Successful MNO Early Learning and Child Care Conference showcases the importance of wellness for children and educators
Successful MNO Early Learning and Child Care Conference showcases the importance of wellness for children and educators
The Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) Conference successfully concluded in March, bringing together educators, knowledge holders, and community leaders. The Conference focused on mental health and well-being while highlighting how Métis culture and way of life can be taught in early learning environments.
Held over two days at Niagara-on-the-Lake, the Conference provided a space and opportunity for professionals to exchange ideas, engage in hands-on workshops, and celebrate the importance of Métis-specific early childhood education. The event supports the MNO’s commitment to providing Métis families and children with culturally grounded learning, reinforced by the 2019 Canada-Métis Nation Early Learning and Child Care Accord.
The Conference opened with welcoming remarks from MNO leadership, followed by a presentation from ELCC Program Manager Amanda Pont-Shanks, “How Young Métis Children Learn”, which set the stage for discussions on culturally responsive education.
Keynote speaker Madelaine McCallum moved attendees with her powerful address, “As I Am is Enough,” emphasizing self-acceptance, pride in identity, and embracing one’s vulnerabilities as a source of real strength and power.
Breakout sessions at the Conference explored key themes in Métis early learning, with workshops such as Defining Quality for Métis Early Learning, Self-Regulation in the Outdoors, Ways to Carry a Métis Baby, a walkthrough of the Métis Roots Artifact Museum, and more!
Attendees also supported Métis artisans and entrepreneurs at the Vendor Fair, connected with MNO staff, and took advantage of valuable networking opportunities.
The second day of the Conference opened with an inspiring keynote from Felice Gladue, founder of Métis ALIVE. Through storytelling and humour, Felice captivated the audience with crowd participation and dynamic takes on Métis history, culture and way of life.
PCMNO Huron-Superior Regional Métis Community (Region 4) Councillor Mitch Case, delivered remarks, too, providing a historical perspective with an informative session on the experiences of Métis in Ontario.
The Conference emphasized the importance of play—not just for young learners, but for adults as well. The first evening featured a lively Métis Kitchen Party with jigging, a musical performance by Métis youth, Leo and Tessa Miller, and great food. Attendees balanced learning with fun through hands-on activities like *Strings of Wellness Bingo* and Métis mini-games. A raffle added excitement, with many leaving with new learning tools, ELCC-themed gift baskets, and other prizes—including a grand prize of an all-expenses-paid return to next year’s Conference!
The 2025 Annual ELCC Conference was a reminder that fun and connection are critical aspects of learning—for children and those guiding them. The ELCC Conference had both in ample supply.
Marsii to the organizers for making this year’s Conference a success and to the Educators for their impact on early learners. Congratulations to everyone who earned new Professional Development certificates and took home lasting memories from this exceptional ELCC experience.
