Ideas for Everyone: First-timers and Veterans!
With our 2026 NODCC National Conference just one month away, we are in the final stretch of preparation and want to make sure YOU get the most out of your experience. At the end of this helpful list of tips is a link to a webinar where we go in depth on what to expect and how to prepare. But if you’re short on time, read through these great suggestions, and let us know if you have any questions!
- Pace yourself. Don’t try to attend every session. Review the agenda ahead of time and choose the sessions most relevant to your family right now. It’s okay to skip a presentation for a meaningful conversation. Many attendees say those conversations become the most valuable part of the conference. Additionally, many sessions will be video recorded and will be available after conference, so prioritize those that will not be recorded.
- Friendliness goes far! Introduce yourself to other families. Everyone understands the DCC journey. Join a table at meals, ask questions, exchange contact information, and don’t be afraid to start a conversation. Many lifelong friendships begin at conference.
- Variety is the spice of life! Don’t spend the whole weekend with the people you came with. Sit with new families, attend discussion groups, and make a point of meeting people outside your immediate circle.
- Focus on a few meaningful connections. You don’t need to meet everyone. If you leave with a handful of new friendships and contacts, you’ve had a successful conference.
- Attend the discussion groups. Parent, sibling, adult DCC, and age-based groups often provide practical advice, shared experiences, and insights you won’t find anywhere else.
- Visit the research rooms. Take advantage of the rare opportunity to meet researchers, learn about current studies, ask questions, and contribute to advancing understanding of DCC.
- Ask the “future” questions. Seek out families whose loved ones are a few years older than yours. Their experiences can provide perspective, practical advice, and hope.
- Attend the social events. Meals, receptions, dances, and informal gatherings are where many of the best conversations happen. Even if you’re shy, try attending at least one event outside your comfort zone.
- Encourage your child to make “brain buddies.” One of the greatest gifts of conference is connecting with peers who share similar experiences. These friendships often become a highlight of the weekend.
- Bring a notebook (or use your phone). Keep track of research updates, therapy ideas, educational strategies, resources, speaker names, and the people you’d like to stay connected with.
- Save resources as you go. Take photos of handouts, resource tables, presentation slides, and business cards so you can easily revisit them after the conference.
- Take care of your physical comfort. Wear comfortable shoes, bring a sweater for chilly meeting rooms, stay hydrated, and give yourself permission to rest when needed.
- Know where to find quiet spaces. Conferences can be exciting but also emotionally and socially intense. Identify places where you or your family member can take a break and recharge.
- Give yourself permission to feel all the emotions. Relief, hope, excitement, validation, and grief can all show up during the same weekend. That’s normal. Take breaks when you need them.
- Remember that every person with a DCC is unique. Use the conference to gather ideas, not predictions. You’ll meet individuals across a wide spectrum of experiences and outcomes.
- Most importantly: enjoy being among people who “get it.” For one weekend, you don’t have to explain DCC, therapies, IEPs, seizures, sensory challenges, or worries about the future. You’re surrounded by a community that understands.
Feel free to watch our webinar that goes into more detail about preparing for conference. Watch it HERE! We can’t wait to see you all in one month!