2025 GoAEYC's Teaching is our Superpower
Schedule
Sat Oct 18 2025 at 07:30 am to 12:30 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Oakton College | Des Plaines, IL

About this Event
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Time: 07:30 AM- 12:30 PM (Central Daylight Time)
Location: Oakton College1600 Golf Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016
Come join us at the ! This exciting event will take place on Saturday, October 18, 2025, starting at 07:30 AM (Central Daylight Time). We are thrilled to bring together professionals, educators, and enthusiasts in the field of early childhood education to explore new ideas and foster collaboration. We're excited to announce our Vendors are back, hear about the collaborations in our community and do some exploring!
The conference will be held at the conveniently located Oakton College 1600 Golf Road, Des Plaines, IL 60016. We will be in a new location within the college, please park in LOT A! This venue offers a comfortable and conducive environment for learning and networking. Get ready to engage in thought-provoking discussions, attend informative workshops, and gain valuable insights from experienced speakers.
At the , we aim to create an inclusive and friendly atmosphere where participants can connect with like-minded individuals, exchange knowledge, and discover innovative approaches in early childhood education. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of a community that believes in the power of collaboration and shared learning. Teaching is our Superpower! You will be able to pre-register for workshops when you register so that at the conference, you just need to find a seat, no rushing around. Enjoy some pre-packaged snacks*, visit vendors, and a chance to win raffle prizes.
We look forward to welcoming you to an inspiring and enriching experience at the 2025 Annual Conference! Mark your calendars and join us on October 18th for a day filled with growth, inspiration, and connection.
Cost:
Early Bird discount if made prior to 9/19/2025:
- General Admission $35
- General Admission for groups of 5+ people $30 each
- GoAEYC's Standard/Premium members in good standing $25
After 9/19/25:
- General Admission $40
- General Admission for groups of 5+ people $35 each
- GoAEYC's Standard/Premium members in good standing $30
* Please note you may bring beverages and light snacks as GoAEYC is unable to meet all food sensitivities or allergies.
Please choose ONE workshop for each session, click here for detailed descriptions.
Please note that GoAEYC is an Authorized Entity of Gateways. This conference is worth 4 hours of Gateways approved hours and will appear after verification of attendance on your Professional Development Record.
Session A
8-10 AM
- Supporting Children's Mental Health Through Play, Michelle Patt
- Make Music Your Super Power! Carole Stephens
- Hands-On Math for Little Minds, Kelly Green
- Is Autistic Play Really Non-Functional? Agnieszka Moroni
Session B
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
- Building Resilience-Based Literacy, Allen Rosales
- Beyond Use Your Words! Supporting Successful Social Interactions in the Early Childhood Classroom, Nancy Bruski
- Great NEW Nature Books for your Kids; the Latest Blueberry Award Books! Martha Meyer
- Literacy Launchpad: Building Foundational Language and Literacy Skills for Early Learners, Lori Pluchrat Cole
You may register on-line or via Post office, see registration booklet for more information and deadlines.
GoAEYC is thankful for our sponsors and supporters:
We couldn't do this without them!
Oakton College, Des Plaines: www.oakton.edu
Gateways to Opportunity: www.ilgateways.com
Please note a list of vendors will be emailed the week prior to the conference. Interested in being a vendor? Contact us at [email protected]
Agenda
🕑: 07:30 AM
Check-in Table open for you to pick up name tag, and room assignments
🕑: 08:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Session A Workshops
🕑: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Break- check vendors, door prize winner list, and grab a snack.
🕑: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Session B Workshops
🕑: 12:30 PM - 12:30 PM
Conference ends, enjoy the rest of your day!
Where is it happening?
Oakton College, 1600 Golf Road, Des Plaines, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 28.52 to USD 44.52
