Conference
Why these FIVE themes matter
The heart of this conference lies in five interconnected themes—Mental Health and Emotional Well-being, Caregiving and Family Support, Innovative Teaching and Learning Strategies, Inclusive Employment, and Enabling Technology.
These areas resonate deeply across the special needs community because they address the full spectrum of life transitions—from classroom to workplace, from family care to independent living.
Each theme is designed to deliver practical skills, evidence-based insights, and real-life experiences that participants can immediately apply to improve teaching, training, and caregiving practices.
By engaging with these topics, you’ll gain knowledge that empowers you to create inclusive environments and make a lasting impact.
Innovative Teaching and Learning Strategies
This track showcases cutting-edge pedagogical approaches and adaptive learning methods that empower learners with special needs.
Topics include PBIS for the classroom and home, teaching numeracy and literacy skills, sensory play for learning, assistive tools in classrooms, and inclusive curriculum design, with a focus on local school and vocational training settings.
Target Audience:
•School Teachers
•Special Education Officers
•SPED trainers
Inclusive Employment
Dedicated to bridging the gap between education and the workforce, this track will explore inclusive hiring practices, workplace accommodations, and success stories from employers and employees.
It aims to foster partnerships between organizations, educators, and job coaches to create sustainable employment pathways.
Hear from employers and policy-makers about their expectations and plans for our special needs community.
Target Audience:
•SPED professionals
•Employers
Enabling Technology
Highlighting the transformative role of technology, this track will feature assistive devices, communication tools, and digital platforms that enhance independence and participation.
Demonstrations and case studies will show how tech can support learning, mobility, communication, and daily living for individuals with diverse needs.
Learn how the even the special needs community can become involved with the web3 space and gig economy through a structured digital learning space.
Target Audience:
•SPED professionals
•Teachers
•Caregivers
Mental Health and Emotional Well-being
This track explores the psychological and emotional challenges faced by individuals who live with, engage with and have to manage students or loved ones with special needs. It will highlight strategies for promoting resilience, managing stress, and building emotional literacy.
Sessions will include expert talks, lived experiences, and community-based mental health support models tailored for the Singapore context.
Learn firsthand how caregivers can overcome their emotional responses to be better parents and teachers to their special needs children.
Target Audience:
•SPED professionals
•Teachers
•Home Caregivers
Caregiving and Family Support
Focusing on the backbone of the special needs community—families and caregivers—this track will address practical caregiving strategies, emotional support systems, and policy resources.
It will also provide a platform for caregivers to share their journeys and learn about sustainable care practices and self-care. Learn how despite their child’s special needs, some parents are still able to continue to nurture and support their child’s journey towards various sports, musical and lifestyle pursuits.
Target Audience:
•Home Caregivers
•Volunteers
Call for Papers & Presenters
We invite researchers, educators, allied health professionals, and practitioners—both local and overseas—to share your expertise at the 2026 Special Needs Conference.
This is your opportunity to present applied research that is practical, innovative, and transformative, aimed at improving the lives and learning experiences of individuals with special needs. We are looking for papers and presentations that offer real-world solutions, evidence-based strategies, and fresh perspectives across education, employment, mental health, caregiving, and technology.
Join us in shaping meaningful conversations and driving progress in the special needs community. Your insights can inspire change and empower stakeholders to create inclusive environments where everyone thrives.