Parenting is more than just hard work, it is HEARTWORK!About this Event
Welcome to the Parenting is Heartwork Conference happening on November 10, 2026 at the Maple Down Golf and Country Club.
PARENTING IS HEART WORK CONFERENCE 2026
“Because caring for yourself is caring for your baby.”
Join us for a day of support and inspiration as we focus on practical self-care for parents and caregivers. Together, we’ll reframe self-care to make it simple, accessible and meaningful while caring for your baby. With expert community partners, hands-on baby and me workshops, and tailored resources, this conference will uplift, celebrate, and equip you for the heart work of caring for a baby.
This conference is for YOU—because you deserve to be cared for too!
This in person conference is designed for families with babies 0-12 months old. It aims to support and empower parents and caregivers with the latest research in various areas of child development, celebrate the expertise of families, strengthen their connection and engagement with their child and support their child’s learning and healthy development.
*Please note due to our venue's capacity registration is only for 1 adult and their baby under 12 months of age.
*There is limited stroller accessibility as the venue has only 1 elevator therefore , it is recommended to bring a baby carrier or sling if possible. Be reassured that you'll have a caring team of people available to support you and your baby during the conference at all times, including during transitions to workshops that may be on another floor.
WORKSHOPS:
There will be two baby-and-me workshops. You will be able to select two workshops from the five workshops being offered. Tickets will be available during the registration period on the day of the conference (9:30am-10:00 am), and guidance will be provided to assist you in selecting a workshop that aligns with your interests.
Five of the following six workshops will be offered as choices for the workshops:
1. Infant Massage
This session focuses on promoting nurturing touch and communication. Caregivers will learn how to massage their babies, interpret their cues, and foster bonding and attachment. The session also supports and encourages caregivers to trust their abilities and intuition. Certified instructors from your local EarlyON Child and Family programs will lead the session.
2. Treasure Baskets for Baby
Join us for an interactive session where parents, caregivers, and babies can discover the benefits of treasure baskets. Learn how these baskets can enhance your baby’s exploration, fine motor skills and cognitive development using everyday household items.
3. Feeding Babies
Join York Region Public Health for an interactive workshop on introducing solid foods to your baby! Gain confidence in feeding your little one with practical tips for babies up to one year old. This session will also include how we can nourish ourselves as caregivers.
4.Baby Messy Play
This program invites you and your baby to explore the environment with their senses to promote early learning and development. Dress for the mess and join us for interactive, hands-on activities while connecting with other families and educators.
5.Sing & Sign
This program invites you and your baby to an introduction to American Sign Language for hearing infants. These sessions use songs and games as a tool to include signing in everyday routines. It is an opportunity to bond with your baby while supporting language development. It’s a great way connect with other families and educator
6.Recognize and Respond: Choking
Join St. John Ambulance Healthcare professionals to learn how to recognize the signs and symptoms of choking in babies and how to treat until the arrival of emergency services.
Potential flow of the day:
- Registration and light refreshments (beginning at 9:30am and ending at 10:00am)
- Land Acknowledgement and opening remarks
- Keynote presentation
- Workshop #1
- Buffet lunch, community partner booths, photo booth
- Zumbini Break
- Workshop #2
- Librarian Book Read
- Draw prizes, closing remarks
Event venue
Maple Downs Golf & Country Club, 11101 Dufferin Street, Vaughan, Canada
Tickets
CAD 0.00
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.