Last year was my first Professional Nanny conference experience. I had found INA earlier in the year after doing some online research. I had thought about conference, but was in the middle of house hunting, and not sure that I could do both. I kept my options open, but it wasn’t looking to good – as we were under contract on a fixer-upper. Turns out that the fixer-upper that I had fallen in love went to auction and weren’t able to make the deal we felt comfortable with. The day it all fell through, I said to my disappointed self – “FINE then, I am going to Dallas!” The next day I asked off, registered, bought my ticket, and became an INA member. THERE! I had to make some good out of this situation. I jumped in a little unsure of what was ahead of me. My husband was on board, he is so supportive of anything that will bring growth personal, spiritual, or professional. I wondered what my employers would think when I tell them that I had actually asked off for a “Nanny Conference”. Though they are very generous, I felt it unfair to ask for financial help from them. To my surprise – after getting on the International Nanny Association website, they offered to reimburse me for the conference fee and were so excited about the opportunity.
I love to travel. I even enjoy traveling alone – exploring a new city and relying on my body’s compass. I’m the person that is over-prepared, printing documents, usually organized in a folder. I make sure to bring along the necessities including a sweater, cash tips, comfortable shoes. Since I was headed to a conference, I also made sure to pack a notebook, good pens, etc. But, unlike my normal traveling adventures, I was a little ill-prepared. I kinda entered conference like a deer in headlights, knowing no one nor the culture.
INA has done a wonderful job providing details including Plan Ahead Details, Faqs, Fees, Agenda, Speakers, Sponsors and Exhibitors, etc. To see all this info,
Click here!I am so excited that this year that I have newbie friends headed to conference from Cincinnati and elsewhere, I hope that this High5 might prepare you a little more that I was!
High5: Preparing for INA Conference
5. Raffle money
Each year, INA chooses a local organization that is making a difference in the lives of children. Nannies and industry leaders donate items to be raffled off at the end of conference. You will have the opportunity to buy raffle tickets for $1 and will then drop them into the prize you hope to win. You may give as little or as much as you feel obliged. This year, INA has selected
The Imagine Bus Project that address the lack of visual arts programming in K-12 grades by providing arts education to underserved children and youth with local school districts, juvenile detention centers, after school programs, and community based youth programs and community based youth organizations throughout the bay area. All raffle proceeds will go to this organization. You may also donate art supplies,
more info here under “Conference Charity”.
4. Picture of your Kids
Meeting other Nannies at conference is wonderful! I was so excited to see people so passionate about the industry and individuals that they worked with. I so wished I had brought a picture of my boys to share. Many Nannies would bring a small wallet size to slip inside their name badge, that way they could turn it around and show off their kids. I thought this was a great idea!
3. Info. cards
You will be surprised how many relationships that will be made quickly! We share so much in common with this group. You will want to stay in touch with these Nannies, agencies, training schools, and industry leaders. It is a good idea to bring a good supply of business cards – with your contact info. on it. You may want to include a photo or logo, as to spark your contacts memory of who you are. Support groups may want to also have a card with their information!
2. Expandable suitcase
I had no idea all that I would bring home with me. Welcome Bags are given to each attendee! I unfortunately had to throw some things away and get creative with my packing to bring things home! Plus if you win a raffle prize, that has to fit too! Think about bringing an expandable suitcase if you have one, or leaving “room to grow” in your bag.
1. Expandable heart
Of all things at conference, I was least expecting to bring home so many relationships. Who would think that a few short days, would open up my world and heart to so many individuals all across America! I was certainly glad for Facebook, as I must now have over 7o Nanny connections! Open your heart to these long-distance friendships that will definitely enrich your lives.
Oh and by the way, 1 week after returning from conference, we found THE house THE day it came available on the market! We put in an offer that day, and signed the papers the end that month! I am thankful the way things worked out…. I know I was meant to go to conference.
Last year was my first Professional Nanny conference experience. I had found INA earlier in the year after doing some online research. I had thought about conference, but was in the middle of house hunting, and not sure that I could do both. I kept my options open, but it wasn’t looking to good – as we were under contract on a fixer-upper. Turns out that the fixer-upper that I had fallen in love went to auction and weren’t able to make the deal we felt comfortable with. The day it all fell through, I said to my disappointed self – “FINE then, I am going to Dallas!” The next day I asked off, registered, bought my ticket, and became an INA member. THERE! I had to make some good out of this situation. I jumped in a little unsure of what was ahead of me. My husband was on board, he is so supportive of anything that will bring growth personal, spiritual, or professional. I wondered what my employers would think when I tell them that I had actually asked off for a “Nanny Conference”. Though they are very generous, I felt it unfair to ask for financial help from them. To my surprise – after getting on the International Nanny Association website, they offered to reimburse me for the conference fee and were so excited about the opportunity. 
