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.
The Best Early Childhood Conferences of 2026
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. And earning early childhood CEUs!
Early childhood conferences unite educators, clinicians, researchers, and policymakers aiming to enhance early child development.
October 28-29, 2026 | Portland, OR
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.
- Screen Door: Savor Southern comfort food made with local Northwest ingredients. Crowd favorites include the “Chicken & Waffles” and “Shrimp and Grits”.
- Nong’s Khao Man Gai: Enjoy the famous Thai-style poached chicken and rice served in a minimalist spot with big flavor. Try the signature “Khao Man Gai” with their house-made sauce.
- Pine Street Market: Taste your way through this lively food hall featuring local favorites like “Marukin Ramen” and “Killer Burger” under one roof.
- Grassa: Dive into handmade pasta dishes served in a casual, modern setting. Fan favorites include the “Cacio e Pepe” and “Carbonara”.
- Le Pigeon: Dine on French-inspired cuisine with a Portland twist in an intimate, eclectic space. Don’t miss the “Beef Cheek Bourguignon” and “Foie Gras Profiteroles”.
- Powell’s City of Books: Get lost in the world’s largest independent bookstore—an iconic Portland experience with nine color-coded rooms.
- Portland Japanese Garden: Wander through serene, landscaped gardens offering a peaceful retreat and beautiful views of Mt. Hood.
- Voodoo Doughnut: Snap a pic and taste quirky creations like the “Bacon Maple Bar” and “Voodoo Doll” at this cult-favorite doughnut shop.
- Forest Park: Hike or bike over 80 miles of trails in one of the largest urban forests in the U.S., just minutes from downtown.
- OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science and Industry): Explore hands-on exhibits, a planetarium, and a real submarine at this interactive science museum for all ages.
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.
March 11-14, 2026 | Salt Lake City, UT
The CEC Convention & Expo is an annual gathering of educators, researchers, and specialists focused on special education. The conference includes sessions on a wide range of topics, including early childhood special education, and serves as a space for sharing research, practices, and resources. It’s considered a key early childhood conference for professionals working across the special education field.
Red Iguana: Dig into flavorful, authentic Mexican food—especially their famous house-made mole—in a casual, bustling space.
Pago: Enjoy seasonal, farm-to-table New American cuisine in an intimate, neighborhood setting with a strong local wine list.
Ruth’s Diner: Savor comfort food classics in a historic trolley car setting at the mouth of Emigration Canyon—don’t skip the mile-high biscuits.
Takashi: Experience refined sushi and Japanese small plates in a sleek, modern space beloved by locals.
Pretty Bird: Try Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches with serious heat and crispy perfection in a fast-casual setting.
Temple Square: Explore beautifully landscaped grounds, historic buildings, and visitor exhibits in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City.
Natural History Museum of Utah: Discover stunning exhibits on dinosaurs, native cultures, and Utah’s unique ecosystems—all housed in a striking modern building.
Antelope Island State Park: Hike, bike, or watch bison roam this scenic island in the Great Salt Lake—just a short drive from the city.
The Leonardo Museum: Engage with hands-on exhibits that blend science, technology, and creativity in a dynamic, family-friendly space.
Liberty Park: Spend time outdoors at one of the city’s largest parks with trails, paddle boats, playgrounds, and the Tracy Aviary right on-site.
April 14-17, 2026 | Reno, NV
The AELL Annual National Conference, 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.
- Animal Ark: Visit this wildlife sanctuary to see cheetahs, wolves, and bears up close in a natural, family-friendly setting.
- Midtown Mural Tour: Explore Reno’s vibrant art scene with a self-guided walking tour of over 80 colorful street murals in Midtown.
- Wilbur D. May Center: Discover rare artifacts, exotic animals, and lush gardens in this eclectic museum and arboretum at Rancho San Rafael Park.
- The Basement: Shop local makers, sip coffee, and explore unique boutiques in a repurposed 1930s post office turned underground marketplace.
- Reno Axe: Channel your inner lumberjack with axe throwing, arcade games, and local beer in a fun, high-energy venue downtown.
May 4-7, 2026 | Minneapolis, MN
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.
- Matt’s Bar: Bite into the original “Jucy Lucy” — a cheese-stuffed burger that’s a Minneapolis classic — served in a no-frills, retro tavern setting.
- Hell’s Kitchen: Dig into bold brunches and comfort food favorites in a quirky underground restaurant. Top picks include the “Lemon Ricotta Hotcakes” and “Mahogany-Glazed Pork Belly”.
- Hola Arepa: Enjoy vibrant Latin street food and cocktails on a lively patio. Try the “Braised Beef Arepa” and “Elote Arepa” for bold, fresh flavors.
- Pizzeria Lola: Savor artisan wood-fired pizzas in a cozy, artsy space. Fan favorites include the “Lady Zaza” and “My Sha-Roni!” pies.
- Betty Danger’s Country Club: Dine on Tex-Mex dishes in a delightfully kitschy setting with a Ferris wheel bar. Don’t miss the “Nacho Daddy” and margaritas with a view.
- Minnehaha Falls Park: Hike, picnic, or just admire the scenic 53-foot waterfall in this beloved urban park.
- Walker Art Center & Sculpture Garden: Stroll through modern art exhibits and snap a photo with the iconic “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture.
- Mall of America: Shop over 500 stores, ride indoor roller coasters, and explore attractions like SEA LIFE Aquarium—all under one roof.
- Chain of Lakes: Rent a kayak, bike the trails, or just relax along the city’s scenic chain of urban lakes.
- Can Can Wonderland: Putt your way through an artist-designed mini golf course, sip creative cocktails, and enjoy arcade games in this offbeat entertainment hub.
May 27-30, 2026 | Schaumburg, IL
Hosted by the McCormick Institute for Early Childhood, Leadership Connections™ is a national conference for leaders and decision-makers in early childhood education. It offers early childhood training through keynote talks, a public policy forum, and skill-building sessions.
The 2026 theme is Onward — a reflection on moving forward together in leadership and practice.
- Shaw’s Crab House: Feast on fresh seafood and classic steakhouse fare in a timeless setting. Popular picks include the “Alaskan King Crab Legs” and “Oyster Sampler”.
- Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe: Start your day with upscale breakfast and brunch favorites. Don’t miss the “Signature Berry Bliss Pancakes” and “Chorizo Benedict”.
- Yu’s Mandarin: Enjoy authentic Northern Chinese dishes with hand-pulled noodles and an open kitchen view. Try the “Spicy Chicken” and “Beef Noodle Soup”.
- Chicago Prime Steakhouse: Dine in style with dry-aged steaks and live jazz on weekends. Local favorites include the “Bone-In Ribeye” and “Crab Cake Appetizer”.
- Kura Revolving Sushi Bar: Pick your plates from a rotating sushi belt in a high-tech, family-friendly atmosphere. Fan favorites include “Spicy Garlic Tuna” and “Tamago Nigiri”.
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center: Build, play, and explore interactive exhibits and rides perfect for kids and LEGO lovers of all ages.
- Woodfield Mall: Shop one of the largest malls in the U.S., featuring over 300 stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.
- Spring Valley Nature Center: Walk scenic trails through forest, prairie, and marshland while visiting heritage farm buildings and spotting local wildlife.
- Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club: Catch a hilarious live show featuring stand-up, improv, and open mic nights in an intimate club setting.
- Topgolf Schaumburg: Swing, sip, and snack at this high-energy driving range with climate-controlled bays and games for all skill levels.
July 16-18 | Chicago, IL
The NAFCC National Conference is an annual gathering for family child care educators, advocates and early childhood professionals. It includes dozens of workshops and presentations, opportunities for networking, and continuing education units.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria: Bite into deep-dish pizza loaded with cheese, buttery crust, and rich tomato sauce—an iconic Chicago staple.
Girl & the Goat: Enjoy bold, globally inspired small plates from one of the city’s most beloved chefs, Stephanie Izard, in a lively atmosphere.
Portillo’s: Grab a classic Chicago-style hot dog or Italian beef sandwich in a fun, retro-themed setting.
Parachute: Savor inventive Korean-American fusion dishes in an intimate, award-winning neighborhood spot in Avondale.
The Purple Pig: Share Mediterranean-inspired small plates and charcuterie with views of Michigan Avenue in a buzzy downtown location.
Architecture River Cruise: Glide through the city’s iconic skyline while learning about Chicago’s world-famous architecture from expert guides.
The Art Institute of Chicago: Explore a world-class collection of art—from Monet and Van Gogh to modern installations—in a beautiful historic museum.
Millennium Park: Snap a photo at Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), relax in green spaces, or catch live performances in this downtown cultural hub.
Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower: Step out onto “The Ledge,” a glass box 1,353 feet above the city, for unbeatable views (and a thrill).
Museum of Science and Industry: Dive into interactive exhibits that explore everything from submarines and space travel to weather and technology.
2026 | Location to be announced
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 Child Care Aware of America 2026 Symposium.
Coming soon!
Coming soon!
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.
October 26-29, 2026 | Omaha, NE
The DEC Annual International Conference focuses on early intervention, early childhood special education, and inclusive practices for young children with disabilities and their families.
The event offers workshops, research-based sessions, networking with practitioners, researchers, and families, plus exhibit halls featuring resources and tools to support professionals working in early childhood and special education.
Block 16: Try creative, globally inspired street food in a casual, fast-paced setting—locals rave about the Croque Garçon burger.
The Grey Plume: Dine on seasonal, farm-to-table fare with a fine-dining twist in one of Omaha’s most sustainable restaurants.
Coneflower Creamery: Indulge in small-batch ice cream made from locally sourced ingredients with unique flavors like Honey Lavender and Cornbread.
Blue Sushi Sake Grill: Enjoy fresh sushi and inventive rolls with vegan options in a vibrant, modern atmosphere.
Twisted Fork: Taste comfort food with a Southwestern flair in a lively, cowboy-chic setting in the historic Old Market district.
Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium: Visit one of the top-rated zoos in the world with massive indoor exhibits like the Desert Dome and Lied Jungle.
Old Market District: Wander cobblestone streets filled with local shops, galleries, and restaurants in Omaha’s historic downtown.
Joslyn Art Museum: Explore a wide-ranging collection of art from ancient to contemporary—all in a stunning pink marble building (note: reopening in 2024–2025 after renovations).
Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge: Walk or bike across this curving bridge that spans the Missouri River—and stand in two states at once.
Durham Museum: Step inside Omaha’s beautifully restored Union Station to learn about the region’s history through engaging exhibits and preserved architecture.
- Ben’s Chili Bowl: Bite into DC’s iconic “Half-Smoke” sausage smothered in chili at this historic U Street landmark.
- Le Diplomate: Enjoy classic French bistro fare in a stylish, bustling atmosphere. Try the “Steak Frites” and “Onion Soup Gratinée”.
- Call Your Mother Deli: Savor creative, wood-fired bagel sandwiches in a playful, pastel-colored café. Favorites include the “Sun City” and “Shyne” sandwiches.
- Old Ebbitt Grill: Dine like a DC insider at this historic saloon near the White House. Don’t miss the “Oyster Happy Hour” and “Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes”.
- Ambar: Feast on modern Balkan small plates with an endless tasting menu option. Highlights include the “Lamb Lasagna” and “Cheese Pie”.
- Smithsonian Museums: Explore world-class museums like the Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of African American History—all free to visit.
- The National Mall: Stroll past monuments, memorials, and the Capitol on DC’s iconic open-air promenade.
- International Spy Museum: Go undercover and test your spy skills through interactive exhibits and secret missions.
- Union Market: Sample local eats, sip craft cocktails, and browse indie shops in this trendy food hall and marketplace.
- Tidal Basin Paddle Boats: Float past cherry trees and memorials with a paddle boat ride in this scenic part of the city.
Save the Date: 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
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.
