Childcare conferences are professional gatherings where early childhood education (ECE) leaders, directors, and educators come together to learn new skills, network with peers, and discover the latest industry trends. These events are essential for staying compliant with regulations, finding new curriculum resources, and improving the quality of care provided to children and families.
In this article, we’ll highlight the top childcare conferences in 2026, exploring their key themes, locations, and benefits to help you choose the best events for your professional growth.
Why should you attend a childcare conference?
Attending a childcare conference is one of the most effective ways to invest in your career and your childcare program. These events offer more than just lectures; they provide a comprehensive ecosystem for growth.
- Professional development: Workshops and keynote sessions offer fresh teaching methods and research-based strategies you can use immediately.
- Networking: Building a supportive community with peers from across the country helps you exchange ideas and find mentorship opportunities.
- Resource discovery: Exhibit halls allow you to test new technology, curriculum tools, and classroom products firsthand.
Professional Development Day Agenda
A free, printable agenda for staff training days.
What are the top childcare conferences in 2026?
Planning your schedule for the upcoming year is vital for budgeting and staffing. Below is a curated list of the top childcare conferences taking place in 2026, including dates and locations.
Association for Early Learning Leaders Annual National Conference
The Association for Early Learning Leaders Annual National Conference focuses on leadership and operational excellence. It is designed specifically for directors and administrators who want to improve team performance and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
- Location: Reno, Nevada
- Date: April 15-17, 2026
Child Care Aware of America Symposium
This event brings together advocates, policymakers, and providers to discuss systemic changes in the industry. The symposium focuses heavily on policy advocacy and making high-quality care more accessible for all families.
- Location: Arlington, Virginia
- Date: May 3-6, 2026
Child Care Success Summit
The Child Care Success Summit is a business-focused event for owners and leaders looking to grow their enrollment and improve operations. It brings together industry experts to share strategies for financial success and leadership.
- Location: To be announced
- Date: October 2026 (Dates TBA)
National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Annual Conference
The NAEYC Annual Conference is one of the largest ECE gatherings globally. It covers a vast array of topics, from public policy to classroom assessment, and features leading experts in child development.
- Location: Washington, D. C.
- Date: December 5-8, 2026
National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Conference
Tailored specifically for in-home providers, the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC) Conference offers interactive workshops on small business management and child development. It is a unique opportunity for family childcare providers to connect and share specific challenges and solutions.
- 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. Sessions focus on family engagement, program management, and early learning outcomes.
- Location: Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Date: May 4-7, 2026
Zero to Three Annual Conference
The Zero to Three Annual Conference, known as "Learn," focuses exclusively on infant and toddler development. It provides the latest research on brain development and social-emotional learning for children from birth to age three.
- Location: Portland, Oregon
- Date: October 28-29, 2026
How to make the most of childcare conferences
To get the best return on your investment of time and resources, approach the event with a clear strategy.
- Plan ahead: Review the agenda early. Choose sessions that align with your program's specific goals for the year.
- Engage actively: Ask questions during workshops and participate in discussions. Active participation helps you retain information better.
- Network intentionally: Introduce yourself to speakers and peers. Exchange contact info to build a professional support network.
- Create an action plan: After the event, review your notes and decide on one or two key strategies to implement in your childcare program immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Are childcare conferences tax deductible?
Yes, in most cases, the costs associated with attending professional development conferences—including registration fees, travel, and lodging—are tax-deductible business expenses for childcare providers.
Can my staff get continuing education units (CEUs) at these conferences?
Most major conferences, such as NAEYC and NHSA, offer CEUs or training clock hours for attending sessions, which staff can often use to meet state licensing requirements.
Is it better to attend a national or local conference?
National conferences offer broader networking and access to industry thought leaders, while local conferences are often more affordable and focused on state-specific regulations and networking with nearby peers.
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 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.
