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Childcare conferences are essential gatherings for early childhood education professionals. These events provide valuable opportunities to learn, connect, and grow, equipping directors, educators, and administrators with fresh perspectives and knowledge to enhance programs and better support children and families.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top childcare conferences in 2025 and 2026, exploring their key themes, locations, and benefits to help you choose the best events for your professional growth.
Why attend childcare conferences?
Attending a childcare conference offers numerous benefits that can have a lasting impact on your career and your childcare program. From professional growth to discovering new resources, these events are packed with opportunities.
Professional development
Conferences are a prime source for professional development. You can learn new teaching methods, gain insights from the latest research, and stay informed about best practices in early childhood education. Workshops and keynote sessions provide practical strategies that you can implement immediately to improve the quality of care and learning in your program.
Networking opportunities
One of the most valuable aspects of any conference is the chance to network. You can connect with peers from across the country, share experiences, and build a supportive professional community. These connections can lead to future collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and a network of colleagues you can turn to for advice and support.
Discovering new resources and products
The exhibit hall at a childcare conference is a treasure trove of innovation. You can explore the latest educational tools, classroom technology, and curriculum resources from a wide range of vendors. This is a unique opportunity to see and test new products firsthand and find solutions that can enhance your childcare program’s offerings.
Professional Development Day Agenda
A free, printable agenda for staff training days.
Top childcare conferences in 2025
Planning your professional development for the upcoming year? Here is a list of some of the top childcare conferences in 2025 and 2026.
Association for Early Learning Leaders Annual National Conference
The Association for Early Learning Leaders Annual National Conference is designed for directors and administrators in early childhood education. Focused on leadership, professional development, and operational excellence, it offers actionable strategies to create thriving childcare programs. Attendees will gain insights into effective management practices, enhancing team performance, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement to better serve children and families.
- Location: Reno, Nevada
- Date: April 15-17, 2026
Child Care Aware of America Symposium
This symposium centers on making high-quality childcare more affordable and accessible for all families. It gathers advocates, policymakers, and childcare providers to discuss solutions and strategies. Topics often include system-level change, policy advocacy, and equitable access to care. It’s a key event for anyone passionate about the broader issues facing the childcare industry.
- Location: To be announced for 2026
- Date: To be announced for 2026
Child Care Success Summit
The Child Care Success Summit is an event designed specifically for childcare providers and business leaders looking to enhance their operations, grow their centers, and make a lasting impact in the early education industry. Organized annually, the summit brings together innovative thinkers, industry experts, and successful childcare entrepreneurs to share insights that drive success.
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Date: October 9-11, 2025
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Annual Conference
The NAEYC Annual Conference is one of the largest and most comprehensive early childhood education events in the world. It brings together tens of thousands of educators and advocates to discuss the latest research, policies, and practices. Keynote speakers are often leading figures in education and child development. The conference covers a vast array of topics, including curriculum, child assessment, and public policy.
- Location: Orlando, Florida
- Date: November 19-22, 2025
National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Conference
The National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Conference is a premier event tailored specifically for family childcare providers. This annual conference offers an incredible opportunity to connect with peers, gain valuable insights, and enhance the quality of care provided to children. Attendees can expect interactive workshops, dynamic keynote presentations, and access to innovative resources designed to support family childcare professionals.
The conference covers a wide range of topics, including small business management, child development best practices, and strategies for creating nurturing environments. It's an excellent chance to network with other providers, learn from industry experts, and discover tools to streamline operations and elevate the care experience.
- Location: Chicago, Illinois
- Date: July 16-18, 2026
National Head Start Association (NHSA) Annual Conference
The NHSA Annual Conference is dedicated to the Head Start community, focusing on comprehensive services for young children and their families. The conference offers sessions on program management, family engagement, and early learning outcomes. It's an essential event for Head Start staff, directors, and families who want to deepen their understanding and impact.
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Date: May 4-7, 2026
Zero to Three Annual Conference
The Zero to Three Annual Conference, known as "Learn," is specifically focused on the science of infant and toddler development. It provides professionals with the latest research and practical applications for supporting the healthy development of children from birth to age three. The sessions cover topics such as early brain development, social-emotional learning, and infant mental health.
- Location: Baltimore, Maryland
- Date: October 8-9, 2025
- Save the date: October 28-29, 2026 in Portland, Oregon
How to make the most of childcare conferences
Attending a conference is an investment of time and money. To ensure you get the best return on that investment, it's important to approach the experience with a plan.
Plan ahead
Before you go, review the conference schedule and identify the sessions and speakers that align with your professional goals. Set specific learning objectives for what you want to achieve. This will help you focus your time and energy on the most relevant opportunities.
Engage and participate
Don't be a passive attendee. Ask questions during sessions, participate in discussions, and attend interactive workshops. The more you engage with the content and the presenters, the more you will learn and retain.
Network actively
Make an effort to meet new people. Initiate conversations during breaks, introduce yourself to speakers after their sessions, and exchange contact information. Following up with your new contacts after the conference can help solidify these new professional relationships.
Reflect and implement
After the conference, take time to review your notes and the materials you collected. Reflect on the key takeaways and identify new ideas and strategies you want to implement in your childcare program. Create an action plan to put your new knowledge into practice.
Invest in your professional growth
Attending childcare conferences is a powerful way to advance your professional skills, expand your network, and bring fresh ideas back to your program. The events listed here are just a few of the excellent opportunities available in 2025 and 2026. Explore your options, plan your attendance, and get ready for an inspiring experience that will benefit you, your staff, and the families you serve.
