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On May 8, hundreds of early years and child care professionals from across Renfrew County, along with Ministry of Education and Community Services staff, gathered at the Petawawa Civic Centre for the 13th annual May Day, a full day of connection, recognition, and professional learning. The morning session featured Erin Curtis, Director and Caregiver Educator at Dragonfly Family and Learning Services, who spoke on “Understanding Autism, ADHD, and Functions of Behaviour.”
More than 500 take part in full day of connection, recognition and professional learning
RELEASE DATE:
May 8, 2026
The County of Renfrew’s Community Services Department welcomed early years and child care professionals from across the region to the 13th Annual May Day Early Years and Child Care Conference at the Petawawa Civic Centre on Friday, May 8, 2026.
This annual event brings together approximately 550 educators, home child care providers, EarlyON professionals, Early Childhood Education students, Ministry of Education and Community Services staff for a full day of connection, recognition, and professional learning.
“May Day is an opportunity to come together as a sector to recognize the incredible work happening every day in our communities. It is also a time to invest in the people who are at the heart of supporting children and families during some of the most important years of development,” said County of Renfrew Warden Jennifer Murphy.
The morning session featured Erin Curtis, who spoke on “Understanding Autism, ADHD, and Functions of Behaviour.” Ms. Curtis, Director and Parent Educator at Dragonfly Family and Learning Services, brings years of experience supporting neurodivergent children and families.
The afternoon session featured Michelle Hillier, founder of Breath & Fire, presenting “Awaken Your Flame.” Ms. Hillier’s work blends mindfulness, resilience-building, and reflective practice to help professionals reconnect with their passion and purpose. Her session provided practical strategies for sustaining energy, enhancing well‑being, and nurturing the emotional strength needed to thrive in the early years and child care field.
The event also celebrated the incredible contributions of local early years and child care professionals, with awards recognizing leadership, dedication, and innovation across the sector. These awards acknowledged the outstanding impact individuals and teams have made in supporting children, families, and the broader Renfrew County community.
As the Service System Manager for child care and early years, the County of Renfrew plays a key role in supporting a strong, accessible, and high-quality system for children and families. Events like May Day reflect an ongoing commitment to strengthening the workforce and fostering collaboration across the sector.
“The early years workforce plays a critical role not only in supporting children and families, but in building strong, healthy communities. This event is an important way to recognize that impact and to show our appreciation for the dedication and professionalism of those working in the field,” added Councillor Anne Giardini, Chair of the County’s Community Services Committee.
In addition to recognition and professional learning, the event reflects the sector’s ongoing commitment to community care. Each year, attendees are invited to bring donations in support of a local organization. In 2026, contributions will be directed to the Renfrew County Mesa HART Hub, supporting individuals and families in need across the region.
FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:
Andrea Patrick Director, Community Services 613-732-2601
Tina Peplinskie Media Relations Coordinator 613-735-7288
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