Congratulations on your new baby!
If your newborn has just received a Down syndrome diagnosis, you are probably experiencing a whirlwind of emotions. The first thing to know is that you are not alone. In Massachusetts, there are 5,000 families whose children have Down syndrome. The MDSC represents the interests of all these families, providing critical support and programs throughout all stages of life. Our nationally acclaimed Parents First Call Program is here for you, offering the latest information, resources and opportunities to connect with a parent mentor who is the parent of a child with Down syndrome.
Parents First Call Program
For new parents of babies with Down syndrome, an opportunity to speak with other parents who have experienced what you are experiencing can be invaluable. The MDSC Parents First Call Program is a volunteer group of trained parent mentors available to listen, share, answer questions, and provide valuable information. If you would like to speak with a First Call parent, please complete the short intake form below or call/text 978-238-9020. If you have any additional questions, please email firstcall@mdsc.org.
New Parent Welcome Package
The MDSC offers all new parents of children with Down syndrome a welcome package that includes books, a new parent packet of information, and gifts for your baby. To request a package, please complete the short intake form below or call/text 978-238-9020. If you have any additional questions, please email firstcall@mdsc.org.
New Family Socials
We host monthly New Family Socials for families of little ones ages 0-3. These socials are a warm, informal way to meet other new families, meet some of the MDSC Family Support team and feel supported and connected. Please check our calendar for the schedule of Socials or email us at firstcall@mdsc.org.
New Moms Group
We offer periodic monthly New Moms support groups as an opportunity to share with other newer Moms whose child is 0-18 months and feel supported on this new journey. For more information please email firstcall@mdsc.org.
Julia’s Way, Breastfeeding Support
Established in 2016 and part of MDSC’s National Parents First Call Center since 2023, Julia’s Way inspires and encourages mothers of children with Down syndrome to breastfeed their babies while simultaneously educating medical professionals on how to support mothers to help their babies breastfeed successfully.
Support Groups and Play Group
There are dozens of support groups and play groups across Massachusetts to connect by region, cultural background or specialized supports.
Helpful Resources
- Down Syndrome Pregnancy – Offers free web resources about Down syndrome for new parents of a child with Down syndrome including:
- Welcoming a Newborn (Available in Spanish) – We include this book in all of our new parent welcome packages, and it is also available free to download through the links above.
- Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network– Offers an on-line support platform for new parents by connecting them to other families touched by Down syndrome.
- The NDSS A Promising Future Together: A Guide for New and Expectant Parents booklet – Provides a comprehensive overview of Down syndrome including sections on healthy starts, early intervention therapies, how to find support and care for your family and what the future holds for your child.
Down Syndrome Programs
As a new parent of a child with Down syndrome, there may be no better place to live than Massachusetts. With world-renowned medical and research facilities, Massachusetts boasts a wealth of resources in the world of Down syndrome.
We encourage you to reach out to one of our three Down Syndrome Programs to schedule a new baby visit.
We look forward to meeting you and your new baby and sharing this journey together!
