Play Builds Brains, Advocacy Builds Futures
What Is the ECP Summit?
The Early Childhood Professionals Summit (ECP Summit) is an annual professional learning event hosted by BY5, designed to bring together early childhood educators, childcare providers, advocates, and community partners from across East Central Indiana.
This one-day event offers a dynamic mix of an inspiring keynote, engaging breakout sessions, a provider fair with early childhood education exhibitors, and meaningful opportunities for networking and connection. The Summit centers evidence-based practices, brain development, play, and advocacy—highlighting the critical role early childhood professionals play in shaping lifelong outcomes for children.
OUR whY
The Early Childhood Professionals Summit was created by BY5 in direct response to the needs of our local early childhood community. We believe that early childhood professionals deserve high-quality, accessible professional learning that honors their expertise, lived experience, and the critical role they play in shaping lifelong outcomes for children.
As an organization committed to ensuring every child thrives by age five, BY5 understands that supporting the early childhood workforce is essential to achieving that goal. The ECP Summit was intentionally designed as a space to pour into those who pour into children—strengthening knowledge, fostering connection, and elevating educator voice across settings.
Grounded in community and built for impact, the Summit brings together educators, advocates, and partners to learn from one another, build relationships, and advance the field of early childhood education throughout East Central Indiana.
This Year’s Focus
Heather Bernt-Santy, That Early Childhood Nerd
The 2026 ECP Summit centers on the theme: Play Builds Brains, Advocacy Builds Futures.
This year’s Summit highlights how developmentally appropriate play supports early brain development and how informed, empowered advocacy strengthens the future of children, families, and the early childhood workforce.
Participants will be energized by an inspiring keynote address from Heather Bernt-Santy, That Early Childhood Nerd, along with engaging breakout sessions led by early childhood experts and practitioners.
Who Is the ECP Summit For?
The ECP Summit is open to all early childhood professionals and advocates in the East Central Indiana region, including:
Childcare providers and early learning educators
Home-based providers
Preschool and pre-K teachers
Program directors and administrators
Family support professionals
Community partners and advocates
Whether you are new to the field or a seasoned professional, the Summit offers meaningful learning and connection for every stage of your journey.
Registration & Ticket Information
Early Bird Tickets: $55 through March 1, 2026
Standard Tickets: $75 after March 1, 2026
Professional Learning Institute Members: $50 discounted rate
Group Registration: For groups of 10 or more, please contact BY5 for registration options
Ticket Sales Close: April 10, 2026
What to Expect
Attendees can expect a full day of learning and connection, including:
A powerful keynote address
Multiple breakout sessions focused on practice, brain development, and advocacy
A provider fair featuring early childhood education exhibitors and community resources
Opportunities to network with peers from across the region
Practical strategies and tools that can be implemented immediately
The ECP Summit is designed to be both inspiring and actionable, supporting professional growth while fostering community and collaboration.