Child Australia unveils speaker line-up for Little People, Big Dreams Conference

Early childhood professionals are set to hear from some of Australia's leading voices in education, inclusion and child development when Child Australia hosts its 2026 Little People, Big Dreams Children's Learning and Development Conference in Darwin this October.

Returning on Saturday 17 October at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Esplanade, the conference will bring together educators, approved providers, teachers, leaders, academics and policymakers to explore this year's theme, Growing Ideas That Matter: Empowering Voices, Shaping Practice.

With the conference program now available, delegates can explore a diverse range of breakout sessions and networking opportunities, while benefiting from a program of keynote presentations designed to strengthen practice and inspire new thinking across the early childhood sector.

Among this year's keynote speakers is educator, author and parenting counsellor Lael Stone, whose presentation, Understanding Children, Understanding Ourselves, will examine how children's behaviour, play and relationships provide valuable insights into their emotional needs while encouraging educators to reflect on their own responses and wellbeing.

Joining her is Wiradjuri educator and Koori Curriculum founder Jessica Staines, who will present Windows, Mirrors and Sliding Doors: Creating Early Childhood Spaces Where Every Child Belongs. Drawing on anti-bias approaches, Aboriginal perspectives and intercultural practice, the keynote explores how educators can create learning environments where every child feels seen, valued and connected.

The conference program also features an extensive selection of breakout sessions delivered by early childhood practitioners, researchers and sector experts from the Northern Territory and across Australia, providing delegates with practical strategies, contemporary research and opportunities to connect with peers.

Ahead of the conference, delegates can also attend an exclusive masterclass with Jessica Staines on Friday 16 October. The session, The 8 Ways of Learning, offers an in-depth exploration of Aboriginal pedagogies and practical approaches to embedding Aboriginal perspectives in everyday early childhood practice. The masterclass marks Jessica Staines' first professional learning event in Darwin since 2019, providing a rare opportunity for educators in the Northern Territory to engage directly with one of Australia's leading voices in culturally responsive practice.

The 2026 conference will focus on five key themes:

• Embedding Aboriginal Pedagogy in Practice
• The Power of Play
• Embracing Neurodiversity and Inclusion
• Leading with Purpose
• Safety in Every Moment.

Now in its twelfth year, the Little People, Big Dreams Conference has established a reputation as one of the Northern Territory's leading professional learning events, regularly attracting delegates from across Australia. Child Australia said this year's program intentionally combines nationally recognised speakers with Northern Territory-based presenters to showcase innovative practice and strengthen connections across the sector.

The full conference program, speaker profiles and ticket information are available on the Child Australia website.