Early Childhood Conference 2026
Educating with Innovation and Purpose — Empowering Minds, Honouring Cultures, and Inspiring Connected Futures.
Program at a glance
Thursday 13 – Friday 14 August 2026 – Register now at Eventbrite!
The CEWA Early Childhood Conference theme focuses on the various aspects of a child’s life during the early years.
In a rapidly changing world where technological, social and cultural change is occurring, the landscape of early childhood education is evolving in exciting and innovative ways. As Early Childhood advocates it is essential to rethink and innovate how we provide the right conditions and nurture the growth and development of children in their early years of education. This conference will focus on the power of educating with purpose and innovation to rethink and redefine how we educate and nurture children in their foundational years. It aims to highlight the latest research, emerging trends, and creative practices that are reshaping the future of early childhood education. The conference will also explore how innovative strategies can enhance learning experiences, foster creativity, and equip children with the skills they need to thrive in a dynamic world.
Ave Quadizar – Beautiful Butterfy In A Meadow. Year 2, Queen of Apostles School, Riverton.
Much like a butterfly dancing through a meadow of flowers, the artwork evokes a sense of gentle transformation, vibrant possibility, and interconnected beauty. Each bloom in the field represents a unique story, a culture, a spark of curiosity waiting to be explored. The butterfly, light yet purposeful, moves with intention mirroring the journey of early learners as they navigate a world rich with diversity and change. This image invites reflection on how environments filled with colour, care, and creativity can nurture growth, inspire wonder, and shape futures that are both grounded and expansive.
Our Conference Speakers
Delve deeper into the wealth of expertise and inspiration awaiting you by taking a closer look at the profiles of our distinguished speakers.
Each speaker brings a unique perspective, rich experiences, and a genuine passion for early childhood development. From seasoned educators to innovative researchers, our speakers diverse backgrounds converge to offer a comprehensive and engaging spectrum of knowledge.
Explore their individual profiles to uncover the wealth of insights they bring, providing you with valuable perspectives and strategies to enhance your understanding of the dynamic world of early childhood education.
Prepare to be inspired, enlightened, and equipped with the tools necessary to make a profound impact on the lives of the young learners you nurture.
Launch Function Information
Join us at our conference launch function to hear Nathan Wallis.
Nathan Wallis is a father of three, Poua (Grandad) of five and a foster parent with a professional background in child trauma counselling, teaching and Human Development. He lectured in Human Development at the University of Canterbury, Christchurch, New Zealand for many years and was also a board member and the senior trainer for the national body in Aotearoa/New Zealand charged with the responsibility of disseminating Neuroscientific research to professionals and the
community.
He has developed a reputation as a lively and engaging speaker who uses humour and plain language to make this complex topic absolutely come to life. In addition to being a regular on New Zealand Television screens and news media shows as an expert advisor on topics related to the human brain, child development or trauma informed practice, he now also has a show of his own on Maori TV in which his expertise in these topics is explored, understood and delivered within an indigenous knowledge base and worldview as it relates to parenting called “Kids Don’t Come With a Manual”
Date: Wednesday 12 August 2026
Time: 4:30pm – 7:00pm
Venue: Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre
Cost: $75 per person
Conference Online Registration
Through the exploration of early childhood development and pedagogy, educators build an understanding of the significance of each child’s story. The conference will empower educators to recognise the pivotal role this plays in optimising learning, development, and lifelong success.
- 13 August Conference Day 1 8.30am – 4.15 pm
- 14 August Conference Day 2 8.30am – 4.15 pm
A partial relief reimbursement will be provided to a limited number of CEWA kindergarten teachers who attend the conference. To be eligible to receive the funding, principals must complete this form for each kindergarten teacher attending.