Our Keynote Speakers 2026
Ella de la Motte
FLOW & FEELING: The hidden language of Early Childhood Environments
Before we say a word to a child, our environment has already spoken.
In this keynote, we look at what our spaces are actually communicating, not just how they look, but how they function and how they feel. Layout, sound, materials, movement patterns and overall atmosphere influence children's regulation, behaviour, identity and sense of belonging every single day. They also impact us as educators.
Together, we will explore how room flow can either support calm engagement or create unnecessary friction, how clutter and noise can overwhelm nervous systems, and how the design of a space can either support independence or increase adult intervention.
Allison McCartney
It’s time to SHIFT THE LENS: Educator goals, development and well being
We need to invest in our people.
The current state of well-being in our sector is a concern; there is so much pressure to ensure we meet all the changing requirements. However, when we shift the lens to developing secure, respectful, and reciprocal relationships with staff, this will create a positive, responsive, and joyful workplace culture and high-quality outcomes for children.
Seeing Beneath the Behaviour: Understanding the needs driving children’s actions
Catherine Kizana
In early childhood settings, educators are asked to hold curiosity, compassion & structure - often while navigating complex behaviours that can feel confusing, challenging or relentless.
This keynote invites educators to move beyond surface-level interpretations of behaviour and into a deeper understanding of what children are communicating through their actions. Drawing on neuroscience, attachment theory and nervous system science, this session explores how behaviour is not something to control, but something to understand.
Interactive Workshops
Elena Chovancak: The power of CAN
Unlocking Presence, Capacity & Compassion
Angie Who: Music
Songs for educators, Songs for children
