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The Call for Proposals is Open Now

The Division for Early Childhood (DEC) invites you to submit proposals for the 42nd Annual International Conference on Young Children with Disabilities and Their Families (DEC2026), taking place Monday, October 26th - Thursday, October 29th, 2026, in Omaha, Nebraska. DEC2026 is the premier international gathering focused on inclusive early childhood practices, early intervention, and early childhood special education, featuring evidence-based practices, innovative research, and collaborative learning grounded in the DEC Recommended Practices. Join colleagues from around the world for four days of learning, connection, and shared commitment to advancing equity, inclusion, and positive outcomes for young children with disabilities and their families.

Submit Your Proposals by February 9th, 2026, 11:59 PM Eastern Time!

Note: This year's DEC Conference differs from the usual schedule and will take place Monday through Thursday. Join us on Monday afternoon for pre-conference workshops and Monday evening for the opening session!

What DEC Attendees Say

I attended the DEC Conference because it’s one of the few spaces where I feel genuinely inspired and connected to others who share the same passion for inclusion and high-quality support for young children and their families. DEC has such an authentic, welcoming vibe—it’s a community that isn’t afraid to have real conversations about equity, advocacy, and innovation. Every year, I leave feeling reenergized and reminded why this work matters so much.

- Morgan

Division for Early Childhood

conference@dec-sped.org

310-428-7209

Division for Early Childhood Mailing and Billing Address 

PO Box 662089

Los Angeles, CA 90066

Division for Early Childhood of the Council for Exceptional Children logo

© Division for Early Childhood 2026​ 

Division for Early Childhood is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization.

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