Join Us for the Common Sense Summit on Kids and Families
March 23–24, 2026 | Pier 27, San Francisco
The Common Sense Summit on Kids and Families brings together the leaders who shape how the next generation learns, lives, and thrives.
With featured speakers this year including founder and CEO of Khan Academy Sal Khan, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, author and psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour, California's first surgeon general, Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, and CEO of Pinterest Bill Ready, this gathering convenes decision-makers across education, technology, policy, and philanthropy to set a national agenda for children's well-being.
This isn't just another conference—it's where the future of childhood gets shaped.
Powered by Common Sense Media, the most trusted independent voice protecting and preparing kids in the digital age.
Program Themes & Questions
AI & the Future of Learning
Can AI tutors scale what human educators can't—or are we automating away what matters most?
Making Tech Work for Kids
From boardrooms to the halls of power, how do we ensure technology serves children rather than harms them?
Youth Mental Health
How can we scale systems and solutions that proactively support kids' mental well-being?
Children's Health & Family Well-Being
How might we address the social factors shaping childhood outcomes?
Digital Parenthood
in partnership with Aura Parents
When should kids get their first phone? Do social media bans work? What happens when the answer isn't "one size fits all"?
Speakers
Discover the inspiring leaders, innovators, and experts who will be joining us on stage to share their insights.
Dr. Nadine Burke Harris
Chief Impact Officer at
ACE Resource Network
Nicholas Kristof
Columnist at The New York
Times
Dr. Lisa Damour
President of Untangled
Media Group
Nancy Pelosi
Speaker Emerita of the
House of Representatives
Rev. Dr. Starsky Wilson
President & CEO of the
Children's Defense Fund
Agenda
This agenda is subject to change as we get closer to the event and provide exact session dates and times.
Monday, March 23, 2026
- REGISTRATION & BREAKFAST 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- OPENING PLENARY 9:00AM – 10:30 AM
- COFFEE & NETWORKING BREAK 10:30 AM – 11:00 AM
- BREAKOUT 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
- LUNCH 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
- PLENARY 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
- COFFEE & NETWORKING 2:30 PM – 3:00 PM
- BREAKOUT 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM
- PLENARY 4:00 PM – 4:45 PM
- RECEPTION 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday, March 24, 2026
- REGISTRATION & BREAKFAST 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- PLENARY 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
- BREAKOUT 10:45 AM – 11:30 AM
- CLOSING PLENARY 11:45 AM – 12:30 PM
- LUNCH & NETWORKING 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Hotel & Venue
Pier 27 is located on San Francisco's Embarcadero, with stunning views of the Bay Bridge and city skyline. The waterfront venue features floor-to-ceiling windows and is easily accessible from downtown San Francisco.
Explore hotel options near the venue with preferred rates for Summit attendees
Past Summit Sessions
Catch up on highlights from the 2024 and 2025 Summits and revisit inspiring conversations from our speakers and panel discussions.
2024 Highlights2025 Highlights
FAQ
General & Registration
- Is financial assistance for a Summit pass available?
We believe the people closest to kids and families should be at the table—regardless of your budget.
Thanks to our generous sponsors, we offer adjusted rates for nonprofit partners and full scholarships for educators, youth, and community advocates. We're currently at capacity for complimentary registrations, but we have a waitlist available at this link: https://forms.gle/b1syroKyca5o7EyJ7 - What is the dress code?
Business casual is recommended for all sessions and networking events. - What is included in my registration?
Your registration includes access to all sessions, networking events, and meals provided during the program. - Will sessions be recorded?
Select sessions will be recorded and made available to attendees following the event.
Transit & Arrival
Address: Pier 27 - 27 The Embarcadero, San Francisco, CA 94111
Arrival Instructions
If driving, navigate to "Pier 27 Cruise Ship Terminal, The Embarcadero 94111." Taxis and rideshares can drop off at the lobby entrance. Once you arrive please Follow event signage to enter Pier 27 and check in at the registration desk to receive your badge.
Public Transit
The closest BART station is Embarcadero Station, and San Francisco's "F" streetcar stops in front of Pier 27. .
Parking
Pier 27 offers on-site parking for 112 vehicles at $15 for two hours or $30 for the full day (until 11 p.m.). Payment is via machine. Additional parking is available at nearby garages: Pier 29½, 2 Bay Street, and 80 Francisco Street. Please contact these locations directly for rates.
Notes: Do not leave personal belongings in your vehicle. This is a high-traffic week in San Francisco. We recommend leaving early and/or pre-booking your rideshare in advance!
Accessibility & Accommodations
- Will meals accommodate dietary restrictions?
Yes. Please share your dietary needs when you register, and we’ll ensure appropriate meal options are available. - Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Pier 27 is fully ADA-compliant and wheelchair accessible. - Who do I contact for additional accessibility accommodations?
Please email [email protected] to discuss any specific accommodations—we’re happy to help.
Other
- Who should I contact with additional questions?
Please email [email protected] and our team will be happy to assist you.
Sponsors
We’re grateful for the generous support of our sponsors, whose partnership makes this event possible. For inquiries on sponsoring this year’s Summit, please contact us.
