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X-WR-CALNAME:New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA)
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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA)
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DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20261007T120000
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DTSTAMP:20260906T061722Z
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UID:18185-1791374400-1791378000@nzdsa.org.nz
SUMMARY:Empowering Support for Breastfeeding Mothers of Babies with Down Syndrome
DESCRIPTION:Empowering Support for Breastfeeding Mothers of Babies with Down Syndrome\nThe World Health Organization (WHO) recognises breastfeeding as a critical component of infant health and feeding\, and this offers numerous benefits to babies\, including those with Down syndrome (World Health Organization\, 2019). This presentation examines the evidence supporting the unique advantages of breastfeeding for infants with Down syndrome and its potential to optimise their health outcomes. Research indicates that breastfeeding can play a crucial role in supporting the health and development of babies with Down syndrome. Breast milk provides essential nutrients\, antibodies\, and bioactive factors that support immune function and protect against infections\, which may be particularly beneficial for infants with Down syndrome\, who may be more susceptible to respiratory and gastrointestinal issues. Breastfeeding has been linked to improved cognitive development and speech-language outcomes in children with Down syndrome. The act of breastfeeding fosters bonding between mother and baby\, promoting emotional well-being and enhancing the parent-child relationship. This presentation highlights the importance of promoting and supporting breastfeeding among mothers of babies with Down syndrome. Strategies for overcoming potential challenges and barriers to breastfeeding in this population will be discussed\, along with the role of healthcare providers and support networks in facilitating successful breastfeeding experiences. This will also include services provided by the Australian Breastfeeding Association\, Australia’s leading authority on breastfeeding information\, education and support. By recognising the unique health benefits of breastfeeding for babies with Down syndrome and providing evidence-based support and guidance to mothers\, we can enhance the health and well-being of these infants and promote optimal developmental outcomes. \nPresenter\nHeather Miller\nA registered nurse specialising in intellectual disability nursing\, and a breastfeeding educator. \nBiography\nHeather Miller has worked in intellectual disability health for over 20 years and is a registered nurse specialising in intellectual disability nursing\, her initial nursing qualification. Her experience includes community learning disability nursing in the UK\, medical undergraduate teaching in developmental disability health\, content contributor in post-graduate nurse education on managing the heath needs of people with intellectual disability\, and disability case management in the non-government sector. She currently works as a disability practice nurse in general practice. \nHeather holds a Certificate IV in Breastfeeding Education (Community) and has been a breastfeeding educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for over 15 years. She provides education and support to expectant mothers\, and mothers who are breastfeeding their baby with Down syndrome\, and health professionals. She is a resource volunteer on breastfeeding and Down syndrome at ABA. Her most rewarding job however\, is being mum to her 11 year old son who has Down syndrome\, teaching her more than anything she has learnt in her career and training! \nTheme: Health and Development\nAudience: Parents\, whānau\, and professionals \n  \n  \n 
URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/empowering-support-for-breastfeeding-mothers-of-babies-with-down-syndrome-2/
LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand
CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/empowering-support.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz
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DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20261007T160000
DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20261007T180000
DTSTAMP:20260904T233428Z
CREATED:20260904T233428Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260904T233428Z
UID:18188-1791388800-1791396000@nzdsa.org.nz
SUMMARY:IHC Disability Election Forum
DESCRIPTION:IHC Disability Election Forum\nRegister here IHC Election Event Registration 2026 – Join us at the Vote for Inclusive Futures Event \nTheme: Advocacy\nAudience: All welcome
URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/ihc-disability-election-forum/
LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand
CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/Social-media-2.png
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DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20261007T193000
DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20261007T203000
DTSTAMP:20260906T061922Z
CREATED:20260904T233640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260906T061922Z
UID:18191-1791401400-1791405000@nzdsa.org.nz
SUMMARY:The Power of Sport: Connection\, Belonging and Participation
DESCRIPTION:The Power of Sport: Connection\, Belonging and Participation\nFran will share how sport creates opportunities for friendship\, belonging\, confidence and participation\, and the difference this can make in the lives of people with Down syndrome. \nPresenter\nFran Scholey\nChief Executive Officer of Special Olympics New Zealand. \nBiography\nFran Scholey is the Chief Executive Officer of Special Olympics New Zealand. In her role\, she focuses on elevating the organisation’s profile and fostering strategic relationships. Fran has re-established and strengthened relationships with Special Olympics clubs across New Zealand\, building trust and working together for the betterment of the community. She collaborates with stakeholders to redevelop the Special Olympics New Zealand Strategy\, ensuring alignment with the organisation’s mission. She is also working to diversify revenue streams to enhance financial stability and support athletes and volunteers. \nTheme: Health and Wellbeing\nAudience: All welcome
URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/power-of-sport/
LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand
CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference 2026
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/the-power-of-sport.jpg
ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz
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