Planning a conference means juggling countless logistics that include venue, catering, programming, speakers. But if your attendee list includes working parents, one more question needs to be at the top of your list: Will there be childcare?
Offering on-site childcare at conferences and business events is no longer just a nice-to-have, it’s quickly becoming an expectation. It boosts attendance, supports inclusion, and makes your event stand out. If you’re ready to take that step but unsure where to begin, this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
Why Offer Childcare at Your Conference?
Let’s start with why it matters:
- It boosts attendance. Parents are more likely to register if they don’t have to worry about arranging care at home.
- It fosters inclusion. Offering childcare sends a clear message that your event welcomes all types of attendees.
- It allows full participation. Parents can focus on the event knowing their children are in safe, professional hands.
- It builds goodwill. Thoughtful amenities like childcare can turn a good conference into a great one.
Step 1: Understand What Conference Childcare Entails
Conference childcare isn’t about setting up a play area and hoping for the best. It’s about offering a structured, safe, and professionally managed program where children are cared for by experienced providers.
Services typically include:
- Age-appropriate activities
- Safe play spaces
- Background-checked, trained caregivers
- Check-in/check-out systems
- Emergency procedures and allergy protocols
Step 2: Identify the Needs of Your Attendees
Before you bring in a childcare partner, assess your audience:
- How many attendees are likely to need childcare?
- What is the age range of the children?
- How long will care be needed (full day, half-day, evenings)?
- Are there any special needs or accommodations to consider?
Having this information upfront will help you and your childcare provider plan accordingly.
Step 3: Choose the Right Childcare Partner
Here’s where it matters most: partnering with a professional, experienced childcare provider. Jovie is the nation’s leading provider of childcare for conferences and business events, with over 25,000 hours of event care delivered. Our team understands the unique dynamics of corporate functions, and we tailor our services to meet your specific event needs.
What sets Jovie apart:
- Experienced, background-checked caregivers
- Customized care plans for your event size and structure
- Engaging, age-appropriate activities
- Smooth coordination with your event staff and venue
- A focus on safety, professionalism, and family inclusivity
Whether you’re hosting a national conference, a regional seminar, or a company-wide celebration, Jovie makes adding childcare easy and stress-free.
Step 4: Communicate with Your Attendees
Once childcare is in place, promote it early and clearly:
- Include childcare availability in your event registration
- Share details about what to expect and how to sign up
- Highlight the qualifications and professionalism of your provider
- Offer FAQs or a point of contact for parents with questions
The more clarity you offer, the more confident parents will feel.
Step 5: Plan the Logistics
Coordinate closely with your venue and your childcare provider to:
- Reserve a quiet, safe space for childcare activities
- Ensure access to restrooms and emergency exits
- Provide snacks, meals, or allow parents to bring their own
- Implement a check-in system for security
- Set clear pickup times and policies
A well-planned logistics setup ensures a seamless experience for both parents and kids.
Make Your Business Event or Conference Family-Friendly with Jovie
Adding childcare to your conference isn’t just a convenience, it’s a strategic move to support working families, boost attendance, and enhance your event’s reputation. Jovie has helped countless organizations deliver inclusive, professional, and worry-free events. From conferences and seminars to corporate retreats and office celebrations, we provide tailored childcare services that help everyone stay focused, engaged, and supported.
Let us help you make your next event the one that parents remember for all the right reasons. Learn more about Jovie’s Childcare for Business Events and get in touch with your local Jovie location to start planning today.
