WATG Annual Conference: Supporting Parents of Gifted Learners

The Wisconsin Association for Talented and Gifted (WATG) Annual Conference is coming up on October 7 & 8 at the Wilderness Conference Center in the Dells. Parents and caregivers are always encouraged to attend! This in-person event brings together families, educators, and experts to explore how we can best support the needs of gifted students across Wisconsin.

A highlight of the event is our Parent Strand, a two-day collection of sessions designed specifically for parents and guardians. Topics include mental health, neurodiversity, flexibility in learning, and practical parenting strategies.

Parent Strand Sessions Include:

Monday, October 7

• Take a Chance on Flexibility: Lessons from Homeschooling to Support Gifted Students – Laura Mukerji
• “I Can’t Hear You Because My T-Shirt is Too Itchy”: A Guide to Working with the Sensory Needs of Neurodivergent Learners – Dr. Matt Zakreski
• Parent to Parent: Sharing Your Wisdom – Jackie & Dal Drummer
• What If I Make a Mistake?: Helping Kids Learn the Power of Making Mistakes – Lauri Budzynski
  
  

Tuesday, October 8

• The ABZ’s of Auditory Processing Disorder: Maximizing Student Learning and Emotional Well-Being – Jenny Nilsen & Christy Washkowiak
• Conscious Leadership & Conscious Love: Guiding Gifted Students with Purpose and Heart – Elijah Nicholas
• Prioritizing Wellness: Mental Health Strategies for Gifted Students – Amanda Eake & Nicole Mashock
  
  

The conference also features two outstanding keynote speakers: Dr. Dante Dixson, who will speak on motivation, equity, and hope in gifted learners; and Dr. Matt Zakreski, who brings humor and expertise to understanding and supporting neurodivergent children.

Parents who’ve attended in past years have found the conference to be a valuable and inspiring experience. Here are some of their comments:

• “WATG has helped our family find clarity and resources to best support our gifted child.” – Sarah (Lisbon)
• “My daughter applied for and used a WATG scholarship. Great ideas from the WATG conference each year!” – Mary (Poynette)

Whether you’re looking for resources, support, or simply a better understanding of your child’s needs, the WATG Conference is a powerful opportunity to connect with others who understand the journey of raising a gifted learner.

To learn more or register, visit   https://www.watg.org/events.

We hope to see you there!