Knowledge. Independence. Togetherness. Empowerment.
SOAR Fox Cities, WisconSibs, the Down Syndrome Association of Wisconsin – Fox Cities and Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin are hosting a mini conference for parents, adult siblings, self-advocates and professionals. The conference will be an opportunity for attendees to learn about disability-related topics through breakout sessions and to connect with local community resources.
What: K.I.T.E. Conference (Knowledge. Independence. Togetherness. Empowerment.)
A mini-conference for parents, family members, self-advocates and professionals.
An opportunity to learn about disability-related topics from presenters and to connect with local community resources. The conference will include a keynote presentation, breakout sessions, a lunch, and resource booths from local community agencies.
Keynote Speaker: Terri Couwenhoven MS, CSE is a well known sex educator and author, specializing in the design and implementation of sexuality programs and resources for people with cognitive disabilities, their parents, and the professionals who support them.
Breakout Session Topics:
When: Saturday, March 7th – Registration starts at 8:30am, Conference from 9:00am-2:00pm
Where: Fox Valley Technical College – Entrance 16 (1825 N Bluemound Dr, Appleton, WI 54912)
8:30 am-9:00 am – Registration
9:00 am-9:15 am – Welcome & Announcements
9:15 am-10:20 am – Keynote Address
- Sexual Abuse in People with I/DD: Just the Facts: This session will explore factual information and data on what we know about abuse in this population as well as factors that place people with intellectual disabilities at risk of exploitation. Ideas and recommendations for addressing these issues will be shared. Presented by Terri Couwenhoven, sex educator and author
10:30 am-11:45 am – Breakout Session 1
- 1A – Beginning Early: Sexual Abuse Prevention in Children with I/DD: This session will help families of younger children (pre-puberty) explore key aspects of childhood sexual development. Using common childhood scenarios, parents will learn how to distinguish natural and health sexual expression from concerning behaviors. Resources for teaching children about their bodies and boundaries will also be shared. Presented by Terri Couwenhoven, MS, CSE
- 1B – How to be the Person in the Super Glue: Everyone with a disability is unique, and family dynamics can play a role in the individual’s ability to function. This practical presentation will focus on assessing situations where challenging behaviors occur and going back to the ABC of behavior basics to guide responses and reactions. Presented by Jessica Schroeder, Psychologist
11:45 am -12:00 pm – Lunch, speaker, and exhibitions
12:45 pm-2:00 pm – Breakout Session 2
- 2A – Preparing Teens and Adults for Life in the Community: The Power of Sexuality Education: Community inclusion is the norm for people with I/DD. But how do we prepare teens and adults for the community? In this session participants will learn key sexuality information that supports healthy sexuality and can help them recognize abuse if it happens. Resources designed specifically for this population will be shared. Presented by Terri Couwenhoven
- 2B – Strengthening the Link Between Individuals with Disabilities and First Responders: In 2018 a Behavioral Health Officer position was created at the Appleton Police Department to provide a link between individuals with mental illness, substance abuse, and/or disabilities. This presentation will summarize steps local first responders have taken to strengthen their responses and relationships with these individuals and what parents, guardians, and self-advocates can do to better prepare for a crisis or emergency. Presented by Officer Enriquez, Appleton Police Dept.
Conference Registration Fee: $10/person
For questions, please contact:
Tammy Wittmann
920-731-9831 ext. 122
tammy@soarfoxcities.com