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Description
The Epilepsy Foundation of San Diego County (EFSDC) presents Cookies & Cupid. Formerly known as Gingerbread Kids, this family-friendly event allows pediatric clients to experience a bit of holiday fun with peers while their parents and caregivers participate in an educational forum focused on pediatric topics.
This year’s focus will be on how to best Navigate the Educational System with Epilepsy. In this session, a panel of educational professionals and epilepsy medical experts will provide in-depth guidance on supporting students with epilepsy in school environments.
Topics will include school accommodations, effective strategies for advocating for your child, ensuring seizure safety in school, and addressing the common challenges families face when balancing epilepsy with education. This session aims to equip parents and caregivers with the knowledge and tools needed to help their children succeed in school while managing epilepsy. The session will also allow ample time for networking and Q & A with panelists.
Kids and teens will spend their time working on age-appropriate crafts that include decorating cookies, creating Valentines for friends and loved ones and special projects for our teen clients.
Event Agenda and Timeline
8:30 am Check-in Opens, Light Breakfast Snacks and Beverages with Children
8:55 am Children to Craft Areas
9:00 am Welcome from Wendy Urushima-Conn, President & CEO
9:05 am Panel – Part One:
-Dr. Olivia Kim-McManus, UCSD Neurosciences Associate Clinical Professor, Pediatric Neurology, Epilepsy & Neurophysiology, Rady Children's Hospital Precision Therapeutics Neuro-interventional Program
-Megan Scollay-Casillas, Parent of Child with Epilepsy
-Jackie Stiles, MSN, RN, RCSN, Coordinator of Health and Nursing Services for the Santee School District
-Dr. Howard Taras, Professor at UCSD, Medical Consultant to School Districts
-Gabriella Torres, Managing Attorney of the Youth Practice Group, Disability Rights CA
9:55 am Break – please visit our Sponsor Marketplace
10:15 am Panel – Part Two, includes Q & A with speakers
11:00 am Parent Networking
11:20 am Reunite with children; Please check out to receive your child’s goody bag
