About Us
The Nursing of Children Network, or NCN, was established in 1990 as a networking organization for pediatric nurses in the Delaware Valley region. In 1994 NCN joined the national organization SPN-Society of Pediatric Nurses—as the local chapter. In addition to networking opportunities, NCN offers educational programs, pediatric health care projects, and an informative newsletter.

Purpose
The purpose of the Nursing of Children Network shall be to provide a forum for all pediatric nurses to share ideas related to the nursing care of children and their families. The support and networking opportunities of the group are integral to the group and its members.

Mission
The Nursing of Children Network believes that the specialty of pediatric nursing should set forth the highest standards of nursing practice of optimum care to children and their families The mission of the Nursing of Children Network, in congruence with the national organization, is to promote excellence in nursing care of children and their families through support of its members’ clinical practice, education, research, and advocacy.

Objectives
The objectives of this organization shall be:

A. To enhance personal and professional growth through networking and education programs on a regional level.

B. To disseminate information regarding advances in pediatric nursing.

C. To promote an awareness of, and support for the health care rights of consumers.

D. To promote communications within the organization, and with other professional organizations with a focus on the health and welfare of children.

E. To encourage individual members to participate in the continued growth and development of the organization.

President’s Letter Spring 2008
Linda Youngstrom, D.N.Sc.

Thank you for visiting the Nursing of Children Network (NCN) web site.  It is under construction for the summer. Did you find the Regional Conference information?  What could be added to the web site that you would find helpful?  Will you be reading the quarterly NCN Newsletter online? These and other questions are being considered by your NCN Communication Committee at their next meeting.

The NCN ballot was presented to the membership last month.  Your votes will be counted at the June NCN Board meeting and the new officers will then be inducted.  The complete list of newly elected NCN Board members for 2008-2009 will be posted on the web site next month.

At this time, I want to congratulate the Regional Conference Planning Committee and Judi Stellar, the chairperson, for the wonderful Fourth Annual Regional Pediatric Nursing Conference, “ Reaching Above and Beyond”.  Over 350 pediatric nurses attended this educational event on October 8, 2007 at the Hyatt Regency. There were 25 speakers representing 13 organizations in the region.  This is a unique opportunity for learning and networking among pediatric nurses.  NCN is very excited to be sponsoring this project. 

Come join us for the Fifth Annual Regional Pediatric Nursing Conference, “You are the difference” on October13, 2008 at the Hyatt Regency at Penn’s Landing. Perhaps you have a poster that you would like to present at the conference. Deadline for Poster Abstract submission is July 31, 2008. See link to Poster Abstract Submission in tool bar at the top of the page.

As your president, I am eager to see how the 2008-2009 year will unfold.  I anticipate that NCN will be growing in new ways to meet the needs of our members.  We welcome any help with our standing committees of education, communication, and membership.  We extend an invitation to join us if you are not already a member. Please contact me (Youngstrom@email.chop.edu) with any questions that you may have about NCN or about how you can get more involved.