Creating books kids love isn’t child’s play. Just ask the crowds of renowned editors, agents, art directors, authors, and illustrators in the world of children’s publishing who are attending the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators’ Winter Conference. From February 6-8, these industry pros will gather in New York City to explore all things children’s literature, with discussions stretching from the creative process to the business of publishing.

A series of intensives will help attendees hone specific skills in the creation of children’s literature. The Writers’ Roundtable provides writers the valuable opportunity to have the first 500 words of their manuscripts reviewed by an editor or an agent. Attendees seeking a stronger digital presence can also benefit from a website-building intensive led by children’s television and book writer Nick Confalone.

Illustrators will have a chance to get feedback on their work, too. Back by popular demand, the Portfolio Showcase will feature a private viewing of illustrators’ portfolios to an exclusive group of art directors, editors, and agents. A jury of industry professionals will select a grand prize winner to travel to New York to meet with selected art directors. Honor award winners, meanwhile, will get to hear some critiques and criticisms of their work and speak with an established art director following their victories.

The Week Ahead:

February 9-11: Leaders in higher education IT will be challenged to consider new teaching methods at the EDUCAUSE Learning Initiative Annual Meeting in Anaheim, California. Driven by this year’s theme—”Designing our Thinking: Crafting New Directions for Digital Engagement”—attendees will explore the future of IT in both face-to-face and virtual settings.

February 11-16: The world’s largest scientific society is holding a conference as big as its reputation. The American Association for the Advancement of Science’s 2015 Annual Meeting, in San Jose, California, will include dozens of lectures, seminars, and workshops with the theme “Innovations, Information, and Imaging.” Attendees can also catch up with one another during networking activities, go on local science tours, or introduce young scientists to careers in STEM at Family Science Days presentations.

Down the Line:

February 15-18: Thousands of business-franchise leaders will bring their expertise to Las Vegas for the International Franchise Association’s 2015 Convention. This year’s tagline, “Connect. Innovate. Evolve.,” is especially significant for attendees.

“In light of current legislative, regulatory, and economic pressures, now, more than ever, it is essential that we expand our networks and strengthen our existing connections to unite our industry and promote innovation,” the conference’s site declares.

(nikoniko_happy/ThinkStock)