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.
