Read about #naeycppf in In Review: The 2025 Public Policy Forum.
NAEYC's 2026 Public Policy Forum
February 2026
NAEYC’s annual Public Policy Forum is returning to Washington, D.C. in-person in 2026, where we will bring together hundreds of early childhood educators and stakeholders to strengthen our advocacy skills, expand our policy knowledge, deepen our relationships with Congressional offices, and build a powerful movement across states and communities!
This multi-day forum will support new and seasoned advocates in sharing their stories as part of an effort to deliver a clear, unified, and coherent message to policymakers on the importance of investing in high quality early childhood education and early childhood educators. During a wide range of dynamic, engaging sessions, participants will be able to build community and gain skills through trainings, resources, and conversations with policymakers, experts, and leaders. The Forum will culminate in a powerful Day on the Hill with hundreds of policymakers focused on child care and early learning.
Whether you have tons of advocacy experience, or none at all, NAEYC's Public Policy Forum is THE place for you to sharpen your skills and help us move a nonpartisan agenda in support of young children and the early childhood education profession!
As a Public Policy Forum participant, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Be part of a powerful team working to advance federal and state early childhood policy
- Engage with national and state policy leaders and fellow advocates on the most important, timely, and relevant ECE issues
- Get the resources and experiences you need to be an informed and effective advocate
- Meet with your Congressional offices
To view the 2025 event schedule, click here!
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 Paola Andujar at [email protected]
Cost and Registration
- The registration for this event has not yet opened for 2026. Details coming soon.
Housing
- The registration for this event has not yet opened for 2026. Details coming soon.
Safety Policy
Read the updated NAEYC Event Safety Policy here.