The Connected Child: Connection at the Heart of Practice Keynote Presentation

What if the most powerful learning moments don't begin with a lesson plan, but with a genuine connection?

In this inspiring keynote, Janine Kelly shares the real stories that shaped her book The Connected Child, exploring how one relationship with a little boy named Marty transformed her understanding of literacy, communication and intentional teaching.

Through powerful storytelling, Janine demonstrates how authentic relationships create the foundation for communication, how children's curiosity can lead them to become researchers and authors of their own learning, and why observation remains one of the greatest superpowers of every educator.

Drawing on Chapters 1, 5 and 7 of The Connected Child, this keynote invites educators to slow down, notice more deeply and rediscover the extraordinary learning that unfolds when connection is placed at the heart of practice.

The 8 Stages of De-escalation: Supporting Behaviour Through Regulation and Connection

Drawing on the pioneering work of Geoff Colvin and George Sugai and their Seven Stages of Behavioural Escalation, Janine Kelly has thoughtfully adapted and expanded this framework for the unique context of early childhood education.

Grounded in current research on co-regulation, attachment, child development and trauma-informed practice, this practical and engaging presentation helps educators recognise the stages of behavioural escalation and respond intentionally with strategies that support regulation rather than reaction.

Through the addition of an eighth stage, Janine extends the original framework to emphasise the importance of reconnection, reflection and relationship-building after a child has returned to a calm, regulated state. Participants will explore practical strategies that help create emotionally safe learning environments, strengthen trusting relationships, and support children to return to learning with confidence and a sense of belonging.

This session empowers educators to move beyond behaviour management by understanding the purpose behind children's behaviour and responding in ways that foster connection, emotional regulation and long-term wellbeing.