Hampshire Maintained Schools and Nurseries - Inclusion Conference 2026: Little Minds, Big Differences: Neurodivergence in Early Childhood - Saturday 7th March 2026

Inclusion Conference 2026

Little Minds, Big Differences: Neurodivergence in Early Childhood

Saturday 7th March 2026

Winchester area

9.30am to 4.30pm

Keynote Speaker:

Dr Rachel Moseley is a Principal Academic in Psychology at Bournemouth University. Her work focuses on mental health and wellbeing in autistic adults, with particular focus on suicide prevention. More broadly, her work encapsulates masking, challenges around obtaining diagnosis, and the consequences of late diagnosis.

“Quirky" girls, struggling teenagers, burnt-out adults: autism in girls and women

Autism has been historically underdiagnosed in girls and women, meaning many grow up without the right support and understanding. Drawing on her research and her lived experience of a late autism diagnosis, Dr Rachel Moseley explores the lesser-known presentation of autism in girls and women, why so many are missed for diagnosis, and what the consequences of growing up undiagnosed can be.

Please be aware that this talk will touch on some potentially upsetting topics, including suicide and self-harm.

Networking Marketplace:

Explore stalls with services and resources supporting neurodivergent children and families.

Tickets go on sale 27th October 2025:

- Early Bird: £75 (until Dec 31, 2025)

- Full Price: £90

You will also have the chance to book 2 of the following workshops; details will be sent within 5 working days of receiving your booking. 

Workshop 1: Steps to Sound Sleep

Join qualified Sleep Practitioners for a practical workshop designed for parents, carers, and professionals. Learn how to better understand and support neurodivergent children experiencing sleep difficulties, with expert tips and tools to improve sleep and wellbeing.

Workshop 2: ADHD Essentials: Support Strategies That Make a Difference

This interactive workshop is designed for early years practitioners, educators, SENCOs, and support staff who want to deepen their understanding of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in children. Through a blend of theory, real-life case studies, and practical strategies, participants will explore how ADHD presents in early childhood, how it impacts learning and behaviour, and how to create supportive, inclusive environments.

Workshop 3: Understanding ARFID: Supporting Children with Restrictive Eating Behaviours

This practical and informative workshop is designed for early years professionals, SENCOs, and support staff working with children who present with restrictive or avoidant eating behaviours. Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a complex eating profile that goes beyond “fussy eating,” often linked to sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or past negative experiences with food.

Workshop 4: Understanding Demand-Avoidance: Supporting Children with High Sensitivity to Expectations

This insightful and practical workshop is designed for early years practitioners, educators and childcare providers who want to deepen their understanding and enhance their support for children who experience high levels of distress in response to everyday demands. This can be a common experience for some neurodivergent children and is often characterised by a strong need for autonomy and a heightened sensitivity to expectations.

Workshop 5: Autism Education Trust: Developing Play in the Early Years

This workshop supports practitioners in developing their understanding of how to help children with social communication needs build play skills. You’ll explore how differences in communication, thinking, and social interaction can affect how children play. The training offers practical ideas to make play more accessible and enjoyable, helping children build confidence, learn new skills, and connect with others

If you require any additional requirements please use the comments box

Once payment has been received a form to register your workshop choices will be sent out within 5 working days.

Please read our cancellation policy prior to booking.

Contact heytc@hants.gov.uk for further details or assistance.