Childcare Resources Hosts Conscious Discipline Workshop for 175 Early Educators

Angela Fraley leads local early childhood educators in a Conscious Discipline workshop at the Vero Beach Museum of Art.

Childcare Resources of Indian River hosted a Conscious Discipline professional learning workshop at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, bringing together 175 local early childhood educators. The workshop was led by Master Instructor Angela Fraley, who guided participants in strategies to handle challenging moments and build supportive classrooms.

“Conscious Discipline is about rituals and connection,” says Fraley. “When we master our own stress, we can model it for children. Conflict becomes an opportunity to teach, and play becomes the key to self-regulation.”

Childcare Resources Executive Director Shannon McGuire Bowman (R) with Master Instructor Angela Fraley (L) who led the Conscious Discipline professional learning workshop for 175 local early educators.

Educators from 38 early childhood sites across Indian River County came together to practice hands-on techniques, collaborate with peers, and create stronger connections. They left with practical strategies to use right away, showing how collective learning strengthens both individual practice and the early childhood community as a whole.

“The best part of this workshop was learning exercises on how I can better support my students by managing my own self-control,” says Claudia Pinyon, School Director at Indian River Academy Head Start.  

(L–R) Program Committee members Sherry Waddell, Carol Buhl, and Susan Donovan volunteered at the Conscious Discipline workshop, welcoming local early educators at check-in and preparing lunch to help ensure a smooth and successful event.

“It was inspiring to see so many educators spend their Saturday with us,” says Shannon McGuire Bowman, Executive Director of Childcare Resources. “By deepening their skills, they enhance the learning experiences of our community’s children.”

In addition to offering valuable professional growth, workshops like these also provide educators with a shared space to connect, recharge, and reaffirm their passion for teaching. By investing in educators’ well-being and professional skills, Childcare Resources helps lay the groundwork for children’s long-term growth and success.

This workshop was made possible with support from PNC Grow Up Great, Indian River County Children’s Services Advisory Committee and Vero Beach Museum of Art.