Designed for all ages!  Join us for an educational seminar that will not only address the main health challenges of people with Down syndrome, but also how to address them at every stage of life. Scott Quaife, NSCA-CPT, our Health and Wellness Coordinator, will discuss a variety of ways to incorporate physical activity into your loved one's daily life, as well as common modifications for exercise, alternatives for footwear and motivational strategies.  

Scott Quaife, NSCA-CPT, PNL1 is a dedicated Health and Wellness Coordinator with a passion for helping individuals build sustainable, healthy lifestyles. He studied Behavioral Science at the University of Kansas and is a Certified Personal Trainer through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. Scott is also a Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach, bringing a well-rounded, evidence-based approach to fitness, nutrition, and behavior change.

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

Preschool Rhythm & Play 

Saturday, January 31st from 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

Dates: Feb 7th, May 2nd, Aug 1st, Nov 7th (Saturdays Only) 

Time: 9am-11am 

Location: DSI 

Description: Join us for one — or all — of our New Parent Breakfasts! 

This welcoming event is designed for new parents and extended family members (prenatal to 2½ years old) to connect with others who have a young child with Down syndrome. 

Meet parents at different stages of their journey, learn about the services and support provided by Down Syndrome Innovations, and enjoy a relaxed, family-friendly environment. You’ll have the chance to ask questions, exchange resources, and explore our campus. 

Each breakfast also includes a facilitated discussion to help families connect, share experiences, and build community. 

These family connection events are FREE/DONOR-FUNDED thanks to our Step Up Walk donors, grantors and Community Partners! Breakfast and childcare are provided, so please RSVP so we have adequate accommodations! 

This presentation provides a clear overview of what to expect during well-child visits, including current Down syndrome medical guideline recommendations and the core responsibilities of a primary care provider. Key components such as growth and developmental monitoring, routine screenings, immunizations, and anticipatory guidance will be outlined to highlight what high-quality preventive care should include.

The session will also address common pitfalls and misconceptions that medical providers may have—such as missed developmental concerns, inconsistent follow-up of abnormal findings, or gaps in family education—and will describe how to recognize these issues in practice.

Dr. Kristie Marble is a board-certified Pediatrician and a board-certified Pediatric Hospitalist at Children's Mercy Kansas City. In addition to her hospitalist role, she proudly serves as one of the pediatricians in the Multidisciplinary Down Syndrome Clinic. Her dedication to the Down syndrome community is both professional and deeply personal as it was sparked 17 years ago following the birth of her daughter, who was diagnosed with Down syndrome right after birth. This personal journey inspired her to become an expert in the field and commit herself to educating medical professionals. She is now excited to leverage both her clinical expertise and lived experience to support and educate other parents and families navigating their own paths, in partnership with Down Syndrome Innovations.

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

Preschool Rhythm & Play @ Rough & Bumble

Address: 413 Delaware St, Leavenworth, KS 66048

Friday, February 20th from 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 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

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!

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

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!