CHT2023 proved to be a ground-breaking event that seamlessly blended technology and innovation, expertise, and a shared commitment to the well-being of children and young people. As always, I was impressed by the diverse range of topics covered, the calibre of speakers, and the wealth of technological advancements showcased throughout the event. Every session was thoughtfully curated, covering a spectrum of themes from mind-body integration focusing on technology to support children with mental health challenges, to the development of low cost, high impact innovations that are revolutionising children’s healthcare. We welcomed presenters from diverse backgrounds across health, universities, and industry leaders, who provided valuable insights into the latest developments, research findings, and practical applications of technology in child health. As always, the inclusion of patients and their families resonated through the conference, emphasising the importance we place on our principle of  – ‘no health technology for us, without us’.

Our keynote speakers set an inspiring tone for the conference, addressing the importance of collaborative efforts between technology developers, healthcare providers, children, and their parents. Their presentations underscored the potential of innovative solutions in improving diagnosis, treatment, and overall healthcare experiences for children and young people. The interactive nature of the conference facilitated engaging discussions during our Q&A sessions and technology demonstrations. One of the standout aspects of the conference was its commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Many sessions focused on addressing health disparities, reaching underserved populations, and ensuring that technological advancements are accessible to all children, regardless of socioeconomic factors. This inclusivity lens added a crucial dimension emphasising the importance of creating solutions that are equitable and available to diverse communities.

As always CHT2023 would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our Sheffield, UK teams – the core team at NIHR CYP MedTech, Marketing Sheffield, Events Management Direct, and TechNative Solutions. CHT2023 was hosted on a user-friendly online platform that facilitated easy navigation and accessibility and brought delegates a high-quality online conference. Attendees could effortlessly access sessions, engage in real-time discussions, and explore a virtual platform showcasing the latest advancements in child health technology. Recorded sessions allowed participants to revisit presentations and catch up on missed content, ensuring that the conference accommodated varied schedules and time zones.

CHT2023 exceeded expectations in bringing together professionals from various fields to share knowledge and explore the vast potential of technology in children’s healthcare. The event not only showcased the latest advancements but also emphasised the need for a collaborative, ethical, and inclusive approach to ensure that these technologies positively impact the health and well-being of children around the world. I left the conference inspired and optimistic about the future of child health technology, knowing that the insights gained will contribute to creating a brighter, healthier tomorrow for children, young people, and their families.