Re: NDSC Convention Question

March 8, 2007

The convention is definitely a family event. At all the sessions I attended,

there were parents with younger kids. It is just understood that if the kids

get rowdy, the parents step out. But honestly, there were younger kids in every

session, and not one time was there any disruption. The sibling events

generally start for kids at age 11, self advocate age is 15.

I don't honestly remember if there were any events planned specifically for

younger kids. The hotel had a great pool, and of course, at the dance on

Saturday night, there were tons of kids of all ages, dancing away and having a

great time.

Also, most of the sessions are repeated once, so if she needs a nap or

something, you should be able to catch a session again.

Hope this helps.

Sharon H.

Mom to , (15, DS) and , (11)

South Carolina

" Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of

battle. "

NDSC Convention Question

Hi everyone,

I am thinking about going to this years convention, but I have some

questions that maybe someone can help me with. I have never been, so I

don't know what exactly is usually planned for the convention. Is this

something I can bring my daughter (who is 5) to also? If so, what kind

fo things do they have for kids to do? I was thinking about making

this a little trip for just my daughter and myself, but I don't have

any idea of how the whole weekend works out for kids. Thanks for any

help you can give me!

Mom to K.C (5 DS), (3), Baby (8 1/2 months)

March 9, 2007

Not that we are in competition with NDSC's Wonderful Convention. But, I would

like to let you know that International Mosaic Down Syndrome Association is

planning its Conference for June 29-July 1, 2007 in Richmond VA. At the IMDSA

conference, we offer supervised activities for children of all ages and the

event is headed by Genetic Counseling Students. We do this, not only so the

parents will have a relaxing time and will be able to completely focus on the

speakers,(parents are welcome to bring their child into any conference room they

choose) but also so the Genetic Counseling students (and therapy students) will

understand hands on what it is like for a person to have Down syndrome. This

enables them to be more informed and when they are in the professional world,

they will have the experience and know how to better counsel families. The

activies for each child cost only $5.00 for the entire weekend and everyone has

a wonderful time. (siblings are welcome as well)

In addition to this, we are offering a Youth conference for ages 14 and up.

This is for those with Down syndrome, MDS and their siblings. We are planning

many fun and informational activities for them as well. Youth conference fees

are $20.00 for the first youth and $10.00 for each additional Youth.

And, of course, we will have our Saturday evening dance that everyone is

invited to.

Conference Registration fees are $85.00 for an individual and $125.00 for a

family. This will entitle you to 12 months of membership and all the benefits

that includes.

If you are interested, you can visit our website for more information about

the conference. http://www.imdsa.com/confs.htm

Kristy Colvin

IMDSA President

www.imdsa.com