 | New Parent Meeting |
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The New Parent Support group has been in existence for nearly 18 years. The group meets to hear speakers address topics that are of great interest and benefit, particularly to parents of infants and toddlers. It is also an opportunity to get to know other parents of young children and begin to build a network of support. Currently, the group is led by two parents, Jennifer Truby and Susan Roper. They have a wide range of experiences to reflect and draw on. Jennifer is the mother of Julia, age 10. She has been involved with the group since 1999 and is currently Chairman of the DSACO Board. Susan's daughter, Halle is 18 months old. Susan also serves as the 0-2 Parent Representative to the DSACO Governing Board. Jennifer shares, "I have had the privilege of meeting some of the most tremendous people I have ever encountered, while working with the New Parent Group. I admire each and every one of them. They are treasures for their love and devotion to their little ones. It is an opportunity to observe the character building process, as an individual triumphs through what is initially perceived as an adversity."
The group meets at the Worthington United Methodist Church on the fourth Monday of each month. The meetings are from 7:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M., and are held in the Chapel Lounge at Worthington United Methodist Church, 600 High Street, in Worthington Ohio ( click here for a map ).
All are welcome, especially expectant parents, parents who have a child with Down syndrome from birth to age two, and even extended family members! The children who are not mobile are invited and encouraged to stay with their parents during the meeting. Child care is provided at no charge, by adult sitters, for siblings and children with Down syndrome who are mobile.
The meetings include a social time and a time for announcements of upcoming events and information from 7:00 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. A speaker usually joins the group at 7:30 P.M. to share about their particular area of expertise as it relates to Down syndrome. Topics range from infant massage to speech therapy to understanding special education law to the transition to preschool. And of course, refreshments are available.
To easiest way to find the Chapel Lounge, once you have arrived at the church, is to park in the back parking lot and enter the building through the north most set of doors. Climb the stairway, walk past a lighted stain glass display on the left and turn right down a hallway. The lounge will be immediately on your left.
Please note that the New Parent Group does not meet in December. |
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