Saturday Seminar Series
The DSALA offers year-round seminars on specific subjects at the DSALA office.
Be sure to RSVP as soon as you plan on attending. Space is limited.
All supplemental learning materials provided by the speakers will reinforce the learning that will occur in the workshop. The only way to receive comprehensive information about each topic is by attending the workshops. Presenters have sole discretion in determining what materials, if any, are permissible for distribution. These materials will be provided to attendees only.
Past seminars have included topics such as:
• Independent Educational Assessments and the importance to your child with Down syndrome's education
• Reading Workshops
• Dental Issues in Children with Down syndrome
• Addressing challenging behavior in children with Down syndrome:
The use of applied behavior analysis for assessment and intervention
• Conservatorship
The information presented is for informative purposes only and does not constitute DSALA's endorsement of any agency or services our presenters offer. These workshops are provided as a courtesy to our DSALA families.
LIVING OPTIONS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH INTELLECTUAL OR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, October 15, 2022
10 AM
RSVP
Community Options Integrated Services (COIS) will discuss living options for those with intellectual or developmental disabilities. COIS provides the most comprehensive information for those interested in learning more about creative residential support options. This presentation will provide a clear and concise overview of the varied living arrangements available.
about COIS
Community Options is a family home agency that recruits and trains families wishing to share their homes with individuals needing extra support. They offer more of a person-centered program than a typical group home placement.
about our speakers
Ingrid Rushing is the founder and CEO of Community Options Integrated Services, which has pioneered the development of adult family home services in California. Prior to founding Community Options, Ingrid worked for two Southern California Regional Centers and was instrumental in developing solutions for advanced situational projects and creative resource development. Ingrid has also served on the Vendor Advisory Committee and the Strategic Planning Committee for the North LA County Regional Center. For her efforts, she was recognized with the Jenny Ratzinger award.
Timothy Lisagor has extensive experience working in the foster care system, ensuring quality care and placements. He was responsible for recruiting families and for monitoring their continued support of those served. Timothy has also worked as an employment developer identifying internships, volunteer positions, and employment for those served by the California Regional Center system.
Past Saturday Seminars
Neurological Complications in Down syndrome
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, September 10, 2022
10 AM
RSVP
Neurological Complications in Down syndrome: How to Identify and Protect
- Review common neurological complications in Down syndrome
- Review the most common stroke-related conditions that persons with Down syndrome exhibit with Moyamoya Disease and Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA).
- Review the common signs and symptoms of Moyamoya disease and CAA, how to get diagnosed and what treatments can be used.
- Review a potential, non-invasive method to predict stroke before it happens
Early Identification can save lives!
About Jonathan D. Santoro, MD
Dr. Santoro serves as the Director of the Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Disorders Program at Children's Hospital Los Angeles. He is also an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Dr. Santoro completed his undergraduate, master's, and medical degrees at Tulane University. He subsequently completed pediatric and child neurology residencies at Stanford University School of Medicine with sub-specialty training in neuroimmunology and pediatric multiple sclerosis at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santoro has clinical research expertise in inflammation related to cerebrovascular disease and neurocognitive disorders such as Down syndrome regression syndrome.
Down syndrome and Alzheimer's Disease
Zoom Saturday Seminar
Saturday, July 16, 2022
10 am
RSVP
Eric Doran will be answering questions about the connections between Down Syndrome and Alzheimer's disease.
about Eric Doran
Eric Doran, MS, serves as manager for the UCI Down Syndrome Program, directed by Ira Lott, MD, professor emeritus of pediatrics and neurology. Mr. Doran holds a master's degree in genetic counseling. He has extensive clinical and research experience working with people with Down syndrome and their family members for the past two decades. He has published numerous important research findings on the link between Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease.
about Sharon Trocki-Miller
Sharon Trocki-Miller is a Family Advocate. She spent five years on the State Alzheimer's Advisory Committee, advocating for people with disabilities. She ran a family support group for ten years at a program for adults with disabilities in North Hollywood. Along with an Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Down's Syndrome (DS) support group for Alzheimer's LA. That group ran for five years and was cut short due to Covid. She recently started a new AD/DS support group with Alzheimer's LA that meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month. She is extremely grateful that she had the opportunity to be her sister's caregiver until she passed away from Alzheimer's.
Down Syndrome in Media
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, June 18, 2022
10 AM
RSVP
Did your child with Down syndrome come with the “entertainment gene” on their extra chromosome?
Would you like to know more about print work, commercials, TV, and film opportunities for children and adults with Down syndrome and other disabilities? Gail Williamson, a talent agent at KMR in North Hollywood for the past 9 years and previous Executive Director of the DSALA, will come and share what’s happening with disability inclusion and authenticity in the media. Get all your questions answered about the industry and decide if it’s something you and your child would be interested in. Parents of children with other disabilities are welcome too.
Special Needs Trusts
Zoom Saturday Seminar
Saturday, May 21, 2022
10 am
RSVP
Special needs trusts are designed to enhance the quality of life of a person with a disability by maximizing their resources. It preserves eligibility for Supplementary Security Income (SSI) and Medicaid (which pay for food, shelter, and medical care). The special needs trust can then pay for all other things that make life better.
Presenter
Jonathan Leventhal, Professor of Law, California Attorney at Law, helps families plan for the future. He evaluates each situation and recommends the best options for each circumstance. Jonathan Leventhal is also a Professor of Law at the University of West Los Angeles School of law. He teaches Wills, Trusts & Estates to an eager group of Law Students in Los Angeles.
Join Us in Conversation
with the Massachusetts General Hospital Down Syndrome Research Team to talk about the experiences that Spanish Speaking caregivers and African American/Black caregivers encounter when accessing care for their loved one with Down syndrome. Albert Pless, Jr., M.S., will lead the discussion and share insights learned from parents and doctors.
Saturday, April 16, 2022, via Zoom
10 AM
RSVP
This Virtual Event Includes:
- Open space to share your experiences and brainstorm how local leaders can help
- Cookie decorating for all family members to enjoy; cookies and decorations sent to your home prior to event. (RSVP deadline is April 9)
- A free code to use at DSC2U, an online personalized care plan for your child.
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Únete a la conversación con el equipo de investigación del síndrome de Down del Hospital General de Massachusetts para hablar sobre las experiencias que enfrentan las personas de habla hispana encargadas del cuidado de un ser querido con síndrome de Down cuando acceden y reciben atención médica. Albert Pless, Jr., M.S., dirigirá la discusión y compartirá las experiencias de otros padres y médicos de todo el país.
Este evento virtual incluye:
- Espacio abierto para compartir sus experiencias y aportar ideas sobre cómo los líderes locales pueden ayudar.
- Decoración de galletas para toda la familia! Las galletas y decoraciones serán enviadas a su hogar antes del evento.
- Un CÓDIGO gratuito para usar DSC2U, un plan de cuidado personalizado en línea para su hijo/a.
SABADO, 16 DE ABRIL A LAS 10AM
RSVP
Limited Conservatorship
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, March 26, 2022
10 AM
RSVP
Your child is turning 18 and becoming an adult, what you need to know to help them live their best lives
There are several types of conservatorships. One special type of conservatorship is called limited conservatorship. This is when a judge appoints a responsible person (called a conservator) to assist an adult with developmental disabilities (called a conservatee) who is unable to provide for her/his personal and/or financial needs.
Bet Tzedek Legal Services will present an informational workshop on what a conservatorship is and the steps to get one for your loved one with disabilities.
Social Security and Supplemental Security Income
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, February 19, 2022
10 AM
RSVP
The Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability programs are the largest of several Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities.
The Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy will present an informational workshop on Supplemental Security Income (SSI). This presentation will provide information about what SSI is, who is eligible for it, and how the appeal process works should your SSI application be denied.
IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES (IHSS)
Zoom Saturday Seminar
Saturday, January 15, 2022
10 AM
RSVP
In-Home Supportive Services, also known as IHSS, can help pay for services if you’re a low-income elderly, blind or disabled individual, including children, so that you can remain safely in your own home. IHSS is considered an alternative to out-of-home care, such as nursing homes or board and care facilities.
The Office of Clients’ Rights Advocacy will present an informational workshop on In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS). This presentation will provide information about who is eligible for IHSS, the kinds of services that IHSS offers, including Protective Supervision, and the process for appealing an IHSS decision when you disagree.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) for Children with Down Syndrome
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, November 13, 2021
10 AM
RSVP
ABA therapy programs can help:
Increase language and communication skills
Improve attention, focus, social skills, memory, and academics
Decrease problem behaviors
The methods of behavior analysis have been used and studied for decades. They have helped many kinds of learners gain different skills – from healthier lifestyles to learning a new language. Therapists have used ABA to help children with autism and related developmental disorders since the 1960s.
About Behavior Therapy Clinic
They offer an encouraging atmosphere where families and therapists come together in their goals for both short-term and long-term treatment as well as practical solutions to the behavioral challenges autism and other disabilities often present.
Presenter
Michele Perry attended Stanislaus State University and received her BA in Liberal Studies with a concentration on Child Development. She received her MA in clinical psychology from The National University. Michelle began working with families at Behavior Therapy Clinic in 2008
Autism in Down Syndrome: Two Rare Diagnoses in One
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, September 18, 2021
10 AM
RSVP
Autism in Down Syndrome: Two Rare Diagnoses in One
- Review the signs/symptoms of autism spectrum disorders in persons with Down syndrome and the differences between individuals with Down syndrome and others. Particular focus is paid to accessing resources and interventions for families.
About Jonathan D. Santoro, MD
Dr. Santoro serves as the Director of Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Disorders Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He is also an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Dr. Santoro completed his undergraduate, master's, and medical degrees at Tulane University. He subsequently completed pediatric and child neurology residencies at Stanford University School of Medicine with sub-specialty training in neuroimmunology and pediatric multiple sclerosis at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santoro also has clinical research expertise in inflammation related to cerebrovascular disease and neurocognitive disorders such as Down syndrome regression syndrome.
Education Updates
Zoom Saturday Seminars
August, 21,2021
10 AM
RSVP
Education Updates
In this workshop, you will learn the different ways to address challenges with your child going back to school. We will discuss assessments, IEP's, regression, compensatory services or recoupment, mask, and Covid-19 testing accommodations.
PRESENTERS:
Dina Kaplan, Esq
Vanaman German LLP
Dina Kaplan has been practicing law for more than 40 years. She has an extensive litigation background and has been protecting the rights of children with disabilities for the past 25 years.
David W. German, J.D., Ph.D. Esq
Vanaman German LLP
Over the past decade, David German has established himself as one of the most effective, knowledgeable, and compassionate attorneys working for students with disabilities and their families. He has successfully represented hundreds of families throughout California in special education due process cases.
Assessment Process
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, July 24, 2021
10 AM
RSVP
Assessment Process
This workshop reviews parent and district participation in the special education assessment process. Learn about the federal laws that regulate the referral and assessment processes and options on how to resolve disagreements.
About TASK
TASK concentrates on providing families and individuals with disabilities from birth to 26 years old with information, support, and tips regarding special education. TASK provides emotional support to parents and teaches about the special education systems and processes to help families understand important information such as their rights, requesting assessments, strategies for preparing for the Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and transition planning, and more.
Stroke & Vascular Disease in Down Syndrome
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, June 19, 2021
10 AM
RSVP
Stroke & Vascular Disease in Down Syndrome: How to Identify and Prevent
- Review the most common stroke-related conditions that persons with Down syndrome exhibit with Moyamoya Disease and Cerebral Amyloid Angiopathy (CAA).
- Review the common signs and symptoms, how to get diagnosed and what treatments can be used.
Early Identification can save lives!
About Jonathan D. Santoro, MD
Dr. Santoro serves as the Director of Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Disorders Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He is also an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Dr. Santoro completed his undergraduate, master's, and medical degrees at Tulane University. He subsequently completed pediatric and child neurology residencies at Stanford University School of Medicine with sub-specialty training in neuroimmunology and pediatric multiple sclerosis at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santoro also has clinical research expertise in inflammation related to cerebrovascular disease and neurocognitive disorders such as Down syndrome regression syndrome.
Reading Workshop Part 2
Tips and resources for teaching reading at home during COVID Times
Zoom Seminars
Saturday, May 1, 2021
10 AM - 11 AM
RSVP
Join us online for two single-hour workshop sessions. Sessions are spaced a week apart; during the second session, you will gain useful resources to continue using what you have learned in both sessions.
Attendees will understand how learners with Down syndrome can most quickly and successfully learn to read and how to plan to teach reading at home during these times of isolation and homeschooling. Resources will be suggested at the end of the session.
ABOUT NATALIE HALE
Natalie Hale is an award-winning author, an innovative educator, parent of an adult son with Down syndrome (Jonathan is 35), and for 28 years, a national and international speaker on the topic of teaching reading to learners with Down syndrome and other developmental delays. Natalie Natalie developed her own line of early reading materials for children with Down syndrome, Autism, and other special needs, which you can find at www.specialreads.com.
Reading Workshop Part 1
Tips and resources for teaching reading at home during COVID Times
Zoom Saturday Seminars
Saturday, April 24, 2021
10 AM - 11 AM
RSVP
Join us online for two single-hour workshop sessions. Sessions are spaced a week apart, so you'll have time to do your homework given at the first session!
Attendees will understand how learners with Down syndrome can most quickly and successfully learn to read and how to plan to teach reading at home during these times of isolation and homeschooling. At the end of the session, we will provide resources and homework.
ABOUT NATALIE HALE
Natalie Hale is an award-winning author, an innovative educator, parent of an adult son with Down syndrome (Jonathan is 35), and for 28 years, a national and international speaker on the topic of teaching reading to learners with Down syndrome and other developmental delays. Natalie Natalie developed her own line of early reading materials for children with Down syndrome, Autism, and other special needs, which you can find at www.specialreads.com.
Regression in Down Syndrome
Zoom Saturday Seminar
Saturday, March 6, 2021
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
RVSP
Regression in Down Syndrome: What Is Happening and What Can I Do?
-Review the symptoms of neurocognitive and developmental regression in young persons with Down syndrome.
-Review the potential causes and complexity of the workup and how to access centers of care.
About Jonathan D. Santoro, MD
Dr. Santoro serves as the Director of Neuroimmunology and Demyelinating Disorders Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. He is also an Assistant Professor of Neurology at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. Dr. Santoro completed his undergraduate, masters, and medical degrees at Tulane University. He subsequently completed residencies in pediatrics and child neurology at Stanford University School of Medicine with sub-specialty training in neuroimmunology and pediatric multiple sclerosis at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Santoro also has clinical research expertise in inflammation related to cerebrovascular disease and neurocognitive disorders such as Down syndrome regression syndrome.
