Professional Development

professional development on PIC's Nature Playground

We are proud to share the work that we do so that more children can have the same high quality learning experiences we offer at PIC!

PIC offers a progressive model of high quality early childhood education. We have a long standing history and dedication to engaging with our colleagues and future colleagues in the early childhood community. 

We have been both a designated 4-stars with Pennsylvania's Keystone STARS program and a NAEYC accredited program for many years. We are well known for our Reggio Emilia inspired environments and practices, and for connecting children with nature both in and outside of the classroom. Our Magic Circle Nature Playground is certified by Nature Explore.

Each year, PIC welcomes many professionals to learn more about what we are doing and gain inspiration for their own classrooms. We welcome educators, administrators, and education students to visit, observe, reflect, and grow with us.

Pre-service Professional Development:

Observations, Practicums and Student Teaching

We are proud to have a long-established relationships with many regional colleges and universities, and are happy to host students in our classrooms. Our teachers are experienced mentors and coaches. Many PIC teachers first learned about PIC when they were students placed in our classrooms.

Please contact Infant/Toddler Program Coordinator, Kharma Hicks at 215-222-5480, ext. 305 or email khicks@parentinfantcenter.org for more information on student placements.

Professional Development for Educators:

Morning Tour followed by Discussion

  • Typically scheduled 10 am - noon
  • Includes tour of program, classroom observation (as requested) and follow -up discussion
  • Customized itinerary based on participant's goals and experiences
  • Rates determined by number of participants and program plan

Day of Study and Reflection

  • Typically scheduled 9 am - 4 pm
  • Includes tour of program, classroom observation time, lunch and reflection time, and discussion facilitated by PIC administrators and educators.
  • Customized itinerary based on participant's goals and experiences
  • Rates determined by number of participants and program plan

In-Service Days

  • Customized in-service day based on goals and experiences
  • Special areas of focus
    • Creating Inspirational Classroom Environments
    • Reggio in Action
    • Nature-based Play
    • Exploring and Learning with Loose Parts
    • Literacy Across the Curriculum
  • Rates determined by number of participants and program plan

Please contact Executive Director at 215-222-5480, ext. 304 or email dgreen@parentinfantcenter.org for more information on professional development for educators.