On April 24, early learning professionals from across the region gathered at Spokane Community College for the UNITE Early Learning 2026 Conference, a day designed around one shared purpose: learning together to support equitable access to high-quality, inclusive early learning programs. The event featured keynote presentations, breakout sessions, networking, exhibitors and opportunities for educators to reflect on practices that support young children, families and early learning classrooms.
The day opened with breakfast and networking before attendees moved into the opening keynote, “Both Directions at Once,” presented by Mike Browne of Napcast. The keynote explored social inheritance, early learning and the ways play, language and relational care shape children’s experiences in educational spaces. The conference closed with Part Two of the keynote, presented by Amir Gilmore, Ph.D., of Washington State University.
Throughout the day, participants attended breakout sessions on topics connected to the daily realities of early childhood education. Sessions focused on play-based learning, behavior guidance, oral language and executive function, inclusion, positive reinforcement, attachment, sensory strategies, early math, self-regulation, healthy eating habits, equity-centered approaches to student behavior, pediatric feeding disorders and brain science in the early years.
In classrooms and shared spaces across campus, attendees listened, asked questions, created, reflected and connected with colleagues who share a commitment to supporting young learners. Presenters offered strategies educators could take back to their classrooms, programs and communities, with an emphasis on inclusive practices, positive relationships and meaningful learning experiences.
The conference also provided time for participants to visit exhibitors, meet regional partners and build connections with others working in early learning roles across northeast Washington and beyond.
Thank you to the presenters, partners, exhibitors, volunteers and attendees who helped make this year’s UNITE Early Learning Conference a meaningful day of professional learning. Your work helps strengthen early learning systems and supports the children, families and educators at the heart of our communities.
Learn more about early learning services at NEWESD 101