Foundations for Families Webinar: Behavioral Support in Down Syndrome, presented by Lina Patel, PsyD

Monday, January 12th | 7pm ET - 8:30pm ET
Zoom

This presentation will discuss the neurodevelopmental profile of individuals with Down syndrome and how that impacts day to day behaviors. Then, proactive strategies to address behaviors through this lens will be discussed. Finally, ways to evaluate behaviors in the moment will be presented. The goal of this presentation is to help you to become a detective in understanding and resolving behavioral challenges experienced with individuals with Down syndrome. Suggested for families with children of all ages.

Presented by Lina Patel, PsyD

Professor of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Colorado

Questions? Email Katie at FirstCall@mdsc.org

5th Annual Ice Skating at MarketStreet Lynnfield (all ages, families, and friends!)

Sunday, January 25th | 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
MarketStreet Lynnfield 600 Market Street Lynnfield, MA 01940

We are thrilled to invite individuals with Down syndrome of all ages, along with their families and friends, to join us for our 5th Annual Ice Skating event at MarketStreet Lynnfield!

This special occasion allows us to come together as a community, as we have reserved the entire ice skating rink exclusively for MDSC families, creating a warm and welcoming environment to try something new!

We will have snacks, beverages, and hot chocolate available in the warming tent for those who want a cozy break from the cold.

A limited number of staff and volunteers will be on hand to support skaters, and we will also have some skate assists available for beginners. While helmets are not provided, we highly recommend that all skaters bring one from home to wear for safety—whether it’s a bike helmet, motorcycle helmet, or equestrian helmet, the goal is to protect that precious noggin!

*Please note, this is not a drop off event and parents or caregivers are required to stay with their loved ones throughout the duration of the skating experience.

Foundations for Families webinar: Everyday Assistive Technology Solutions: Practical Tools for Children with Down Syndrome, Presented by Karen Janowski

Tuesday, February 10th | 7pm ET - 8:30pm ET
Zoom

Discover simple, readily available assistive technology you can use every day to support children with Down Syndrome. This webinar will highlight practical tools for visual supports, daily routines, organization, and learning, technology solutions, and strategies geared toward promoting independence. You’ll leave with a toolkit of everyday solutions to try at home, school, and in the community. Suggested for families of school-aged children (grades 1-12).

Presented by Karen Janowski

Inclusive and Assistive Technology Facilitator and President and owner of EdTech Solutions, Inc

 

Questions? Email Katie at FirstCall@mdsc.org

Foundations for Families webinar: Potty Time for Children with Down Syndrome: Lose the Diapers Not Your Patience, presented by Lina Patel, PsyD

Monday, March 9th | 7pm ET - 8:30pm ET
Zoom

This presentation offers a holistic approach to potty training, guiding parents and caregivers to address the unique needs of children with Down syndrome. Many methods for those without Down syndrome fail because they overlook the distinct medical, physical, communication, and learning needs of children with Down syndrome. This presentation will specifically explain these considerations and offer strategies to support the potty training journey. Suggested for families with children ages 4 and up who are working on toileting skills.

Presented by

Lina Patel, PsyD

Professor of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Children’s Hospital Colorado

Questions? Email Katie at FirstCall@mdsc.org

Brighter Futures: A National Conference on Adults with Down Syndrome and Aging

Friday, March 27th |
DCU Center, Worcester
Join the Massachusetts Down Syndrome Congress (MDSC) and the National Down Syndrome Society along with hundreds from across the country as we celebrate our adult and aging loved ones with Down syndrome, their family members and friends as well as the many medical professionals, educators, advocates, and other supporters. Together, we will connect with one another, share best practices, celebrate victories, advocate for acceptance and inclusion, and reunite at this exclusive conference aimed at building a brighter future as people transition to adulthood and become active members of their communities. This conference will also advance understanding of Down syndrome and aging, and promote the development of beneficial approaches to addressing the medical, mental health, social, and emotional challenges faced by older adults with Down syndrome.
When you register for the 2-day conference, you’re getting —
💛 Access to 5 breakout sessions on timely topics led by local and national experts
💙 Ticket to attend the Awards Dinner on Friday evening featuring keynote speaker, Matthew Schwab @matthewschwabspeaks
💛 Post-conference Networking Reception
💙 Self Advocate “Brighter Futures” Dance on Friday evening
💛 Saturday morning Plenary Session featuring keynote speaker, Dr. Julie Moran
💙 Boxed lunch on Friday, continental breakfast and boxed lunch on Saturday
💛 …and much more!

Foundations for Families webinar: Medical Updates for Children and Adolescents with Down Syndrome, Presented by Meredith Close, MD

Monday, April 13th | 7pm ET - 8:30pm ET
Zoom

We will review the current AAP health care guidelines for children with Down syndrome as well as common health conditions seen in children and teens. Suggested for families with children of all ages.

Presented by Meredith Close, MD

Developmental-Behavioral Pediatrician; Director, Down Syndrome Program, Boston Children’s Hospital

Questions? Email Katie at FirstCall@mdsc.org