Editor's note: For more coverage of the 2020 AAP Virtual National Conference & Exhibition, visit https://www.aappublications.org/news/2020/08/21/nationalconference2020.
You don’t have to worry about crafting a meticulous schedule of sessions to attend, navigating a huge convention center or making sure you pack gym shoes, hand sanitizer and a sweater.
A virtual conference does have its advantages.
“This year’s National Conference & Exhibition will definitely be different, but it still offers top-notch education and a chance to connect with colleagues,” said Cassandra M. Pruitt, M.D., FAAP, chair of the National Conference Planning Group. “A big plus of the virtual format is that attendees can view sessions as their schedules allow, with recordings available through Jan. 31, 2021.”
So charge your device, gather some snacks and read on to find out how to make the most of the 2020 AAP Virtual National Conference & Exhibition.
Live and on-demand sessions
The conference offers more than 35 live sessions from Saturday through Monday, including plenary sessions with big names such as Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., a member of the White House Coronavirus Task Force, and Ibram X. Kendi, award-winning author of “How To Be an Antiracist” and “Stamped from the Beginning.”
The live sessions also will be recorded and can be viewed later by registered attendees.
More than 150 on-demand sessions also will be available for viewing beginning Friday. These recorded sessions typically run about 30 minutes and feature experts representing the breadth of pediatrics. Recorded sessions with be available for attendee viewing through Jan. 31, 2021.
To view all of the sessions being offered, visit https://eventscribe.net/2020/AAPexperience/.
Special events
The conference may be virtual, but there will be plenty of opportunities to relax, have fun and connect with colleagues.
On Friday, two-time GRAMMY Award-winning recording artist and Academy Award-winning actress Jennifer Hudson will be performing. Catch her show at 7:30 p.m. CDT during the evening opener.
Also performing at the Friday evening opener are the Melisizwe Brothers, three multi-talented brothers who have received international recognition for their musical talent. They will take the virtual stage at 7 p.m. CDT.
On Sunday, you’ll have a chance to show off your knowledge during the first-ever Pediatric Trivia Game from 11 a.m. to noon. Participants will be broken up into teams that will work together to answer questions on “what you learned in medical school,” the AAP’s 90-year history, and other current events/hot topics.
After expending all of that mental energy, sit back, relax and enjoy an interactive concert by the Dueling Pianos. They will belt out the hits and take your requests starting at 1:30 p.m. CDT.
On Monday, you’ll have an opportunity to watch a food demo by none other than Wolfgang Puck, award-wining restaurateur, chef and international icon. Puck will prepare risotto and a delicious chocolate lava cake from 11 a.m. to noon CDT.
Rounding out the special events is the Virtual 5K Fun Run & Walk. Lace up your shoes, grab your phone and choose your favorite trail, neighborhood or walking path. To locate yourself on the race leaderboard, download the Strava app and create a free account.
Access all of the special events at https://eventscribe.net/2020/AAPexperience.
Virtual exhibit hall
If you enjoy wandering aisle after aisle in the exhibit hall, you’ll want to check out this year’s virtual version. Nearly 100 organizations specializing in pharmaceuticals, health care, infant feeding nutrition, publications, computer technology and recruiting will showcase their products and services. Exhibitors also will be available to video chat.
While you won’t be able to fill up a tote bag with free samples, you can enter drawings for company giveaways. To see the list of exhibitors, visit http://bit.ly/AAPexhibits2020.
You also can participate in a virtual scavenger hunt for a chance to win complimentary registration for 2021 National Conference & Exhibition in Philadelphia or an iPad. To join the fun, visit https://aapexperience.org/exhibit-hall-v/.
Product theaters
Stay up to date on emerging pediatric devices and products at 25-minute presentations offered during breaks between live educational sessions on Saturday and Sunday. The presentations also will be recorded for later viewing.
Seventeen product theaters will be offered on probiotics, vaccines, rabies immune globulin, atopic dermatitis and more. Visit http://bit.ly/producttheaters.
Virtual poster hall
The AAP is showcasing over 1,000 abstracts in a virtual poster hall that provides a forum to exchange innovative ideas on clinical matters, research developments, advocacy or special interest areas. The abstracts were selected by the 33 sections and councils that are holding abstract programs during the National Conference. Beginning Friday, visitors to the poster hall will have a variety of options to view and download high-definition posters and listen to audio recordings from the authors.
Access abstracts at https://eventscribe.net/2020/AAPexperience.
Take care of yourself
It might be tempting to view session after session while curled up on the couch. But be sure to get up and move. Visit the AAP Health & Wellness booth to join exercise classes that will keep your body fit and mind alert. You’ll also find demonstrations of how to make healthy foods that both you and your kids will enjoy.
Check out the Tech Bar to find ideas to organize and improve your personal and professional life. Experts will lead tech-focused sessions on productivity, virtual schooling, digital marketing and more.
Access the Health & Wellness booth and Tech Bar by clicking the Attendee Services tile after logging into the virtual conference platform at https://eventscribe.net/2020/AAPexperience. Classes, demos and sessions will be held Saturday and Sunday and can be accessed through Jan. 31, 2021.
“I hope the National Conference provides a brief respite from the challenges we’ve faced this year and strengthens our resolve to improve the care of all children,” Dr. Pruitt said. “I look forward to learning from and being inspired by pediatric colleagues from around the world. I hope you do, too.”
