
Schedule of Events

Standing in the Rain Child Care Expo Itinerary
Exhibitor Room (Large Room)
Event Theme: "We can’t stop the rain, but we can stand in it with you!"
Date: April 5, 2025
Location: Mobile Convention Center
Host: Malcolm T Banks
Speakers: Melody A Patterson and Dr. Norma Mobley
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11:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Registration and Welcome
- Guests arrive and check-in.
- Pick up event programs and materials.
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11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Parade of Hidden Disabilities
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All participants line up at the escalator
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12:00 PM – 12:15 PM: Welcome and Introduction
- Host: Malcolm T Banks
- Welcome attendees.
- Overview of the day’s schedule and key topics.
- Acknowledge sponsors and partners.
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12:20 PM – 12:45 PM: Keynote Speaker
- Speaker 1: Melody A. Patterson
- Topic: "The Importance of Inclusiveness inside the Early Childcare Settings
- Q&A session (10 minutes).
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12:50 PM – 1:50 PM: Break and Networking
- Exhibitor Sessions are Open
- Explore exhibitor booths and connect with childcare professionals.
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2:00 PM – 2:45 PM: Keynote Speaker 2
- Speaker 2: Dr. Norma Mobley
- Topic: Innovation in Autism
- Q&A session (10 minutes).
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2:50 PM – 3:30 PM: Panel Discussion with Host and Speakers
- Host: Moderates the discussion.
- Topics: Challenges and solutions in childcare, innovative teaching strategies, and audience-submitted questions.
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3:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Closing Remarks and Thank You
- Host: Malcolm T Banks
- Recap of the day’s key takeaways.
- Thank speakers, sponsors, and attendees.
- Announce upcoming events or initiatives.
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4:00 PM – 5:00pm: Networking and Expo Booths
- Final opportunity to connect with exhibitors and peers before the event concludes.
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Breakout Session Room 1 – Teacher Training Sessions
12:50 PM – 1:50 PM: Katasha Hughes, Fine Motor Training
- Breakout workshops or hands-on activities facilitated by UCP
2:00 PM – 2:50PM: Alicia Richardson, Alabama 5
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Breakout workshop or hands on activities facilitated by Alicia Richardson
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Karen Morrison, USA’s CEP
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Breakout workshop or hands on activities facilitated by Karen Morrison
Breakout Room 2: Lifeline Counseling Services
12:50 PM to 4:00 PM: Developmental Testing
Breakout Room 3: Franklin Primary
12:50 PM to 4:00 PM – Hearing and Vision Screening
Breakout Room 4: Safe Space (Calm Down Area) Sensory Filled Room
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Volunteer rotates in/out hourly
Breakout Room 5: Sponsor/Vendor Rooms
11:00 AM – 4:00 PM