Falk Invites Families to Sunday Workshop that Highlights Services and Resources for Children with Disabilities

April 19, 2004
Sharyn Wisniewski (608) 267-8823
County Executive

Children with disabilities and their families can connect with other families and learn more about resources at a half-day event on Sunday, April 25 at the Alliant Energy Center of Dane County. The “Connecting Families 2004” event runs from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. and is free of charge. “Sharing experiences and ideas with other families is very helpful in raising children. This is especially the case for parents raising a child with disabilities,” said Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk. “It is a helpful addition to the many good services we offer in Dane County.” The workshop will allow the families of children with disabilities to meet with others in a similar situation and develop ideas on how they can support each other and locate resources available in the community. Fifty exhibitors will be on hand to provide information to families. The event will also feature breakout sessions with information on how to help children with disabilities develop social lives and make transitions as they grow. Sessions include: · IEP & Transition Planning: An opportunity to learn from families and teachers about Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and planning for transition to the adult service system. Opportunities will be available throughout the afternoon for one-on-one consultation. · Beyond Traditional Childcare: Receive information about options for child and respite activities for kids of all ages. Hear success stories. Talk with other parents about summer and other care solutions. · Siblings Panel: An opportunity to hear from a panel of siblings of individuals with developmental disabilities. The panel members will discuss sibling interaction and share their experiences and insights about growing up in a household with a sibling with a disability. Those interested in attending the event can register by phone at (608) 265-9440 or by e-mail to comm.training@waisman.wisc.edu with their names and the names of the family members who will be attending. Free refreshments will be provided for all attending the event. The event is sponsored by the Dane County Department of Human Services, LINK (a consortium of agencies that provide services to kids with developmental disabilities), the Southern Regional Center for Children with Special Health Care Needs (CSHCN), Integrated Development Services and a Capital Times Kids Fund grant. # # #