October 24 | Early Childhood Educator Professional Development Conference
A free professional learning opportunity for early childhood educators featuring expert presentations, collaborative sessions, and practical strategies to support young learners across Central Indiana.
Event Details
When: Saturday, October 24, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM–2:30 PM
Where: Embassy Suites Event Center, Plainfield, Indiana
Cost: Free to attend*
Eligibility: Organizations must be located in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, or Putnam counties to apply.
Hosted By: Early Learning Indiana, with support from United Way of Central Indiana
Event Details: Visit the Early Learning Indiana website
About This Event
Early childhood educators play an important role in creating welcoming, supportive learning environments for young children. The Early Childhood Educator Professional Development Conference offers educators an opportunity to connect with peers, explore new ideas, and build skills they can bring back to their classrooms and programs.
The conference includes a keynote presentation, breakout sessions, and opportunities for meaningful conversations with other professionals serving young children. Topics are designed to provide practical tools and strategies that educators can use in their daily work.
Participants will also receive professional development hours and have the opportunity to connect with other early childhood professionals from across Central Indiana.
Accessibility Highlights
Features Families May Appreciate:
While this event is designed for early childhood professionals rather than families, families may appreciate opportunities that help strengthen the skills and knowledge of the educators who support young children.
Features include:
Professional learning focused on early childhood education
Opportunities for educators to share ideas and learn from one another
Sessions designed to provide practical classroom strategies
Networking opportunities with other professionals supporting young children
Professional development hours available for participants
Helpful Planning Tips:
Review the conference schedule ahead of time to identify sessions that align with your professional interests.
Bring a notebook, tablet, or other method for taking notes.
Plan for a full day of learning and networking.
Check registration details carefully to confirm eligibility requirements before applying.
Note: This conference is intended for early childhood educators and professionals. Families may want to share this opportunity with teachers, childcare providers, or other professionals who support their child.
Who Might Enjoy This Event?
This event may be a good fit for:
Preschool and early childhood educators
Childcare providers
Early childhood program leaders
Early intervention professionals
Therapists who support young children
Professionals interested in inclusive early learning practices
What Families May Want to Know
Before you go:
This is a professional development event rather than a family activity.
Organizations must meet the county eligibility requirements to apply.
Breakfast and lunch are provided for participants.
Professional development hours are available.
Educators attending this conference may bring back new strategies and resources to support the children and families they serve.
Why Families May Appreciate It
The early years of learning can shape a child's experience with education, relationships, and community. When early childhood professionals have access to quality training and resources, they are better equipped to support children with a wide range of learning styles, communication needs, and developmental differences.
Professional learning opportunities like this help strengthen the network of adults supporting young children and encourage more inclusive, responsive early learning environments throughout Indiana.
Plan Your Visit
☐ Confirm your organization meets eligibility requirements
☐ Complete the application process
☐ Review the conference schedule
☐ Plan your travel to Plainfield
☐ Bring materials for taking notes and collecting resources
What’s on Your Calendar?
Know about another sensory-friendly, inclusive, or family-friendly event happening in Central Indiana?
