Through the Eyes of a Child Conference

The 2010 SELF conference has been created "through a child's eyes." How do children view the world, what do they need and what do they think about? The breakfast and conference were designed with these questions in mind.

The two day event will start with a fundraising breakfast that will benefit SELF/Clark County Early Learning Fund, in honor of Rick and Sarah Melching. The keynote speaker for the breakfast is author, speaker and family therapist, Robin Karr-Morse. Robin co-authored the book Ghosts from the Nursery: "Tracing the Roots of Violence" and currently is finishing her latest book "Monster in the Closet" due in bookstores this fall.

Monster in the Closet examines the connection between the impact of fear experienced chronically in early childhood and the soaring rate of physical illness in adulthood, as well as emotional and behavioral illness and addiction. Robin will talk about new research and the relationship between our brains, immune and endocrine systems.

Immediately after breakfast, the first track of the conference will kick off with "Do You Know Who I Am?" This track is presented by John-Paul Chaisson Cardenas, State Director of Equity and Civil Rights at the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). John-Paul will present a deeper look into cultural communities and strategies for reaching children and families in these communities.

The second track on Friday will feature "Where Do I Play," presented by Laurie Cornelius, Director of Children and Family Services at Clark College. Laurie is passionate about play in developing young minds, leading to creativity, innovation and investigation.

On Saturday, the conference is scheduled for a half day and is entitled, "Why Do I Feel This Way? You Can Help Me." Julie Rosenzweig, Professor of Social Work at Portland State University, will present a two-part track that will address emotional development, brain development and health of a child relating to early learning experiences. The second half of the track will focus on ways professionals and families can help a child recover after trauma by learning strategies and coping skills.

You won't want to miss the breakfast and conference. Space is limited. Go to selfwa.org for registration and to learn more about the speakers, schedule and the work of SELF.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE CONFERENCE: Through the Eyes of a Child Conference is a great way to receive STARS and Clock hours. Register at selfwa.org.