April 23-24 / Vilnius, Lithuania
The Early Childhood Education Summit is an unmissable two-day event dedicated to shaping the future of early childhood education.
In 2025, the conference explored “Nurturing Futures: Wellness for Children and Educators” — a powerful gathering that brought together educators, researchers, and wellness professionals from across Europe for meaningful cross-cultural exchange and collaboration.
Looking ahead to Early Childhood Education’26, happening on April 23–24 in Vilnius, Lithuania, the theme for this year: “Guided Play or Play Guided?” — a central question in early childhood education: when and how should adults guide children’s play, and when should play guide learning itself?
Proudly hosted by Austėja Landsbergienė, PhD — founder of 13 modern schools and a visionary in contextual and early childhood education — the Summit continues to reflect her deep commitment to innovation and child-centered learning. This year, Austėja will deliver the keynote address, “Guided, Not Directed: The Art of Letting Learning Happen,” sharing her insights on balancing guided play and child-led learning.
Participants will also engage in inspiring talks from leading experts, including Jo Boaler, PhD, Professor of Mathematics Education at Stanford University; Sara Baker, PhD, Professor of Developmental Psychology and Education at Cambridge University, UK, specializing in the science of learning; and Kristijonas Vasiliauskas, a pioneer in EdTech and neurotechnology for learning — alongside many other amazing speakers shaping the future of early childhood education.
Hands-on workshops will immerse educators in the power of play as a central learning tool. Explore research-backed, practical strategies to make early math, literacy, and problem-solving activities playful and meaningful, integrate role-play and narrative learning, and use technology to support curiosity, engagement, and social-emotional growth. Participants will leave inspired with actionable approaches that bring creativity and agency to every child’s learning experience.
INTERACTIVE WORKSHOPS
Hands-on sessions that explore playful, guided, and child-led approaches, equipping attendees with practical tools for impactful early childhood education.
EXPERT INSIGHTS
Presentations from leading experts exploring the balance between guided play and child-led learning, sharing knowledge and innovative approaches you can apply in your classrooms.
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES
Connect with fellow early childhood teachers and leaders from across Europe. Share experiences, exchange ideas, and build professional relationships with peers who face the same challenges and explore solutions together.
SCHOOL VISITS
Explore best practices in action through visits to local schools, offering a unique chance to witness successful strategies in early childhood education.
9:00 – 9:30 | Registration & Morning Coffee
9:30 – 9:40 | Welcome & Introduction
9:40 – 11:00 | Keynote & Talks
- Keynote: “Guided, Not Directed: The Art of Letting Learning Happen” – Austėja Landsbergienė, PhD (Lithuania)
- Talk: “The science behind learning through play” – Prof. Sara Baker, PhD (United Kingdom)
- Talk: “Role Play as a Scandinavian Path to Meaningful Early Learning” – Randi Lauvland Sundby (Norway)
- Talk: “How Is the Rise of Digital Play Shaping the ‘Brain Rot’ Phenomenon?” – Kristijonas Vasiliauskas (Lithuania / United States)
11:00 – 11:30 | Coffee Break
11:30 – 13:00 | Talk & Workshops
- Talk: “Beyond the Play: The Invisible Architecture of Learning” – Marija Vyšniauskaitė (Lithuania)
- Workshops – Block 1
13:00 – 14:00 | Lunch
14:00 – 15:50 | Talk & Workshops
- Talk: “How Do We Inspire Young Minds to Find Meaning in Mathematics?” – Prof. Jo Boaler, PhD (United States)
- Talk: “Play as a Bridge to Multilingual Language Development” – Izabela Gralla-Ekenomaghele (Poland)
- Workshops – Block 2
15:50 – 16:20 | Coffee Break
16:20 – 17:00 | Panel Discussion
Guided Play or Play Guided? – Sara Baker, PhD, Randi Sundby, Kristijonas Vasiliauskas and Marija Vyšniauskaitė.
Networking Opportunities
- Informal sessions with educators, researchers, and practitioners from across Europe;
- Traditional Lithuanian dinner in the evening for connecting and exchanging ideas;
- Connect exclusively with early childhood teachers and leaders, sharing experiences, challenges, and best practices unique to your field.
Guided visits to schools to observe best practices and innovative approaches in early childhood education. Transportation will be provided.
Founder of 13 modern schools, educator, author, Lithuania
Best-selling author, speaker and a visionary leader in Contextual and Early Childhood Education, she is widely recognized as a pioneering female leader in the field. Austėja focuses on creating rich, meaningful learning environments that balance guidance and exploration, fostering curiosity, creativity, and holistic development in children.
Keynote: “Guided, Not Directed: The Art of Letting Learning Happen”
In this keynote, Austėja will explore the delicate balance between guiding children’s play and allowing them to lead their own learning. Drawing on research and practical experience, she will show how guided play—where adults create rich, supportive environments and gently scaffold learning—can enhance children’s vocabulary, problem-solving, and mathematical skills more effectively than free play alone. Participants will gain insights into how to support children’s growth without taking over, cultivating environments where learning emerges naturally and joyfully.
Professor of Education, Stanford University, USA
A leading expert in mathematics education and a strong advocate for equitable, meaningful, and research-based learning, recognized worldwide as one of the foremost voices in math education. Author of Mathematical Mindsets, Limitless Mind, and numerous other books, she focuses on inquiry-based learning, growth mindset, and creating inclusive environments where all children thrive.
Talk: “How Do We Inspire Young Minds to Find Meaning in Mathematics?”
In this talk, Jo Boaler will explore practical strategies to make mathematics engaging, meaningful and fun for young children. Drawing on research and examples, she will demonstrate how to foster curiosity, problem-solving skills, and confidence through playful, hands-on learning experiences. Participants will discover ways to introduce foundational math concepts, encourage creative thinking, and help children develop a positive relationship with numbers and patterns from an early age.
Professor of Developmental Psychology and Education, Faculty of Education, Cambridge, UK
Sara is a Professor at Cambridge University, she specializes in the science of learning. Her academic research aims to improve children’s lives by identifying factors at home and school that can support their agency over their own learning, in particular by developing their executive functions and self-regulation.
Talk: “The science behind learning through play”
The words ‘learning through play’ can make people think about activities that are ‘not serious’. However, research from the learning sciences indicates that learning through play can make the most of children’s natural curiosity about the world, their ability to learn through doing, and supportive interactions with adults. This keynote session will share a range of examples of learning through play that are supported by the science of learning.
The co-founder of 600 international Dibber early childhood education centers across 10 countries, starting from Norway and extending to South Africa. Norway
She has over 20 years of experience in education and pedagogy. Dibber is a global early education leader and #1 Scandinavian and Nordic education provider founded in Norway in 2003.
Talk: “Role Play as a Scandinavian Path to Meaningful Early Learning”
This talk explores how role play, inspired by Scandinavian educational approaches, can create inclusive and engaging learning experiences for all children. Participants will see how carefully designed play activities allow every child to participate, express ideas, and learn together, regardless of social confidence or language skills. The session highlights how role play can foster collaboration, communication, and meaningful learning in early childhood settings.
Chief Operating Officer at “Vaikystės Sodas” pre-schools. Lithuania
Marija has extensive experience in education, leadership, and curriculum development. She has taught economic didactics at Vilnius University and authored two internationally awarded textbooks. Since 2023, she has led “Vaikystės Sodas,” combining her expertise in management and education to create structured, playful, and enriching learning environments.
Talk: “Beyond the Play – The Invisible Architecture of Learning”
In this talk, Marija Vyšniauskaitė will reveal what lies behind the joyful, play-filled classrooms of “Vaikystės sodas.” While children learn through exploration, imagination, and guided play, their progress is supported by a carefully designed system. Drawing on evidence-based practices and the school’s internal quality assurance model, Marija will show how educators observe, document, and analyze children’s learning to ensure that play leads to meaningful developmental and academic outcomes. Participants will gain insight into how structured teacher collaboration, thoughtful curriculum design, and continuous data collection allow “Vaikystės sodas” to maintain high standards while preserving the magic and natural flow of childhood play.
EdTech Pioneer and Co-Founder of Robotics Academy, ExoClass, and BrAIn Club, USA – Lithuania
A leading expert in the intersection of technology, neuroscience, and early childhood education, Kristijonas is recognized for his work on how digital environments shape children’s attention, motivation, and emotional development.
Kristijonas collaborates with schools and educators across the Baltic region, Ireland, and the United States, designing play-based, brain-friendly learning solutions that help children thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Talk: “How Is the Rise of Digital Play Shaping the ‘Brain Rot’ Phenomenon?”
In this keynote, Kristijonas Vasiliauskas examines a challenge increasingly recognized by parents and educators: a rapid decline in children’s attention, emotional balance and readiness to learn.
Through the lens of brain rot – a cultural term describing overstimulation, fragmented focus and digital overload – Kristijonas exposes what is truly happening inside children’s minds in a tech-driven world.
Academic Supervisor, International Trilingual School of Warsaw, Poland
A teacher and educational leader with 18 years of experience working in schools across England, China, Malaysia, and Poland.
Talk: “Play as a Bridge to Multilingual Language Development”
A talk on how play is used as a powerful tool for language development in multilingual settings where children learn in several languages. Drawing on the practices of an international, trilingual school, the session will demonstrate how play can help children naturally acquire and use multiple languages.
Teacher and Head of Department at Queen Morta School, Lithuania – Denmark
Emilija has been working in education for 15 years, exploring everything from classroom teaching to administrative roles. For the past three years, she has been running classes at a Lituanistic School for families living abroad and mentoring new primary school teachers at Queen Morta School.
Conference Moderator
Emilija’s deep understanding of early childhood education, combined with her experience working across cultures and supporting teachers, makes her an ideal moderator for this Summit. She brings clarity, empathy, and a strong sense of educational purpose — exactly what’s needed to guide meaningful discussions and connect speakers with the audience.
Presenter: Kristijonas Vasiliauskas (USA-Lithuania)
This hands-on workshop invites participants to explore neurotechnology, AI tools, and robotics kits that help children move from overstimulation to being “brain ready.” Participants will test technologies that reveal attention and emotional states, explore AI-powered learning experiences, and try robotics kits that strengthen problem-solving, curiosity, and calm engagement. Educators will leave with practical insights to apply in early education and afterschool settings.
Presented by: Kristijonas Vasiliauskas is an EdTech pioneer and co-founder of Robotics Academy, ExoClass, and BrAIn Club. For over a decade, he has explored how technology shapes children’s attention, motivation, and emotional development, bridging neuroscience, immersive technologies, and play-based learning to support balanced, brain-friendly environments in schools across Europe and the US.
Presenter: Sara Baker, PhD (UK, Cambridge)
In this workshop we will explore three practical strategies for learning through play:
- Building on learners’ natural curiosity about the world to make learning meaningful
- Using concrete materials to bring the learning to life
- Establishing talk routines that invite learners to think deeply and play with ideas
Presented by: Sara Baker, PhD is Professor of Developmental Psychology and Education at the University of Cambridge and a leading expert in the science of learning. Her research focuses on how children learn through play, with particular attention to executive functions, self-regulation, and learner agency. Sara works closely with educators to translate findings from cognitive science into practical, play-based educational strategies.
Presenters: Milda Brėdikytė Assoc. Prof., PhD, and Agnė Brandišauskienė Assoc. Prof., PhD (Lithuania)
This workshop explores how children and adults learn through role-play. Participants will plan and analyze narrative play adventures that incorporate learning tasks for children of different ages. The session highlights the value of imaginative, collaborative play in developing problem-solving, social, and cognitive skills.
Presented by: Agnė Brandišauskienė, PhD, is an associate professor and senior researcher at the Academy of Education, Vytautas Magnus University, focusing on early childhood education and supportive learning environments. Milda Brėdikytė, PhD, is a researcher in early development, narrative play, and puppetry at Vytautas Magnus University, exploring how imaginative play nurtures children’s learning and growth.
Presenter: Deimantė Žukauskaitė (Lithuania)
Participants will discover practical methods for making early math engaging, meaningful, and hands-on. Together, they will explore simple activities and games that introduce foundational math concepts, encourage creative thinking, and help children develop a positive relationship with numbers and patterns.
Presented by: Deimantė Žukauskaitė is a teacher at Queen Morta School, experienced in making mathematics engaging and playful for young learners. She creates activities that encourage curiosity, exploration, and a natural understanding of math concepts.
Presenter: Zelma Diāna Vidiņa (Latvia)
This workshop explores how the Reggio Emilia approach places children at the heart of learning as curious, capable, and active protagonists. Through play, participants will examine core principles of the philosophy, reflect on the educator’s role as observer and co-learner, discuss the balance between guided and open-ended play, and experience hands-on provocations that demonstrate how the environment acts as the “third teacher.”
Presented by: Zelma Diāna Vidiņa is the Director of Putnu dārzs, a Reggio Emilia–inspired preschool she co-founded in 2016, where she leads school development, strategy, and operations. She holds an Executive MBA from the Stockholm School of Economics in Riga, a Master’s in Culture Management, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Social Anthropology. Zelma combines her extensive international education with over 20 years of leadership experience and deep expertise in contemporary early childhood education practices.
Presenters: Greta Gudonytė, Emilija Aliukonytė (Lithuania)
This session demonstrates how play-based activities can spark motivation to read. Participants will explore creative strategies using games, storytelling, movement, and imagination to support early literacy. The workshop provides practical ideas that can be adapted for different ages and learning environments.
Presented by: Greta Gudonytė is a preschool teacher passionate about fostering curiosity, imagination, and joy in learning. Emilija Aliukonytė is also a preschool teacher, creating playful, engaging experiences that inspire early literacy. Together, they design hands-on strategies that make reading motivating and fun for young learners.
Presenter: Simona Ramanauskaitė (Lithuania)
This session uses the LEGO® Serious Play® method to explore why conflicts arise and how to create clearer communication between leaders, teachers, and parents. Participants will build models to connect perspectives, visualize the system, and develop practical strategies for collaboration. The workshop also addresses unwritten rules, ways to support shared agreements, and maintaining unity when opinions differ.
Presented by: Simona Ramanauskaitė is Certified Project Manager (PMP) with a strong track record in cross-functional collaboration and the delivery of complex projects. IT development team lead, LEGO® Serious Play® method enthusiast and facilitator.
Presenter: Randi Sundby (Norway)
This hands-on workshop demonstrates how Scandinavian-inspired role play can create inclusive learning environments where every child can participate, express ideas, and collaborate. Educators will explore practical strategies that foster engagement, social learning, and meaningful experiences for all learners, including those who may be shy, hesitant, or less confident in group settings. Participants will leave with actionable approaches to support agency, participation, and joyful learning in early childhood classrooms.
Presented by: Randi Lauvland Sundby is the co-founder of Dibber, a global early childhood education provider with over 600 centers across 10 countries. With more than 20 years of experience in education and pedagogy, she brings deep expertise in Scandinavian educational values and their practical application in diverse early learning settings worldwide.
Choose two workshops before checkout and let us know if you’ll attend the dinner and evening program on day one, as well as the school visits on day two.
If you plan to get more than one ticket, you can choose the amount during check out. If you wish to add a ticket with a different workshop combination, simply return here after you add your first ticket.
If you have a coupon, please enter it during the check out.
Welcome to Vilnius
The conference will be held in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, a city known for its unique blend of historic charm and modern innovation. With picturesque architecture, a vibrant cultural scene, and a welcoming atmosphere, Vilnius offers the perfect backdrop for our event. Although compact in size, the city is rich in history and creativity, making it an exciting destination.
Transport to the Conference
The event will take place at Queen Morta School, located at Lukšinės Street 29, in a peaceful residential area of Vilnius. To ensure easy access, we will provide shuttle buses between the venue and selected hotels. A registration form will be sent closer to the conference date to confirm your preferred pick-up location. Bolt and Uber are also available for private transport options.
Transport to/from the Airport
Vilnius Airport offers various transportation options, including taxis, public buses, and a train service to the city center. For detailed information, visit the Vilnius Airport website.
Public Transport in Vilnius
For those using public transport, visit the Vilnius public transport website for detailed routes. You can also use the Traffi app or Judu app for schedules and ticket purchases.
We are pleased to offer our conference attendees a range of accommodation options in Vilnius, catering to different preferences and budgets. Hotels are centrally located, and the conference bus will pick up and drop off attendees at these locations in the evening.
Below you will find descriptions of special price and discount options available exclusively for our conference attendees. Please note that these offers are valid while rooms are available.
To make a reservation, kindly book directly with the hotels using the contact details provided.
AMBERTON CATHEDRAL SQUARE HOTEL VILNIUS
The hotel is located in the very heart of Lithuania with a magnificent view of the Cathedral Square and situated in the charming Old Town of Vilnius with its city spirit. Amberton Cathedral Square Hotel Vilnius offers spacious rooms and a restaurant with stunning views of Cathedral Square.
- Room rates: 20% discount on daily rates;
- Additional charges: Breakfast, city tax of €2 per person per night
- Discount code: EDUCATION20
- Reservation link: Amberton – Conference Offer
- More information: Amberton Cathedral Square
IBIS VILNIUS CENTRE
Located near the city center, Ibis Vilnius Centre offers a comfortable and budget-friendly stay. This modern hotel features cozy rooms, a restaurant serving international cuisine, and friendly service. The location provides easy access to Vilnius’ main attractions and public transport.
- Room rates: 15% discount on daily rates
- Included: Breakfast
- Additional charges: City tax of €2 per person per night
- Reservation: e-mail ha1j1@accor.com
- More information: Ibis Vilnius Centre
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT VILNIUS CITY CENTER
A modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of Vilnius, just a short walk from the Old Town and major attractions. Courtyard by Marriott offers comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant. Guests appreciate its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location.
- Room rates: 10% discount on daily rates
- Included: Breakfast
- Additional charges: City tax of €2 per person per night
- Reservation: e-mail: reservations@courtyardvilnius.com
- More information: Courtyard by Marriott
Hosted by Vaikystės Sodas &
PhD, Austeja Landsbergiene