Many programs have shifted to hybrid or online teaching models for the foreseeable future. This presents unique opportunities and challenges related to fostering relationships and building community and preparing students for virtual teaching and interactions. This session will open with tools and strategies for cultivating instructor-student and student-student relationships. Significant time will be spent on strategies and opportunities to provide college students with supported practice that will enable them to build meaningful connections with both young children and families. A highlight will be the participation of Marie Kohart, a talented early childhood educator who will share examples of ways in which she builds, sustains, and individualizes relationships in a virtual classroom. Strategies suitable for both synchronous and asynchronous environments will be shared.Presenters: Danielle Savory Seggerson (Lansing Community College, Michigan) and Marie Kohart (University of Kansas, Kansas)