Children's play experts for Galway talks

HOW important is children's play in the development of future social skills? 'Very important,' according to Patricia Broadhead, Professor of Playful Learning at Leeds Metropolitan University, who will speak at Galway Childcare Committee's Conference on Saturday, December 4. Professor Broadhead, author of Early Years Play and Learning: Developing Social Skills and Cooperation, has undertaken extensive research into how children become sociable and cooperative through play, and how playful learning environments are created. Her latest publication Play and Learning in the Early Years highlights a new area of cooperative play and opportunities for learning through play. Galway Childcare Committee, which is celebrating its tenth anniversary, also welcomes Anne O'Connor, Child Clinical Psychologist and founder of Rollercoaster.ie. Anne will explore how clear communication systems can be created between childcare providers and parents to enhance the child's experience in any childcare setting. With over 20 years' experience, Anne O'Connor has dealt with a diverse range of family-related issues in a practice offering psychological services to young children. Jan Godfrey and Susan McGlone of the Health Service Executive (HSE) will focus on the importance of communicating with parents about sensitive issues and will discuss their recent research in this area. As part of the child protection training being carried out, Galway Childcare Committee in conjunction with the HSE will launch a child protection reporting procedure poster. The poster highlights the 3Cs â€â€ Concern, Contact and Consult. It offers a simple, step-by-step guide for childcare service providers to deal effectively with child protection concerns. 'Communication is the main theme of the conference', said Mary Giblin, Coordinator of Galway Childcare Committee. 'We are delighted to welcome Professor Pat Broadhead, a leading UK child development expert and Anne O'Connor, creator of one of Ireland's most popular websites to share their expertise in a setting that is perfect for networking and exchanging ideas.' Parents, childcare service providers, students and the general public are welcome to register for the conference at a cost of just €10 (including lunch).  Bookings can be made by phoning 091-752039. The conference brochure and booking form can also be accessed at www.galwaychildcare.com.