🌟 What I Learned from the CEC Conference

One of the things I truly love about exhibiting at the CEC Conference is the conversations. There is nothing more exciting than when someone walks up and says, “I’ve purchased your kit—we love it! What’s new?” Those moments are easy, energizing, and a reminder that the work we are doing is making a difference.

I also enjoy meeting new educators who stop by—often drawn in by the color and curiosity at the table. As we begin talking and I share why I created The Color-Coded Chef, something shifts. You can see the excitement grow as they start to picture how this could work with their own students. Those conversations are powerful because they open the door to new possibilities.

And yes, I even appreciate the conversations that begin with, “This will never work.” My response is always, “Why?” The answers are honest and real. Sometimes it’s about budget limitations, which we all understand. Other times, it’s about beliefs—when someone has already decided their students may not be able to work or achieve independence. Those are the moments that stay with me. Because with a little more conversation, we often uncover something important: the idea of “impossible” can shift into “I’m possible.” (A quote attributed to Audrey Hepburn, reminding us to see potential where others may not.)

These conversations—easy, curious, and even challenging—are what make CEC so meaningful. They push us to think differently, grow together, and continue finding ways to support students in building real-life skills and independence.

📍 Looking Ahead

I’m already looking forward to next year’s CEC Conference in Columbus, Ohio—will I see you there?

And in the meantime, I would love to hear from you!
✨ What successes are happening in your classroom?
✨ How are your students using these skills?

Please share your stories—we would love to feature your classroom in an upcoming article and celebrate the incredible work you are doing!