Where: Dallas, TX
When: Saturday, August 27, 2022
Conference Overview:
The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas (DSG) and the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) have collaborated to bring you a joint conference that will touch on topics for caregivers who have loved ones in early childhood, school age, young adults in their 20s and 30s, in addition to self-advocate sessions throughout the day.
Conference Schedule and Tracks:
Each conference track includes the opening plenary session featuring Austin & Jan Underwood from Austin's Underdawgs, four breakout sessions per age group, lunch, and the closing plenary. Attendees will also have the opportunity to browse and speak with exhibitors throughout the day. Detailed conference schedule coming soon!
Early Childhood (0-4 Years): In-Person Sessions on mental health and wellness (Rose Reif, MS, LCMHC, CRC, BC-TMH), pediatric healthcare (Dr. Barr, Dr. Usala, and Sarah King from the Children's Down Syndrome Clinic) occupational therapy, and more.
School Age (Elementary-High School): In-Person Sessions on new Inclusive Education Guidelines (NDSS), fatigue and mental health (Rose Reif, MS, LCMHC, CRC, BC-TMH), Augmentative and Alternative Communication (Sara Loving, Speech Language Pathologist at Chatterbox Therapy), and more.
NDSS Adult Summit (High School-Adulthood): In-Person & Virtual Sessions on helping your adult understand death and cope with grief (Rose Reif, MS, LCMHC, CRC, BC-TMH), supporting healthy sexuality for your adult with Down syndrome (Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L), employment, and more.
NDSS Adult Summit: Self-Advocate (Self-Advocates 16 and Older): In-Person Hands on sessions for self-advocates with Down syndrome on dating and relationships (Katie Frank, PhD, OTR/L), staying safe at home, at work, and on the internet (Rose Reif, MS, LCMHC, CRC, BC-TMH), employment, and more.
Who Should Attend?
Parents, family members, educators, medical professionals, service providers, direct care staff, and self-advocates ages 16 and older are encouraged to attend.
In-Person Registration:
Registration is $50 per person and includes lunch plus handouts. Virtual registration option is available for the NDSS Adult Summit caregiver track only. All other conference sessions will be presented in-person at the Hilton Dallas Richardson Conference Center.