CTAEYC Annual Conference 2025
September 25. 26. 27.
As we navigate the ever changing landscape of early childhood education.
Navigating new horizon in early childhood education is about embracing innovative
practices, expanding our understanding of child development, and adapting to the evolving
needs of young learners. As we explore emerging research, new technologies, and diverse
teaching methods, we have the opportunity to redefine what high-quality early education looks like.
This conference will provide a platform for professionals to share ideas, collaborate on solutions,
and shape the future of early childhood education by charting a path forward that is inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and responsive to the changing landscape of the field.
We can't wait for you to see what we have
planned for an amazing 3 full days.
Early Bird Rates End July 7th
Get ready to turn up the energy at the 2025 CTAEYC Annual Conference
because we’re bringing the FUN this year like never before!
We’re thrilled to welcome the one and only DJ Lily Jade to the celebration!
Her incredible music and vibrant energy will help us kick off an amazing 3 days of learning, connection, and joy.
Whether you’re dancing between sessions or celebrating with colleagues, DJ Lily Jade is sure to make it unforgettable.
Want to know more about DJ Lily Jade? Check her out here: thelilyjadeshow.com or on IG @thelilyjadeshow
Let’s make memories and move to the music... see you there!
The Mystic Marriott
You won't want to miss our
EVENING SOCIAL EVENTS!!!​​​​​​
Join us at the Mystic Marriott for two exciting evening events during the
2025 CTAEYC Annual Conference!
On Thursday, unleash your creativity at our Board & Brush “Pick Your Project” Night,
where your ticket includes all project materials and appetizers (cash bar available).
NAEYC Members: $45 Non-Members: $60
Then on Friday, get ready to laugh with the one and only Mr. Williams Pre-K
at our Night of Comedy, appetizers and (cash bar available).
NAEYC Members: $45 Non-Members: $60 Table of 10 Tickets: $400
Come for the creativity, stay for the community — all are welcome!
You don’t need to be registered for the conference to attend, but with so much
learning and connection happening all week, we’d love to see you there too!
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and tap into your creativity at our Board & Brush “Pick Your Project” Night
Whether you're a seasoned crafter or just in it for the fun, this hands-on DIY experience is the perfect way to unwind and connect with others. Your ticket includes all materials to create a customized wood project of your choice, plus delicious appetizers to enjoy while you work. A cash bar will be available to keep the creative juices flowing! You do not need to be registered for the CTAEYC Conference to attend — all are welcome, but spots are limited, so don’t wait!
Mr. Williams Pre-K is a beloved early childhood educator turned viral sensation, known for bringing humor, heart,
and real-talk to the world of Pre-K. With a perfect mix of comedy and classroom wisdom, he shares the highs, lows,
and hilarity of teaching young learners. Whether he’s on stage or online, Mr. Williams has a knack for making
educators laugh, relate, and feel seen. Don’t miss your chance to catch him live for a Night of Comedy you won’t forget!
We’d love to have you join us for a night of laughs in support of early childhood! However, we want to give you a
heads-up that this event is full of humor, and comedy can be a bit... edgy. If you’re easily offended or
uncomfortable with jokes that push the envelope, we recommend sitting this one out.
We’re all here for a good time, but we want to make sure everyone feels comfortable in the spirit of fun!
Both evening events will be separately ticketed.
Add one (or both!) to your conference registration.
This year, we're expanding to a 3 day format
with a dynamic lineup of events:
Leadership Day: Lead, Inspire, Grow
Infant/Toddler Day: Growing Minds
Conference Day: Navigating Growth Together
All packed with incredible sessions, workshops and networking opportunities!
Dr. Dan Wuori's new book "The Daycare Myth:
What We Get Wrong About Early Care and Education
(and What We Should Do About It)"
was released in September 2024.
Upon its announcement, the book – which explores the costly
disconnect between what we know about the science of early development and our public policy – spent a week at the top of
Amazon’s education, education reform and policy,
and developmental psychology best sellers list.
This September, Dan will join us at the
as our keynote speaker on both
Leadership Day and Infant/Toddler Day!
Ant (along with the entire Life is Good Playmaker Project team) believes that when children grow to see the good in themselves, the good in others and the good in their world - their social, emotional, and cognitive superpowers emerge. However, for the seeds of optimism to take root, they must be nurtured. Sadly, in toxically stressful environments that can result from poverty, violence and illness, the seeds of optimism often die. Ant has committed his career to growing the good and supporting the childcare professionals, that The LiGPP call Playmakers – those men and women who dedicate their lives to helping kids heal.
We are thrilled to announce that Ant Toombs will join us at this year's CTAEYC Annual Conference 2025 as the keynote speaker on Saturday, Conference Day!
Join us on Thursday, September 25
Leadership Day!
Whether you're a current program administrator, an aspiring leader, a head teacher, a family child care educator, consultant, or advocate, this day is designed to help you grow your leadership skills and make a lasting impact in early childhood education. You'll connect with passionate professionals, engage in dynamic workshops, and gain valuable insights that will elevate your practice and leadership abilities. Don't miss this opportunity to invest in
your future and be part of a community dedicated
to shaping the future of early learning!
Join us on Saturday, September 27
Conference Day
A full day of learning, collaboration, and growth! With over 30 workshops covering a wide array
of early childhood education topics, this event is designed for everyone in the ECE community—educators, leaders, advocates, students, instructors, and consultants alike.
Whether you're looking to enhance your teaching techniques, strengthen your
leadership skills, or dive into the latest trends in early childhood, there’s something for YOU.
Be inspired, gain practical tools, and connect with a network of passionate professionals committed to shaping the future of early learning!
Join us on Friday, September 26
Infant and Toddler Day.
A day dedicated entirely to the unique needs of infants and toddlers! This event is specially designed for all educators working with our youngest learners, including infant and toddler educators, family child care educators, and leadership teams of programs with infant and toddler classrooms. You’ll dive deep into age-specific strategies, engage in hands-on learning, and gain fresh insights to support the development of infants and toddlers in meaningful ways. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your skills, connect with fellow professionals, and make a greater impact on the growth of the children in your care!
We are thrilled to announce that sponsor and vendor opportunities are now available for the 2025 CTAEYC Annual Conference! This is an exciting chance to showcase your brand and connect with early childhood professionals from across the state. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this incredible event.
Thank You To All Our Sponsors
