June 8-11, 2026
Why Do We Host the First 1,000 Days Early Head Start Conference?
The first 1,000 days of a child’s life are a time of extraordinary growth, connection, and possibility. During these early moments, children begin forming relationships, building trust, and developing the foundations that will support learning and well-being for a lifetime. Early Head Start educators play a vital role in this journey, offering steady care, intentional guidance, and meaningful presence as children and families grow together.
From birth, infants and toddlers learn through relationships and experiences that unfold gradually over time. Responsive caregiving, consistent routines, and nurturing interactions allow children to feel safe, seen, and supported. When educators trust the process of development and honor each child’s individual timeline, they create environments where curiosity, resilience, and confidence can take root.
Supporting families during the first 1,000 days is equally essential. Strong partnerships, grounded in empathy and trust, help families navigate challenges and celebrate milestones. Early Head Start programs serve as anchors within their communities, reminding families that growth does not need to be rushed and that meaningful progress is built through patience, connection, and care.
Yet this work requires reflection, renewal, and ongoing professional learning. Educators and leaders need space to pause, share, and strengthen practices that sustain both children and themselves. That is why the First 1,000 Days Early Head Start Conference is dedicated to uplifting the heart of this work by bringing educators together to learn, connect, and be inspired.
Our 2026 theme: Trusting in Time: How Head Start shapes a better future for children and families.
This conference invites participants to reflect on the power of patience, consistency, and intentionality in early childhood education. Together, we will explore how trusting the developmental process supports stronger relationships, healthier families, and brighter futures.
Join us as we honor the moments that matter most, knowing that when we trust in time, we nurture lasting impact.
This event offers 1 day pre-conference June 8, 2026, and a 3 day conference, June 9-11, 2026 with general sessions, breakout sessions, special events, and exhibit hall.
Hyatt Regency Irvine
June 8-11, 2026
I have been to management workshops, not leadership training. This has totally changed my perspective and encouraged me to propel forward in developing my skills.
I am honored and humbled to be a recipient of the Head Start WEST’s Legacy Scholarship. The scholarship helped me get one step closer to achieving my goal of becoming a Head Start Director.
I took part in The disproportionate impact of COVID 19, and how to provide “real” support for black/brown children and families and I just want to say this was an amazing webinar. I hope we can look forward to further conversation on this topic.
Thank you so much for making events like this! I really enjoyed and learned so much teaching strategies to implement STEM in the classroom.
The HR Network was an excellent opportunity to network and learn the best practices from other HR professionals within Head Start programs. You will be amazed by the level of talent and experience of the participants.
The Summer Camp training was powerful and inspiring! Each presenter was very engaging, it’s hard to even pick a favorite session!
The Leadership Challenge training was very relevant to my work as a Head Start leader! Great facilitation; stayed with the program yet allowed time for individual and small group reflections.
Regular price $12.00
Regular price $39.00
Questions? Contact us at headstartr9@region9hsa.org.
