Annual Early Childhood Mental Health Conference 2026
Single-day conference on October 2, 2026 in San Diego for providers implementing evidence-based mental health strategies for children ages 0-6.
- Date
- October 2, 2026
- Location
- San Diego, CA
TL;DR
- The Annual Early Childhood Mental Health Conference convenes on October 2, 2026 in San Diego, CA.
- The conference equips providers with practical, evidence-based strategies to support mental well-being in children ages 0-6.
- The event serves professionals in healthcare, education, mental health, and community advocacy.
- Organized by San Diego Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry with support from County of San Diego Health and Human Services.
About
The conference began in 2009 and has grown as a dedicated platform for practical, evidence-based instruction on supporting mental health in early childhood. It serves as a space for providers to reflect, learn, and strengthen the networks connecting healthcare, education, mental health, and community sectors in service of children and families.
Who you'll find in the room
Healthcare providers
Pediatricians, child psychiatrists, and clinical staff supporting early childhood mental health.
Educators
Teachers, directors, and staff in early childhood education and pre-K settings.
Mental health professionals
Therapists, counselors, and clinical specialists focused on children ages 0-6.
Community advocates
Professionals in social services, public health, and community-based support for families.
Featured speakers
2 listedPradeep Gidwani
Medical Director, Healthy Development Services · American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 3
Natalie Elms
Manager, KidSTART Center · Rady Children's Hospital San Diego
Partners on record
2 listedQuestions people ask
8 answeredThe conference is held on October 2, 2026.
The conference is held in San Diego, CA.
Professionals dedicated to early childhood development and mental health attend, including those in healthcare, education, mental health, and community advocacy.
The conference equips providers with practical, evidence-based strategies that support the mental well-being of children ages 0-6.
The Annual Early Childhood Mental Health Conference began in 2009.
Pradeep Gidwani, MD, MPH, FAAP (Medical Director, Healthy Development Services, American Academy of Pediatrics, California Chapter 3) and Natalie Elms, MA (Manager, KidSTART Center, Rady Children's Hospital San Diego) serve as course directors.
If you work with young children in any capacity (clinical care, education, or community support), the conference offers direct, evidence-based strategies from leading practitioners. It is particularly valuable for professionals seeking to strengthen your approach to early childhood mental health.
The organizer does not publish a dress code. Most attendees at professional conferences in the early childhood and mental health sectors opt for business casual or smart casual.
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