2011 Early Childhood Mega Conference

March 10th and 11th

Thursday Opening key note presentation: Colleen and Uncle Squaty

Colleen Hannafin has been a clinician for teacher workshops for the past twenty years. Since 1992, she has written and performed educational recordings with her partner Brian Schellinger. Colleen has also written and taught early childhood music courses at Chippewa Valley Technical College, in Eau Claire, Wisconsin and at satellite sites, as a Continuing Education Instructor. These two 15-hour music courses are entitled "Music/Activities for Infants & Toddlers" and "Music/Activities for Preschoolers". She owns and operates North Side Music in Eau Claire, WI which specializes in recordings and instruments for young children.

Brian "Uncle Squaty" Schellinger has been a national performing musician since 1973. He is recognized as the songwriting and multi-instrumental force behind Colleen & Uncle Squaty recordings. A former teacher of guitar, bass, and harmonica, Brian has instructed scores of young children, many of whom have gone on to be performers and entertainers, in their own right. The lyrics in Brian's songs are understood by children and adults alike, as they draw upon past experiences from childhood and how we now relate to them as adults.

Awards/Noteworthy

• 1998 Parent's Choice Award for "Rumble to the Bottom"
• 1997 Parent's Choice Award for "1, 2, 3, Four-ever Friends"
• 1995 Early Childhood Magazine - Directors Choice Award for "1, 2, 3, Four-ever Friends"
• 1995 "Fingerplay, Movement and Storysongs" recommended by "The Children's Juke Box" American Library Association