2026 Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Conference
March 15-17, 2026 • Jacksonville, FL
Family / Parents
As always, the 2026 National EHDI Conference will have multiple sessions and activities geared toward students and families.
Opportunities for All Attendees
| Sunday, March 15, 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM | EHDI Annual Conference Reception Stroll the exhibit hall, enjoy some light fare and catch up with colleagues and friends at the reception. |
Grand Ballroom 5-8 |
| 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM |
25th Anniversary Dance Celebration We're turning 25! This isn't just a dance; it's a tribute to the incredible journey of the EHDI community. Join the party and celebrate 25 years of making a difference! It's the perfect, high-energy environment to catch up with old friends and meet new colleagues in a relaxed, festive setting. We are thrilled that DJ2DEF will be behind the decks! Known for bringing the essential party atmosphere with his signature "Can't Have a Party without Music and Lights!" vibe. He'll be spinning the tracks that keep the energy high and the dance floor packed all night long. We're carving out special time for line dancing – complete with an instructor on the floor! Whether you're a "Cupid Shuffle" pro or ready to learn a new choreographed groove, this is your chance to jump in, follow the lead, and dance in sync with the entire EHDI family. The Reception and Exhibits open at 6:00 PM in Grand Ballroom 5-8, so you can grab a refreshment and get into the party spirit before the music starts! |
Grand Ballroom 1-4 |
Sessions of Interest to Both Parents and Students
| Monday, March 16, 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 10:05 AM – 11:05 AM | Students & Parents: Creating Space for Collaboration and Learning | St. Johns |
| 12:00 PM – 1:45 PM | Poster Session Grand | Ballroom Foyer |
Opportunities for Parents
| Throughout The EHDI 2026 Conference | |
|---|---|
| Parent Place Calming Quarters Need a few minutes to unwind with your little one? Or want time and a quiet place to visit with other parents? Join us in the Parent Place Calming Quarters where you can sit and get away from all of the conference activities. |
Client Office 1 |
| Stop by the Hands & Voices exhibit table and meet parents of children who are Deaf/Hard of Hearing from around the country! | Grand Ballroom 5-8 |
| Sunday, March 15, 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 PM – 10:30 PM |
Very Important Parent (VIP) Corner The Parent Corner offers a welcoming space for parents and caregivers to connect, relax, and build community during the conference dance event. Designed as a comfortable retreat from the dance floor, this area is open and welcoming to children. Parents can engage in conversation, share experiences and resources, and make meaningful connections with other families in a relaxed environment. Whether you're taking a break from dancing, supervising little ones, or simply enjoying the energy of the event at a quieter pace, the Parent Corner is a place where families of all ages can feel comfortable, supported and included. For families who may need a break from noise or stimulation, a separate sensory-friendly quiet room is available nearby. |
Grand Ballroom 1-4 |
| Monday, March 16, 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| 12:15 PM – 1:45 PM |
Parent Place Luncheon Join us for a Parent Place Luncheon featuring a panel ofparents raising children who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing.Parents at different stages of the journey will sharetheir real-life experiences-the questions they faced earlyon, the decisions they navigated, the challenges alongthe way, and the moments of joy and pride that shapedtheir families. Through conversation and shared stories,panelists will reflect on advocacy, communication choices,education, and building support systems. This informal andsupportive gathering offers an opportunity for connection,encouragement, and learning from those who have beenthere, reminding families that they are not alone and thatthere are many paths to success. Purchase your lunch and head directly to River Terrace 3.There will be time to visit with other parents before thepanel. There will also be prize drawings during the luncheon.River |
Terrace 3 |