Therapro proudly participated as an exhibitor at the 18th Annual Great Beginnings Conference, hosted by Criterion Child Enrichment on October 24, 2015, in Worcester, MA. This highly regarded event attracted professionals from early intervention, early childhood education, pediatric healthcare, and family support services. The conference theme—“Culture: Yours, Mine, and Ours”—highlighted the importance of understanding and integrating cultural perspectives into care for children and families.
At the Great Beginnings Conference, workshops featured expert presentations from professionals across disciplines, including a physician, speech-language pathologist, attorneys, and an educator. Topics ranged from the role of personal belief systems in clinical and educational settings, to best practices for using interpreters and cultural mediators, immigration-related challenges, and the impact of culture on early language development and second language acquisition. These sessions reinforced the need for culturally responsive practices in early childhood settings.
As part of the event, Therapro showcased a wide variety of therapy tools and educational products that support children’s development. Attendees had the opportunity to explore popular favorites such as the Push Pull Puzzle, Talk It Rock It CDs, and the Baby Buzz’r, along with new and innovative products like the Lollacup, Fills and Spills Fishbowl, and the Chewy Skool Kid Stretchy Pendant. Visitors appreciated the opportunity to test out materials that could immediately benefit their clients, students, or children.
The Great Beginnings Conference serves as a powerful reminder that culture plays a crucial role in how services are delivered and received. Criterion Child Enrichment is to be commended for fostering a professional learning environment that encourages dialogue, reflection, and growth.
Therapro remains committed to supporting professionals who help families thrive through culturally informed, evidence-based practice.
Filomena Connor, MS, OTR/L