This presentation will focus on guiding families and caregivers through healthy, developmentally appropriate conversations about puberty, sexuality, and reproductive health. It will outline when to begin thinking about these topics and provide clear strategies for when and how to discuss them respectfully and age appropriately. Attendees will learn about useful resources—including recommended books, visual supports, and teaching tools—that can make these conversations easier and more accessible.

Overall, this session is designed to help caregivers approach sexual health education with confidence, clarity, and practical tools that support the well-being and autonomy of the individuals they care for.

Dr. Kristie Marble is a board-certified Pediatrician and a board-certified Pediatric Hospitalist at Children's Mercy Kansas City. In addition to her hospitalist role, she proudly serves as one of the pediatricians in the Multidisciplinary Down Syndrome Clinic. Her dedication to the Down syndrome community is both professional and deeply personal as it was sparked 17 years ago following the birth of her daughter, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome right after birth. This personal journey inspired her to become an expert in the field and commit herself to educating medical professionals. She is now excited to leverage both her clinical expertise and lived experience to support and educate other parents and families navigating their own paths, in partnership with Down Syndrome Innovations.

This presentation introduces practical, easy-to-use tools that help individuals with Down syndrome express themselves more confidently. Caregivers will learn how AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) and total communication approaches—like gestures, visuals, signs, and devices—can work together to support understanding, reduce frustration, and build meaningful everyday communication at home and in the community.

Katie Craddock, CCC-SLP is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist dedicated to supporting individuals in developing effective communication skills. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences from the University of Central Missouri and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Rockhurst University. Katie is passionate about providing evidence-based, client-centered therapy to help people of all ages reach their full communicative potential.

As adults with Down syndrome live longer and healthier lives, families and caregivers play an essential role in supporting their independence, safety, and overall well-being. This presentation provides practical, evidence-informed strategies to help adults with Down syndrome successfully navigate the aging process.

Participants will learn how aging may uniquely impact physical, cognitive, sensory, and emotional health in individuals with Down syndrome and how to promote daily functioning at home and in the community. The presentation will cover key areas such as adapting activities of daily living, supporting mobility, promoting meaningful engagement, and implementing home and environmental safety strategies.

Caregivers will leave with tools, resources, and simple adaptations they can use right away to enhance quality of life, encourage independence, and ensure a safe and supportive environment as their loved one ages.

Morgan Hodges, OTR/L is a licensed Occupational Therapist committed to helping individuals build independence and improve daily living skills. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Arkansas and her Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Morgan is passionate about providing client-centered, functional therapy to support meaningful participation in everyday life.