BABIES & TODDLERS

AGES 0-4

 

The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas helps families assemble the building blocks necessary at every stage of development. These blocks are comprised of emotional support, information, resources, and connection opportunities. Our Babies & Toddlers Program is designed to assist new and expectant parents as they begin their journey of caring for their baby with Down syndrome through the early childhood years. Families at this stage of life are usually seeking resources and support related to a new diagnosis, gross motor skill development, communication skill development, transition into ECSE (early childhood special education), and social connections for the entire family. The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas provides informational resource packets for families at the time of a diagnosis, a variety of educational seminars that address common priorities for young families, a comprehensive online resource library, and social opportunities that promote lifelong connections. Our staff is also available to help provide direction, referrals, and one-on-one connections for families, educators, and medical professionals.

 

INFORMATION & RESOURCES

NEW & EXPECTANT PARENT WELCOME KIT
We want to celebrate your baby with Down syndrome by providing a welcome kit that contains accurate and current information about Down syndrome, local and national resources, tips for new parents, and gifts for you and your baby.
SEE ALSO: NEW & EXPECTANT PARENTS

CONNECT WITH OUR TEAM
We welcome the opportunity to connect with you and your family. Our staff includes 2 full-time employees as well as a part-time New & Expectant Parent Coordinator. We also have a local network over 2,500 families across North Texas. Whether you are searching for general information, resources, or referrals, please do not hesitate to contact us.

ONLINE RESOURCE LIBRARY
Our most trusted resources in multiple categories for you to browse online anytime.

EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS
Series of educational seminars and webinars that bring together local and national experts to help educate families on some of the most commonly asked questions at each life stage.

DOWN SYNDROME CLINIC AT CHILDREN’S HEALTH℠
Specialty clinic designed to provide comprehensive medical care, with a primary focus on behavioral health needs, to children and teens with Down syndrome. A team of providers from different disciplines come together to provide a variety of services, often within one visit. Providers include a Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician, Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrics fellow, Developmental Nurse Practitioner, Geneticist, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Genetic Counselor and Social Worker.

SUPPORT & CONNECTIONS

NEW PARENT CONNECT & LEARN SERIES
February 10, April 27, August (TBD) & November (TBD) 2024
Our new parent connection sessions and brunches are informal gatherings designed to introduce new families to the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas and the resources and support we provide. Families have the opportunity to learn from parents and staff, get information on local and national resources, and connect with other families in a similar life stage.

FAMILY SOCIAL EVENTS
Social activities for babies/toddlers and their family members designed to promote life-long family connections. Locations and activities vary and may include park meetups, music classes, and more.

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT
Sorry, no kids allowed! Social activities for moms, dads, and couples to connect in a fun setting with other adults.

HOLIDAY PARTY
Families can visit with Mr. & Mrs. Claus, decorate cookies, make holiday crafts, and more in the spirit of the season.

SPRING FAMILY PICNIC
Annual membership-wide picnic that includes family fun for all ages.

ICAN SHINE SWIM CAMP
Week-long camp that teaches children with disabilities ages 3 and older water safety skills. Camp offerings vary each summer.

PRIVATE MEMBER FACEBOOK GROUP
Connect with other parents of all ages online at anytime through our private member Facebook Group. Must be a parent and current member of the DSG. New and expectant parents may also be interested in birth year and age specific groups through our national partners at Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network (DSDN).

BUDDY WALK®
The largest community wide celebration of people with Down syndrome in North Texas. The event features family-friendly activities for all ages and an awareness walk. Proceeds benefit the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas.

upcoming EVENTS:

Calendar
New Parent Connection for Families of Children with Down Syndrome Ages 0-2 Years
Apr 27
New Parent Connection for Families of Children with Down Syndrome Ages 0-2 Years

Parents of children with Down syndrome ages 0-2 are encouraged to join us to connect with other families and learn about resources in our community.  This informal session will give parents the opportunity to ask questions and seek advice from DSG alumni parents who have graduated beyond the baby/toddler years.  This roundtable format offers plenty of time for Q&A and discussion with families in a small group setting who understand and share your greatest challenges, fears, and joys. Lunch will be provided.

April Community Groups- In the Park
Apr 28
April Community Groups- In the Park

Bring the family and get to know others in your community on Sunday April 28 from 2 pm - 4pm at a park near you! Families of the DSG will be hosting park playdates in your community and staff will not be present at locations. Please register for a park that is closest to your home. The hope is that you will meet and connect with other families in your area.

A Look at Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder
May 2
A Look at Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Down syndrome and autism can be challenging disabilities separately, however when combined the challenges can be quite complex and oftentimes are misunderstood by the family members and professionals in the individual’s life.  This workshop will take a look at what we know about DS-ASD, discuss commonalities in family experiences, explore basic behavioral red flags, discuss treatment recommendations and the importance of building a support network and care team through the lifespan.

Moms' Day Out: Candle Making Experience
May 18
Moms' Day Out: Candle Making Experience

DSG Moms! Don't miss out on an exclusive Candle Making Experience at our offices on Saturday, May 18th, from 12 pm to 1:30 pm, led by CRAV Company! Enjoy expert instruction led by a seasoned chandler, guiding you through the candle making process. Plus, take home your very own 11 oz customized candle with the fragrance of your choice! Reserve your spot now and get ready for a delightful afternoon of creativity and relaxation!

Annual Family Picnic
May 19
Annual Family Picnic

The DSG is so excited to be returning to The Southern Cross Ranch this year for a day of family fun for the DSG Annual Family Picnic. The event includes a petting zoo, fishing ponds, playground, bubble garden, clown/balloon artist, face painting, bounce house, rock climbing wall, pedal boats, and sports fields, games, swimming pool, and lunch.

Spray 'N' Play for Families of Children with Down syndrome Ages 0-4 + Siblings
Jun 27
Spray 'N' Play for Families of Children with Down syndrome Ages 0-4 + Siblings

Families of children with Down syndrome ages 0-4 are invited to join us at Windhaven Meadows Park for an evening of water play and fun. Windhaven Meadows Park features a universally designed playground with more than 20,000 square feet of accessible play equipment, sprayground, and pavilion. Chick-fil-a nugget trays (regular & grilled), chips, and drinks will be provided.

FULL: 2024 iCan Swim Camp for Ages 3 and Older
Jul 15
FULL: 2024 iCan Swim Camp for Ages 3 and Older

iCan Shine's iCan Swim program is designed to teach individuals with disabilities ages 3 and older the foundation of safely enjoying aquatic environments and promoting as much independent movement in the water as possible! Each swimmer participating in iCan Swim has their unique goals. Goals will range from an introduction to water exploration, learning water safety in aquatic environments, learning to swim, and/or skill refinement in preparation to join a Special Olympics, Paralympic or other swim team. These goals are accomplished in a safe, supportive, inclusive and fun environment with the assistance of volunteers.

Play Street Museum for Children with Down syndrome Ages 0-4 + Caregivers
Jul 21
Play Street Museum for Children with Down syndrome Ages 0-4 + Caregivers

Children with Down syndrome ages 0-4 and caregivers are invited to join us for an afternoon of pretend play at Play Street Museum in Lake Highlands. Your kids will have fun imagining and pretending in the museum’s “downtown” or exploring the interactive exhibits and kid's activities in the educational play space.

2024 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®
Oct 20
2024 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®

The Dallas Buddy Walk® is the signature fundraising and awareness event for the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas bringing together more than 5,000 individuals with Down syndrome, their family members, and community supporters annually. The event features family-friendly activities like inflatables, music, games, face painting, vendor booths, and more for kids and adults alike. The event also includes an awareness walk that celebrates the abilities and accomplishments of all individuals with Down syndrome.