A Community Investing in Early Childhood
BY5’s Second Annual Early Childhood Professionals’ Summit on April 25, 2026 was more than an event — it was a powerful reminder of what happens when a community invests in the people shaping its youngest learners. With nearly 250 attendees from 10 counties gathering on a Saturday to learn, connect, and grow, the conference demonstrated the passion and dedication that exists within our early childhood workforce.
“Play Builds Brains, Advocacy Builds Futures”
This year’s theme, “Play Builds Brains, Advocacy Builds Futures,” captured the heart of the day. Early childhood educators know that play is not simply fun — it is the foundation for healthy development, curiosity, problem-solving, and lifelong learning. At the same time, advocacy is essential to ensuring children, families, and educators have the support they need to thrive.
The Dedication of Early Childhood Professionals
One of the most inspiring aspects of the summit was the commitment shown by early childhood professionals themselves. These educators, caregivers, directors, and advocates willingly gave up a full Saturday to sharpen their skills and strengthen their impact.
Their presence spoke volumes about the professionalism and heart within the field. They came eager to learn new strategies, engage in meaningful conversations, and return to their classrooms and programs better equipped to serve children and families.
Attendees greet each other at BY5's Second Annual Early Childhood Professionals' Summit.
Reflections From Attendees
Attendee feedback reinforced the importance of investing in opportunities like this. Participants shared reflections such as:
“There are many more committed and involved people in the ECE community than I expected.”
“We are educational PROFESSIONALS.”
“I found value in all of the sessions — each one gave me something I can take back and apply.”
Others spoke about the deeper lessons they were taking home:
“Taking care of myself allows me to better care for the children and families I serve.”
“Do not overlook or count out play as learning.”
“We help our students’ brain development more than I knew.”
Advocacy and Lasting Impact
Perhaps most encouraging was the growing sense of collective advocacy among attendees. One participant wrote, “If we unite in advocacy we can make big changes,” while another shared plans to continue “working toward my associate degree and looking into advocacy, possibly sending videos to legislators.”
These reflections matter because they demonstrate that conferences like this are not simply about professional development credits — they are about strengthening a workforce that directly impacts the future of our communities.
Community Support Made It Possible
The success of the conference was also made possible through tremendous community support. From generous sponsors and dedicated volunteers to engaging exhibitors and dynamic speakers, the event reflected a community that understands the importance of early childhood education.
Every volunteer who greeted attendees, every exhibitor who shared resources, and every speaker who offered expertise contributed to a day filled with energy and purpose.
A Powerful Keynote on the Importance of Play
A highlight of the conference was the keynote presentation by Heather Bernt Santy, whose message powerfully reinforced the conference theme, “Play Builds Brains, Advocacy Builds Futures.”
Drawing from research and experience, she spoke about the alarming disappearance of free play from the lives of many young children and the lasting effects this loss can have on children’s physical and mental health, social-emotional growth, and academic development.
Her presentation challenged educators and community members alike to recognize play as a critical component of healthy child development rather than simply recreation. She also equipped early childhood professionals with tools to better observe, support, and advocate for play-based learning, helping attendees articulate the developmental value of play to families, policymakers, and others who may be skeptical of its importance.
Her keynote left attendees inspired to continue championing children’s right to play and to strengthen their role as advocates for the future of early childhood education.
Looking Ahead
The momentum from this year’s summit is undeniable. The growing attendance, enthusiastic participation, and collaborative spirit all point to a field that is resilient, committed, and ready to lead.
Most importantly, the conference served as a reminder that investing in early childhood professionals is an investment in the future of our entire community.
When educators are empowered, children flourish. And when a community rallies behind early childhood education, the future becomes brighter for everyone.
Attendees had the opportunity to assemble make and take light boxes for their classrooms, thanks to Ivy Tech Community College's Early Childhood Education department.