Dianne Patterson is a National Early Childhood consultant specializing in emergent literacy and developmentally appropriate practices. She earned an undergraduate degree in Speech and Language, a master’s degree in early childhood education and focused on child development for post graduate studies. Dianne studied corporate childcare in Scandinavian countries to further her education. Her experience in the classroom spans early childhood special needs, Prekindergarten, Head Start, Kindergarten, primary grades and adult education. She worked as a national early childhood consultant for over 30 years. Dianne is a trainer of trainers and brings her skills alive with interactive presentations. She has presented across Canada and the United States at state, regional, and national conferences focusing on intentional teaching and literacy acquisition. Dianne is a Past President of Kindergarten Teachers of Texas. She authored science and literacy curriculum for English Language Learners, family engagement support, supplemental literacy curriculum, and the literacy instruction in a comprehensive curriculum. Her favorite things are reading and children – especially her four grandchildren!