Early childhood education programs for infants and toddlers through preschool and transitional kindergarten provide the earliest opportunities for learning, growth, and connection during a critical period of development. Strong, responsive relationships and a sense of belonging from the very beginning help these young children build the foundation for future learning and well-being.
Last Saturday, more than 250 education professionals who work with children ages 0–5 gathered at the Hilton Sacramento Arden West to gain valuable insights at the third annual Early Learning: At the Heart of It All conference. The inspiring event on April 5 was hosted by the Sacramento County Office of Education (SCOE) Early Learning Department, which offers programs and resources that support the early learning education community.
The conference offered 24 dynamic sessions tied to this year’s theme—“Belonging for All, From the Beginning”—and the belief that every child and educator deserves to feel valued, included, and supported from the very start. Attendees included family childcare providers, public and private center staff, school district teams, and representatives from the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and the California Department of Education (CDE). They explored best practices in early literacy and ways to build engaging STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) experiences. They also participated in reflective spaces to support their own professional growth and learned about inclusive environments, social-emotional development, and the power of playful learning.
Keynote speaker Heather Snipes delivered a moving address on the “Dignity of Risk,” a concept that affirms the right for all individuals (including those with disabilities) to take reasonable risks as a pathway to growth, learning, and self-determination. Snipes encouraged attendees to reflect on their own journeys of risk and discovery, creating a meaningful moment of connection and shared vulnerability. The keynote spotlighted parent experiences with a panel discussion about receiving early childhood education services and what was most helpful for families in those early years. The conversation was moderated by Robin Ryan (Seeds of Partnership Coordinator) and her son, Gabriel Ryan (Blog Writer and Contributor for School Health), who received support through SCOE early childhood education programs. The panel’s powerful personal stories and perspectives helped attendees better understand the family experience and how their commitment and passion have far-reaching impacts.
This year’s conference was filled with learning, relationship building, and affirmation of the shared commitment to create inclusive, supportive, and joyful learning environments—right from the beginning. SCOE offers early learning training opportunities throughout the year, including the Joyful Literacy Institute coming up this June.