April 23-26 the International Nanny Association celebrated it’s 30th year in beautiful Cancun, Mexico! The INA conference was at the all inclusive Iberostar Hotel. From the moment attendees walked into the breathtaking lobby they knew this was a fantastic way to celebrate. The restaurants, live entertainment, serene beach, peaceful pools, and friendly staff made this this conference quite an experience. Adventurous attendees were able to take advantage of the many excursions that Cancun has to offer. A change in conference format allowed for extra time in the afternoon to network with old and new colleagues, relax and rejuvenate in addition to the traditional conference educational opportunities.
The Keynote Speaker, Deborah Gilboa, MD spoke to the group on how to move past conflict to resolution. Workshops for nannies, newborn care specialist, agencies and other industry businesses were just what you would expect from INA’s 30 years working to educate the industry. Topics included helping nursing mothers, understanding cyber bullying and working within social media. Attendees gained new tools to implement in their business or job.
The recipient of the 2015 INA Nanny of the Year was Marly Higgins Driskell from Spring Texas. Marly has been a professional Nanny for 21 years and is currently a Certificated Overnight Nanny Care Specialist. As she accepted her award, the INA also honored three individuals who have served the association faithfully in it’s 30 year history. Sandy Costantino, Wendy Sachs and Mary O’Connor were given the INA’s first Meritorious Service Awards for a job well done. The Harriette Grant Service Pin Awards were given to eleven individuals celebrating 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and even 35 years of work in the in-home childcare industry!
By all accounts, INA’s goal to go BIG for the 30th Anniversary was a smashing success. Those interested in conference attendance can look forward to similar exciting locations in our future. Here are some of the comments from attendees.
As a well seasoned Nanny of 27 years, this was my first INA conference and I question and ask myself why did I wait so long? First of all I only found out about INA in the last 10 years and Only in the last 3 years been wanting to attend the conference and this year having it be in the location of Cancun was a big incentive. After experiencing the conference itself the Highlight wasn’t the location but the friendships made and the learning experience that I had. – Tammy Bannick, Nanny in Chicago, IL
If you did not make it to the INA conference in Cancun, you missed out on a great time! The resort was beautiful, staff was very friendly, workshops were fun and educational, we had plenty of free time to enjoy excursions, dinner with friends, and I even had time to play golf on their beautiful course on the water! Thank you to the board for one of the best conferences I have attended! Debra Brown-Adamo, owner and founder, Nannies Who Care.
Attending conference each year is a must for me. Working as a NCS can be very isolating and the time spent networking with other professionals and hanging out after hours with friends who get it is so refreshing. The classes are always relevant and even when they cover a topic I’ve studied in depth I still always learn something new from each session that is helpful to me in my work. Thanks for such a great line up of speakers this year and an amazing location! Renee D, Newborn Care Specialist, Bowie MD
This was my first conference and I loved the workshops and the flow of the conference. The speakers were helpful and the best in their field. I was thankful of the location for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. This is exactly what I needed for my time and career. Self care is important. Leslie B., Nanny in Michigan
It was a true gift for me to be able to sit before true experts of the field during the NCS Panel. One of my career ambitions is to be trained as a NCS. I had so many questions! This opportunity has given me a much clearer look into “a day in the life”, lining up new assignments, liabilities to be aware of, taxes, and so much more. I certainly came out of this experience with more knowledge and a crisper image of this portion of the industry. Tracey Chipps, Nanny in Durham NC
As a first time conference attendee, I was blown away. From networking with other NCS professionals and making new friends to bettering myself and career by attending sessions I thoroughly enjoyed myself. A value cannot be placed on my experience and I am looking forward to attending conference annually in the coming years. Brittany Hunt, Newborn Care Training Academy, Washington DC
Feedback on the INA conference educational workshops:
Loved that it was interactive, Meagan provide valuable resources on how to reach different sectors of the community and how to go about it. Loved the speaking of promotions and not giveaways/freebies. Cost effective and free “marketing” options was fantastic. Agency Owner
Loved the interaction between Jess and the audience. The role playing was very helpful. Loved the positive feedback given to those that volunteered to get up in front of everyone. Can always learn something new on how to “offer” yourself and services by listening to how others present themselves and their businesses. Agency Owner
I had high expectations of Dr.G because I’d seen her speak before. But, she rose above and beyond what I even thought. Well worth whatever fee she requires. Would love a pre-or post- conference seminar with her (on whatever topic she chooses!). Definitely recharged my batteries. Nanny Attendee
I loved the way practical advice intertwined with group discussions. I really came away with great information. Great job Tamiko! Newborn Care Specialist
Loved the practical basic common sense examples and solutions offered. My favorite session of the conference! Great information and presentation! Relevant. Kept the group engaged and was practical. Nanny attendee
INA’s 31st Annual Conference will be held in Washington DC May 2016. Stay tuned for details. Subscribe to this blog at the left so you don’t miss any updates!
