Save the Date: NAEYC’s 2026 Public Policy Forum

NAEYC’s signature advocacy event is returning in person—and you won’t want to miss it! 

Mark your calendars now for February 22-24, 2026, when NAEYC’s Public Policy Forum will once again convene in Washington, D.C. Each year, this dynamic, high-energy gathering brings together hundreds of early childhood educators, advocates, and leaders from across the country to advance policies that support young children, families, and the early childhood profession. 

Whether you’re a longtime advocate or just getting started in policy work, this is the place to be.

Public Policy Forum

What is the Public Policy Forum?

NAEYC’s annual Public Policy Forum is a multi-day advocacy experience designed to help early childhood educators exercise their powerful policy voices and make themselves heard—at every level. Through a packed agenda of workshops, keynotes, panels, strategy sessions, and conversations with policymakers on Capitol Hill, PPF helps participants: 

• Strengthen advocacy skills 
• Expand policy knowledge 
• Build relationships with other educators, advocates, and allies 
• Engage with national and state policy leaders and fellow advocates on the most important, timely, and relevant early childhood education issues 
• Deepen relationships with Congressional offices 

This isn't just another professional development event; it's a call to action. It’s your opportunity to shape the future of our field by sharing your story, connecting with legislators, and speaking out about the investments and policies we need to thrive.

State Teams

Once registered, participants are placed in state teams to promote relationship and network-building, which is a key component of Public Policy Forum. Each state has a State Team Lead, who will coordinate Congressional meetings with state team members, as well as at least one opportunity for all Policy Forum participants from their state to connect as a state team. After you register, keep an eye out for emails from your State Team Lead with more information about meetings and opportunities to engage.  

For questions relating to the 2025 Public Policy Forum, please contact [email protected].

Thank You to the 2025 Public Policy Forum Sponsors