South Dakota Parent Connection

Learn more about the community resource fair we are hosting this Saturday from 10:00 to 3:00.

South Dakota Parent Connection to host a resource fair in Aberdeen on Saturday, September 7th:
https://hubcityradio.com/hub-city-radio-news/

This Saturday, September 7th from 10:00 - 3:00, come join us at the ARCC for information on resources available to families in the Aberdeen area. While you are there be sure to enjoy all the fun activities planned at the ARCC and in Central Park. For more information, check out the event on our website at https://sdparent.org/event/community-resource-fair/. Hope to see you there!

Apply now!

Time is running short to apply for Partners in Policymaking for this year (Year 33). Get your application in soon to take part in this life changing experience.

https://drsdlaw.org/be-an-advocate/partners-in-policymaking/

Join us to learn how to empower, connect, and correct your kiddos using TBRI principles. Register here! https://gatheringwell.churchcenter.com/registrations/events/2477691

For those of you out in the Rapid City area, we have a new sign on the building to make it easier to find our office. Make an appointment to visit with Outreach Specialist, Courtney if you need help finding information or resources for your family.

We are lucky to work with many of the great foster parents in the state. If you have ever considered this rewarding opportunity, give them a call and find out more.

FOSTER FRIDAY
There is a shortage of foster families in South Dakota.

Maybe the idea of taking in long-term placements makes you nervous or isn't the right path for your family, but would you consider respite care or taking emergency placements?

There's a need for both.

🔗 For more information visit https://strongerfamiliestogether.sd.gov/strongerfamiliestogether/commit.aspx or

📲 call 855.830.5062

ooohhhh, don't miss your chance to take advantage of the early bird special! What are you waiting for, get registered so you can mark it off your list :)

Early Bird Pricing is Ending Soon!!

Be sure to register before midnight (central) on Wed., August 28th to take advantage of our early bird pricing!

Register here: https://tinyurl.com/mshnhenm

***PLUS, ALL people registered before midnight on August 28th will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a voucher for 4 tickets to a Sioux Falls Stampede game, or a voucher for 4 tickets to a Sioux Falls Skyforce game!***

Looking for more of a discount? Be sure to register 3+ people together to receive an additional $5 off per participant!

Not interested in our 5k or 10k events? Sign-up for our FREE 1-mile fun run, walk & roll event!

Come and enjoy a BUNCH of fun activities during our event, including balloon creations, “touch a truck” experience with Sioux Falls Fire Department and the City, yoga, food truck, local mascots and more!!

Have you heard about the upcoming 'Empowering Families Retreat'?

The weekend is designed to empower parents and guardians like you. The SFEC South Dakota and the Center for the Prevention of Child Maltreatment are proud to host this event, where parents/guardians will gain practical skills to effect positive change in their family's life. Engage in leadership sessions and self-care activities that will provide tangible tools to overcome professional and community challenges, ensuring a brighter future for your children.

Date: Oct. 18-19, 2024
Location: K Bar S Lodge
434 Old Hill City Rd,
Keystone, SD 57751

See all the details here: https://bhssc.jotform.com/241585715757973

Are you a parent of a child with a disability, and live in southeastern South Dakota?

If so, you are invited to join a group of parents who help future professionals gain a realistic understanding of the complexities of family life when delay/disability is involved. From September 2024 through April 2025, families and future professionals in the USD LEND (interdisciplinary leadership program) will be matched to share in some of the lived experiences of families, expanding and elevating the perspective of these future providers. Dozens of families have served in these rewarding roles over the years. We invite you to join this effort.

To learn more, visit our website at: https://sdparent.org/news/providing-professionals-real-life-family-experiences/

Storybook Island Signing with Mackenzie
Saturday, August 24th
10:00 am
1301 Sheridan Lake Road, Rapid City
To attend, RSVP to Kerry at (605) 275-7536 or [email protected].

Read the latest issue of weConnect to find information on:
- Rapid City Area Resource Fair
- ILC Listening Sessions
- Disability Cultural Responsiveness Learning Opportunities
- UpcomingBack-to-Schooll Events
https://sdparent.org/weconnect/

South Dakota Parent Connection invites you to come visit local organizations, participate in some free screening opportunities, and of course, finish your school shopping.

We have organized this great event for Saturday, August 17th from 11:00 - 3:00 at the Uptown Rapid Mall. Come have fun and learn about resources available in the Rapid City area. https://sdparent.org/event/back-to-school-resource-fair/

Today is Relaxation Day, but who can relax with school starting soon? Hopefully, you have time amidst all your errands and shopping to stop by the Rapid City Area Back To School Resource Fair this Saturday, August 17th at the Uptown Rapid Mall.

Come to learn more about services and supports from organizations dedicated to supporting families and visit with other parents preparing for the new school year.
Learn more: https://sdparent.org/event/back-to-school-resource-fair/

This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about how to support your child healing from trauma.

Listening Session with ILC
Thursday, August 22, 2024
12:00

Please RSVP at (605) 362-3550 or [email protected].

Don't miss your chance to meet our new Agency with Choice vendor August 12th - 15th. Check out the updated list of stops on the tour, including a newly added virtual meeting day and time.

Here is the link to learn more: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/division-developmental-disabilities/Agency-With-Choice.

Support Group
2nd Tuesday of each month
1:00 - 2:30
Bethel Baptist
714 17th Avenue South
Brookings

Free Parent Group: Getting Ready for School
Monday, August 19, 2024
12:00 CT / 11:00 MT

The new year is an opportunity for a fresh start. Join Dr. Dan and other parents to share ideas. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScwKFIpb7CnnDy-DhQQXAmqq8kqrMLtT4ajtFquXHVYTUphTg/viewform

In this webinar, Ann will share her expert advice and practical strategies to support your child’s success and transform school-related stress into triumphs this school year.

Live Webinar on August 14: Back-to-School Toolkit: Proven Systems for Solving Disorganization, Procrastination, and Missed Deadlines Register below for this free webinar presenting a back-to-school toolkit on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, at 1pm ET. Sign up and you will receive the free webinar replay link as well!

Don't miss your chance to meet our new Agency with Choice vendor August 12th - 15th. Check out the updated list of stops on the tour, including a newly added virtual meeting day and time.
Here is the link to learn more: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/division-developmental-disabilities/Agency-With-Choice.

It has been a busy week of meetings and conference sessions in Washington DC this week. Special Education Directors and Parent Center Directors across the nation met around the theme "Early Beginnings to Bright Futures." South Dakota Parent Connection Executive Director, Dr. Carla Miller will be returning from the conference with many updates on initiatives and session information to share with staff.

This is such an inspiring must read!

Born in Oklahoma, Kenny was placed in foster care after experiencing abuse and neglect. After months of moving in and out of foster homes, Kenny felt afraid for where he might end up. Thankfully, Mary met Kenny and adopted him at age 4.

Though Kenny had the stability of a permanent, loving family, as a child, he struggled with the impact of being in foster care. He had difficulty processing his emotions and trusting those around him. As a response to the experiences he had been through, he’d sometimes act out in anger or frustration.

“When I was in high school, I loved sports, but I also had a lot of feelings of insecurity and a lack of belonging,” recalled Kenny. “I always said I wanted to be an Olympian, but I think at the time, I wasn’t really thinking about what that required. I was just going through the motions.”

When Kenny discovered track and field, he unlocked a new part of himself. He finally had a way to channel his energy into a positive and productive outlet. He defied the odds and started breaking records while running track there, quickly going pro.

Most recently, he qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics in the 100m, 200m, and 4x100m relay events.

In all of Kenny’s success to date, he credits his past with driving him forward.

“Every single previous version of me is still a part of me, including the trauma from my childhood. I own my past and my present,” said Kenny. “I am who I am, and I’ve achieved what I’ve achieved by buckling down and doing the really tough work — work on myself, working through emotional trauma and setbacks, and tough, hard work on the track.”

His message to those touched by foster care and adoption is one of hope.

“I want to inspire others and those who may have similar experiences and promote safety and stability for all children,” said Kenny.

Shared by Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption

As the Executive Director, Carla Miller, Ed.D, is dedicated to leading South Dakota Parent Connection in the mission of connecting families to information and resources for those with disabilities.

Carla is a true advocate for those with special needs and their families. She works with families, staff, governmental entities, and a board of directors to continually maintain a successful organization. Join us in congratulating and thanking her for her years of service!

August 8, 2024
12:00 CT / 11:00 MT

ADHD in Preschool: Early Diagnosis & Intervention for Young Children
This webinar will provide an overview of the behavioral onset patterns of ADHD as well as the early signs, symptoms, and treatment for preschool children with suspected ADHD.

In this webinar, participants will also learn:

- How to differentiate between typical development and behaviors among
preschoolers that may indicate ADHD
- About the different types of ADHD and their early signs and symptoms
- How a diagnosis of ADHD is made during the preschool years
- Evidenced-based treatment guidelines for managing ADHD in young children at
home and in preschool
- How to advocate for your child’s needs

www.additudemag.com

Meet our new Agency with Choice vendor August 12th - 15th.

Come meet the new Agency with Choice vendor, Consumer Direct Care Network South Dakota (CDSD). The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) is hosting a statewide tour with CDSD. At each session DDD and CDSD will:
- Share information about the transition
- Answer your questions
- Help you complete the enrollment process in-person if you are with LifeQuest or new to Family Support 360 and do not have an Agency with Choice vendor currently.

Here is the link to learn more: https://dhs.sd.gov/en/division-developmental-disabilities/Agency-With-Choice.

Read the latest issue of weConnect to find information on:
- Agency with Choice Update
- Eliminating Requirement
- Free/Reduced School Meals
- Emergency Preparedness Toolkit
- Upcoming Back to School Events
https://sdparent.org/weconnect/