The biannual Hands On! International Conference, a prominent global event for children’s museums and cultural professionals, will be held in the UK in 2025, hosted by Eureka! The National Children’s Museum.
The conference in Liverpool, from 25 – 28 November, will gather over 200 delegates, including presenters from 22 countries, to discuss ways museums can positively impact children’s lives, the sector, and society as a whole. This year’s theme is Making a Difference – Raising Aspirations | Exceeding Expectations.
The official Conference Programme is now available, and the early bird booking deadline has been extended to 31 August 2025.
“Children’s museums play a key role in supporting growth and development at every stage of childhood, from birth onwards,” says Leigh-Anne Stradeski, chief executive, Eureka!
“All children, regardless of their ability, background or circumstances, are naturally curious, and we build on this by providing hands-on, immersive spaces and experiences that support learning through play, exploration, and trying things out.
“This makes learning exciting and fun, sparking imagination and creativity while also strengthening life skills such as problem-solving, resilience, and teamwork. In our spaces, children take charge of their own learning—following their interests, making choices, and gaining confidence with each step.
“We provide the environment and context that makes learning feel like an adventure, and the children take it from there!”
Keynotes, discussions and more
The conference features five inspiring keynote speakers.
This includes Dame Rachel de Souza, children’s commissioner for England and a passionate advocate for improving the life chances of disadvantaged children; Dr. Helen Charman, director of learning, national programmes and Young V&A at the Victoria and Albert Museum, a cultural learning leader with 30 years of experience; and Baroness Floella Benjamin, OM, DBE, DL, an award-winning broadcaster, author, and children’s rights campaigner.
Over the course of two days, 34 sessions will be held, comprising presentations and hands-on workshops that showcase innovative and inclusive practices from around the world.
Liz Peniston, director of content and experience at Eureka!, says: “The Making a Difference Conference will showcase how museums and cultural organisations worldwide are transforming children’s lives through inclusion, creativity, and play.
“From co-creation with young people and radically inclusive design, to STEAM learning, wellbeing, and community partnerships, the programme will highlight innovative ways for our sector to inspire, empower, and equip every child to thrive.”
A challenging and inspiring programme
Participants will also have the opportunity to join four memorable study tours to notable sites, including Shakespeare North Playhouse, The Bluecoat in Liverpool, The Reader at Calderstones Park, and Eureka! The National Children’s Museum in West Yorkshire.
The event will kick off in true Merseybeat style with a pre-conference social at Liverpool’s legendary Cavern Club.
#HandsOn2025 will examine how children’s museums can address the challenges faced by young people today, fostering resilience, joy, and curiosity. Through keynote presentations, international discussions, and collaborative workshops, participants will consider the effects of their work—not only from a professional view but also from the perspectives of children, families, and communities they serve.
Michelle Emerson, director of marketing and development at Eureka!, says: “Liverpool is such a vibrant, fun city with a strong cultural offer, so we’re delighted to be able to share some of this with conference delegates.
“Alongside a packed, but creative and hands-on programme, there’s also space to network with delegates, visit and explore other venues on Study Tours, suggestions for those extending their stay through the weekend and bags of fun to be had throughout the city.
“As well as ensuring we’re delivering a challenging and inspiring programme, we’ll also be celebrating our successes with the Children in Museums Awards, and lots of fun throughout the event.”
For more information and to register, please click here.
See also: Hands-on learning and fun at Eureka! Science + Discovery
