Join us!
Wednesday, October 28, 2026
9-11 am
Live-streamed on Zoom
Before young children can tell us what they’re thinking, feeling or experiencing, they’re already learning from the world around them. The people, interactions and environments they encounter every day help shape their understanding of safety, connection, differences and belonging.
Little Moments Count and the Start Early Funders Coalition invite you to the Little Moments Count 2026 Annual Conference, a virtual gathering exploring how the everyday moments we share with young children can help create a stronger foundation for lifelong learning and well-being.
Join us for an inspiring morning featuring keynote speaker Arielle Handevidt, M.A., IMH-E®, CEO of Young Hearts Open Minds, who will share Before They Can Tell Us: What Young Children Are Learning About Safety, Connection, and Belonging. We’ll explore how early experiences and relationships influence what young children learn about themselves, others and the world around them, and how parents, caregivers and early childhood professionals can help create environments where every child feels safe, valued and included.
Following her keynote, Arielle will moderate a “Beacons of Hope” panel, bringing together community leaders who are leading efforts to support children and families. Panelists will highlight promising work happening across communities and the people and partnerships that are helping move their work forward.
We’ll also celebrate two important champions for young children:
-
20th Annual Early Childhood Education Nancy Latimer Award
-
St. Croix Valley First Thousand Days Champion Award
The conference will be live-streamed, bringing together early childhood professionals, parents, caregivers and community partners who share a commitment to supporting young children and the adults who care for them.
Come explore the impactful role we all play in shaping young children’s earliest experiences!