PROGRAM SCHEDULE

THURSDAY - April 26, 2001

• 8:00 - 9:30 am    Registration & Continental Breakfast
• 9:30 - 10:15 am   Welcome & Keynote Address
• 10:15 - 12 noon    Workshops, Session 1
• 12:00 - 1:15 pm    Lunch
• 1:15 - 4:45 pm    Intensive Half-Day Workshop
  or
• 1:15 - 2:45 pm    Workshops, Session 2
• 2:45 - 3:15 pm    Break
• 3:15 - 4:45 pm    Workshops, Session 3
• 5:30 - 6:30 pm   Pizza Dinner & Family Fun Night
• 6:30 - 8:00 pm    Porcupine Auction
• 8:00 - 9:00 pm   Dad's Only Special Session FRIDAY - April 27, 2001
  • 7:30 - 8:30 am    Breakfast Buffet
  • 8:30 - 12 Noon    Intensive Half-Day Workshop
    or
  • 8:30 - 10:00 am    Workshops, Session 4
  • 10:00 - 10:30 am    Break
  • 10:30 - 12 noon    Workshops, Session 5
  • 12:15 - 1:45 pm    Luncheon, Keynote Address & Closing Slide Show
  

  Plenary Sessions

  April 26, 2001 William Schwab, M.D. Keynote Address: Parent - Medical Professional Communication Dr. Schwab is a professor at the University of Wisconsin Department of Family Medicine and is the Director of the Northeast Family Medical Center in Madison Wisconsin. He is a nationally recognized leader in medical education in the field of children with special health care needs. He has personal experience as a father of a child with complex medical needs. Dr. Schwab will explore ideas for improving communications through a role-play and discussion. April 26, 2001 Chris Heimerl, MSW Dad's Only Special Session Chris Heimerl is currently a consultant to the State of New Mexico, applying his expertise in behavioral analysis and intervention strategies, and a highly sought motivational speaker. The parent of a child with special needs, Chris will lead this special session for Dads Only to share and talk about issues. He will also lead an intensive half-day session April 27, 2001. April 26, 2001 Pizza Dinner, Family Fun Night and Porcupine Auction We'll have the traditional Italian pies, children's games and prizes, face painting, button-making (bring your favorite pictures) and the Porcupine Auction. Please join us for a chance to relax together. April 27, 2001 Iris Heavyrunner, MSW Keynote Address: Partnerships and Culture Professor Heavyrunner is Adjunct Professor in the Department of Social Work at the University of Montana in Missoula and Project Coordinator for the Family Education Model at Fort Peck Community College in Poplar, Montana. Throughout her career she has consulted with tribal schools and communities, state human service departments, federal agencies, and private foundations. Ms. Heavyrunner will speak to us regarding the importance of collaboration with diverse partners. April 27, 2001 Celebrating Children and Families Slide Show Join us for a spectacular closing ceremony with slides of our children and families. Please be certain to send photos of your child/family to rowley@mhtc.net In "jpg" or "gif" format.

  Auction for the Elsie Shaw Parent Scholarship Fund

  Porcupine Auction: We will hold this popular auction again this year. You may want to bring extra money to purchase tickets 5 for a $1.00 to place your bids. We have lots of great items. If you would like to donate items for the auction - contact Linda Rowley at (608) 263-5973 or John Shaw at (715) 386-1933. Donations are tax-deductible. We will also have a special auction for a football, signed by all of the Green Bay Packers! Proceeds benefit the Elsie Shaw Scholarship Fund, which provides funds for parents to attend this conference.

  Session 1 - Thursday April 26, 2001 - 10:30 am - 12:00 noon

  1. Diagnosing Doctors An in-depth discussion of developing a good working relationship with your child's doctors. Tips and techniques for getting the most out of this critical partnership. William Schwab, M.D. 2. Behavior Plans and the Individual Education Plans (IEP) When situations in the IEP process require addressing student behavior, there are critical human-relation aspects that can determine the success or failure of any document the IEP team develops. Develop behavior plans that address the needs of the students and adults. Dave Funk, New Berlin School District 3. Inclusive Child Care Learn about the resources available for families and providers from the resource and referral network to support inclusive child care. Jane Penner-Hoppe, Wisconsin Child Care Resource and Referral Network 4. Collaborating for Positive Outcomes Learn approaches to develop local partnerships; keep partners focused and energized; and change respite care service delivery. Get tools to develop a respite partnership in your community. Gwen Lee, Deanna Yost, & Katherine Swanson 5. Assistive Technology - Pointers for Parents Focuses on specific questions parents can use to assist them in developing assistive technology plans. Barb Breen and Penny Reed, Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative 6. How Culture Influences Partnerships Learn how to consider the issue of culture as it affects the ability of diverse groups to participate, interact and learn from one another, based on Ms. Heavyrunner's personal and professional experience. Iris Heavyrunner, Univ. of Montana 7. Mental Health Parity Act An update on this legislation to assure access to mental health services and how it will affect Wisconsin consumers. Shel Gross and Kathryn Franke

  Special Half-Day Intensive Session Thursday April 26, 2001 - 1:15 pm - 4:45 pm

  8. We Each Have the Power: Influencing Funding and Policy for Children and Families Become familiar with the current State budget for Birth to 3, Family Support, Respite and Children's Long-Term Support Redesign. Develop personalized talking points for influencing local and state policies and funding decisions through hands-on activities. Liz Hecht, parent and Nancy Olson, parent

  Session 2 - Thursday April 26, 2001 1:15 pm - 2:45 pm

  9. Doctors on Call An interactive session for parents and providers regarding medical issues. These physicians, who specialize in care for children with disabilities, will answer your questions on medical needs. Deb McLeish, M.D., Jane Byrd, M.D., and William Schwab, M.D. 10. Preschool Options Learn how school districts develop and consider community based options for young children with disabilities and how parents are partners in the options discussions. Mary Joslin and Sue Albert, CESA 10 - Madison School District; and Jenny Lange, Department of Public Instruction 11. School Transitions Transitions from school to adult services, review of laws regarding transitions, and strategies for making the process effective. Pat Kelly and Phyllis Greenberger, Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy 12. Support for Different Learning Patterns Good intention does not always result in good teaching, and we don't all learn the same way. An introduction to learning patterns. Mark Sweet, Wisconsin Coalition for Advocacy 13. Cultural Issues Panel - How to Work with the Latino Community Learn how to consider the values and beliefs of Latino families who have children with disabilities in order to successfully empower them. Dahlia Arteaga, Monica Lopez and Maggie Ramos; Parent Education Project 14. Assistive Technology and the IEP Learn how to think about assessing and including your child's assistive technology needs as you participate in the Individual Educational Plan process. Penny Reed, Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative 15. Mental Illness - Journey to Recovery A look at the impact of serious and profound mental illness on the individual and family. Aspects of treatment and recovery will be addressed. Nancy & Dillion Abraham 16. Badger Advantage: Manage Your Child's Team A simple way to manage your child's needs in three main areas of concern: education, programs, and medical. Mike MacDonald, Parent WCA

  Session 3 - Thursday April 26, 2001 - 3:15 pm - 4:45 pm

  17. Family-Centered Service Coordination Learn and think about strategies of how to provide service coordination that is effective for the whole family, not just for the child or young adult. Wynne Cook, Chippewa County Health Dept. and Linda Tuchman, Waisman Center 18. One, Two Three - Steps of Adoption This workshop will help you to understand adoption today. Infant, international and special needs adoptions are all lifelong family decisions. Nicole Behnke, Special Needs Adoption Network. 19. Powerful Strategies for Successful IEPs Use Department of Public Instruction and School District materials to write specific, individual goals. Then "Birddog" your child's progress using the Procedures for Monitoring on the IEP. Corinne Quadland, PEP of Wisconsin 20. Self and Community Mildred is a spiritual advisor, teacher, author & dancer living on the Lac du Flambeau reservation. She shares her knowledge & experiences of self and community. Mildred Tinker Schuman 21. Stepping Ahead at Age Three A discussion of current laws and regulations regarding transitions at age three. The planning conference and referral process will be highlighted from a parent, service coordinator and school district perspective. Jamie Ervin, Parent; Mary Murray, Service Coordinator, Ellen Franzone, Speech Therapist, Tammy Stowers-Tonn, School Psychologist; Cheryl Hoksch, Early Childhood; Donna Miller, Birth to 3; Jill Haglund, Dept. of Public Instruction 22. Prior Authorization and Medicaid Learn about the prior authorization process and tips for making the process as smooth as possible. Lynn Steffes, Positive Peds Network 23. Eagle Doctor A Blessing of the Wind is a sacred Native American blessing performed in traditional ceremonial form. It blesses all participants. Bring a picture. Chrissy Nelson, Parent 24. Parent Training Programs in Wisconsin An overview of current parent programs. Learn what the essential ingredients are for effective training, what supports need to be in place for you to participate, and how to access training opportunities. Amy Whitehead, Parent

  Special Half-Day Intensive Session Friday April 27, 2001 - 8:30 am - Noon

  25. I Haven't Got Time for the Pain Chris Heimerl facilitates this popular workshop for parents and other family members to discuss the sources of stress, potential healing responses, and joys of being a family when someone has a disability. Participants will be encouraged to reveal what makes their hearts heavy and glad. Chris will draw from his personal and professional experiences, including his Five Essential Functions for Parents. Chris Heimerl

  Session 4 - Friday April 27, 2001 - 8:30 am - 10:00 am

  26. Parents as Colleagues in Health Care Practical advice about how to collaborate with medical professionals, including preparation for medical visits, communication, accessing & organizing records, & health care law. Carolyn Allshouse, parent, PACER Health Information and Advocacy Center. 27. Care for the Caregiver Learn wonderful healing techniques for finding joy in the midst of sometimes-serious situations. Learn tips for "hope-filled" living and participate in guided mediation. Laurine Lusk, Parent 28. Importance of Touch for the Older Child Touch is important to everyone, but we often forget this as children get older. Learn techniques to use with your child. Molly Delaney, Certified Infant Massage Therapist 29. New Eligibility Criteria for Speech and Language in Public Schools Review the new language used to identify speech impairment for children. Discuss the relationship to special education services. Kay Morand, Department of Public Instruction 30. Transition and Housing A discussion of housing issues and strategies for families whose children are becoming adults. Options for buying a home, repairing an existing home, and modifying for accessibility. Marcie Brost, Dept. of Health and Family Services 31. Olmstead and Waitlists Learn more about his landmark case regarding waiting lists and community living. Mark Bachhuber. 32. The Parent KASE: Building your Resume Learn how to capture your experiences as a parent of a child with a disability and how to share your expertise with program planners. Loraine Lucinski, Parent Consultant 33. Fostering Friendships Between Children with Disabilities and Peers without Disabilities Learn more about the Circle of Friends strategy, as well as ideas to incorporate friendship development into IEPs. Craig Fiedler, parent and professor- UW-Oshkosh.

  Session 5 - Friday April 27, 2001 -10:30 am - 12:00 noon

  34. Advocating for Health Benefits Understand the benefits under various programs, such as Medicaid (MA, Title 19) as well as through private insurance and other resources to make the system work for your child and family. Barb Katz, ABC for Health. 35. Paraeducators & Quality Special Education Services Learn more about Wisconsin Paraprofessionals and the activities of over 7,000 paraeduators in Public Schools. Mark Dyar, CESA 4 36. Taking Care of Business: Kids Taking Control Join two youth as they discuss directing their own health care needs. They will share the specific ideas, including technologies and coordinating contracts for medical team care. Mitchell Hamilton and Maia Wroblewski, along with Julie Keys, Director of Kids as Self Advocates (KASA) a Family Voices Project. 37. Infant Massage Massage is a wonderful way to interact with your baby. Learn infant massage techniques that you can use. Molly Delaney, Certified Infant Massage Therapist 38. Parenting -The Second Time Resources, survival techniques and issues unique to grandparents how are parenting their grandchildren with special needs. Mary Brintnall-Peterson and Cynthia Hirsch. 39. Birth to 3 Program Updates This session will focus on possible changes to the Birth to 3 Program including the parental fee system and eligibility criteria. David Sorenson, Department of Health and Family Services 40. Parents: Learn to be a Policymaker Learn basic skills and issues in the policymaking process: board and committee roles, dealing with legislator, systems advocacy. Ann Hager, Parent Education Project of Wisconsin 41. Grant Writing Using the DAWN Grants as a model, we'll cover how to identify funding sources, write a proposal geared to the source, and increase your chances of success. Jennifer Ondrejka, Wisconsin Council on Developmental Disabilities

  Key Information

  • Child Care - Deb Catenacci at 608-429-3439

  • Scholarships or Auction - John Shaw 715-386-1933

  • Bring a photo for Button-Making on Family Fun Night.

  • Send photos in "jpg" or "gif" format only by e-mail for the closing slide show to rowley@mhtc.net

  • General Conference Questions or Cancellations - Beryl Gribbon Fago 608-266-8267 or e-mail gribbb@dhfs.state.wi.us

  • Personal checks are difficult to cash in the Dells, please plan accordingly.

  • Registration due by April 19, 2001. Late registration and walk-in registration not guaranteed.

    Parent Information

    Parent Scholarships:
    Limited scholarships for mileage, hotel room, registration and child care are available for parents. Please call John Shaw at (715) 386-1933 for an application form. Deadline - application must be postmarked by April 9, 2001 to be considered. Families receive confirmation letters.

    On-Site Child Care Options:

    1. Bring a friend, relative or provider from home to take care of your child while you attend sessions. The provider may join you for meals at no additional cost. They will need a room to use during the day.

    2. On-site child care will be available on a limited basis through South Central Respite. You must arrange this in advance, by April 13, 2001. Due to health and safety issues walk-ins will not be accepted. Contact Deb Catenacci, Program Director at (608) 429-3439. Families may be asked to contribute to the cost of child care to the extent they are able.

    Logistics

    Dates: Thursday & Friday - April 26 and 27, 2001

    Location: Kalahari Convention Center, Wisconsin Dells.
    A block of rooms has been set aside at the Convention Center until April 4, 2001. There are a limited number available at the state rate of $52.00 single occupancy and $72.00 double occupancy. Participants are responsible for their own reservations and payment for their room. Ask for rooms for the Circles of Life Conference when calling. Reservation Number: 1-877-253-5466.

    Additional Lodging: Hotel rooms are also set aside until April 4th at the nearby Ramada Limited for state rates. Ask for rooms for the Circles of Life Conference when calling. Reservation Number: 608-254-2228 or 1-800-845-2251.

    Directions: Both hotels - take I-94 to exit 92, Hwy 12, in Wisconsin Dells.

    Costs

    Registration Fee - Full Conference
    $65.00 Parent Full Conference Registration
    $30.00 Children, meals only, both days - not attending conference sessions
    $85.00 Professional Full Conference Registration

    Registration Fee - One Day Only
    $35.00 Parent one day only registration
    $15.00 Children - meals-one day only
    $45.00 Professional one day only registration

    On-line: Brochure and registration are located at www.wfv.org/circle/

    Refunds: Refunds will be made up to April 19, 2001. Registration can be transferred at any time.

    Further information: Call the Birth to 3 office at 608.266.8276; TTY 608.267.9880; Fax 608.261.6752 or e-mail stuarkc@dhfs.state.wi.us or critssa@dhfs.state.wi.us

    Planning Committee

    Planning Committee Members
    Pam Barnes, Parent
    Sue Gilbertson, Parent
    Linda Rowley, Parent, Waisman Center
    Nicole Behnke, Special Needs Adoption
    Ann Hager, Parent Education Project
    John Shaw, KBC, Inc.
    Pat Bober, Department of Public Instruction
    Jill Haglund, Department of Public Instruction
    Mary Sobczak, Parent Education Project
    Barb Breen, Parent
    Mike MacDonald, WI Coalition for Advocacy
    Kristina Stuart, DHFS
    Ray Cadotte, GLITC
    Sara Critser, Dept. Health/Family Services (DHFS)
    Loraine Lucinski, DHFS
    Beth Wroblewski, DHFS
    Nancy Olson, Respite Care Association of WI
    

    Registration

    CIRCLES OF LIFE One form per family. Please copy for additional registrations.
    Checks should be made payable to: DD Network.

    Advance Registration encouraged. Registration at the door is not guaranteed.
    Return by April 19, 2001.

    Check ONE: For parents of children w/ disabilities:
    ____ $65.00 for both days    (# of adults_____)
    ____ $35.00 for 4/26 only    (# of adults_____)
    ____ $35.00 for 4/27 only    (# of adults_____)
    

    For Professionals:
    ____ $85.00 for both days
    ____ $45.00 for 4/26 only
    ____ $45.00 for 4/27 only
    

    Children - Not attending Sessions
    ____ $30.00 meals only for children both days    (# of children_____)
    ____ $15.00 meals for children 4/26 only     (# of children_____)
    ____ $15.00 meals for children 4/27 only     (# of children _____)

    Child Care Provider - Not attending Sessions
    ____ No charge meals for child care provider both days
    ____ No charge 4/26 only
    ____ No charge 4/27 only

    Please print neatly, we will use this for your name tag and participation certificate.

    Name(s) of adults: ______________________________________

    Agency/Affiliation:______________________

    Street Address: __________________________

    City: ______________ State:____ Zip Code:____________

    Position: ___________________________

    Parent of child with disability:    Yes    No    (circle one)

    Phone: ______________________

    Include my name and address on the participant list:    Yes    No    (circle one)

    If you have any access, vision, hearing or dietary needs, please state your need(s) for accommodation below:

     

    Return by April 19
    Mail to:
    Circles of Life - c/o DD Network
    PO Box 1605
    Madison WI 53701-1605