Music and Motion for Babies and Toddlers

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: February 28th, 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.

CHIP-ID’s BE BOLD Talent Show

Next session: February 28th, 2026

Free More Info

Down Syndrome Innovations is proud to be a missional partner of CHIP-ID, the Community Health Improvement Program for Intellectual Disabilities at the University of Kansas.

CHIP-ID’s BE BOLD Talent Show is taking the stage! Celebrate talent, creativity, and inclusion at CHIP-ID’s BE BOLD Talent Show!Come cheer on amazing performers, celebrate inclusion, and support our community.

Saturday, February 28th, 1:30-4:30pm

Located at the Medallion Theater at 300 W. 39th St, Kansas City, MO 64111

Follow the link to register your attendance! https://kuadrc.org/talentshow

Questions about this event: Email the organizers at healthylifestyles@kumc.edu

Online registration unavailable

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.

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

Music, Dance, and Sensory Play at Inspired Play Cafe

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: March 14th, 2026

$5 More Info

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

World Down Syndrome Day Celebration (Central Missouri)

Next session: March 21st, 2026

Free More Info

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!

World Down Syndrome Day Celebration (Kansas City)

Next session: March 21st, 2026

Free More Info

World Down Syndrome Day is Saturday, March 21st and we want to CELEBRATE!

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!

Thriving Through Adulthood: Daily Living Strategies for Adults with Down Syndrome

with Morgan Hodges

Next session: March 25th, 2026

Free More Info

As adults with Down syndrome live longer and healthier lives, families and caregivers play an essential role in supporting their independence, safety, and overall well-being. This presentation provides practical, evidence-informed strategies to help adults with Down syndrome successfully navigate the aging process.

Participants will learn how aging may uniquely impact physical, cognitive, sensory, and emotional health in individuals with Down syndrome and how to promote daily functioning at home and in the community. The presentation will cover key areas such as adapting activities of daily living, supporting mobility, promoting meaningful engagement, and implementing home and environmental safety strategies.

Caregivers will leave with tools, resources, and simple adaptations they can use right away to enhance quality of life, encourage independence, and ensure a safe and supportive environment as their loved one ages.

Morgan Hodges, OTR/L is a licensed Occupational Therapist committed to helping individuals build independence and improve daily living skills. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Arkansas and her Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of Kansas Medical Center. Morgan is passionate about providing client-centered, functional therapy to support meaningful participation in everyday life.

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

Preschool Rhythm & Play at DSI

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: March 27th, 2026

Free More Info

Preschool Rhythm & Play

Dates: Jan 30th, March 27th, April 4th, April 10th

Time: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 Music and Motion for Little Ones (Central MO)

with Alyssa Jones

Next session: March 28th, 2026

Free More Info

Join us on March 28th, from 10:30 to 11:30, 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.