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Learn The Connected Start Method!

Let’s take circle time from routine to revolutionary and create meaningful learning experiences

What is the Connected Start Method?

The Connected Start Program is a research-based method that:

  • Connects caregivers and children to create a positive, safe learning environment
  • Challenges our little ones, expands their abilities and enhances their social, emotional and physical development so they can build foundations for success
  • Uses fun-filled activities, such as puppets, rhymes, songs, movement and play so learning is fun, effortless and natural

Learn The Connected Start Method and start building stronger foundations today!

For Educators

Connected Start Immersive Training

Our impactful 8-week program that brings the Connected Start program to life.

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For Educators

Professional Development Workshop

Training(1)

Have Connected Start join your next staff meeting for an informative workshop!

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For Children

Rhyme Time Enrichment Program

daycaresession scaled

Bring Connected Start in for a single or weekly enrichment session.

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For Children

Puppet Making & Instrument Making Programs

Instrument making

Choose between one of our two programs to add to your summer camp or daycare.

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Connected Start Immersive Training

For educators

What is Connected Start Immersive Training?

The Connected Start Immersive Training is an 8-week program designed to bring this effective method to life! Experience firsthand how Connected Start can transform your environment and gain the hands-on practice you need to confidently implement it.

When it comes to giving educators the tools they need to succeed, Connected Start is unique.

Customized for your centre

I begin by observing your centre for 1-2 weeks and making assessments.

This way, I can make specific recommendations and create the best training for your educators and the best programming for your children!

Gradual release of responsibility

Initially, I host the sessions so your team can absorb the content.

We gradually get your educators involved. First, they will co-conduct sessions. Then, they facilitate the entire session and receive feedback.

Learn in and outside the classroom

Your team will learn the principles of Connected Start in staff meetings AND put it into practice right in your own classroom!

Together, you will have a full, in-depth understanding of the material.

Receive support and feedback

Learning takes time, and an important part is receiving support and feedback throughout the program. 

You’ll also receive tips on how to enhance development and a digital package of rhymes.

Contact Miss Saira

Professional Development Workshop

For educators

  • Either in-person or virtual workshop for your next staff meeting
  • 1.5 hour workshop
  • Topics include:
    • Using the Connected Start Method to Connect, Engage and Educate
    • Getting Ready for Kindergarten
    • Sustainability & Using Recycled Materials to Create Learning Opportunities
    • STEM and Outdoor Play
    • Classroom Management
    • Quality Assurance Refresher
    • Building Community & Drama Games

Cost: $300 – $400

Contact Miss Saira

Virtual Transformative Training

Transform your circle time from routine to revolutionary! During this training you will learn how to implement the Connected Start Method, while getting ready with new songs and rhymes for the WINTER.

Date: Thursday November 21, 2024
Time: 7:00pm-8:30pm EST
Investment: $30

  • What's included in the training
  • 1.5 hours of virtual training, including tips on how to keep children engaged during circle time
  • Certificate for 1.5 hours of virtual PD
  • Learn 4 rhymes, ready to use the next day
  • PDF of song and rhyme lyrics (Winter focus)
  • PDF of stick puppets and props
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Rhyme Time Enrichment Program

For children

  • Bring Connected Start to your summer camp or to your center all year round
  • Single or weekly sessions available
  • 1 hour - 2 hour options
  • Ideal for toddlers, preschoolers and school-agers
  • Learn using engaging puppets, sensory play, parachute play and bubble time
  • Up to 15 children
  • All materials provided

Cost: $200 – $375

Contact Miss Saira

Puppet Making & Instrument Making Programs​

For children

  • Choose between our two interactive and engaging programs and bring new life to your program
  • Ideal for toddlers, preschoolers and school-agers
  • 1.5 hour session, includes ~45 min rhyme time session and ~45 puppet making or instrument making workshop
  • Ideal for summer camps and year-round enrichment
  • Up to 15 children
  • All materials included

Cost: $325

Contact Miss Saira

Let’s transform how children learn in those precious early years. Get started with Connected Start today!

Get in touch
“Muppets Children's Centre had the pleasure to experience Saira's Immersive Training Program that took us back to the roots of creativity, those places in our minds we forgot exist. An excellent training program! Saira provided new ideas for how to evolve creativity, music and movement, into circle time. The children and the educators were fully engaged and had fun...We don't have enough words to thank you, Saira, for the magic experience you provided the Muppets family, children and educators. We're looking forward to more great opportunities with your expertise.”
Muppets Children's Centre

Frequently Asked Questions

My 8-week program includes:

  • Eight 1-hour sessions (either one 60-minute session/week or two 30-minute sessions on the same day/week)
  • Two 1.5-hour evening training sessions
  • Tips and tricks on how to enhance learning
  • Digital package of rhymes
  • Laminated stick puppets for enhanced engagement

That’s why my classes are developed using evidence-based practices and fun-filled activities and props. Working with children as long as I have, I can quickly adjust and change gears depending on the child to keep them focused and encourage learning.

Here’s how the program is broken down:

  • Week 1: Observations
  • Week 2-4: Immersive Training, with an Evening Educator Training session during Week 4
  • Week 5-6: Co-conduct a Connected Start session, with an Evening Educator Training session during Week 6
  • Week 7-8: Independent sessions and feedback

This 8-week program costs $1,750 + HST. You can also purchase the 12 beautifully crafted plush hand puppets we use in the program. It includes a cat, dog, snail, bee, chicken, rooster, lamb, mouse, lion, horse, rabbit and elephant for $120.

Of course! We would be happy to provide you with refresher training to ensure that your team continues to feel confident and effective in putting The Connected Start method into practice.

And more!

A Testimonial