Childcare Resources Community of Practice Explores Power of Connection in Early Childhood

Childcare Resources hosted a Community of Practice which brought together early educators from eleven local centers. Back row (L-R): Guadalupe Ramos, Macy Gondek, Rachael Yancy, Laura Wood, Tatum Auguste, Michelle Moore, Elizabeth Laney, Jocelyn Soriano. Front row (L-R): Eloisa Cruz, Evangelina Ramos, Charlene Arreche, Amanda Gooch, Elizabeth Guthrie, Lisa Fortes, Lydia Reed.

Rachel Yancy and Charlene Arreche, early childhood educators at First Presbyterian Preschool, are putting their Baby Doll Circle Time training into practice, using new strategies in their classrooms.

Early childhood educators from across Indian River County recently gathered for a Community of Practice hosted by Childcare Resources of Indian River. Led by Early Childhood Education Coach Amanda Gooch, the sessions focused on Baby Doll Circle Time, a hands-on approach that helps teachers build positive, nurturing relationships with young children.

A Community of Practice is a collaborative workshop where early educators come together to share ideas, learn new strategies, and strengthen their teaching practices. These sessions brought together fifteen educators from eleven local centers to explore how healthy relationships with caring adults support optimal child development.

Students take part in Baby Doll Circle Time, practicing everyday routines like rocking and caring for dolls while learning how to interact with others. 

“Baby Doll Circle Time was a treasure trove of information,” said Rachel Yancey, an educator at First Presbyterian Preschool. “I’ve started using what I learned to create fun, teachable moments each day, helping me connect more with my quieter students and build stronger relationships.”

During these sessions, teachers guide children through simple activities like rocking and caring for dolls to model kindness, attention, and positive interactions with others. This approach helps children build patience and awareness while giving teachers practical ways to reinforce calm in the classroom.

“Professional learning opportunities like this allow teachers to grow and connect with peers who share their commitment,” said Childcare Resources executive director Shannon McGuire Bowman. “When educators feel supported, the children in their care thrive.”

Childcare Resources hosts themed Communities of Practice each fall, spring, and summer at no cost to early childhood educators in Indian River County. Through this outreach effort, the organization strengthens the local early education workforce and enhances the quality of care for young children.