Northumberland County Early Years Services is partnering with community organizations to host a regional event aimed at building awareness and understanding around bullying among young children.
The free gathering, scheduled for Saturday February 28 at the Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn & Convention Centre, will bring together families, educators, early years professionals and residents from across the county.
According to organizers, the morning will feature a keynote presentation from Susan Hopkins of The MEHRIT Centre. The talk will examine behaviour and bullying through the Shanker Self Reg framework, offering insight into how children understand emotions and how adults can encourage empathy and resilience.
Pink Shirt Day is recognized annually across Canada as a way to promote kindness and inclusion. This year’s theme, Sprinkle Kindness, encourages small but meaningful actions that help create welcoming spaces at school, at home and in the broader community.
Following the presentation, participants will be able to ask questions and join a facilitated discussion. A light lunch will be served, and childminding will be available for those who register in advance.
The initiative is being delivered with support from local school boards, including Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board and Peterborough Victoria Northumberland and Clarington Catholic District School Board.
Organizers say the goal is to provide practical tools while reinforcing the importance of compassion at an early age.
Registration details are available at Northumberland.ca/PinkShirtDay.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
