Award-winning journalist and podcaster Catherine Carr has been confirmed as the opening keynote speaker at this year’s The Children’s Media Conference (CMC), which has reduced prices in the wake of the “current economic stress on the industry.”
Carr will weigh in on how young people are coping with the real world and digital pressure amid the conversation about social media bans for kids. The event runs in Sheffield from July 7 to 9.
Greg Childs, editorial director at CMC, commented, “The business of children’s media has never been so volatile. Being creative in the kids’ space was always a struggle, but uncertainties and rapidly shifting scenarios make it harder than ever. Recent events in the wider world are unsettling. They bring into sharp focus that we need more than ever to come together to share what we know, share our belief that what we do is important, share innovative ideas, and share new ways to support creativity. We need to rebuild this industry so that it can continue to serve young people in sustainable ways. CMC is there to help the people who serve kids and young people be the best they can be. What we do matters, so join us in Sheffield to get loud and proud about it!”
Given the pressures across the business, CMC has reduced its ticket prices. Freelancers, companies with two or fewer employees, and under-30s can all access a new early-bird ticket at £295 plus VAT. Tickets for CMC 2026 are now on sale, with the early-bird discount available to all until May 5.
The schedule of masterclasses and panels will explore hot-button topics in the kids’ business, including funding and the BBC’s Charter Review. There will also be two pitch sessions and an International Exchange market day with buyers, commissioners, producers, and distributors from across the globe.
