About this Event
Background:
Join professionals, leaders, practitioners, policymakers, academics and community partners from across the UK for the annual Building the Best Start Together National Conference, hosted by Baby Week Charity.
Taking place during Baby Week 2026 (14-20 November), this year's theme, Chat, Play, Read with Me: Together We Build the Best Start, explores the everyday interactions that help babies and young children learn, communicate and thrive.
From sharing stories and songs to playful experiences and meaningful conversations, these simple moments have a powerful impact on children's development, wellbeing and future outcomes. This conference will bring together national and local expertise to showcase innovative practice, share learning, celebrate success, and inspire action.
Free to attend. Limited in-person tickets available. The conference will also be streamed live via Microsoft Teams for virtual delegates. As a charity, Baby Week is committed to bringing sectors together, reducing barriers to participation and promoting the best start for every baby, child and family.
Why Attend?
This full-day conference offers an opportunity to:
- Hear from leading national speakers and organisations
- Explore the latest developments in early years, speech, language and communication
- Learn about innovative approaches supporting babies, parents and caregivers
- Discover how play, reading and responsive interactions build strong foundations for lifelong learning
- Share best practice with colleagues from across sectors
- Make new connections and strengthen partnerships
- Visit a range of information, advice and resource stalls
Delegates will have dedicated time to network with professionals from across health, education, local government, voluntary organisations and community services.
About the theme for Baby Week 2026
Chat, Play, Read with Me: Together We Build the Best Start celebrates the simple everyday interactions that support babies and young children's development.
The campaign encourages families to:
- Play together
- Chat and communicate every day
- Share stories, books and songs
- Learn through simple, joyful moments
Aligned with the Best Start in Life agenda, the growing national focus on speech, language and communication, and the National Year of Reading, the campaign reminds parents and caregivers that #LittleMomentsMatter and that often, "You're already doing it - here's how it helps."
Together, we can create stronger foundations for every baby, every family and every community.
Find out more at: www.babyweek.co.uk
Contact: [email protected]
Event venue & nearby stays
Nottingham Council House, Council House, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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