Conference Newbie Advice: Overcoming Nerves and Traveling with a Baby

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the experiences and feelings of participants regarding attending a conference while managing the challenges of traveling with a young baby. Participants share their personal thoughts on overcoming nerves and the logistics of attending the event.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a strong desire to attend the conference but feels nervous about leaving her young child at home.
  • Another participant suggests that if something happens at home, flying back could be an option, allowing for a quicker return.
  • Several participants mention the idea of bringing a babysitter to help manage childcare during the conference.
  • One participant shares her experience of attending a conference when her child was five months old, emphasizing the importance of personal readiness to enjoy the event.
  • Another participant reflects on the potential benefits of attending the conference, noting that her business improved significantly after her attendance.
  • Some participants discuss the possibility of carpooling to the conference to reduce travel stress and costs.
  • One participant considers attending a regional conference instead, viewing it as a more manageable option.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the feasibility and desirability of attending the conference with a young child. Some participants feel strongly about the benefits of attending, while others express concerns about the timing and logistics.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and considerations related to balancing family responsibilities with professional development opportunities. The discussion reflects a range of emotions, from excitement to apprehension.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who are new to attending conferences and are navigating the challenges of traveling with young children may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant.

buckeyefan08
buckeyefan08
Messages
611
I want to go to conference really bad but I'm nervous! My son will only be a few months old and I think I'm trying to talk myself into driving. I have a mini-van so four of us could comfortably fit with lots of room for our stuff. Splitting it four ways the cost wouldn't be so bad. But then again if something happens at home it's not like I can just leave the others in Chicago!
What is your advice for a conference newbie?
 
I haven't gone but know the fear of leaving your little one at home! If something happened at home you could always leave the van with the others and fly back... you will want to get there quickly anyway and that would solve both problems.

Hope you have fun if you decide to do it!
 
or you could bring a baby sitter along with you and then you wouldn't have to worry! she could watch him while you are out at the conference then when you come back to the hotel room you could take over! Just a thought!
 
ameliasurf said:
or you could bring a baby sitter along with you and then you wouldn't have to worry! she could watch him while you are out at the conference then when you come back to the hotel room you could take over! Just a thought!
Click to expand...
This is what my director did 2 years ago. Actually, another woman in our cluster brought her 16 yr old daughter, and my director brought her 10 yr old, and her 1 yr old - and they hung out together at the pool and around the hotel during the day while we were in meetings. It worked out well.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
DH is willing to go but I don't think he understands how much I'll be gone. If I'm going to pay all the money to go I want to get the full experience.

I was talking to a friend last night and I think I've come to the conclusion it's to soon after having the baby. Maybe I'll send some money with my recruiter for the mystery boxes. That might give me something to look forward to!:cry: :o
 
buckeyefan08 said:
DH is willing to go but I don't think he understands how much I'll be gone. If I'm going to pay all the money to go I want to get the full experience.

I was talking to a friend last night and I think I've come to the conclusion it's to soon after having the baby. Maybe I'll send some money with my recruiter for the mystery boxes. That might give me something to look forward to!:cry: :o
Click to expand...

Could you leave the baby with Grandma or an Aunt? This is my first year going but I hear it is wonderful. I know the baby is young, but maybe you will need a little break by then? ;)
 
When I went to my first conference, DS was just 5 months old. It's all really how you look at it. If you think you'll be too nervous to enjoy/get anything out of being there, then it's not worth it & it will be a waste of money. If you can put that aside long enough to go to your classes & not be distracted, then go.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
Crystal I think you hit the nail on the head! I'm thinking regional may be better for me this year.
 
OH! I don't want to be the cause of you NOT going to conference if you want to go! :) Just take a look inside. You're going to know yourself better than any of us.

I did go when Sam was just 5 months old. When I got back from conference, my business took off. I was really excited about everything. I wanted to be there though. I started recruiting (2 in August) & my sales were very consistent. That's just my scenario though.

You have to do what's right for you, your family & your PC business. Good luck & God Bless!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #10
No it's not that you "talked me out of it" I just think you were able to put into words what I couldn't!:)
 
Lisa, my clustermate is going (and taking her baby and her parents.)I am not 100 percent sure.I've given a small amount of thought to going to regional but (yawn!) not sure I want to leave early enough to get to Pittsburgh by 8 ... I would rather go to NC but honestly am not sure if I'll have the cash ...If I go to Pittsburgh, maybe we could carpool?
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
Di_Can_Cook said:
Lisa, my clustermate is going (and taking her baby and her parents.)

I am not 100 percent sure.

I've given a small amount of thought to going to regional but (yawn!) not sure I want to leave early enough to get to Pittsburgh by 8 ... I would rather go to NC but honestly am not sure if I'll have the cash ...

If I go to Pittsburgh, maybe we could carpool?
Click to expand...
Definetly! I'm not sure if my recruiter is going, I think one girl on our team wants to go but she's not sure. I just don't want to drive alone, it will be boring!:D
As far as conference goes, DH will go so I can have the kids with me but that is going to make things even more expensive. I'm just going to go to Pitt. and be happy with that! (I do want to send money with a clustermate for the mystery boxes though!:D ) It will be fun and I won't be an emotional mess, Regional is my happy medium!
 
Lisa, I'm sorry ... I chose national over regional!Another clustermate's DH is going ... so if you change your mind, he won't be the only husband there!And the clustermate who is taking her baby and going with her parents is giving them the evenings off to visit family ... so she'll be staying in her hotel room. So that's where we'll be partying!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some tips for overcoming nerves before attending a conference?

To overcome nerves before a conference, practice deep breathing exercises, visualize a positive experience, and remind yourself of your accomplishments. Connecting with other attendees online beforehand can also help you feel more comfortable. Arriving early to familiarize yourself with the venue can ease anxiety as well.

How can I prepare for traveling with a baby to a conference?

When traveling with a baby, pack essentials like diapers, wipes, snacks, and a favorite toy to keep your baby comfortable. Consider bringing a lightweight stroller or baby carrier for ease of movement. Plan your travel itinerary to include breaks for feeding and changing, and check if the conference venue offers family-friendly amenities.

What should I do if my baby gets fussy during the conference?

If your baby becomes fussy during the conference, take a break in a quiet area to soothe them. Walking around or using a baby carrier can help calm them down. Don’t hesitate to step out of a session if needed; most attendees will understand. Having a few go-to toys or snacks can also help distract and comfort your baby.

Are there any specific sessions or activities at the conference that are baby-friendly?

Many conferences offer family-friendly sessions or designated areas for parents with babies. Check the conference schedule for any workshops or networking events that welcome children. Additionally, some venues may provide childcare services or have nursing rooms available, so inquire ahead of time for the best options.

How can I network effectively while managing a baby at the conference?

To network effectively while managing a baby, prioritize your time by selecting key sessions and events to attend. Use breaks to introduce yourself to other attendees, and don’t hesitate to mention your baby as a conversation starter. Consider scheduling playdates or informal meet-ups with other parents at the conference to build connections in a relaxed setting.

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