Boca Raton, FL – September 15, 2009 –  The Unicorn Children's Foundation (UCF) will host its 4th Annual Education Conference sponsored by United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Developmental Disabilities and the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC).   Survive-Or…Inform, Instruct, Inspire will take place on October 17th, 2009 from 9am-5pm at the Florida Atlantic University, Boca Raton campus.
 Nearly one of every five children is affected by some form of developmental, learning, or communication disorder, ranging from “dyslexia”, “attention deficit hyperactive disorder” (ADHD) and other “learning disorders” to the more severe “pervasive developmental disorders” and “autism”.  This represents a significant impact on the educational institutions serving these children, as well as on their families and communities.  This innovative one-day conference includes and moves beyond the common early intervention focus.  Topics will span across a child’s lifecycle, from educational and behavioral issues to sexuality and transition to adulthood. 
Presentations from nationally-recognized and local professionals with expertise in these fields will educate participants on practical, best practice strategies and tools to address these specific issues that may impede an individual’s ability to reach their maximum potential.  The keynote presenter, Ari Ne’eman, recently featured in Newsweek, is an autistic adult and has been active in the autistic culture and disability rights movements for a number of years.  He first became involved in self-advocacy as a high school student, arguing for his own inclusion and access to a high level academic education.
 Several area organizations will participate in the event to educate families on available local services including sponsors TD Bank and Butterfly Effects.  All participants will receive a survival kit at the end of the conference.   
 UCF's Executive Director, Sharon Alexander, says, "Our goal is to help families move beyond simply surviving day-to-day experiences.  This event is designed specifically to inform and instruct parents and professionals on evidence-based, proven strategies, supports, and services that can be used to enhance a child’s ability to reach their full potential.  We believe that, in doing so; we will inspire participants to lead fulfilling and productive lives."
Cost is $20 for Unicorn members and $35 for non-members if registered prior to 10/8/09.  Membership with Unicorn is free of charge.  Some scholarships in honor of Agnes Nolan and Belle Margolis are available for parents to attend.  Continuing education units (CEUs) will be available for professionals at an additional $9 fee.   Continental breakfast and lunch is included in the registration fee.   Individuals can register by calling the UCF office: 561-620-9377 or visiting www.unicornchildrensfoundation.org/survive-or.htm.   
 The Unicorn Children's Foundation is an international, non-profit organization dedicated to education, awareness, and research on behalf of children with communication and learning disorders.  For more information, please call Sharon Alexander, Executive Director/Director of Programs, 561-620-9377
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