The
National Stuttering Association (NSA) is finally returning to the Boston area
by hosting a Family Fun Day and adult workshop on November 2nd at
Boston University. This is a rare opportunity to learn about stuttering in a uniquely
welcoming and empowering environment.
I
recall when the Boston Chapter of the NSA hosted a Family Day in the summer of
2002 at Newton Wellesley Hospital. I helped organize it alongside NSA member,
John Carter. After opening words by
Boston chapter members, the mother of one of my students said a few words about
parenting a child who stutters. Her kind smile and open heart set everyone at
ease. I still have a copy of what she
said. “I truly believe that everything that I can do to find inner peace and
balance within myself will affect the way I interact and parent my children.
Taking care of ourselves is probably the most important thing we can do for
them.” One of my adult clients came up with a theme for the day: Be an advocate for yourself and a role model
for others. Local speech-language pathologists volunteered to facilitate workshops.
A magician entertained us after lunch. We finished the day with open-mic,
certificates of attendance and balloons.
Fast forward to 2013!
I’m told the Family Fun Day
this year will run from 9-12. There
will be a program for adults in the afternoon and continuing education for
speech language pathologists as well. This is a golden opportunity to glimpse
the magic that happens every year at an NSA national conference. I’ve attended
several: Cleveland, Chicago, Boston, Knoxville, Atlanta, Parsippany and St.
Petersburg. Attending an NSA event is truly a game changer. I hope some families
from the area will join me in Washington, DC for NSA 2014: Red, White, Blue, and You! [1]
The NSA vision to bring “hope and empowerment to children and adults who
stutter, their families, and professionals through support, education,
advocacy, and research” is reflected in four days of education, sharing, and
fun. The Boston Family Day will only whet your appetite!
If you’re wondering what
will happen at the Family Fun Day this fall, I encourage you to browse the Family Voices
newsletter archives.[2] Every issue represents a community scattered
across the country yet close in heart and mind. You’ll see articles written by parents, “experts,” and children of all
ages. Poems, drawings, photos and event listings fill up any remaining space. Themes of friendship, self-respect,
empowerment, understanding and raising public awareness show up again and
again. You’ll hear the passion behind
the words, if you listen to a radio show[3]. And
you feel the magic if you attend a
Family Fun Day or Annual Conference. Hope to see you there!
Visit www.westutter.org for updates.
Judy
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