Second Annual Parenting Conference Offers Help and Insight

All-day Conference Teaches New Parenting Skills and Offers Networking Opportunities

As part of Child Abuse Awareness Month, the San Diego County Health and Human Services Agency will co-host its second annual parenting conference, “Celebrating Families,” 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 26 at the Town and Country Resort and Conference Center, San Diego.

“Parenting is the most important job there is,” said County Board of Supervisors Chairman, Greg Cox. “We all know that it’s hard work too. We hope that this conference will offer ideas and skills that give parents the tools needed to ensure a strong and successful future for children.”

The conference is an opportunity for parents with children of all ages to spend the day learning new skills and increasing their understanding of child and youth development, alongside other parents who have similar issues and concerns. There will also be more than 25 exhibitors with booths to display the products and services they offer for parents and children. The keynote speaker is Peggy Watson, a local singer/songwriter, parent and teacher, who will discuss the importance of music in a child’s life and development. The conference costs $5, includes breakfast and lunch, and features more than 35 different workshops in both Spanish and English.

“Last year’s conference was a great success,” said Dr. Rodger Lum, Director, HHSA. “We had more than 200 participants, and this year we expect to more than double that number. The parenting skills are so important, and I am proud that we can work with the community to provide education which will lead to a stronger community and happier children and parents.”

The event co-sponsor is the Parent Education Task Force, PETF, which includes the Child Abuse Prevention Foundation, YMCA Childcare Resources, Parenting Link, San Diego Community Child Abuse Coordinating Council, First Five Commission of San Diego and Target Stores.