Series of Webinars Throughout March Focuses On ‘The Power of Prevention’
AUSTIN – During National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March, the Texas Health and Human Services Office of Disability Prevention for Children is hosting a free statewide virtual conference featuring a series of weekly webinars focused on preventing intellectual and developmental disabilities in children. An estimated 485,000 children are affected by IDD in Texas.
“Our goal is promoting respect, fostering understanding and highlighting the importance of prevention and early intervention initiatives in the lives of Texas children and families,” said Keisha Rowe, HHSC associate commissioner of Rehabilitative and Independence Services. “We can change lives when we give Texans tools to support maternal health, prevent childhood injuries, and identify disabilities early.”
The second annual HHS Office of Disability Prevention for Children Statewide Virtual Conference, “The Power of Prevention: Promoting Healthy Development in Children,” aims to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders, including community-based organizations, government, health care professionals, educators, families, caregivers and others to discuss and learn about strategies for implementing positive change in the lives of children and families across Texas. Several state and national prevention professionals will share information about current trends, initiatives and practical information for attendees. The webinars are free and open to the public, and takes place on the first four Tuesdays in March from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration is required.
Keynote topics include providing equitable learning opportunities for all learners, the role of Medicaid in improving the lives of children and youth with disabilities, and addressing the impacts of COVID-19. Other topics include water safety education, Texas WIC, childhood injury prevention, Early Childhood Intervention, and Pediatric Acute-Onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome.
The full conference agenda and registration for all four virtual sessions is here. Continuing education credits for multiple disciplines can be earned for attending this event.
About the HHS Office of Disability Prevention for Children
The Office of Disability Prevention for Children works to prevent developmental disabilities in infants and children from conception to age 12 through provider and public education, partnerships with other state agencies and stakeholders and evaluating state efforts to prevent developmental disabilities. For more information, visit PreventChildDisability.org.
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