Registration

When does registration open?

Registration in now open! Space is limited, so we encourage you to reserve your spot early. Register here for the full two-day conference.

What is the cost of registration?

Early Bird Registration is $399.00 from October 5-February 1. Standard registration is $499.00 through April 25. There is also the option of registering for Friday or Saturday only for $199.00 during the Early Bird window or $249.00 after February 1.

What is included in the cost?
Conference registration for two days of interactive workshops, engaging learning experiences, a tour of early childhood classrooms and community panel discussion, lunch each day, daily snacks and refreshments.

Are there any scholarships available?
At this time, we are not able to offer scholarships. However, many states such as California and Colorado are currently implementing Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) programs and educators may use state grant funds (Educator Effectiveness grants in California, for example) for registration and travel expenses. We encourage educators to check with their districts regarding funds to pay for them to travel and attend professional learning events. If you need support in securing funding, we have created a Conference Justification Toolkit that you can take and edit to fit your needs. 

Can I cancel my registration?
Cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to contact@ecpbl.com. Refunds (less a 5% processing fee) will be issued according to the following schedule:

• Nov 1, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026: 100% refund

• Feb 1 – Feb 29, 2026: 75% refund

• Mar 1 – Mar 30, 2026: 50% refund

• Mar 31 – May 3, 2026: No refunds

What payment methods are accepted?
Payments can be made securely by credit card through our website.

Venue and Logistics

Where is the conference being held?

The 2026 Early Childhood Project Based Learning Conference will now take place at Shady Hill School, located at 56 Coolidge Avenue, Cambridge, MA 02138.

What hotel options are available?

Residence Inn by Marriott Boston Cambridge

120 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02142

This hotel is located about 3 miles from Shady Hill School. It offers several room options, including options that can accommodate more than one person. Breakfast is included, and parking is available for an additional fee. To receive the discounted conference rate, please reserve your room by April 16.

Residence Inn Boston Watertown

570 Arsenal St., Watertown, MA 02472

This hotel is located about 1 mile from Shady Hill School and is within walking distance. Breakfast is included, and parking is available at a slightly lower rate than at the Cambridge hotel.

Reserve your room by April 17.

What airport should I fly into?
Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).

What is the dress code?
Boston in May can be cool in the mornings and evenings; layers are recommended, dress in whatever you are comfortable wearing!

How should I get to Shady Hill School?

While there is some parking available at the school, we recommend using rideshare or public transit if possible.

Accessibility and Special Requirements

We aim to make the conference accessible and inclusive. Please let us know if you need accommodations for physical accessibility, dietary restrictions, or materials in alternate formats by emailing contact@ecpbl.com.

Dietary restrictions will be collected during registration. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options will be available upon request.

Program and Sessions

Who should attend?
Teachers, instructional assistants, family child care providers, coaches, and school leaders working with children ages 3–8 in preschool, transitional kindergarten, kindergarten, and early elementary classrooms.

What are the hours of the conference?

• Friday, May 8, 2026: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm (optional evening social gathering)

• Saturday, May 9, 2026: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a device if you’d like, but this is optional, and a refillable water bottle. WiFi will be available throughout the venue.

Will I receive continuing education credits?
Official CEUs are not offered, but a certificate of attendance with hours will be provided upon request.

Will I get to select which sessions I attend?
Yes. Breakout sessions on Day Two are participant-selected on a first-come, first-served basis.

Will sessions be recorded or available online?
No. Sessions are fully in-person and interactive.

Will session materials be shared?
Yes. Presenters will provide digital or print resources to support continued learning after the conference.

Health and Safety

What are the health and safety guidelines?
Masks are optional. Please stay home if you feel unwell. Common areas will be cleaned regularly.

Contact

Questions? Reach out to contact@ecpbl.com.