You are 1 click away from...all things Down Syndrome Innovations! No images? Click here March News for You! Down Syndrome Innovations offers services and supports at every age and stage to help your baby grow and thrive. This monthly newsletter is created for you and your family! You're Invited to our New / Expectant Parents & Extended Family Gathering! Saturday, May 6th This is an opportunity for new parents and extended family members (prenatal – 2 years old) to connect with others, who have a young child with Down syndrome. Meet other parents at different stages of the journey, while getting connected with the services and supports that Down Syndrome Innovations provides. This is a great opportunity to have your questions answered and to exchange resources with other parents. There will be an opportunity to explore our Lifelong Learning Campus and to participate in a facilitated discussion with other families. Breakfast and childcare are provided, so please RSVP so we have adequate accommodations! Note: these events are complimentary/free for our families, due to the generous support of our donors and grantors! Down Syndrome Innovations is pleased to host Steve & Gwendolyn Friedman’s seminar, “March to Independence.” The Friedman’s have compiled an essential reference guide for families with Down syndrome. They are thrilled to share learnings, tips, and helpful information to help you navigate the oftentimes overwhelming path toward independence for your son or daughter. Topics will include social, safety, health, financial/benefits, legal instruments, housing, and more. While special focus will be afforded to teen and adult years, they will also talk about what new parents can do to begin their independence journey. Ample time will be provided for Q&A. Check Out MDSC's Complimentary Online Resource Library! We know that expectant and new parents/caregivers are looking for helpful resources as you begin your journey. That's why we recommend you check out the Resource Library from Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress! This database of Down syndrome resources has been culled from some of the nation’s leading organizations and experts. You’ll find information and resources for families and self advocates throughout the lifespan! Community Partner Spotlight: SOAR Special Needs in Lenexa, KS! SOAR exists to transform the lives of special families and empower them to soar in their local and faith communities. For years, SOAR has provided rest and renewal for families: from respite date nights to summer camp, to training volunteers and supporters to serve individuals with special needs. Recommended Book: "He Gave Them Something Extra" by Steffanie Larriba As a mother of a child with Down syndrome, author Steffanie Larriba invites you to consider a different perspective. From her firsthand experience, the input from many other mothers, and her faith, Larriba shares her belief that having a child with Down syndrome is truly a blessing. “I love my little brother Timothy! He has the best attitude and he always makes me smile.” ~Amelia, Age 10 Check out our World Down Syndrome Day photo album on Facebook! From our visit at the KS State Capitol (with State Representative Jason Goetz) to advocate for employment for people with Down syndrome to our Drive-Thru Celebration...it was an AMAZING day celebrating our beloved community of people (of all ages!) with Down syndrome! THANK YOU to everyone who celebrated with us on this VERY important Day! For the MOST UP TO DATE services & events, Have you “connected” with us yet? We encourage you to fill out our contact form TODAY, so that we may contact you about services and supports that are appropriate for your loved one! |