…

  • have a specific question or concern about an individual student or behavior patterns
  • want to learn about communication with parents
  • are interested in tools for working as a team with your co-workers
  • are looking for general support and connection with others working in Jewish preschool settings

Come as an individual, or with other members of your team. Each session will utilize a facilitated conversation method to ensure that each participant’s concerns are addressed with discretion. We also encourage participants to support one another, and engage in a shared problem solving process.

The sessions are designed for educators in all Jewish preschool settings, however is focused on classroom environments with multiple students present.

Monthly Virtual Sessions

  • Monday, January 29 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm, PT
  • Monday, February 26 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm, PT
  • Monday, March 25 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm, PT
  • Monday, April 15 from 6:30 – 7:30 pm, PT

Your participation in any of these monthly consultation sessions meets the eligibility criteria for receiving a Sensory Tools Grant from Jewish LearningWorks.

Cost and Registration

There is no registration fee for this program, but registration is required.

Click Here to Register

If you have any questions prior to registering, please contact Senior Educator, Liora Brosbe, at liora@jewishlearning.works.

This program is part of Jewish LearningWorks approach to supporting Jewish educators to feel confident and competent in working with all children. This work is generously supported by The Jewish Community Federation.

Facilitator and Special Education Consultant

Cara Dressler

Cara holds a Masters in Special Education and works as a consultant with a specialty in special education and disability inclusion program development and practices. Cara has over 9 years of experience as a classroom preschool teacher, and working in ABA and play-based therapy. Cara’s experience as a preschool teacher in Jewish schools inspires her to consult with ECE professionals and provide thorough and individualized support. Her collaborative approach to working with directors and teachers provides guidance and education regarding inclusion, special education, therapeutic techniques and how disabilities, developmental and learning differences affect the child and their family. Cara is passionate about advocacy for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities (IDD) and is affiliated with several organizations, including serving as a board member of a non-profit that creates and facilitates inclusive housing communities.