The 2025 U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) Conference brings together leaders in special education and early intervention to strengthen how systems support children and families. This year’s focus includes implementing evidence-based practices, improving collaboration and evaluation, building a strong workforce, expanding school choice, and supporting smooth transitions across services. Attendees will explore practical strategies to create more effective, coordinated, and inclusive systems.
The Best Early Childhood Conferences of 2025
5 Reasons to Attend Early Childhood Conferences
We asked experts for their top early childhood conferences, and here are the ones that stood out.
Professionals dedicated to early childhood development, education, and mental health can choose from a robust lineup of conferences and events to further their professional development.
Attending early childhood conferences is important for staying updated with research, methods, policies, and networking with peers.
Early childhood conferences unite educators, clinicians, researchers, and policymakers aiming to enhance early child development.
October 8-9, 2025 - Baltimore, MD
The ZERO TO THREE LEARN Conference is renowned for its focus on the comprehensive development of infants and toddlers. This early childhood development conference brings together professionals from various disciplines to share knowledge, research and best practices in early childhood mental health, development and learning.
ZERO TO THREE’s conference boasts dozens of sessions on early childhood topics you won’t find anywhere else. Early bird pricing enables attendees to save hundreds by registering in advance.
Woodberry Kitchen: Enjoy farm-to-table American cuisine in a rustic, restored foundry. Their wood-fired flatbreads and sustainable seafood dishes are a must-try.
The Food Market: Savor innovative comfort food in a chic, industrial space. Their “Duck Fat Fries” and “Short Rib Grilled Cheese” are crowd favorites.
Thames Street Oyster House: Indulge in fresh seafood with a focus on New England and Chesapeake Bay classics, all in a charming, historic rowhouse setting.
Miss Shirley’s Café: Delight in Southern-inspired breakfast and brunch fare, renowned for their “Crab Cake & Fried Green Tomato Eggs Benedict” in a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere.
Ekiben: Experience Asian fusion street food, famous for their “Neighborhood Bird” (a Taiwanese curry fried chicken sandwich) served in a trendy, casual environment.
Inner Harbor: Explore the bustling waterfront, featuring the National Aquarium, historic ships, and vibrant shops and restaurants, perfect for a day of family fun and adventure.
Fell’s Point: Wander through this charming, cobblestone neighborhood, known for its lively pubs, eclectic boutiques, and scenic waterfront views.
Fort McHenry: Step back in time at this historic site where the Star-Spangled Banner was born, complete with reenactments, scenic walking trails, and a museum.
Baltimore Museum of Art: Immerse yourself in a world-class collection of art, from ancient to contemporary, including an impressive selection of works by Matisse, all within a beautiful Beaux-Arts building.
Maryland Science Center: Engage in hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and an IMAX theater, making it a perfect destination for curious minds of all ages looking for educational fun.
April 24-26, 2025 - Lake Buena Vista, FL
The AELL Annual National Conference, “How Successful Directors Lead,” is the premier event tailored for early learning administrators. It offers over 35 educational sessions on leadership, administration, finance, marketing, legal matters, and program quality, all presented by national experts.
Disney Springs: Explore this vibrant entertainment complex featuring shopping, dining, live entertainment, and unique attractions like the Coca-Cola Store and Aerophile, the world’s largest hand-painted helium balloon.
Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets: Shop till you drop at this upscale outlet mall, offering a wide range of designer and brand-name stores with fantastic deals and discounts.
Lake Buena Vista Watersports: Enjoy a day on the water with activities like jet skiing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and boat rentals on the beautiful Lake Bryan.
Airboat Rides at Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures: Experience the thrill of gliding across the water on an airboat tour, exploring the natural beauty and wildlife of the Florida Everglades.
Hawks Landing Golf Club: Play a round of golf on this beautifully designed championship course, offering scenic views and a challenging experience for golfers of all skill levels.
May 4-7, 2025 | Arlington, VA
This early childhood education conference brings together innovative thought leaders in child care to approach problems with exciting solutions.
Stay tuned for updates on the 2025 Symposium.
Ruthie’s All-Day: Indulge in Southern comfort food with dishes like fried chicken biscuits and apple-pie pancakes in a cheery setting with vintage touches and a spacious patio.
Ambar Clarendon: Experience modern Balkan cuisine with a variety of small plates and an extensive selection of rakia, all in a vibrant atmosphere.
Café Colline: Enjoy traditional French fare such as escargot and roast chicken in a charming bistro setting with warm leather seating and antique mirrors.
The Salt Line: Savor New England-inspired seafood dishes like rockfish tartare and crispy-skinned trout on a patio offering views of the D.C. skyline.
Mussel Bar & Grille: Delight in Belgian-inspired cuisine, including mussels in flavorful sauces and an extensive selection of craft beers, in a casual, contemporary setting.
Arlington National Cemetery: Visit iconic sites like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and JFK’s eternal flame.
Theodore Roosevelt Island: Enjoy peaceful trails and a memorial dedicated to the 26th President.
Mount Vernon Trail: Bike or walk this scenic path with views of the Potomac and D.C. monuments.
Gravelly Point Park: Watch planes soar overhead and take in stunning views of the D.C. skyline.
Arlington Historical Museum: Discover Arlington’s rich history in the historic Hume School building.
May 19-22, 2025 | Columbus, OH
Organized by the National Head Start Association (NHSA), this event is a key platform for Head Start and Early Head Start communities to discuss innovations and challenges in early childhood education.
- The Thurman Cafe: Indulge in oversized, delicious burgers in a quirky, casual setting.
- Hot Chicken Takeover: Enjoy spicy, Nashville-style hot chicken served in a vibrant, fast-casual atmosphere.
- Melt Bar and Grilled: Savor creative, gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches in a fun, eclectic environment.
- Mikey’s Late Night Slice: Relish inventive and delicious pizza in a laid-back, funky setting.
- Dirty Frank’s Hot Dog Palace: Delight in unique and loaded hot dogs in a lively, retro-themed restaurant.
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens: Wander through lush indoor and outdoor gardens, showcasing exotic plants and seasonal exhibits.
- German Village: Explore this historic neighborhood with charming brick streets, unique shops, and delicious eateries.
- COSI (Center of Science and Industry): Engage with interactive science exhibits and educational displays suitable for all ages.
- North Market: Savor a diverse array of foods from local vendors in this bustling public market.
- Scioto Mile: Stroll along this scenic urban oasis featuring parks, fountains, and trails along the Scioto River.
- Ambar: Dive into modern Balkan cuisine with an all-you-can-eat small plates menu in a lively, stylish setting.
- Liberty Tavern: Enjoy classic American comfort food with a seasonal twist in a cozy, welcoming neighborhood tavern.
- Mele Bistro: Savor Mediterranean-inspired dishes with bold flavors and fresh ingredients in a charming, casual atmosphere.
- Ramen-san: Slurp flavorful ramen and enjoy Japanese small plates in a hip, upbeat space with great cocktails.
- The Salt Line – Ballston: Feast on New England-style seafood with a modern edge in a sleek, nautical-themed spot with outdoor seating.
- Gravelly Point Park: Watch planes fly just overhead while enjoying a picnic or bike ride along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail.
- The Observation Deck at CEB Tower: Take in panoramic views of the D.C. skyline from 31 stories up, with interactive exhibits and photo ops.
- Arlington National Cemetery Tram Tour: Discover the rich history of this iconic site with a guided tram ride highlighting key landmarks and stories.
- The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City: Shop top brands and discover pop-up experiences in a bustling indoor mall with plenty of dining options.
- Long Bridge Park: Stroll through modern green space with walking trails, sports fields, and views of planes, trains, and monuments—all in one spot.
October 7-10, 2025 – Portland, Oregon
The DEC Conference is a key gathering for professionals in early childhood special education and early intervention. This early childhood conference an opportunity to discuss the latest research, policies, and practices that support the optimal development of young children with special needs.
Hat Yai: Savor Southern Thai specialties like crispy fried chicken and flaky roti in a casual, vibrant setting.
Eem: Experience a fusion of Thai barbecue and inventive cocktails, offering dishes like smoked brisket curry in a lively atmosphere.
Gado Gado: Delight in modern Indonesian cuisine with a creative twist, featuring a family-style “Rice Table” feast in a colorful, eclectic space.
Lovely’s Fifty Fifty: Enjoy wood-fired pizzas topped with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, complemented by house-made ice cream in a cozy, rustic environment.
Canard: Indulge in French-inspired small plates and innovative cocktails, with popular items like the “Duck Stack” pancakes, all served in a chic, bustling setting.
Portland Japanese Garden: Experience tranquility in this meticulously maintained garden, featuring traditional Japanese landscaping, a teahouse, and serene walking paths.
Powell’s City of Books: Explore the world’s largest independent bookstore, occupying an entire city block with over a million books, including rare and out-of-print titles.
International Rose Test Garden: Stroll through a garden showcasing over 10,000 rose bushes of approximately 650 varieties, offering stunning views of the city skyline and Mount Hood.
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI): Engage with interactive exhibits on science and technology, watch films in the Empirical Theater, and tour the USS Blueback submarine.
Forest Park: Hike or bike through one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., offering over 80 miles of trails amidst lush greenery and native wildlife.
October 23-25, 2025 - Orlando, FL
For over 25 years, Conscious Discipline has been equipping education professionals with tried-and-tested tools for transforming these struggles into opportunities for growth. Elevate Conscious Discipline: Embrace Possibilities is designed to help attendees harness their own self-regulation and compassion to bring positive, lasting change to their schools and classroom.
Better Than Sex: Indulge in decadent desserts and intimate ambiance at this unique spot in Ivanhoe Village, known for its suggestive sweet treats and chocolate-dipped wine glasses.
The Ravenous Pig: Enjoy a gastropub experience in Winter Park, offering a seasonal menu with dishes like shrimp and grits and a selection of craft beers brewed on-site.
Teak Neighborhood Grill: Savor gourmet burgers and a wide array of craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere, featuring creative options like the “Donut Burger.”
Café Tu Tu Tango: Experience a vibrant setting with eclectic small plates, live entertainment, and local art displays, making it a lively spot for groups.
Yard House: Explore an extensive menu of American fare and an impressive selection of draft beers in a casual, energetic environment.
Theme Parks: Explore world-famous parks like Universal Orlando Resort, featuring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Walt Disney World, home to iconic attractions and magical experiences.
ICON Park: Enjoy The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel, plus Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and a variety of dining options.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Discover space exploration, meet astronauts, and witness a rocket launch just an hour from Orlando.
Lake Eola Park: Relax in this downtown oasis with swan boat rentals, walking trails, and beautiful views of the Orlando skyline.
Harry P. Leu Gardens: Wander through 50 acres of tropical plants, butterfly habitats, and picturesque walking paths.
October 24-26, 2025 - Atlanta, GA
This event brings together a vibrant community of educators, advocates, policymakers and parents to elevate the awareness of the unique needs and strengths of Black children and families and disseminate culturally relevant research and practices. It invites early childhood professionals to think critically and collaboratively about the systems and supports that shape children’s lives.
- Georgia Aquarium: Explore one of the world’s largest aquariums, home to thousands of species including whale sharks and beluga whales in massive, immersive exhibits.
- Atlanta Botanical Garden: Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, including the Canopy Walk, Japanese Garden, and seasonal displays in the heart of Midtown.
- Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park: Pay homage to the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at his childhood home, church, and the King Center.
- Ponce City Market: Dive into Atlanta’s culinary and shopping scene in this historic building, featuring a rooftop amusement park and a wide array of eateries and shops.
- The BeltLine: Experience Atlanta’s urban revitalization on foot or by bike along this multi-use trail, connecting parks and neighborhoods with art installations and green spaces.
November 19-22, 2025 – Orlando, FL
The NAEYC Annual Conference offers attendees a comprehensive program of research-based and practical sessions focused on early learning practices, innovations and research. ZERO TO THREE has been a long-time partner of NAEYC and we enjoy presenting, exhibiting and networking at this early care and education conference.
Better Than Sex: Indulge in decadent desserts and intimate ambiance at this unique spot in Ivanhoe Village, known for its suggestive sweet treats and chocolate-dipped wine glasses.
The Ravenous Pig: Enjoy a gastropub experience in Winter Park, offering a seasonal menu with dishes like shrimp and grits and a selection of craft beers brewed on-site.
Teak Neighborhood Grill: Savor gourmet burgers and a wide array of craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere, featuring creative options like the “Donut Burger.”
Café Tu Tu Tango: Experience a vibrant setting with eclectic small plates, live entertainment, and local art displays, making it a lively spot for groups.
Yard House: Explore an extensive menu of American fare and an impressive selection of draft beers in a casual, energetic environment.
Theme Parks: Explore world-famous parks like Universal Orlando Resort, featuring The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Walt Disney World, home to iconic attractions and magical experiences.
ICON Park: Enjoy The Wheel, a 400-foot observation wheel, plus Madame Tussauds, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and a variety of dining options.
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex: Discover space exploration, meet astronauts, and witness a rocket launch just an hour from Orlando.
Lake Eola Park: Relax in this downtown oasis with swan boat rentals, walking trails, and beautiful views of the Orlando skyline.
Harry P. Leu Gardens: Wander through 50 acres of tropical plants, butterfly habitats, and picturesque walking paths.
October 2-6, 2026 – Toronto, Canada
This important global conference is about the mental health and growth of babies and young children. Experts from all over the world will talk about the newest research, treatments, and policies in infant mental health.
Several of ZERO TO THREE’s staff have attended and presented with WAIMH and attest to the many benefits of networking and learning alongside global infant mental health colleagues.
The Rec Room: Enjoy a variety of comfort food options like burgers, poutine, and tacos in a vibrant entertainment complex that features arcade games, live music, and virtual reality experiences.
El Catrin: Savor modern Mexican cuisine in a lively, artsy setting with a stunning mural and heated patio. Don’t miss their “Tacos al Pastor” and extensive tequila selection.
Miku Toronto: Experience high-end Japanese cuisine with a focus on Aburi (sear-flamed) sushi, offering stunning waterfront views and a chic, contemporary ambiance.
Amsterdam BrewHouse: Feast on hearty pub fare like beer-battered fish and chips and house-smoked BBQ while enjoying craft beers brewed on-site and a scenic lakefront patio.
Rasta Pasta: Delight in a unique fusion of Italian and Jamaican flavors, featuring dishes like “Jerk Chicken Alfredo” and “Oxtail Ragu,” served in a cozy and colorful atmosphere.
CN Tower: Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck, or for the adventurous, try the EdgeWalk, a thrilling hands-free walk around the tower’s exterior ledge.
Royal Ontario Museum (ROM): Explore one of the largest museums in North America, featuring fascinating exhibits on natural history, world cultures, and art, including dinosaur skeletons and ancient artifacts.
St. Lawrence Market: Discover a food lover’s paradise with a variety of vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and international delicacies.
Toronto Islands: Take a ferry ride to these picturesque islands just off the city’s shore, offering beautiful beaches, bike rentals, picnic spots, and stunning views of the Toronto skyline.
Distillery District: Wander through this historic district known for its cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, art galleries, and an array of dining options.
Save the dates!
October 28-29, 2026 - Portland, OR
November 2-3, 2027 - Washington, DC
Mark your calendars now to join thousands of early childhood professionals for our future gatherings focused on the development, mental health and well-being of infants and toddlers.
Whether you work in health, mental health, early education, child welfare or policy—LEARN is where disciplines meet, ideas connect, and practical strategies take shape.
✔ Dozens of sessions you won’t find anywhere else
✔ Leading voices in infant and toddler development
✔ Real-world insights rooted in the latest research
✔ Opportunities to connect across fields and systems
More information coming soon!
More information coming soon!
December 5-8, 2026 – Washington, DC
The NAEYC Annual Conference offers a rich mix of research-based and practical sessions focused on early learning, innovation and evidence-based practices. ZERO TO THREE is proud to be a long-time partner and looks forward to contributing through presentations, exhibits and meaningful connections with early childhood professionals from across the country.
More information coming soon!
More information coming soon!
It's time to make early childhood professional develoment a priority
Attending early childhood conferences is an investment in your future and the children and families you serve.
Each of these early childhood conferences offer opportunities for professional growth, networking, and access to the latest in the field of early childhood education, development, and mental health. These events not only help professionals earn continuing education credits (CEUs), they also highlight innovative research and practices and encourage collaboration among professionals.
Whether your focus is on classroom teaching, mental health, policy, or leveraging technology for learning, attending these conferences can significantly impact your professional development and the lives of the children you serve.
