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Virtual Social Group for Adults

with Lauren Holmes

Next session: March 5th, 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. 

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Caregiver Connection: Aging Years (Virtual)

with Katie Craddock

Next session: March 9th, 2026

Free More Info

Caregiver Connection: Aging Years offers an opportunity for caregivers to discuss resources, strategies, community supports, and challenges related to caring for an aging loved one with Down syndrome.

We understand this is a growing group of entire population we serve, with unique challenges and experiences, and we hear how important it is for you all to feel connected. We hope that meeting one another in this group will organically open up opportunities for you all to spend time together face to face as you develop meaningful connections with one another.

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

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DS-ASD Caregiver Connection Group (Virtual)

with Megan DeBoom

Next session: March 12th, 2026

Free More Info

Caregiver Connection: DS – ASD is a virtual gathering of caregivers to discuss resources, strategies, community supports, and challenges related to a child or adult’s current or potential dual-diagnosis of Down syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder.

This group is facilitated by Down Syndrome Innovations staff, and we will occasionally invite special guests with expertise in this area.  This is a complimentary caregiver education opportunity, provided in addition to the individualized services we provide directly for individuals with DS-ASD for the purpose of skill-development, improving self-regulation and behavior, and increasing independence.

We are providing this group virtually to ensure we are being inclusive of families throughout the region and those who are not able to access transportation, as we understand that facing a dual-diagnosis can already feel isolating in and of itself.  We understand this is a subgroup of the entire population we serve, with unique challenges and experiences, and we hear how important it is for you all to feel connected. We hope that meeting one another in this group will organically open up opportunities for you all to spend time together face to face as you develop meaningful connections with one another.

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

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Empowering Voices: AAC and Total Communications Strategies

with Katie Craddock

Next session: March 12th, 2026

Free More Info

This presentation introduces practical, easy-to-use tools that help individuals with Down syndrome express themselves more confidently. Caregivers will learn how AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) and total communication approaches—like gestures, visuals, signs, and devices—can work together to support understanding, reduce frustration, and build meaningful everyday communication at home and in the community.

Katie Craddock, CCC-SLP is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist dedicated to supporting individuals in developing effective communication skills. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Communication Disorders and Sciences from the University of Central Missouri and her Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Rockhurst University. Katie is passionate about providing evidence-based, client-centered therapy to help people of all ages reach their full communicative potential.

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

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Music and Motion for Babies and Toddlers

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: March 13th, 2026

Free More Info

Dates: Jan 16th, Feb 28th, March 13th, April 11th, May 15th, June 20th, July 17th, Aug 15th, Sept 11th, Oct 17th, Nov 13th, Dec 5th (Alternate Fridays & Saturdays) 

Time: 9:30am-11am 

Location: DSI -Large Therapy Room

Description: Join us for a joyful and engaging class designed for babies, toddlers, and their caregivers! Music & Motion blends tummy time, music, and movement to support early development in a fun, relaxed setting. Each session includes songs, mini instruments, and gentle guided movement — followed by time to connect with other parents over coffee and snacks. 

Whether you’re a new parent or looking to build your village, this is a great space to bond, play, and grow together. 

This service is for babies and toddlers with Down syndrome who are 6 months- 3 years old and caregivers. Childcare for siblings is available per advanced request in the registration form. 

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Join us for our 2026 Family Social Gatherings in Central Missouri! This is an opportunity for families to meet and exchange stories, resources, and fellowship!

Dinner and childcare will be provided for families. Please be sure to RSVP in advance!

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Music, Dance, and Sensory Play at Inspired Play Cafe

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: March 14th, 2026

Music & Motion / Rhythm & Play @ Inspired Play Cafe 

Address: 6527 W 119th St, Overland Park, KS 66209

Saturday, March 14th from 9:30–10:45 AM

($5 per child only) Siblings are welcome

A lively blend of music, movement, and sensory exploration for ages 0–5  

This is a combo class of Music & Motion and our Rhythm & Play coming together. This class invites young children to move, groove, and explore in a fun, developmentally supportive environment. We will have a private room to start our class for our introductions, music, and rhythm. 

Midway through class, children transition into sensory play breakout and explore the equipment at the play cafe.  

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 

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D.A.D.S. Group

with CJ Vallejo

Next session: March 19th, 2026

Free More Info

The D.A.D.S. Group is excited to welcome Rex Hudler of the Kansas City Royals for a special evening of connection and conversation on March 19th. Rex will share his personal journey and experiences raising a young man with Down syndrome during a one-hour talk designed to encourage, inspire, and support fellow dads. The gathering will take place from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Down Syndrome Innovations, located at 5916 Dearborn Street in Mission, KS. This event offers a meaningful opportunity for fathers to come together, hear a powerful story, and build community in a supportive setting.

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Join us at the ARC (1701 W. Ash St., Columbia, MO 65203) on Saturday, March 21, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. as we come together to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day!

We’ll enjoy a fun and inclusive pool party, with pizza provided for everyone. Families and friends are welcome to bring desserts to share. To help keep everyone safe and included, please label all ingredients, as some individuals have food allergies or dietary needs.

We look forward to celebrating our community, connections, and belonging together!

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World Down Syndrome Day Celebration (Kansas City)

Next session: March 21st, 2026

Free More Info

Come celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on Saturday, March 21st!

Special thanks to our Mission Sponsor, Busey Bank, for their generous support of this event.

We are hosting a party from 3:30-5:30 at Browne's Irish Market located at 3300 Pennsylvania Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri, 64111. 

We will provide activities for all ages, including karaoke, an obstacle course, basketball, a temporary tattoo station, a soft play area for little ones,a collaborative ceramics project, and more.

Light snacks and drinks will be provided. Additional food and adult beverages will be available from Browne’s for purchase. 

This event will be outside, so please dress warmly. We are excited to celebrate with you!