First Up Annual Conference
Thriving Together: Collaborating and Communicating in Community
March 6-7, 2026
8:00am - 4:30pm EST
(Registration Opens at 7:00am EST
The Hilton Philadelphia City Avenue
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Engage in a Learning Experience- Gain Tools to Help You and Your Learning Community Thrive
Calling All Early Childhood Educators, Administrators and Early Childhood Support Professionals to join us for a time to learn, grow and be inspired as you work within Early Childhood Education.
Click HERE to REGISTER TODAY!
The Conference Provides:
Engaging Workshops
- Expand your knowledge base of key elements in education such as challenging behaviors, meeting the needs of all children, engaging with families and supporting yourself as a professional.
- Learn practical skills you can apply in the classroom right away
- Find supports for your career in education
- Keynote Speakers on Friday and Saturday
- Two Featured Presenters on each day
- Break out sessions to learn about yourself, the needs of others, your classroom and more
- Workshops available in Spanish (Saturday)
Expert Speakers
- Hear from leaders in Early Childhood Education
- Panel discussions with local leaders and question/answer discussions
- Stay Tuned! More Featured Speakers to be announced soon.
Networking Opportunities
- Create new connections with other professionals
- Renew relationships with educators you have known in the past
- Learn about opportunities for Early Childhood Educators
Sponsors, Vendors, Exhibitors and More
- Discover new tools, resources and curriculum ideas
- Explore and engage with other educators in our Nature Playpad and Wonder Nook area!
- Golden Ticket opportunities to win prizes including an Ipad
- LUNCH will be provided! As well as Coffee, Tea, and Snack stations.
Interested in Sponsorship, Advertising and Exhibitor Opportunities?
For information on being an exhibitor or advertiser please contact Christina Figueroa (christina.figueroa@firstup.org)!
For information on sponsorship, please contact Nari Kim (nari.kim@firstup.org)!
Registration Information
Spaces are limited! Secure your spot to inspire, be inspired, and make a difference in early childhood education. To make the most of this experience, we encourage you to register early and take advantage of our early bird pricing. Space is limited, and with the lineup we have this year, it’s filling up quickly! Early registration will secure your spot and give you the best rate.
Please Note
Each participant will receive PQAS PD credit for the workshops and sessions they attend, we can also process ACT 48 credit.
2026 Annual Conference | Pricing per Registration
Click HERE to Register Today!
Join Us At The Hilton at City Avenue!
The hotel is across from the Bala Cynwyd Business District and three miles from the Please Touch Museum and shopping in Manayunk. Philadelphia Museum of Art, Pennsylvania Convention Center, and Independence National Historical Park are within a 15-minute drive. Enjoy skyline views and Polo Lounge.
Click HERE to Learn More About the Conference Venue!
Tranportation & Parking
Here is some useful infromation regarding parking at the Hilton and transportation close to the hotel:
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Self Park Open Lot- $8.00 per day
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Valet Parking- $15.00 per day
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Overbrook Train Station is .5 miles away from venue
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Bus 34 stops close to venue as well
