The 64th Annual AECA Conference 2026
Wednesday, October 7 – Friday, October 9
Wyndham Riverfront Hotel in North Little Rock
The 2026 AECA Conference is going to bring together early childhood professionals from all over Arkansas to take the collective strength of our workforce and channel it into a powerful impact on our educators, children and families. Our theme, Uniting Our Purpose: Lifting Our Voices, reflects a year focused on connection, supporting each other, and elevating the diverse voices that shape early learning every day. Inspired by our conference logo—six colorful figures forming a circle—this year’s conference will emphasize what is possible when we come together: stronger programs, more resilient educators, and brighter futures. Over three days at the Wyndham in North Little Rock, we will explore ways to lift:
- We’ll highlight practical strategies for empowering our workforce—through coaching, reflective supervision, well-being and resilience. AECA 2026 will be a space for educators to be heard, supported, and valued.
- Sessions will center on DAP, trauma‑responsive care, family engagement, and relationship‑based guidance that supports every child’s holistic growth.
- We’ll talk about strengthening early childhood professionalism—communicating effectively, how to make learning visible and championing developmentally appropriate practice.
- Educators and administrators will find sessions on classroom practice, curriculum and assessment, and enhancing environments for young children.
- Directors, supervisors, and leaders will explore tools for building programs with excellence and supporting people with compassion.
Keynote Speakers
Amanda Morgan – Writer, Speaker, Trainer, and Creator of Not Just Cute
“The Key Ingredient: Intentional Interactions”
With a bachelor’s degree in both elementary and early childhood education and a master’s degree in human development, Amanda has taught students ranging from preschool to sixth grade, along with teaching university students, parents, and early childhood professionals. She has experience in public, private, and migrant school environments. Amanda is passionate about intentional, whole child development, and about making sure that what we know about how children grow and learn is reflected in what we do as parents and teachers. Perhaps the ultimate immersive experience in child development, Amanda is also a mom to four boys.
Dr. Anthony Broughton is an award‑winning educator, scholar, and nationally respected leader in early childhood and higher education. A former NAEYC Governing Board member and current President of the South Carolina affiliate, he has led programs to national accreditation and serves as Associate Dean and tenured Associate Professor at Alabama State University. Known worldwide as “MISTER B,” his engaging music and teaching inspire joyful, culturally responsive learning. Dr. Broughton also leads A.V.A. Educational Consulting, supporting educators through professional development and coaching.
REGISTRATION
Conference registration is open now! Register online here.
You can find out more information about registration prices here. Please remember to be logged in first to get our membership rates.
If you need any help, please call the AECA office at 501-680-1930.
ACCOMODATION
The conference will be held at the Wyndham Riverfront Hotel, 2 Riverfront Pl, North Little Rock, AR, 72118. Rooms are available in a block reserved for the conference for $114 per night + tax. Reserve a room online or call the hotel directly at 501-371-9000.
PROGRAM
Check out all the sessions, events, and other exciting things happening at this year’s conference! Download the full Schedule Grid here or the full program below:
EXHIBITOR & VENDOR INFO
THANK YOU TO OUR 2026 SPONSORS!
Questions about conference? Get in touch!
Email conference@arkansasearlychildhood.org for any conference questions.