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At Down Syndrome Innovations (DSI), we value independence, self-determination, and high expectations for the people we serve, regardless of their age. We support parents and caregivers with strategies to facilitate independence, foster self-determination, set high expectations, and problem-solve through setbacks and barriers. We recognize that independence looks different for every person with a developmental disability, varying across ages, stages, and environments.

Join Sarah Mai, Executive Director and Occupational Therapist, in Columbia, Missouri, as she guides you through strategies to build skills, adapt tasks and environments, and create opportunities to maximize your loved one's independence. We will discuss skills within DSI’s Lifespan Services Framework for building independence at home and in the community. Together, we can identify barriers to independence and share effective ideas and tools

The caregiver education event will take place between 10:00-11:30am and participants will have the opportunity for a light lunch and caregiver connection immediately following.

DSI will do our best to find a sufficient number of trusted volunteers for childcare for parents who have traveled a long distance with their family or have no other options. If possible, we encourage utilizing your own childcare. Please email sarah@kcdsi.org if you require childcare to attend as a parent.

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Wonderscope Fun for Elementary-Age Kids and Siblings

with CJ Vallejo

Next session: February 21st, 2026

Free More Info

Join us for a fun-filled morning of play, exploration, and connection at Wonderscope! We encourage families to meet up with one another and make new friends. This social time is for kiddos with Down syndrome who are in elementary school, and their siblings, as we want to offer a welcoming and inclusive space in the community for your children to build friendships, develop social skills, and enjoy hands-on learning experiences throughout the museum. 

DSI will cover the cost of entry for all children with Down syndrome and one additional family member (parent and sibling).  Advanced registration is required. 

DSI staff will attend to engage in play with the kids and be a resource to families, however, parent supervision is required for all kids attending. 

We hope to see you there for learning, laughter, and community!

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Family and Friends Trivia Night!

Next session: February 27th, 2026

$250 More Info

SAVE-the-DATE and mark your calendars for Friday evening, February 27, 2026, or register your trivia team today.

Click here to REGISTER or REVIEW MORE DETAILS: 2026 Family and Friends Trivia Night Event Information and Registration

 Trivia team tables begin at $250.00. See event page for more details. 

Gather your team, test your knowledge, and enjoy a night filled with laughter, prizes, and community spirit—all while supporting individuals with Down syndrome and their families. 

Additional information:

Food and adult beverages will be served. Adults 21+ only please.Guests will enjoy multiple rounds of general-knowledge trivia, fun table games, silent auction items, and community connection. Trivia will start at 6:45pm 

All funds raised support the innovative programs that empower people with Down syndrome across the lifespan.

Online registration unavailable
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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. 

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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
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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, 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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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

World Down Syndrome Day is Saturday, March 21st and we are hosting a party for all of our families in midtown Kansas City! This event posting will be updated in January with more details. Stay tuned to our social media and email announcements.  SAVE-the-DATE for now because you don't want to miss this event!

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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