Frequently Asked Questions
Rise Together: Advocacy, Strength, and the Future of Early Childhood
Q What is the GAEYC 2026 Annual Conference?
The GAEYC 2026 Annual Conference is a two-day gathering of early childhood education professionals across Georgia. Under the theme "Rise Together: Advocacy, Strength, and the Future of Early Childhood," this conference is designed for both practitioners and leaders committed to advancing high-quality early childhood education.
This year's conference has been reimagined from the ground up — new format, new venue, and a deliberately curated experience built for depth over volume.
Q When and where is the conference?
Dates: Friday, October 2 – Saturday, October 3, 2026
Venue: Phase Events, Alpharetta, Georgia
Q Who should attend?
This conference is designed for anyone working in or supporting early childhood education in Georgia, including:
- Early childhood educators and classroom practitioners
- Program directors, administrators, and site supervisors
- Child care center owners and operators
- Early childhood advocates and policy professionals
- Coaches, trainers, and technical assistance providers
Members and non-members of GAEYC are welcome.
Q How is this conference different from previous GAEYC conferences?
The 2026 conference is a significant departure from past years. Rather than a single-day event with a separate leadership pre-conference, this year features two full days of programming that serves both practitioners and leaders simultaneously. Learning tracks span both conference days and are designed so that educators at every level — from the classroom to the director's office — will find relevant, meaningful sessions throughout.
The conference is intentionally capped at 200 attendees and hosted at Phase Events, an intimate venue purpose-built for focused professional collaboration, rather than a large convention center.
Q Is this conference only for GAEYC members?
No. The conference is open to all early childhood education professionals in Georgia, regardless of GAEYC membership status. GAEYC members receive a discounted registration rate. Visit gaeyc.org for membership information.
Q What does the conference schedule look like?
The 2026 conference runs across two full days — Friday, October 2 and Saturday, October 3. Each day features:
- An opening keynote to set the tone for the day
- Multiple learning track sessions covering topics relevant to both practitioners and leaders
- A Table Talk Lunch — a structured, facilitated networking meal designed to spark meaningful peer conversations
- An evening reception on Day 1 for attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors to connect
- Closing remarks on Day 2
A full day-by-day agenda will be posted at gaeyc.org as the conference approaches.
Q What are the learning tracks, and how do I choose sessions?
Learning tracks are organized by topic and professional focus, with sessions offered across both conference days. Tracks include content relevant to classroom practitioners as well as program leaders and administrators. You will have the opportunity to select preferred sessions during or after registration. More detail on session topics will be released at gaeyc.org.
Q Who are the featured speakers?
The 2026 conference features keynote speakers and session presenters who are recognized leaders in early childhood education and advocacy. Featured speakers include Ant Toombs, whose work has resonated deeply with early childhood practitioners. Additional speakers will be announced at gaeyc.org. All keynote sessions are included in full conference registration.
Q Are meals included?
Yes. The registration fee includes meals and refreshments during conference hours, including Table Talk Lunches on both days. Specific meal details and dietary accommodation options will be shared in pre-conference communications.
Q How do I register?
Registration is open at gaeyc.org. Select the "2026 Annual Conference" registration link, choose your registration type, and complete the online form. You will receive a confirmation email upon successful registration. If you do not receive a confirmation within 24 hours, contact conference@gaeyc.net.
Q What are the registration rates?
Registration rates vary by GAEYC membership status. Visit gaeyc.org for current pricing. GAEYC members receive a discounted rate. Group registration discounts may be available — contact conference@gaeyc.net for details.
Q Is there a registration deadline?
Registration closes when capacity is reached. The conference is capped at 200 attendees. We strongly encourage early registration to secure your spot. Visit gaeyc.org for the most current availability.
Q What is your refund policy?
Q Can I register a group from my organization?
Yes. Group registrations are welcome. Contact conference@gaeyc.net to discuss group registration options, including any available group pricing. All individuals attending must be registered separately.
Q What payment methods are accepted?
Credit card payment is accepted online through the registration portal at gaeyc.org. If your organization requires an invoice or purchase order, please contact conference@gaeyc.net prior to registering.
Q Where is Phase Events located?
Phase Events is located in Alpharetta, Georgia. The exact address and parking details will be included in pre-conference communications. Additional venue information is available at gaeyc.org.
Q Is there a hotel block for attendees?
Yes. GAEYC has secured a discounted room block at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta Alpharetta, located at 11385 Haynes Bridge Road, Alpharetta, GA 30009. The group rate is $99/night + tax.
To book, call 1-888-236-2427 and identify yourself as being with the GAEYC 2026 Annual Conference. A group booking link may also be available — check your registration confirmation or gaeyc.org for details.
Hotel amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, overnight parking, and fitness center/pool access.
Q When is the hotel room block cutoff?
The GAEYC group rate was available through September 1, 2026. After that date, remaining rooms in the block were released to the general public. Contact the hotel directly for current availability.
Q What are the hotel check-in and check-out times?
Check-in: 3:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
Luggage storage is available for early arrivals.
Q Is the venue accessible for attendees with disabilities?
GAEYC is committed to ensuring all attendees can fully participate. If you have accessibility needs or require accommodations, please indicate this during registration or contact conference@gaeyc.net as soon as possible so we can make appropriate arrangements.
Q What should I wear?
Business casual attire is appropriate. Conference room temperatures can vary — we recommend dressing in layers. Comfortable shoes are encouraged, as there may be movement between session spaces throughout the day.
Q How can my organization sponsor the conference?
Sponsorship opportunities are available at multiple investment levels, each offering visibility with the approximately 200 early childhood professionals attending. Sponsorship benefits include brand presence during sessions, recognition in conference materials, and engagement during the evening reception.
Download the sponsorship prospectus at gaeyc.org or contact conference@gaeyc.net.
Q Can my organization exhibit at the conference?
Yes. Exhibitor booth space is available at the venue. Exhibitors gain direct access to conference attendees and the opportunity to showcase products and resources relevant to early childhood professionals. Contact conference@gaeyc.net for current availability and pricing.
Q Who should I contact with additional questions?
Additional information, registration, the agenda, and speaker announcements are available at gaeyc.org. Follow #GAEYC2026 and #RiseTogether on social media for the latest updates.