Thanks to over 260 people who submitted proposals to present at the 2026 World Forum on Early Care and Education
During breakout sessions at the World Forum, presenters help our community build relationships, share stories and expand perspectives. World Forum presenters and audience members alike have something to learn and something to share.
Submissions were due May 7, 2025. The World Forum program team is reviewing proposals received and will announce accepted proposals and presenters in late July.
Session Format
You can choose from multiple 90-minute breakout sessions daily — no need to sign up in advance. Each session brings together 3-6 presenters from different locations, backgrounds and perspectives to co-plan the time. In a typical panel, each presenter will have 10-15 minutes to present, saving about 30 minutes of the session for discussion inspired by the presentations. Some sessions will include alternative hands-on experiences or other non-conventional activities.
Important Dates
- July 31, 2025 – We’ll notify all applicants whether their proposal was accepted or put on our waiting list.
- August 31, 2025 – Deadline for presenters to accept or decline participation. It’s also time to check your passport expiration, apply for visas if needed (including transit visas), and begin to seek funding, if needed.
- August 31, 2025 – Deadline to register as a presenter.
- December 2025-February 2026 – We will schedule a time for each group of co-presenters assigned to the same session to meet online, share ideas and jointly plan the session.
- April 14-17, 2026 – World Forum on Early Care and Education in Kuala Lumpur. Presenters agree to participate in the full event, not just the day of their session.
Topics
World Forum participants can look forward to sessions on a broad range of topics on young children, including:
- Child Development, Health and Well-Being
- Children Impacted by Conflict, Violence, or Refugee Status
- Children’s Rights
- Climate, Sustainable Development and Early Childhood
- Curriculum, Pedagogy and Care
- Design and Nature: Environments for Children
- Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
- Family Engagement
- Including and Supporting Children with Disabilities
- Leadership in Early Childhood
- Management, Finance and Funding
- Men in Early Care and Education
- Multi-Site Programs
- Play
- Policy, Advocacy and Equity
- Race and Racism
- Research, Trends and Innovations
- Technology and AI
- Wellness for Adults
- Workforce and Staffing
- Other topic not listed
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