The Halifax Conference on Behavioural, Developmental and Emotional Challenges with Children & Adolescents

Presented by Steven G. Feifer, D.Ed., ABSNP and Peg Dawson, Ed.D., NCSP and Caroline Buzanko, Ph.D., R. Psych

Monday, June 2, 2025 – Wednesday, June 4, 2025 

Join 3 experts as they each present a one-day workshop.

Day One – June 2, 2025

Fostering Social-Emotional Learning Skills for Academic Success Using Brain-Behaviour Relationships

Presented by Steven G. Feifer, D.Ed., ABSNP

Explore the vital connection between brain functioning and social-emotional development to support academic achievement. Dr. Steven Feifer will guide participants through the neuroscience behind SEL, offering practical strategies to nurture emotional regulation, resilience, and executive functioning in students to promote lasting academic success.

Day Two – June 3, 2025

Executive Skill Dysfunction: Understanding and Assessing Challenges in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults

Presented by Peg Dawson, Ed.D., NCSP

Dr. Peg Dawson delves into executive skill challenges that impact learning and daily functioning in youth. Participants will gain a deep understanding of the brain-based roots of executive dysfunction and learn evidence-based tools to assess and support students struggling with planning, organization, impulse control, and more.

Day Three – June 4, 2025

Oppositional, Defiant, and Explosive Behaviours: Transforming Challenges for Long-Term Success

Presented by Caroline Buzanko, Ph.D., R. Psych

Dr. Caroline Buzanko addresses the complexities of managing and transforming oppositional and explosive behaviors in children and adolescents. Through a compassionate and neuroscience-informed lens, she will share strategies to turn daily struggles into opportunities for growth, fostering meaningful, long-term change for students and those who support them.