Capacity, Communication and Co-regulation This interactive session explores behaviour as communication, drawing on the principle that children do well when they can (Dr Ross Greene). Grounded in the conference theme of Together Against Loneliness, we will discuss how reduced confidence in responding to expressions of distress can lead to families becoming more isolated and withdrawing […]
Manage My Health – Down Syndrome Style Empowering Families/Whānau Every Step of the Way. An interactive online session for parents, family members, and advocates. This session will provide you with information about where to find health advice and support services for children and young people with Down Syndrome. Presenters: • Anna Tiatia Fa’atoese Latu Program […]
From Data to Dignity 2026: new insights and evidence This presentation will explore what the latest data tells us about the lives and experiences of people with intellectual disability in Aotearoa New Zealand. It will provide an update on From Data to Dignity, highlighting key changes and ongoing inequalities, before turning to Untapped Potential, IHC’s […]
Community connection: Shifting the inclusion focus This workshop is designed for neighbours, peers, community leaders and local groups who want some simple, actionable ways to be inclusive community members for the people who have Down Syndrome in their community. Polly Newton will share practical strategies for community-minded people to build meaningful, two-way connections and communication […]
14th October 7.00pm or 7.30pm TBC Education For All Election Forum Details to TBC via the NZDSA Website and Facebook Theme: Education and advocacy Audience: All welcome
Your health and disability Code of Rights The Office of the Health and Disability Commissioner and the Independent Advocacy Service will discuss your rights and how to advocate for them when receiving health and disability services. Presenters Rose Wall Deputy Health and Disability Commissioner Office of the Health and Disability Commissioner Dr Esther Woodbury Principal […]
Friendship as a bridge from loneliness to connection Self-advocates with Down syndrome explore friendships Friendship is a universal human experience that plays a significant role in shaping individual well-being, social inclusion, and our sense of belonging. Research consistently shows that friendship is among the most meaningful interpersonal relationships people form, contributing to connection, belonging, and […]
The Recreate Way – Across Aotearoa Embodying and exemplifying the principles of EGL - the who, how, where, and why of Recreate NZ. Journeying with and for disabled youth. Presenters Brent Jenkin General Manager Zoe Reining Programme Coordinator and Facilitator at Recreate NZ Biographies Brent is an enthusiastic outdoorsman on the trails and the water. […]
Safer Walking This presentation introduces Safer Walking, a free, national programme that promotes independence, choice, and inclusion, by providing tools and strategies that support people with disabilities like Down syndrome to independently navigate their community, while reducing personal risk. Learn about Safer Walking's practical safety strategies, available resources, and how families, whānau, and support networks […]
Through My Eyes: My Latest Photographic Project in Collaboration with the NZDSA Photography allows me to see the beauty in the world through my own eyes and share it with others. In my latest project, I want to capture the beauty, personality and uniqueness of people with Down syndrome through photographs and their stories. I […]
Tools and tips for talking about sexual wellbeing This session introduces Sexual Wellbeing Aotearoa (formally Family Planning). Resources available, include Easy Read; Consent for Sex; and a new sexual wellbeing programme ‘Bodies, Boundaries and Being Me’. Attendees will come away with an understanding of resources available and a clearer sense of how to support open, […]
Home & School: Joyful connections and a strong relationship I’m presenting in my capacity as a parent, not in a professional capacity. My daughter Charlotte is in Year 5 at our local primary school. I’ll be sharing with you about this journey so far, and how we work together with our school to ensure that […]