Thank you for a wonderful session!!! Anna, I sat in on your session at this years Wyndham Educators Matter Conference; Intergenerational Trauma and I loved listening to you and I remember when you briefly touched on Polyvagal Theory and I was instantly curious so thank you both for a great session today as you re-inspired my interest and I feel better equipped now to understand the approach and be able to implement with the services I lead at. It flowed really well, supports our everyday practice, was easy to understand and very engaging. Both Anna and Phyllis are brilliant facilitators with a wealth of passion and knowledge. I got so much out of this PD and many, many take away’s for my team and services that I work in!! The practical strategies and ideas that can be used in service delivery and the program with children. The information I received around neuro-science in a more simplified way using diagrams and visuals that I know I can support staff with their understanding and ability to support each child’s regulation in the Kindergarten. What did you like least about the workshop? NOTHING!! It was all amazing!! Truly! I feel it is valuable learning for any educator especially during these times with the pandemic and the stress it causes many families and community members.

I have previously attended a PD with Phyllis, and this presentation expanded from the previous PD, really cementing my previous knowledge on this topic. Phyllis and Anna both provided information that was easy to follow, and used examples of what this could look like in practice. The way the content was organised and easily understandable. The way it was shown how it can be used in practice, and the speed at which it was delivered. It wasn’t rushed, and the presenters gave time to answer questions. I would recommend it to all early childhood educators, as it depends on each person how an event affects them. If ECE had this understanding of how to assist children, and themselves in elevated situations, or what to look for, it could reduce the impact of the trauma/event on the child, the class as a whole, the family and on the educator. It would assist children to feel  safer faster, being in an environment with ECE’s that have the knowledge on how to assist them and what to look for.

“I have recommended the program to many people, I feel everyone can get something from it.”

“I was pleasantly surprised with the content of the program and how impersonal yet relevant it was. Attendees were not required to contribute unless they chose to do so and it was totally up to individuals to discuss personal issues if they wished to do so. I went into the course thinking my parenting style was going to be addressed personally but this was not the case. The program was very inclusive and equipped me with the necessary tools to build better relationships with not only my teenager but also my husband. I am so pleased I was involved in the program. I learnt a lot, and have implemented a lot of ‘emotional coaching’ techniques and noticed results. ‘Emotional coaching’ really does work and I recommend that everyone gets involved, including schools and community groups.”

“It is really important information for counselling with a trauma focus, and noticing where people are at, whether they are flooded or flowing. A whole lot of new skills for my toolbox that increase my confidence to do the work safely. The focus on the physiology brings a fresh perspective of ‘being with’ a person. “

“You offered a lovely combination of strengths and respect for each other’s knowledge. I enjoyed your passion for the work.”

“Lots of great information and knowledge, warm presenters open to questions.”

“Sensory interventions very specific and immediately useful in therapy sessions. Very applicable knowledge. “

“I think when you have a better understanding of what is happening inside our bodies it is easier to respond to challenging behavior. “