Events

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 […]

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 […]

Brain Train: SMART Actions That Might Boost Cognition and Prevent Alzheimer’s Disease in People with Down Syndrome Two of the most common, yet challenging, questions that Dr. Skotko is asked by caregivers: (1) How can you prevent Alzheimer’s disease in people with Down syndrome? (2) How might we boost their cognition? While exciting research is […]

Planet Puberty: Helping Your Young Person Navigate Puberty with Confidence This session provides an introduction to Planet Puberty, a practical resource designed to provide parents and carers with information and resources to support their young people in navigating puberty with confidence. Together, we will explore the foundational skills that help young people feel confident and […]

Turn and face the strange changes” – managing puberty Krissy will talk about the topic of puberty as it relates to her experience of raising a son with Down syndrome, and she will make some recommendations of resources that can help young people transitioning through this important stage of life. Presenter Krissy Wright National Librarian, […]

Creating a Vision for a Good Life - We envisioned a meaningful and good life, and 38 years on, our son continues to embody that vision each day. Soon after the birth of her son in 1988, Bridget was determined to create a life for Alex that would follow the same ordinary path as all […]