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How to Talk to Your Kids about Donor Conception Part 1 - Workshop Series

11/14/2024 06:30 PM - 08:30 PM PT

Description

 

 This event is offered virtually only, online via video conference and by phone. Please register in advance to receive access information.

What:

LGBTQ+ families are created in many beautiful and diverse ways, and for many, donor conception plays an important role in making that possible. With donor sperm, eggs, or embryos come essential conversations about how to share this aspect of your family's story with your children. This two-part workshop series focuses on discussing donor conception with your children.

 

In the first session of this workshop series, we’ll explore the key considerations when talking to your children about their donor origins. Experts will guide us through the nuances of different donor arrangements—whether known, unknown, open, or closed—and how each may shape the conversations with your family. 

 

You'll also learn developmentally appropriate language and strategies to help children of all ages understand their donor origins, while reinforcing their lifelong connection to you, their parents. 

 

Bring your questions!

 

 

The second session, scheduled for December, will provide a unique opportunity to hear directly from donor-conceived adults with queer parents. We believe it is essential that the voices of people conceived with donor assistance are at the heart of this conversation.

 

An insightful panel of donor-conceived adults with LGBTQ+ parents will offer their personal experiences and insights. This December session will focus on their perspectives, with ample time for Q&A, giving you the chance to ask questions about how to approach these conversations within your own family.

 

While both sessions cover different aspects of the donor conception conversation, we highly recommend attending both to gain a comprehensive understanding of how to navigate these important discussions with your children.

 

We encourage you to come prepared with questions to ensure a productive and valuable discussion for everyone in our community.

 

Meet our experts:

Alice Ruby, Executive Director of The Sperm Bank of California:

Alice Ruby, MPH, joined The Sperm Bank of California (TSBC) in 2002 as Executive Director. In additional to organizational oversight, she manages TSBC’s Family Contact List and handled release of donor identities to donor-conceived adults for 18 years. Ms. Ruby collaborates on research with Dr. Joanna Scheib, Director of TSBC’s research program, has volunteered with other nonprofits providing service to LGBTQ+ families (including as a former Board member for OFC), and is the mother of a donor-conceived child. 

 

 Laura Goldberger, Marriage and Family Therapist:

 Laura Goldberger is a therapist in Berkeley who sees individuals and couples who are in the process of       making and supporting a family. Laura has worked with LGBTQ+, trans/non-binary, and BIPOC parents,   couples, and children for over 25 years and is a queer parent.

 

 

 

Emma Tasini (she/ they), Marriage and Family Therapist

Emma Tasini is a queer therapist based in Los Angeles CA and sees clients in person in the LA area and virtually throughout California. Emma offers therapy that supports individuals, relationships, and families—whether you’re just starting or have already built your family—through donor conception. 

 

 

 

When:

Thursday, November 14th • 6:30 - 8:30PM

Where:

Taking place virtually via secure Zoom phone and video conference -- Participants will receive the Zoom meeting information via email following registration.

For More Information:

Please contact our Programs Coordinator, Sophia [she/they], at sophia@ourfamily.org with any questions.

Please register using the link at the top of this page.
 

We are committed to ensuring our programs are accessible to all families. When you're registering, please let us know of any accommodations that would help your family participate to the fullest (e.g. ASL interpreter, translated materials, childcare providers experienced with kids with disabilities, large print materials, gluten-free food options, etc.). If registering within 48 hours of the event, please call 415-981-1960 to ensure our receipt of your request. This event – including refreshments and childcare, as applicable – is offered free for all attendees. As you are able, please help us continue offering these resources to all who need them, by making a financial donation to OFC.

 

Neon CRM by Neon One

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