Join WestEd’s early childhood experts at the Division for Early Childhood’s 41st Annual International Conference on Young Children With Disabilities and Their Families, held October 7–10, 2025, at the Oregon Convention Center in Portland, Oregon.
This year’s theme, Discover. Connect. Make Change Happen., brings together educators, researchers, service providers, and policymakers to share knowledge and advance practices that support young children with disabilities and their families.
Be sure to add WestEd sessions to your conference calendar and connect with our team to learn about our publications, professional learning opportunities, and research.
WestEd Sessions
Wednesday, October 8
Lecture Session: Navigating Child Find Myths With Families, Pediatricians, and Providers
Time: 9:15–10:15 a.m.
Session Description
Families and communities face myths and misconceptions around IDEA Part C that can inhibit child find systems. Three OSEP model demonstration projects will share lessons learned from six U.S. states and territories to improve
- identification, screening, referral, and tracking systems and
- communication strategies that support enrollment in early intervention.
Presenters: Jenine Schmidt (WestEd), Howard Morrison (SRI International), Bethanne Vergean (Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities), and Mary Beth Bruder (Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities)
Thursday, October 9
Lecture Session: The Power of Partnerships: Building Strong Communities
Time: 2:45–3:45 p.m.
Session Description
Sharing concerns about a child’s development with parents can be challenging. Through routine developmental screening and strong partnerships, Part C programs and local providers can build culturally responsive approaches for engaging families. This session will share examples from four rural and Tribal communities and guide participants in drafting their own family-centered language for use in their communities.
Presenters: Beth Cole (WestEd) and Jenine Schmidt (WestEd)
Make these WestEd sessions a part of your conference experience!