Brains at play: the science and practice behind building curious minds

In 2027, our Roadshows will give delegates the chance to learn more about the science of early learning and how we as educators can help young children to develop a love of learning and discovery through play. Bringing together external key speakers and our own internal experts, these are once again set to be must-attend events for anyone passionate about delivering high-quality early childhood experiences for young children.

Don't miss this year's fantastic keynote speeches

Joining us this year is international speaker, author and multi award-winning trainer Ben Kingston-Hughes who will deliver an entertaining, thought-provoking talk on how we can build the brains of the future, arguing that play is not an optional extra to childhood, but a fundamental building block.

He will be joined by child psychologist and neuroscientist Professor Sam Wass, who will draw on the latest research on brain development to show how play builds the attention and self-regulation children need when they start school, and explore practical, low-cost strategies for early years settings to help children make a confident transition into reception.

Alliance CEO Neil Leitch will also reflect on how the sector's approach to early learning has been shaped by changing government policy, and how we as educators can look beyond a 'tickbox' approach to child development, and support the delivery of a broad, well-rounded and, crucially, play-based approach to early education.

You will also enjoy informative talks from Alliance experts:

Adverse Childhood Experiences and trauma in the early years - Louise Campbell-White, early years development officer

Discovering and developing loose parts play - Ruth Richardson, early years development officer and TTS SEND expert, Cat Jewkes

The magic of music - Alison Heseltine, early years development manager

Later in the event, you'll have the chance to take part in a dynamic panel discussion on the day's talking points featuring all keynote speakers, led by Alliance communications and external affairs director Shannon Pite.

Throughout the day, you will also have the chance to visit our exhibitor stands. You'll have a chance to speak to official Alliance partners TTS and Intact Insurance, and all attendees will receive a goodie bag sponsored by TTS. Finally, all attendees will have a chance to win TTS resources worth £200!

Cost: £45 early bird price for members until 31/01/27, (£60 thereafter) and £120 for non-members (includes lunch and refreshments).

Playful brains - the neuroscience of play

This transformative keynote details exactly what happens in children’s brains when they play. The keynote highlights the crucial role of the adult in supporting and enriching play, demonstrating that an understanding of simple neuroscience enables us to support our children to experience the most amazing play opportunities. The session then explores the vital role of Play in developing and growing children’s brains, highlighting the profound importance of play for brain growth, wellbeing and even life expectancy.

Ben Kingston-Hughes makes a compelling argument that play is not an optional extra to for childhood but a fundamental building block for every aspect of well-being and development. This keynote is entertaining, thought-provoking and might just help us build the brains of the future!

Play-based approaches: building to school readiness

We often think of school readiness as being able to sit still and listen. Neuroscience suggests a different picture. In this session, Professor Sam Wass draws on the latest research on brain development to show how play builds the attention and self-regulation children need when they start school. He looks at three things:

"Doing" concentration. This is the ability to hold a goal in mind and work towards it. It develops through self-directed play, and adults can help by making plans visible, talking goals through, and supporting rather than directing play.

"Listening" concentration. Young children's attention is easily captured by noise and visual clutter. Sam shows how quieter, clearer, more rhythmic and predictable environments make it easier for children to tune in, especially children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The body's role in learning. Noise and unpredictability raise children's stress levels, which makes them more distractible. Routines, time outdoors and calm adult support help children learn to manage their own state.

Drawing on his award-winning book Take Action on Distraction, Sam offers practical, low-cost strategies for nurseries and early years settings to help children make a confident transition into school.

The magic of music

Music in the early years is about so much more than singing songs. As a universal, multi-sensory language, it plays a powerful role in supporting children's learning and development. Through music, young children explore their world, express themselves crea

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