About the Early Learning Conference

The Early Learning Conference, a flagship event for early childhood educators, had its humble beginnings in 1992 with just 100 passionate attendees and 10 enlightening sessions in Central Oregon. Over the years, it has evolved into a premier gathering, attracting over 500 educators in 2023.

The Central Oregon Chapter of the Oregon Association for the Education of Young Children proudly hosts this transformative event. Our commitment is to foster collaboration among leaders from diverse areas of expertise, working hand-in-hand with families, communities, and educational partners to create positive, meaningful, and transformative differences in the lives of children.

The mission of the Early Learning Conference is to empower educators with the knowledge and tools they need to provide exceptional early childhood education. We believe in the collective power of educators, families, communities, and partners to create a positive and lasting impact on the lives of young learners.

This year’s theme, Excellence through Educator Care and Wellness, draws our attention to the role of health, self-care, and proactive wellness as essential aspects of early learning.

Research is clear that the quality of care for children depends on the preparation and professional development of early learning educators, and this depends on the overall support offered to the early learning workforce. Our 2025 conference will include a central theme of wellness for educators in an effort to focus our professional development on the needs we must address in order to remain inspired, healthy, engaged, and excited about our essential work.