2012 Conference Programming

This year’s event offers two days of amazing programming that is designed to optimize the entire family’s experience. While workshops don't begin until Saturday morning (7/14/12), optional conference festivities start Friday evening (7/13/12) with a social event for teens and a pool party for younger kids.

Adult Programming 2012:  A variety of factors make the 2012 Conference unlike any we’ve held before. Informed by our theme, “Think Outside the Boxes: Expanding our Understanding of Gender,” workshop sessions will include content that is specific to the idea of non-binary understandings about gender. Topic areas include medical information and options for staying “in between;” working with schools to support gender diversity training; advocating for gender diverse children in various settings; talking about sex;  intersections between gender and other unique aspects of your child’s life; and responding to your child’s safety needs are just some of the offerings anticipated at this year’s gathering.

Family Support Centers:  Like last year, the conference will feature Family Support Centers designed to assist families with medical, mental health, and legal needs.  We're thrilled to announce the addition of a Spiritual Support Center to our Family Support Centers this year, so families can meet privately with a faith leader to discuss any issues related to faith or faith communities.  These centers allow families to meet with experts across these fields for in-person support. The centers will be available on both an appointment as well as drop-in basis.

Teen Programming 2012: This year's conference will feature two tracks of teen programming, one for teens between 13 and 15 years of age, and the second for those 16 to 19. At times the two groups will be together, but many of the needs for these two groups differ, and this content must also adjust accordingly. A variety of workshop topics will be offered to teens, including medical and legal issues, relationships, and many other topics of interest to this age group.  In addition, the Teen Conference will feature a mentor component, specific sessions for siblings, opportunities for writing and reflecting, social events and more. We are extremely excited about the 2012 Gender Spectrum Teen Conference.

Tween Programming 2012: In its second year, Tween Camp 2012 will offer youth ages 9–12 their own space for having fun and socializing with friends familiar and new. There will also be chances to explore gender diversity for those who wish to do so with sensitive professionals experienced with this unique age group. Tween Camp will build on last year’s successful launch and feedback from the campers themselves to offer a unique and exciting weekend for all who attend.

Kids Programming 2012: While their parents attend workshops, children between the ages of 5 and 8 get to go to camp! For children 5–8, get ready for an Olympics unlike any other. Fun games, an Olympics-style parade, team and individual non-competitive events and a variety of art activities will mark the first Gender Spectrum Olympiad. Surrounded by a diverse team of experienced, gender affirming staff, campers will spend the weekend laughing, playing and simply being kids.

The Kids Camp will take place just upstairs from the adult workshop rooms. Our Kids Camp coordinators are CPR certified, have completed an extensive background check, and will be present at all times to supervise Kids Camp volunteers, many of whom are experienced teachers, youth service providers, and former camp counselors.

We will provide a detailed schedule of programming closer to the event on the Gender Spectrum website. If you have any questions about the programming before it is published, please contact us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .