What if helping boost kids’ mental and emotional well-being, strengthen their social ties, and support their curiosity and internal motivation were as simple as rediscovering awe? Join Deborah Farmer Kris as she explores how awe and wonder can and should be a part of every childhood — and how becoming an awe-seeker can change your own life profound and concrete ways.

Experienced nannies make dozens of evidence-based decisions daily—but often struggle to articulate why their instincts work. This interactive session bridges that gap. In the first half, we'll explore how to connect intuitive caregiving practices to developmental science and professional frameworks. The second half is hands-on: participants will practice translating common caregiving scenarios into the professional language that demonstrates expertise, advances careers, and commands recognition. Whether you're preparing for interviews, negotiating work agreements, or building your professional identity, you'll leave with practical tools to advocate for yourself and your value.

This interactive workshop provides early childhood educators and childcare professionals with knowledge and strategies to support families of all sexual orientations and gender identities and children with gender expansive behavior and/or identity. Participants will gain knowledge of the spectrum of gender, learn accurate meanings of the ever-expanding vocabulary related to gender and sexual orientation, and how to positively engage with these topics. They will gain knowledge and strategies for supporting LGBTQIA+ families, and actively countering gender stereotypes and assumptions about genders and sexual orientations. We will practice real-life situations they face or anticipate facing about which they have questions and concerns.

Conflict in when working as a nanny is inevitable — two parties are constantly trying to align, often with competing priorities. How can you clearly communicate concerns about your job with respect while simultaneously supporting the relationship with your employer? We’ll discuss practical strategies and provide verbiage to utilize, equipping you to handle awkward or uncomfortable conversations with ease.

Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders are common and yet often go unrecognized or misunderstood. When a parent is struggling, it can affect the entire home, and nannies are often among the first to notice. In this session, you’ll learn how to recognize the signs of PMADs, approach parents with compassion and understanding, and offer meaningful support while maintaining healthy professional boundaries. You’ll leave with practical tools and language to help you respond with both compassion and confidence.

What’s it really like to support a family while traveling on tour? This behind-the-scenes session offers an honest look at life on the road with a touring family — from bus travel and shared spaces to building routines in constantly changing environments. Drawing on years of experience supporting a high-profile musician’s household, the speaker shares what it takes to create stability and normalcy for children in a fast-paced, ever-moving world. Attendees will learn how touring childcare differs from traditional roles, what a typical day can look like, and the unique skills needed to thrive in this dynamic setting — along with real insights into both the challenges and the rewards of the work.