If you’re planning to bring family members to Clinical Congress, the ACS offers a variety of family-friendly programs and activities designed to make your experience more enjoyable and convenient. Whether it’s childcare services, interactive workshops for kids, or dedicated spaces for families, these services will help ensure you and your loved ones have a memorable and rewarding time during the meeting.
Family Lounge
New this year is a Family Lounge area that will be available during the Convocation Ceremony on Saturday evening. The lounge, located just outside the Convocation ballroom, will offer a quiet, comfortable space where families can take young children for a break. Equipped with seating and a livestream monitor, the lounge will allow parents and caregivers to watch the Convocation in real time. This space will provide a welcoming, low-stress environment for families to step away from the main event without missing any of the ceremony.
The lounge will open at 5:00 pm and will be available through the end of the ceremony (approximately 7:00 pm).
Childcare Services
Camp ACS will be available for children aged 6 months to 17 years. ACCENT on Children’s Arrangements will oversee the program. Daily activities include arts and crafts, entertainment, and interactive games. Camp ACS, which will be available Saturday, October 4–Monday, October 6, 7:30 am–10:00 pm, and Tuesday, October 7, 7:30 am–4:30 pm, will be hosted at an ACS hotel near McCormick Place. More details will be shared following registration. Preregister by September 26.
Little Medical School
As an add-on to Camp ACS, Little Medical School will offer educational enrichment prepared by board-certified physicians and educators. Children ages 4–10 years will have the opportunity to explore the world of medicine, science, and health in an engaging and fun way. Little Medical School will be held on Sunday, October 5, 9:00 am–12:00 pm.
Register for Camp ACS and Little Medical School.
Nursing Mothers
Mamava Suites will be available for nursing mothers during Clinical Congress. The lactation pods provide a secure, private room with electricity; refrigeration for breast milk will not be available.
In McCormick Place West, Mamava Suites will be located on Level 1 near the main information desk on Indiana Avenue. Download the Mamava mobile app to unlock the suites.
Session Access for Infants
Children younger than 1 year will be allowed in session rooms when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Guardians are asked to maintain a professional and disturbance-free environment at all times, including immediately stepping out of the room if the infant becomes fussy. Children between the ages of 1 and 15 years are not permitted in scientific sessions.
Exhibit Hall
Children of any age are not permitted in the Exhibit Hall.
Windy City Welcome Reception
All family members are invited to participate in the Windy City Welcome Reception on Saturday, October 4, 7:00–9:00 pm. This complimentary event of Clinical Congress will blend Chicago’s renowned cuisine, vibrant culture, and stunning skyline with a celebration of the House of Surgery. The event, which combines the Saturday President’s Reception and Taste of the City (previously held on Tuesday), will follow Convocation. Casual dress is encouraged.
When you’re not at Clinical Congress, check out the many family-friendly activities Chicago has to offer.
