May 7: A Day for Siblings with Don Meyer at the YAI Conference in NYC

A Day for Siblings: Thursday, May 7, 2009
at the YAI/NIPD Network International Conference
Crowne Plaza Manhattan Hotel, Times Square, NYC
www.yai.org/conference



Don Meyer, Director of the Sibling Support Project,
Brothers and Sisters of People with Special Needs:
Unique Concerns, Unique OpportunitiesThis core workshop, led by Don Meyer, world renowned expert on sibling issues and creator of Sibshops, uses a lively large-group discussion format to help adult siblings of individuals with developmental disabilities, parents and service providers discuss the concerns and opportunities frequently experienced by brothers and sisters of people with special needs. Workshop participants share what they have observed in their families or the families they serve. Participants also learn what researchers, clinicians, and siblings themselves say about growing up with siblings who have special needs. Implications for parents and service providers will be discussed throughout the workshop. Session #147, 10:30a.m.-12:00 p.m.

Future Planning: Talk to Your Parents Now!
Siblings’ Stories of Different Approaches and Outcomes
Today, individuals with developmental disabilities are living longer than ever thanks to better community services and supports. As parents age, siblings often take on greater caregiving activities and worry about the future when parents are gone. A panel of siblings will discuss the importance of future planning and share the very different approaches their families took as well as outcomes.
Session #131, 9:00-10:15 a.m.

Sharing the Sibling Experience:
Individuals with Developmental Disabilities and their
Typically Developing Siblings Discuss their
Past, Present and Future TogetherSiblings often share the longest relationships and most special bonds. During this session, siblings with and without developmental disabilities will share their thoughts and feelings about their past, present and future together. Attendees will enjoy hearing their stories and experiencing what all of us can learn from one another.
Session #152, 1:15-2:30 p.m.

At the end of the day, presenters and attendees who would like to continue to share stories will gather for a casual dinner. Information on location and cost to follow.

Download the conference brochure and registration form (p. 23 of brochure) at www.yai.org/conference. Please fax registration forms to Tina Sobel, 212-629-4113. Family members of individuals receiving services through the YAI/NIPD Network and our staff attend for free. Student and group discounts available. For more information on sessions or the dinner, please contact Emily Holl, 212-273-6534, or Emily.Holl@yai.org.