Professional Learning Training and Workshops
First Up’s Workforce and Professional Development team works alongside program leaders to develop intentional training plans for their staff. First Up offers subject matter experts who bring passion and knowledge into each training, and provide a relevant, valuable training experience either virtually or in person. Our expert-led workshops involve research-based strategies that empower educators to create enriched learning environments.
Whether you need a single training session, a full in-service day or a series of training courses throughout the year, our team of experienced instructors create learning experiences that meet the needs of your team.
Professional Learning Catalog
First Up offers training in many content areas, with all sessions approved by the PD Registry for PQAS credit. ACT 48 credit is also available. Trainings are updated and new trainings are created on a regular basis, keeping training relevant and research based. The below lists our many content areas:
Understanding Children’s Growth and Development
Child Development
Understanding Child Development is essential for creating positive learning environments.
Read more
Knowledge in this area equips educators with strategies to foster meaningful interactions, implement developmentally appropriate practices, and support each child at their unique stage of growth. First Up offers a variety of trainings focused on different aspects of development, including sessions tailored to specific age groups. These trainings help teachers build a strong foundation for nurturing children’s cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Brain Development, Social-Emotional Development, Anti-Bias Anti-Racist Education, Language and Literacy, Trauma Informed Care
Brain Development
Brain development is a critical part of growth with lifelong impact.
Read more
Understanding how the brain works helps educators shape interactions, respond effectively to children’s needs, and plan meaningful learning experiences. This knowledge also empowers teachers to recognize their own responses and maintain wellness while working with young children. First Up offers trainings that explore the science of brain development and practical strategies for supporting healthy brain growth in early learners.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Social-Emotional Development, Trauma Informed Care
Social-Emotional Development
Social and emotional development lays the foundation for learning, relationships, and overall well-being.
Read more
Educators who understand this area can create nurturing environments that promote self-regulation, empathy, and positive social skills. First Up provides trainings that focus on fostering emotional resilience and building strong connections, helping teachers support children in developing the skills they need to thrive both in and out of the classroom.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 2: Family-Teacher Partnerships and Community Connections
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 5: Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Anti-Bias Anti-Racist Education, Supportive Environments, Supporting Challenging Behaviors, Trauma Informed Care
Language and Literacy
Language and literacy skills are the building blocks for communication and future academic success.
Read more
Understanding how these skills develop enables educators to create rich, engaging environments that promote vocabulary growth, comprehension, and early reading and writing abilities. First Up offers trainings that focus on strategies for fostering language development, supporting emergent literacy, and encouraging meaningful conversations that strengthen children’s ability to express themselves and understand others. Trainings can be tailored for specific age groups such as infants and toddlers.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 2: Family-Teacher Partnerships and Community Connections
- Standard 3: Child Observation, Documentation, and Assessment
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 5: Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Curriculum Experiences, Anti-Bias Anti-Racist Education, Child Development, Assessment and Observation
Family-Teacher Partnerships and Engagement
Partnership with Families
Strong partnerships between educators and families are essential for supporting children’s growth and learning.
Read more
When teachers collaborate with families, they gain valuable insights into each child’s background, strengths, and needs, creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. First Up offers trainings that focus on building trust, effective communication, and strategies for engaging families as active partners in their child’s education. These sessions help educators foster meaningful relationships that benefit children both at home and in the classroom.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 2: Family-Teacher Partnerships and Community Connections
- Standard 3: Child Observation, Documentation, and Assessment
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Anti-Bias Anti-Racist Education, Assessment and Observation, Supporting Challenging Behaviors
Developmentally Appropriate Teaching Strategies
Curriculum Experiences
High-quality curriculum experiences are the foundation of effective early learning.
Read more
When educators understand how to design and implement engaging, developmentally appropriate activities, they create opportunities for children to explore, discover, and grow. First Up offers trainings that focus on planning meaningful experiences across all learning domains, integrating play-based strategies, and aligning curriculum with best practices. These sessions help teachers create environments where curiosity and learning thrive. Trainings can be customized for specific age groups and tailored to meet the needs of educators at different experience levels.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 5: Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Effective Teaching Strategies, Supportive Environments
Effective Teaching Strategies
Effective teaching strategies empower educators to create dynamic, inclusive, and engaging learning environments.
Read more
From play-based and inquiry-driven approaches to intentional lesson planning and anti-bias education, these methods help teachers meet the diverse needs of young learners. First Up offers trainings that provide practical tools and techniques for fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and equity in the classroom. Sessions can be tailored to different age groups and experience levels, ensuring educators feel confident and prepared to implement best practices.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 5: Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Supportive Environments, Supporting Challenging Behaviors, Trauma Informed Care, Anti-Bias Anti-Racist Education
Assessment and Observation
Assessment and observation are essential tools for understanding each child’s development and learning needs.
Read more
Through careful observation, educators can identify strengths, track progress, and plan individualized strategies that support growth. First Up offers trainings that focus on practical techniques for observing children, documenting learning, and using assessment data to inform instruction. These sessions help teachers create responsive, developmentally appropriate environments where every child can thrive.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 3: Child Observation, Documentation, and Assessment
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 5: Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Curriculum Experiences, Partnership with Families
Anti-Bias Anti-Racist Education
Anti-Bias Anti-Racist Education
Building equitable and inclusive classrooms begins with intentional teaching practices.
Read more
First Up provides a range of trainings designed to equip educators with the skills and language needed to help children develop a positive self-identity, appreciate diversity, recognize unfairness, and feel empowered to challenge injustice. These sessions offer practical strategies for integrating anti-bias and anti-racist principles into everyday interactions and curriculum, fostering environments where every child feels valued and respected.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 2: Family-Teacher Partnerships and Community Connections
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 6: Professionalism as an Early Childhood Educator
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Partnership with Families, Trauma Informed Care
Supportive Environments
Creating a supportive environment is key to fostering children’s learning, well-being, and sense of belonging.
Read more
When classrooms are safe, inclusive, and responsive, children feel empowered to explore, engage, and grow. First Up offers trainings that focus on designing spaces that encourage independence, promote positive interactions, and reflect diversity and equity. These sessions provide practical strategies for building environments that nurture both emotional security and academic success.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 5: Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Supporting Challenging Behaviors, Trauma Informed Care
Supporting Challenging Behaviors
Understanding and supporting children’s behavior is essential for creating positive, productive learning environments.
Read more
When educators approach behavior with empathy and effective strategies, they guide children toward self-regulation, problem-solving, and social success. First Up offers trainings that emphasize proactive techniques, positive guidance, and individualized support for addressing challenging behaviors. Resources such as the Pyramid Model are incorporated to provide practical, evidence-based strategies for classroom use. These sessions not only help teachers foster cooperation, resilience, and emotional well-being in every child but also highlight the importance of teacher wellness when managing challenging behaviors. Trainings can be tailored for specific age groups.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 2: Family-Teacher Partnerships and Community Connections
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 5: Knowledge, Application, and Integration of Academic Content in the Early Childhood Curriculum
- Standard 6: Professionalism as an Early Childhood Educator
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Child Development, Brain Development, Social-Emotional Development, Supportive Environments, Trauma Informed Care
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma can significantly impact a child’s development, behavior, and ability to learn.
Read more
Educators who understand trauma-informed practices are better equipped to create safe, supportive environments that promote healing and resilience. First Up offers trainings that focus on recognizing signs of trauma, responding with empathy, and implementing strategies that reduce stress and build trust. These sessions also emphasize the importance of teacher wellness and self-care when supporting children who have experienced trauma. Trainings can be tailored for specific age groups and educator experience levels.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 2: Family-Teacher Partnerships and Community Connections
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Brain Development, Partnership with Families, Supportive Environments
Safe Healthy Environments
A safe and healthy environment is the foundation for children’s well-being and learning.
Read more
Effective supervision and thoughtful planning ensure that classrooms and outdoor spaces are secure, nurturing, and developmentally appropriate. First Up offers trainings that focus on safety practices, active supervision strategies, and creating environments that support physical, emotional, and cognitive development. These sessions help educators maintain compliance with regulations while fostering spaces where children can thrive.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 6: Professionalism as an Early Childhood Educator
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Supportive Environments
Supporting the Educator: Professionalism and Leadership
Staff Wellness
Educator well-being is essential for creating positive, supportive learning environments.
Read more
When teachers feel healthy, balanced, and valued, they are better equipped to meet the needs of young children. First Up offers trainings that focus on stress management, self-care strategies, and building resilience in the workplace. These sessions provide practical tools for maintaining emotional health, fostering professional satisfaction, and creating a culture of wellness within early childhood programs.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 6: Professionalism as an Early Childhood Educator
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Leadership and Professionalism
Communication, Leadership and Professionalism
Strong communication and leadership skills are essential for creating collaborative, high-quality early learning environments.
Read more
Strong communication and leadership skills are essential for creating collaborative, high-quality early learning environments. Read more> ACCORDION
Professionalism ensures educators build trust with families, colleagues, and communities while modeling positive behaviors for children. First Up offers trainings that focus on effective communication strategies, leadership development, and maintaining professional standards in early childhood education. These sessions help educators strengthen teamwork, foster inclusive practices, and grow as confident leaders in their field.
Objectives are aligned with the following NAEYC Standards:
- Standard 1: Child Development and Learning in Context
- Standard 2: Family-Teacher Partnerships and Community Connections
- Standard 4: Developmentally, Culturally, and Linguistically Appropriate Teaching Practices
- Standard 6: Professionalism as an Early Childhood Educator
Interested? Fill out a PD request form and we will contact you>
Other areas that could be of interest: Staff Wellness
See PD catalog for all course offerings>
For more information or help arranging for trainings or workshops or to learn more about specialized training opportunities, email Nancy Nicewonger or call 215-893-0130 ext. 241
Programs looking to meet STARS standards can find instruction that fits many requirements. Read more>
What We Offer
First Up delivers a variety of trainings created using the latest research and information, tailored for you.
Read more
- Pennsylvania Quality Assurance System (PQAS) hours and Act 48 hours are available for all First Up training.
- Many courses can be tailored to meet the needs of Spanish speaking teachers
- Courses are available for specific age groups
- Training can be paired with coaching delivered at your site for specific classrooms
Email Nancy Nicewonger for help to select training that will be tailored for your staff.>
Methods of Delivery
Instruction is brought to you through a variety of delivery methods in order to meet your needs.
Read more
- In person sessions at a location of your choice (available in most of the Southeast region- Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties)
- A live, virtual session with your staff together at your center and the instructor live through zoom. Staff can gather as a large group or in small teaching teams for this interactive, engaging online session available throughout PA.
- A live, virtual session with staff individually logging into zoom from a location of their choice. This allows your team to be trained together while allowing staff to be home or at another location for more flexibility.
- Virtual training courses are listed on the PD Registry at a pay per person rate, if you need one or two staff members trained on a particular topic. This is great for new staff or an experienced staff member seeking higher level training. See upcoming offerings>