Recent news stories across social media, in The Times and The Guardian, about a parent and child being turned away from a tech event were a reminder that, even in 2025, professional events can still fall short when it comes to accessibility for parents.
The sentiment that events should be inclusive to all struck a far-reaching chord and put many organisers in a position of looking at what they can do at their events, conferences, exhibitions and meetings to make them more inclusive to all.
Having worked in event childcare for over 30 years, if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s this
We’ve had a recent flurry of enquiries from organisers looking to make their events more accessible to families, many of them exploring options for the first time. It’s heartening to see the appetite for change, many starting the conversation with
And that’s the point. You don’t need to run a full-scale crèche to welcome parents. You just need to make it clear they’re not an afterthought.
We’re currently planning our support of Develop:Brighton, gaming event for developers and a long-standing partner. Every year, we look forward to welcoming children while their parents immerse themselves in the conference. They are a great example of what inclusive planning looks like in action.
Perfect for exhibitions and larger conferences, a short-stay crèche allows children to be dropped off for up to four hours, giving parents time to focus on keynote sessions, networking, or exploring the show floor.
At Nipperbout, we staff these with the same safeguarding standards as our full-day services, but they’re lighter touch and more flexible — often requiring less space and fewer staff.
A Stay & Play is a supervised space where children can play while their parent or carer stays with them. We usually set these up near refreshment zones, giving parents a chance to pause, recharge or even check their emails while their children engage with toys, games and creative activities. It’s also worth considering including a screen so parents can keep up with all that is happening in the conference while taking a little time out with their child.
It’s not a crèche. But it is a signal. It says: we see you, and you’re welcome here.
Sometimes, you might only have one or two children attending, perhaps the child of a keynote speaker or a delegate who’s travelled alone. Our chaperone service offers a one-to-one option for short periods, including excursions to places of interest in the local area and transitions between event areas and hotels.
It’s particularly effective at corporate events or trade shows where full childcare isn’t needed, but the need for safeguarding and supervision remains.
Even if childcare isn’t an option, thoughtful adjustments can make your event more inclusive for families. You just need to consider the small touches that make a difference
• Communication so parents know what to expect
• Clearly signposted baby changing and feeding areas
• Buggy parks and quiet zones
• Parent and child chillout rooms or feeding pods
• Well-equipped toilet and baby change facilities
• Adjusted meal options complete with highchairs and equipment
• Staff briefings so no parent is turned away with a child
When organisers take steps like these, it tells parents you have thought about them and they are welcome.
Not every event has the budget or need for a large-scale crèche. But every event can do something. Every organiser can make a decision to be inclusive.
Childcare isn’t a luxury. It’s a bridge to participation, opportunity and the legacy of your event.
Often, it’s the difference between a parent saying “I felt welcome” or “I couldn’t attend.”
If you’re planning an event and wondering what’s possible, get in touch. We’re here to make it easy for you and for your visitors.
