Early Words Matter 2026 | Science to stories: How research transforms early words into lifelong reading

The first 1001 days of a child’s life are key to enriching their stories.

However, in 2025 the Department for Education found that around 3 in 10 five year olds are not reaching expected levels of development and literacy. This increases to almost 1 in 2 for children eligible for free school meals, to 4 in 5 for children with SEND. With early years settings under pressure and families not receiving adequate support, this poses a significant impact on children's life outcomes.

This does not have to be their story. In our Early Words Matter campaign, we work with early years educators and families to support early literacy for over 250,000 pre-school children. We know how, with the right resources and support, children, families and settings can thrive. With the National Year of Reading, now is the chance to enhance how we approach early literacy - and cultivate lifelong readers.

About the 2026 conference

At Science to story: How research transforms early words into lifelong reading, we’ll celebrate the benefits of shared reading and storytelling on the developing brain – and the opportunities for families, professionals and partnership working.

We’ll discover the latest evidence-base to support boosting language and reading outcomes at scale.

We’ll unpack the recent findings of our Baby Labs, with unique insights into learning development in a range of contexts.

Through keynotes, workshops and panel discussions, you’ll leave with practical takeaways to ensure each child’s story gets the best start – from policy to practice.

What to expect

Over the course of the day, we will:

• Hear from thought leaders in early education, literacy, policy, and early years practice
• Discover how the latest research in literacy and neuroscience is transforming policy and extended early years provision, with practical takeaways that lay the foundation for positive reading habits and improved literacy outcomes
• Explore approaches to supporting early literacy through digital tools, play, SEND and antenatal/neonatal contexts.

Who should attend?

Practitioners working in early years, early education and community settings, including decision makers, plus those working in the governmental and policy space.

Conference highlights and confirmed speakers

• Professor Sam Wass is Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of East London.  In his keynote, Professor Wass will explore how early experiences of shared reading and storytelling influence the developing brain and what that means for policy, professionals, and parents.
• Frank Cottrell-Boyce is the current Children’s Laureate and campaigner for increasing access to reading for pleasure.  Frank’s closing keynote will examine the “heart to science” moment that reconnects the research with the people doing the work.

More to be announced!

Secure your ticket now using the booking form below – or sign up here for agenda updates.

Any questions? Please reach out to schools@literacytrust.org.uk