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International LINC Conference 2025
The International LINC Conference 2025 will explore Making Inclusion a Reality for All Children: Merging Theory and Practice to Create Spaces Where All Children Belong.
This one-day event brings together early years professionals, educators, teachers and principals, policymakers, academics, researchers, and parents to exchange ideas and drive educational transformation.
Hosted by Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, in collaboration with Early Childhood Ireland and the Froebel Department at Maynooth University, this year’s conference will focus on practical strategies for inclusion in early years settings.
With keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and a diverse community of educators, this event will celebrate and support inclusive practice where every child belongs and thrives.
Keynote Speaker
Professor Eric Dearing
Keynote Presentation: “Growing up poor in a wealthy society: Developmental obstacles and opportunities”
Professor Dearing is a Professor of Applied Developmental Psychology at Boston College and Executive Director of the Mary E. Walsh Center for Thriving Children. He is internationally recognised for his research on how educational opportunities, or their absence, shape children’s life outcomes, particularly for those facing social disadvantage.
His work informs policies and practices that aim to improve access to education for all children and support the development of inclusive learning environments where every child can thrive.
Conference Schedule
8:30 AM – 9:30 AM – Conference Registration
9:30 AM – Tea and coffee served. Attendees are invited to engage with exhibitors
10:00 AM – 10:05 AM – Welcome by Claire Butterly, National Co-ordinator, LINC Programme
10:05 AM – 10:15 AM – Welcome Address by Professor Dermot Nestor, President of Mary Immaculate College and official Launch of the LINC Portfolio Publication
10:15 AM – 11:15 AM – Keynote Presentation by Professor Eric Dearing, Professor and Executive Director, Mary E. Walsh Center for Thriving Children, Lynch School of Education and Human Development, Boston College
11:15 AM – 11:45 AM – Tea and coffee break. Networking and engagement with exhibitors
11:45 AM – 12:45 PM – Session 1 Workshops
- Creating a Trauma Sensitive Environment – Sharon Byrne & Judith Butler
- Embracing Inclusion by Creating Culturally Responsive Environments – Florence Ajala & Alicja McCloskey
- Embracing Neurodivergent Play – Meghan O’Rourke & Dr Lisha O’Sullivan
12:55 PM – 1:25 PM – Session 2 Workshops
- Eco-Emotions Nature Discovery – Lorraine Diggins
- Map-making as a Lens into the Child’s World: An Approach for Including the Child’s Voice in Early Years Research – Dr Chloé Beatty
- Inclusive STEM Education and Outreach in Educational and Community Settings – Dr Maeve Liston
- Selecting Books to Create Environments Where Everyone Belongs – Prof. Niamh Fortune & Dr Becky Long
- Valuing Your Wellbeing as an Educator – Leesa Flanagan
1:25 PM – 1:50 PM – Fireside Chat
1:50 PM – 2:00 PM – Closing Address by Professor Emer Ring – Dean of Education, Early Childhood, and Teacher Education at Mary Immaculate College
2:00 PM – Lunch (MIC Canteen)
Workshops
Click on the workshop titles below to learn more about each session and its facilitators.
Exhibitors
FAQs
1. Is the event in person? – Yes. The conference will take place in person at the Lime Tree Theatre, Mary Immaculate College, Limerick. (eircode V94 4D85)
2. Is lunch included? – Yes. Tea, coffee, and lunch will be provided as part of your registration.
3. Will the sessions be recorded? – No. This is a fully in-person event, and sessions will not be recorded.
4. Is there parking available? – Yes. Free onsite parking is available at Mary Immaculate College.
5. What time should I arrive? – Doors will open at 9:30 AM. We recommend arriving early to enjoy tea, coffee, and engage with exhibitors before the welcome address at 10:00 AM.
6. Is the venue wheelchair accessible? – Yes. Mary Immaculate College is fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms and entry points throughout the venue.
7. Can I bring a colleague or guest? – All attendees must register individually in advance. Please ensure your colleague secures a separate ticket through the registration link.
8. Can I change or cancel my booking? – Tickets are non-refundable. If you have any questions, please contact LINCconference@mic.ul.ie
9. Who can I contact for more information? – You can email us at LINCconference@mic.ul.ie
Contact Us
If you have any questions about the International LINC Conference 2025, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Email: LINCconference@mic.ul.ie
Phone: 061 204545
You can also follow us on social media for updates and announcements.