Bringing Calm, Confidence, and Connection to the Classroom
Physical and Academic Learning (PALS)
Every classroom has its own rhythm. Between lesson plans, meetings, and daily responsibilities, early childhood educators and directors carry the important work of shaping confident, capable learners. PALS was created to make that work feel more supported and more manageable.
Founded by Vickie Maertz, OTR, OTD, Physical and Academic Learning (PALS) helps early childhood professionals strengthen their programs through hands-on training, intentional planning tools, and research-backed classroom strategies. The goal is simple: to help educators feel equipped, organized, and inspired so children can thrive.
Professional Development That Strengthens Programs
When educators grow, so do the children in their care. PALS provides professional development and early childhood training designed to build confident teachers and strong teams.
Every session focuses on practical tools that directors and educators can use immediately to improve communication, classroom management, and child engagement. Trainings are interactive, meaningful, and rooted in Vickie’s twenty years of experience in occupational therapy and early education.
Programs can choose on-site, virtual, or customized training sessions that fit their team’s needs and schedule. Whether you lead a single center or a large organization, PALS makes professional growth simple and impactful.
Planners That Keep Educators Focused and Inspired
Organization creates calm and clarity. PALS Planners were designed by an educator who understands the unique pace of early childhood programs. Each planner helps teachers plan with intention, manage their time, and bring order to the busy rhythm of each day.
Every layout includes space for lesson planning, meeting notes, compliance tracking, and reflection. The structure is simple and supportive, making it easy to stay focused without feeling overwhelmed.
Centers and organizations can also order custom planners that include their logo or branding. With academic, annual, digital, and printable versions available, PALS Planners bring structure and inspiration to every role in early education.
Why Educators Trust PALS
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Grounded in Child Development
PALS is built on a deep understanding of how sensory processing, emotions, and environment shape a child’s behavior and growth across classroom, home, and community settings.
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Practical and Easy to Apply
Resources and training focus on clear, research-based strategies that educators and directors can use right away to support children and strengthen their programs.
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Designed to Support Educators
Everything PALS offers is created to bring clarity, confidence, and structure to the daily work of early childhood professionals, helping classrooms feel calmer and more connected.
Let’s Connect
Whether you are interested in training, resources, or learning more about how PALS can support your program, I would love to connect.
Reach out with questions, ideas, or to start a conversation about how we can support educators and strengthen learning environments together.