with Quinn Boland
Next session: June 13th, 2026
We are hosting a Summer Celebration for all of our central Missouri families in Columbia, Missouri! This event posting will be updated soon with more details. We are aiming for one of the first Saturdays of June. Stay tuned to our social media and email announcements.
with Quinn Boland
Next session: March 21st, 2026
World Down Syndrome Day is Saturday, March 21st and we are hosting a party for all of our central Missouri families in Columbia, Missouri! 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!
with Sarah Mai
Next session: February 21st, 2026
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.
with Quinn Boland
Next session: October 3rd, 2026
Pending acceptance of our application, we will again be joining the Mizzou Homecoming Parade and would like to invite all of our central Missouri families in Columbia, Missouri!
Mizzou Homecoming 2026 is officially set for Saturday, October 3, 2026, centered around the home football game against the Florida Gators at Faurot Field, marking the university's 115th Homecoming celebration
with Quinn Boland
Next session: December 5th, 2026
We are hosting a party for all of our central Missouri families in Columbia, Missouri! This event posting will be updated soon 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!
with CJ Vallejo
Next session: January 23rd, 2026
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!
with Sarah Mai
Next session: March 7th, 2026
Teens and adults with Down syndrome are invited to attend this dynamic learning experience to learn about self-determination and self-advocacy, in Columbia, Missouri. Participants will engage in meaningful exercises specifically to add words and specificity to their personal introductions, goals, strengths, preferences, and needs. Visual supports and templates will be introduced, designed by the DSI Lifespan Service Team.
Parents are encouraged to drop off their teens and adults for the 10-11:30am workshop and then re-join us at 11:30 for a light lunch and to hear their loved one share with them what they have learned.
This workshop will be facilitated by Sarah Mai, DSI Executive Director and Occupational Therapist, and supported by local O.T. students.
with Jack Anderson
Next session: January 12th to December 18th, 2026
Due to local philanthropic funding, every central Missouri family with a loved one with Down syndrome qualifies for a single therapeutic caregiver consultation this year at no cost, provided via telehealth. Consultations occur by scheduled appointments that occur during daytime hours on weekdays.
During the appointment, a Down-syndrome specialized therapist (OT, BCBA, SLP, or LCSW) will provide a skilled consultation discussing strategies that will assist with the expressed need, which may include toilet training, behavioral or emotional concerns, sensory challenges, or difficulties with activities of daily living.
Completing this registration will inform us you are interested in this service and following review of your information, the Intake Specialist will contact you for scheduling.
with Alyssa Jones
Next session: February 2nd to May 30th, 2026
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
with Alyssa Jones
Next session: March 2nd to May 29th, 2026
Coming soon with date, time and location! Check back in early January.
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.
