What is an "unConference"?

The unConference is like a conference that has been turned upside down. Instead of arriving to a pre planned agenda of workshops and networking, participants throw out ideas for discussions and then form the agenda together. 

It works like this-

1. We gather for about a half hour to brainstorm ideas of what everyone wants to talk about. Last year topics ranged from what "professional dress" meant for nannies to negotiating with kids, sleep training to how to tell a family it just isn't working out. 
2. After we brainstorm the ideas, our facilitators will group like minded topics together and form the discussions. There will be informal areas of the rooms designated to host each discussion.
3. We break out into our discussions. Each group may be as small as 2 people or as big as 20. The groups discuss the topic, ask questions of each other and share resources. 
4. We have a short break and break off again into other groups. 
5. All participants are encouraged to stay in their group discussions as long as they are learning or contributing. There is a RULE OF TWO FEET. (see below) 
6. At any time participants may break away from their groups to pursue a discussion on another issue that may come out of a group discussion. 
7. At the end of our time together, we gather into our larger group once more and share take aways and insights from the discussions. 

That's it!! 
There are a few rules. 

Rule of Two Feet 
If at any time during our time together you find yourself in any situation where you are neither learning nor contributing, use your two feet, go someplace else.

Who’s got the mic/pass the mic
An unconference is nothing without a variety of experiences and opinions. Everyone is an expert (no, seriously). To get the most out of today speak to the mic to offer your opinion but pass the mic to enrich your experience and hear new opinions. (We don't really use a microphone but you get the idea!) 

"I found the unconference a great icebreaker. It was a smaller amount of nannies with some great breakout sessions.

Have a panel, have a brainstorming session, have a coffee chat, hold a townhall, take a poll. But absolutely no presentations or pitches. There will be plenty of time for that!

To me, the Unconference was an informal think tank exchange of ideas and experience in a low key gathering that gave everyone a comfortable non-stressful venue in which to meet and learn at their own interest level. 

The unConference is a GREAT way to interact with attendees if you are new to the Nannypalooza experience. Because the groups are smaller and informal, you will get to know people in a relaxed way. Because there are so many diverse topics, you will get to connect to others who have similar experiences to your own. 

UnConference 2018
Doubletree Santa Ana, CA

12:30-4:00 pm
​September 28th
Open to all who share our passion for high quality nanny care however due to space you must pre register! Email Suedowney@nannypalooza.com if you are NOT attending Nannypalooza and would like to attend unConference.