The Connected Classroom Workshop is coming Oct 4th, 2026!

Who we are...

The Connected Classroom was created by a Teacher, Educational Assistant, Registered Early Childhood Educator, and and Registered Psychotherapist with a specialization in Child-Centered Play Therapy (CCPT), who were united around a shared concern:

Children and teachers need more support for their mental health and well-being in the classroom

By bringing our different experiences together, we aim to equip educators with practical knowledge and skills that directly connects with children’s emotional needs while also recognizing the importance of educator mental health and self-care.

Meet The Team

Claire Toupin-Gris, OCT

Claire is a seasoned elementary school teacher and lifelong learner with more than 25 years of experience in education. Passionate about supporting the whole child, she is committed to blending her extensive classroom experience with current research and evidence-informed practices to create more connected, supportive learning environments.The Connected Classroom began with Claire’s deep care for both children and the teachers who support them every day. Recognizing the importance of equipping educators with the knowledge, tools, and support they need to foster meaningful relationships in the classroom, Claire took the initiative to bring people together around a shared vision. Through her outreach and collaboration, she connected the educators and professionals whose collective expertise has grown into what is now The Connected Classroom.Claire believes that supporting children begins with supporting the adults who care for them. She is passionate about the importance of self-awareness, well-being, and personal growth, and believes that when educators have the opportunity to care for themselves and deepen their understanding of their own experiences, they are better able to connect with, understand, and support their students.

Carolina Alvarez RP, CCPT

Carolina is a Registered Psychotherapist and Certified Child-Centered Play Therapist specializing in early childhood mental health, attachment, and child-centered therapeutic practice. As the Clinical Director at Anchor Child Therapy, Carolina supports children and families in developing stronger relationships and greater emotional well-being.Carolina brings a clinical perspective to The Connected Classroom, with a particular interest in helping educators understand the emotional and relational needs underlying children’s behaviour. Her work is grounded in attachment theory, child development, and evidence-informed play therapy practices, with a focus on creating environments where children feel safe, understood, connected, and supported.She is passionate about bridging the gap between mental health and education and believes that meaningful change happens when the adults surrounding a child are equipped with a deeper understanding of connection, regulation, and relationship. Through the Connected Classroom, Carolina brings her clinical experience into conversation with educators, helping translate therapeutic principles into practical strategies that can be integrated into everyday classroom life.

Linda Rodgers, EA

Linda brings years of experience working as an Educational Assistant, giving her a unique perspective on the everyday experiences, challenges, and relationships within the classroom. Her passion for understanding children and supporting meaningful connections led her to write Embrace Your Spark: A Guide to Emotional and Relational Intelligence for the Classroom.Linda believes that when educators understand the emotional and relational needs behind children’s behaviour, they can respond with greater confidence, compassion, and connection.

Carole Franco, RECE

Carole brings many years of experience as a Registered Early Childhood Educator (RECE), with a deep understanding of children’s development, relationships, and the importance of creating supportive environments where children can thrive.Carole is also a Reiki Master Teacher and Sound Healing Practitioner, bringing a holistic perspective to wellness, mindfulness, and self-care.Through her experience and passion for supporting both children and educators, Carole is committed to helping bring greater awareness of mental health, well-being, and connection into the classroom.

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