DSACK Road Trip

Potty training. Medicaid waivers. Alzheimer’s disease.

Challenging behaviors

These were just a few of the topics covered during DSACK’s first-ever educational conference, held in February at the Griffin Gate Marriott Hotel in Lexington The conference drew nearly 100 family members, teachers, speakers and exhibitors to learn and share insights about the joys and challenges of Down syndrome

The keynote speaker was Rachel Schwartz, a consultant and trainer who has worked internationally to create and supervise programs for individuals with disabilities across the lifespan She presented “Moving from Behavioral Management to Behavioral Change,” focusing on approaching behavioral difficulties through a compassionate lens – and embedding joy and respect in the process. Other speakers included:

Lina Patel, associate professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, who spoke on potty training. She’s the author of the popular book, “Potty Time for Kids with Down Syndrome: Lose the Diapers, Not Your Patience ”

"“I loved the conference! I gained new understanding and insights from the presenters, especially in the area of behavior. One class even helped me understand the brain better, which leads to a better understanding of behavior and how to help the child. I loved connecting with old friends and making new ones. And I loved all the information provided at the booths for services in our area. I absolutely loved hearing the 5minute presentations made by some of the older friends who took a communications class! I hope my son will have the opportunity to do that one day. Can you see...I loved it all! It enlightened, encouraged and lifted me up! Can't wait for the next one!”

-Jennie Jenkins

Christy Bryce, director of the Kentucky Academic and Behavioral Response to Intervention at the University of Louisville’s Center for Instructional and Behavioral Research. She talked about coregulation strategies for students who demonstrate challenging behaviors

Rachael Jones, who works in the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities for New Vista in Lexington, explained all things Medicaid Waivers

Carolyn Wheeler, of the University of Kentucky’s Human Development Institute, spoke about guardianship.

Ashley Meier Barlow, director of education for the National Down Syndrome Congress. She talked about behavior intervention plans in IEPs.

Caitlin Fiorillo, pediatric otolaryngologist at the University of Kentucky, discussed ENT issues in children with Down syndrome.

Traci Brewer, DSACK executive director, and Jean Bryant, DSACK education coordinator, presented “Best Practices for Educating Students with Down Syndrome.”

Frederick Schmitt, professor of Neurology at the University of Kentucky who holds an appointment with the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging. He talked about Alzheimer’s disease and Down syndrome research