Why Play Matters

Play is more than just fun – it is a fundamental right of every child (UNCRC, Article 31) and a crucial part of healthy development. Through play, children explore their identities, build social connections, and develop essential life skills. This conference is a platform for play advocates, educators, teachers (K-3) and experts to reimagine play in early childhood education and various early learning environments, ensuring that all children have access to enriching, inclusive, and meaningful play experiences.

Why Present?

This conference is more than just a gathering—it’s a movement. By presenting, you’ll have the opportunity to:

✅ Inspire educators to integrate more play into learning.

✅ Advocate for equitable access to play in all communities.

✅ Share innovative ideas, research, and hands-on strategies.

✅ Connect with a passionate network of play-based professionals.

Who Should Apply?

We welcome proposals from educators, teachers, researchers, therapists, play specialists, designers, therapists, instructors, consultants, community leaders and advocates who are passionate about enriching play experiences for children. Whether you have hands-on strategies, creative interventions, innovative ideas, or ground-breaking research, we’d love to hear from you!

Breakout Sessions

Play is the foundation of all our session topics at the Illuminate Play Conference. We have 12-15 breakout sessions available. Each session will run for 60 minutes.

Honorarium

An honorarium will be provided for the main conference presenter. However, all travel expenses, including transportation, accommodation, and meals, are the responsibility of the presenter.

Questions?

For questions. please contact Sharon at illuminateaecpcn@gmail.com