September 30 – October 1, 2026
Topeka, Kansas
Hosted by the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center

The Play Free National Field Accelerator Convening is a by-invitation, working convening designed to move the field from learning to adoption for child-centered, relationship-rich models supporting children impacted by parental incarceration.

Hosted by the Kansas Children’s Discovery Center this convening brings together museum leaders, Department of Corrections partners, national exemplars, and early adopter states to work side by side on real-world strategies.

This is not a conference.

This is an accelerator.

Participants will engage in case-based learning, joint museum and corrections working sessions, systems navigation clinics, and hands-on design labs focused on partnership development, access, and activation. Learning from the convening will also inform and strengthen field resources, including the IMLS Leadership Grant toolkit.

The convening is a core component of Play Free: A Field Accelerator for Children Impacted by Parental Incarceration, a national initiative focused on building the infrastructure and leadership needed to normalize child-centered connection across correctional systems.

*Those eligible for reimbursement through the IMLS National Leadership grant will be contacted directly by Hands On Children’s Museum.

Hotel Information

Cyrus Hotel, Topeka, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel is offering a group rate of 159.00 USD per night. Last day to book with the group rate Monday, August 31, 2026.

Getting to Topeka

The closest major airport to Topeka is Kansas City International Airport (MCI) which is approximately 60 miles, or a one hour drive, from the Convening location.

While You’re Here

Topeka is known for the stunning Kansas Capitol Building, pivotal historic attractions, community art, shopping and dining.