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Having Brave Conversations with School Age Children About Truth and Reconciliation - Speaker Series for Before and After School Educators

Intended For: Before and After School Educators

Date: Oct 30, 2025

Time: 09:30 AM - 11:00 AM

Fee: FREE


Current Availability: 0

Description

Children ask big questions. This session will support educators in having age-appropriate, respectful, and honest conversations with school age children about Indigenous Peoples, Truth & Reconciliation, treaties, and current issues. Participants will receive conversation starters, resource lists, and creative activities that use books, art, and play as entry points for dialogue. 

This event is part of a monthly series, with new topics and subject matter experts featured each month.
Our October sessions take place every Thursday from 9:30–11:00 AM on the following dates: October 9, 16, 23, and 30. Each session is independent and requires separate registration.
Participants are welcome to attend one, several, or all session, but must register for each date individually.

Presenters:

Kristin Tyrer is Ililiwiskwew, a Cree woman from Moose Cree First Nation, who currently resides in Brantford, ON. Kristin has her Honours Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Nipissing University and a Bachelor of Arts in Aboriginal Adult Education from Brock University . Currently Kristin works as an Indigenous Learning Consultant for the Centre for Indigenous Professional Learning. She also has experience working with Niwasa Kendaaswin Teg as a cultural safety resource developer/facilitator. Additionally, she has spent the past fifteen years working within the Indigenous Community of Hamilton in various roles. Her passion for the revitalization of traditional Indigenous practices has driven her desire to support the Indigenous community. Indigenous Ceremony is an integral part of Kristin’s life. Walking the path in a good way, healing and integrating the teachings of her Elders is how Kristin dedicates her commitment to this work in supporting others.   

Shannon Murphy, a member of the Mohawk Bear Clan from Six Nations with Irish heritage, currently resides in the ancestral lands of the Haudenosaunee, Niagara Falls, with her family. She holds a diploma in Early Childhood Education from Mohawk College and boasts over two decades of experience in community engagement and leadership.  With a deep-seated commitment to advocacy and fostering healing and wellness within Indigenous communities. Her extensive background encompasses advocacy, early learning and development, human resource management strategies, and capacity building across Indigenous and mainstream services.  Embracing a philosophy of reciprocity, Shannon actively contributes to a multitude of initiatives at the local, provincial, and national levels, aiming to raise awareness of Indigenous worldviews and promote the betterment of Indigenous communities. 

Session Objective

Toronto Children's Services is hosting a monthly virtual speaker series designed for educators working in before and after school programs. Each month features subject matter experts who will guide us through critical conversations and practical strategies to cultivating belonging and help create inclusive environments where every child feels seen, heard, and valued.

Location: Online

Standards of practice

  • Caring and Responsive Relationships
  • Curriculum and Pedagogy
  • Safety, Health, and Well-Being in the Learning Environment
  • Professionalism and Leadership

Presented By: Shanice Denton (RECE),