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. 

Trailblazing best practices in mental health services for people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities is a priority within the mission of Down Syndrome Innovations. Join this workshop and learn strategies to ensure your loved one, or the people you serve, are living their best lives. Megan DeBoom, Board Certified Behavior Analyst, and Lisa Lind, licensed clinical social worker, will demonstrate strategies for healthy coping and emotional regulation that can be used by members of your family and service providers on your team. You will walk away with visual supports and ideas that you can implement right away to ensure that you, the ones you love, and the ones you serve, are equipped to manage stress and navigate the challenges of everyday life. Instruction is relevant for supporters of individuals with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities of all ages and stages.

Topics covered will include, but not limited to:

• A strengths-based approach to emotional well-being

• Research and best practices for the ID/DD community

• Building protective factors for health and wellness

• Family resiliency and healthy coping

• Co-regulation of emotions

• Skills related to managing conflict and relationships

• Grief, loss, and stressful transitions

• Self-care and wellness

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. 

Dates: 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. 

Meet with other families in your area to build connection and relationships with both families and self-advocates! Information for each of the groups is below, please regsiter for the sessions you are interested in attending so that we can have an accurate headcount. 

June 23rd: Summit Pizza, 1543 NE Douglas St, Lee's Summit, MO 64086

July 21st: Arcade Alley, 316 SE Douglas St, Lee's Summit, MO 64063

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!

¡Les invitamos cordialmente a nuestra primera Reunión Familiar de 2026!

Nos complace contar nuevamente con la participación de nuestros amigos de KUARDC, quienes nos acompañarán para ofrecer una presentación sobre nutrición. Jaime Perales Puchal y Kelly Loeb, miembros del equipo de KUARDC, se encargarán de la traducción y la presentación.

Este evento tendrá lugar el 24 de junio en Down Syndrome Innovations, por lo que les animamos a registrarse para recibir recordatorios a medida que se acerque la fecha. Se ofrecerán refrigerios. Si tienen alguna pregunta, pueden escribir a CJ a cj@kcdsi.org. ¡Les deseamos un excelente día!