Tri-State Early Childhood Retreat Set for October 3 at Ponca State Park
Early childhood professionals are invited to learn practical, science-based strategies for understanding stress and behavior at the 2026 Tri State Early Childhood Retreat on Saturday, October 3, at Ponca State Park.
This regional event brings together early childhood professionals from Nebraska, Iowa, and South Dakota for a morning of learning, reflection, and connection. This year’s retreat will focus on a message that impacts both the adults who care for children and the children themselves: Understand the Brain. Manage Stress. Change Behavior.
Dr. Alexa Yunes-Koch, stress and behavior specialist and creator of Mondo Method, will lead participants through an interactive learning experience grounded in behavioral neurobiology. Participants will explore why adults respond the way they do when stressed, why children engage in challenging behaviors, and why commonly used interventions may not always produce the desired results.
Most importantly, participants will leave with practical strategies they can use to better navigate stressful situations, respond to challenging behaviors, and create more positive environments for both children and adults.
The retreat will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. at the Ponca State Park Visitor Center. Participants will earn four professional development hours, and registration includes lunch and a park pass. Thanks to generous sponsors, registration is only $30.
Registration is limited to the first 50 professionals and is non-refundable. The registration deadline is September 25. To register visit go.unl.edu/tristate2026.
Investing in early childhood professionals benefits not only the adults doing this important work, but also the children and families they serve. The Tri State Early Childhood Retreat provides an opportunity to step away from the demands of the day, connect with others, and return with new understanding and practical tools.
For more information, contact Nebraska Extension Early Childhood Educator and Tri State Conference Planning Committee member, Jackie Steffen at 402-254-6821.
