Caregiver Resiliency and Self-Care Group

with Megan DeBoom

Next session: January 26th to May 18th, 2026

Free More Info

Down Syndrome Innovations cares about the mental health of our parents and caregivers. Join other caregivers for a facilitated discussion, resource sharing, and yoga, all to build your resiliency and take better care of yourself.

This group is open to caregivers with loved ones of all ages and IDD diagnoses. Caregivers can include parents, grandparents, adult siblings, or other members of the loved one’s community of support. This is a great opportunity to build connections, learn about community resources, and recharge.

The caregiver group will meet on Mondays from 5:00 to 6:30 PM on the following dates:1/26, 2/2, 2/9, 2/23, 3/2, 3/9, 3/30, 4/6, 4/13, 4/27, 5/4, and 5/11.

GROUP CAPACITY: 12 participants max

Teen Social Group

with Tyler Goevert

Next session: January 26th, 2026

Free More Info

This group will consist of structured activities and semi-structured free time to help self-advocates age 12-18 build relationships with friends, spend time in their community, and practice a variety of skills.

Virtual Social Group for Teens

with Lauren Holmes

Next session: January 27th, 2026

Free More Info

These Virtual Social Groups for Teens provide a structured, creative, and dynamic environment for participants to socialize, learn, and have fun together, without the hassle of leaving the house or arranging transportation. Lauren Holmes, the facilitator of the group, who is our Virtual Life Skills Specialist, ensures every individual is included in meaningful ways during the group activities. This is also an awesome opportunity to build meaningful relationships with new friends who are both local and from other states in our country.

All registered participants will receive a Zoom link from the instructor.

Adult Social Group

with Jessica Fahey

Next session: January 27th, 2026

Free More Info

Adults are invited to attend our in-person social groups on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-8:00 PM. Sessions are always a balance of continuing education and having a good time with friends. We’d love to see you there!

Young Athletes

with Scott Quaife

Next session: January 28th to March 18th, 2026

Free More Info

In partnership with Special Olympics, Young Athletes is designed to promote the development of an active lifestyle through play for children between the ages of 4 and 7. Self-advocates will engage in a variety of activities and games alongside their peers targeted towards gross motor and social skill development. The first and final sessions are required.

There are two different series of Young Athletes during the Spring Service Season. Please only register for one. Once all spots are filled in both of the offerings, a waiting list will be created and families will be informed of future opportunities.

There are limited spots available in order for every child to receive sufficient support and instruction, and there will be a maximum of 6 children per class this season. Spots will be filled on a first come, first served basis, and based on commitment to the scheduled times and meeting of age and documentation criteria.

Youth Fitness

with Scott Quaife

Next session: January 29th to April 16th, 2026

Free More Info

Our Youth Fitness Program is designed for 8-12-year-olds, guiding them through games and exercises to build their strength, stamina, and agility. The class is led by an instructor; however, supporters are expected to attend and provide 1:1 support for their self-advocate.

Virtual Social Group for Adults

with Lauren Holmes

Next session: January 29th, 2026

Free More Info

These Virtual Social Groups for Adults provide a structured, creative, and dynamic environment for participants to socialize, learn, and have fun together, without the hassle of leaving the house or arranging transportation. Lauren Holmes, the facilitator of the group, who is our Virtual Life Skills Specialist, ensures every individual is included in meaningful ways during the group activities. This is also an awesome opportunity to build meaningful relationships with new friends who are both local and from other states in our country.

All registered participants will receive a Zoom link from the instructor.

Functional Fitness

with Scott Quaife

Next session: January 29th, 2026

Free More Info

Designed for all ages! Join us for an educational seminar that will not only address the main health challenges of people with Down syndrome, but also how to address them at every stage of life. Scott Quaife, NSCA-CPT, our Health and Wellness Coordinator, will discuss a variety of ways to incorporate physical activity into your loved one's daily life, as well as common modifications for exercise, alternatives for footwear and motivational strategies.

Scott Quaife, NSCA-CPT, PNL1 is a dedicated Health and Wellness Coordinator with a passion for helping individuals build sustainable, healthy lifestyles. He studied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas and is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Scott is also a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach, bringing a well-rounded, evidence-based approach to fitness, nutrition, and behavior change.

If you have any questions please email CJ, at cj@kcdsi.org

Preschool Rhythm & Play

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: January 31st, 2026

Free More Info

Preschool Rhythm & Play

Saturday, January 31st from 9:30–10:45 AM

A lively blend of music, movement, and sensory exploration for ages 3–5

Preschool Rhythm & Play invites young children to move, groove, and explore, alongside their parents, in a fun, developmentally supportive environment. Each session begins with upbeat music and simple dance movements that build coordination, balance, and body awareness. Children will sing, stretch, and move their bodies creatively as they follow along with guided rhythm activities.

Midway through class, children transition into sensory play breakout sessions led by an Occupational Therapist and OT Students. These hands-on experiences allow kids to explore textures, materials, and tools that support fine motor development, sensory regulation, and confidence through play.

Designed for all abilities, this class encourages social connection, creativity, and joyful movement—helping preschoolers build important skills while having a blast.

If you have any questions please email alyssa@kcdsi.org

Spring Rhythm & Play for Preschool & Elementary Age (Central MO)

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: February 2nd to May 30th, 2026

Free More Info

Coming soon! Date, time and location will be announced. Check back in early January.

Rhythm & Play for Preschool and Elementary Age

A lively blend of music, movement, and sensory exploration for ages 4–12

Rhythm & Play invites young children to move, groove, and explore, alongside their parents, in a fun, developmentally supportive environment. Each session begins with upbeat music and simple dance movements that build coordination, balance, and body awareness. Children will sing, stretch, and move their bodies creatively as they follow along with guided rhythm activities.

Designed for all abilities, this class encourages social connection, creativity, and joyful movement—helping children build important skills while having a blast.

If you have any questions please email alyssa@kcdsi.org