BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) - ECPv6.15.17//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz X-WR-CALDESC:Events for New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Pacific/Auckland BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1300 TZOFFSETTO:+1200 TZNAME:NZST DTSTART:20240406T140000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1200 TZOFFSETTO:+1300 TZNAME:NZDT DTSTART:20240928T140000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1300 TZOFFSETTO:+1200 TZNAME:NZST DTSTART:20250405T140000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1200 TZOFFSETTO:+1300 TZNAME:NZDT DTSTART:20250927T140000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+1300 TZOFFSETTO:+1200 TZNAME:NZST DTSTART:20260404T140000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+1200 TZOFFSETTO:+1300 TZNAME:NZDT DTSTART:20260926T140000 END:DAYLIGHT END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250831T083000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250831T170000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250731T105936Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250731T105936Z UID:17396-1756629000-1756659600@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Special Rigs for Special Kids DESCRIPTION:  \nDear “Kids” Caregivers\, \nThis years’ fun day is to be held on Sunday 31st August from 8.30am. The event is hosted by the local transport industry to provide children with special needs\, a chance to get close to the big rigs they see on the roads. \nThe invitation is for a child with special needs and a supporting adult to come to the Edgar Centre where they will be taken for a ride in a truck\, and then returned to the Edgar Centre for a barbeque lunch. \nWe would like to emphasise that the day is primarily for children with special needs and their immediate families. We would ask you to take this into consideration when organising your family group \nPlease Note: \n· If your child is aged 7 or under please bring their car seat or booster seat with you on the day \n· We require one caregiver per child to travel in the truck\, as you know the individual needs of your child. \n· Any special dietary requirements for your child must be provided by you on the day. \n· St John Ambulance Service will be present. \n· There is no need to respond to this invitation other than to turn up on the 31st of August from 8.30am \n· There is no cost to you or your family for this event. \n· Any other immediate family members will be able to travel in the bus. \n· Any enquiries please contact Greg Inch 0274 358 508. \n  \nYours sincerely \nGreg Inch \nSpecial Rigs for Special Kids President URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/special-rigs-for-special-kids/ LOCATION:Edgar Centre\, 116 Portsmouth Drive\, Dunedin\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Screenshot-2025-07-31-225258.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250911T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250911T213000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250829T204351Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T204351Z UID:17442-1757619000-1757626200@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:NZDSA Disability Strategy Refresh DESCRIPTION:NZDSA: Have Your Say on the Disability Strategy Refresh \nConsultations are open on the New Zealand Disability Strategy 2026–2030. This is your chance to make sure the voices of people with Down syndrome\, their whānau\, and carers are heard. \nNZDSA Feedback Events \nJoin our sessions to share your thoughts in a supportive environment: \nTopic: Feedback Refresh of the NZ Disability Strategy \nDate: Sep 11\, 2025 \nTime:07:30 PM Auckland\, Wellington \nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/89358630942?pwd=nDCiX8sgPobKjmGIwucgS6FrLAgr5r.1 \nMeeting ID: 893 5863 0942 \nPasscode: 078916 \nRead the draft: \n\nFull Draft Strategy\nEasy Read Document – Whaikaha link https://www.whaikaha.govt.nz/assets/NZ-Disability-Strategy-Public-Consultation/Whaikaha-AF2507003-NZDS-Public-Consultation-in-August-website-content-Easy-Read-24-07-25.pdf\n\n  \nOther events we encourage you to participate in are \nWhaikaha consultation sessions \nAccess Matters Aotearoa Online Session \n\nDate: Monday\, 1 September 2025\nTime: 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM (NZT)\nWhere: Online via Access Matters Aotearoa\n\n  \nOther Ways to Provide Feedback \n\nOnline via the Whaikaha consultation sessions\nWord form via email\n3-minute video via videomail.io\nRequest a group consultation toolkit\n\nDeadline: Feedback closes Sunday\, 28 September 2025. \nHelp shape a fairer and more inclusive Aotearoa for people with Down syndrome and their whānau. URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/nzdsa-disability-strategy-refresh/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250913T160000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250913T170000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250718T013536Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T204556Z UID:17364-1757779200-1757782800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:STRIVE Afternoon Tea Club DESCRIPTION:13th September – 4pm -5pm \nA session run by people with Down syndrome for people with Down syndrome.  All are welcome but focussed on +16 participants \nThis month we will be talking about the Refresh of the NZ Disability Strategy \nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/84168326399?pwd=aTnlHxwL0uarOaeFWLcFekn6oTXeuL.1 \nMeeting ID: 841 6832 6399 \nPasscode: 843724 URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/strive-afternoon-tea-club-4/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/542ddb74-c92c-1452-50dd-cf7cbaef1008.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250917T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20250917T203000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250718T013222Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250718T013301Z UID:17362-1758137400-1758141000@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Online Support Meeting for Parents of Children with Regression Disorder DESCRIPTION:17th September 2025 at 07:30 PM \nOnline Support Meeting for Parents of Children with Regression Disorder \nThe NZDSA is hosting another online support meeting for parents of children diagnosed with regression disorder. This will be an opportunity to connect\, share experiences\, and support one another. \nDetails: \n\nFocus: Sharing and support (not for medical advice)\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/81274363092?pwd=5IbvWi9MuKEShjdZ9oFwQKKaBpbeiC.1 \nMeeting ID: 812 7436 3092 \nPasscode: 330223 \nIf you’re interested in joining\, please contact Zandra at neo@nzdsa.org.nz. URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/online-support-meeting-for-parents-of-children-with-regression-disorder/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251003T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251003T150000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250921T073507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T100346Z UID:17478-1759492800-1759503600@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Getting to the Good Life – The importance of having a Vision DESCRIPTION:3rd October at 12pmFocus: Improved Futures-Improved Lives \nAudience: All \n\nIt is your North Star\nGives power and strength when things go wrong\n\nSoon after his birth\, Garry and Bridget were determined to create a life for Alex that would follow the same path as his siblings. They wanted him to have a strong sense of belonging in his local neighbourhood. That he would be known and cared about because he contributed to community life. Alex would be educated with the local children\, work\, and eventually live in his own home.   Today Alex has his own house and lives his life on his terms.   Bridget understands what it takes for parents to create a vision for the future\, plan for that future\, and then make it happen for their son or daughter with Down syndrome.   It takes a very long time\, and the decisions made 30 years ago are being lived out today.   Alex lives a good life because of the vision we held for him; he now has his own vision for his own future. \n“A vision that clearly identifies in your mind your child’s rightful place in the world is essential to the pursuit of an inclusive life; to a good life in community” Quote: Bruce Uditski \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/getting-to-the-good-life-the-importance-of-having-a-vision/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/getting-to-the-good-life.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251004T160000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251004T180000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T060925Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T093036Z UID:17506-1759593600-1759600800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Supported Independence in Action: Spencer’s Everyday Life DESCRIPTION:4th October at 4pmMeeting ID: 826 6258 2918Passcode: 992960 \n Join Zoom Meeting URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/supported-independence-in-action-spencers-everyday-life/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/NZDSA_WDSM25_Zoom_Headers2-scaled.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251004T163000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251004T183000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T061820Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T093133Z UID:17510-1759595400-1759602600@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Achievements that Inspire - NZDSA Award Winners’ Panel DESCRIPTION:4th October at 4.30pmMeeting ID: 880 8355 1384Passcode: 927886 \n Join Zoom Meeting URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/achievements-that-inspire-nzdsa-award-winners-panel/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/NZDSA_WDSM25_Zoom_Headers3-scaled.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251006T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251006T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T064430Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T100900Z UID:17514-1759752000-1759759200@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Coming Full Circle DESCRIPTION:6th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Futures-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals \nKrissy will talk about her journey as a parent of not one but two sons with Down syndrome. Krissy’s story includes initial birth and diagnosis\, to living with a medically fragile child and his influence after a brief time in this world. Krissy also talks about a career and how that lead her to raising her second son and seeing him grow into an independent young man living his best life. This is a story of hope\, love and inclusion.  \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/coming-full-circle/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/coming-full-circle.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251006T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251006T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T065006Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T101039Z UID:17519-1759779000-1759784400@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Improving Support and Improving Lives through Supported Decision-Making DESCRIPTION:6th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Supported Decision-Making-Improved Lives \nAudience: All \nSupported decision-making is central to people having the support and lives they want\, need\, and deserve. In this presentation\, Brigit will talk about what supported decision-making is and why it is such an important part of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. She will also tell us how we can all be involved in supported decision-making. Having a better understanding of what supported decision-making is\, and how to put it into practice\, will mean that everyone has more choice and control over their own decisions and lives. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/improving-support-and-improving-lives-through-supported-decision-making/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/improved-support-and-improving-lives.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251007T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251007T143000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T065441Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T101245Z UID:17522-1759838400-1759847400@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Celebrating Life with Down syndrome DESCRIPTION:7th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Celebrations–Improved Lives \nAudience: All \nAll people with Down syndrome have talents and treasures to share with their communities. In this presentation\, Brian Skotko draws upon success stories in his co-authored national award-winning book\, Common Threads: Celebrating Life with Down Syndrome\, to enable parents\, professionals\, and friends to discover the potential of all people with Down syndrome \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/celebrating-life-with-down-syndrome/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/celebrating-life-with-downs.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251007T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251007T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T065813Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T101429Z UID:17528-1759865400-1759870800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (DSRD) DESCRIPTION:7th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Health – Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nThis presentation will cover what the current level of knowledge is on Down Syndrome Regression Disorder (DSRD)\, including what it is and what to do about it. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/down-syndrome-regression-disorder-dsrd/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/regression-day.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251008T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251008T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T070426Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T101615Z UID:17539-1759924800-1759932000@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Whaimana - The front door to learn about Supported Decision-Making DESCRIPTION:8th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Supported Decision-Making-Improved Lives \nAudience: All \nThis session will introduce you to Whaimana | Support My Decisions. Whaimana is a new website for decision-makers\, supporters\, and support agencies to learn about Supported Decision-Making. It has been built by the community in partnership with government\, and is the first place to get started with supported decision-making. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/whaimana-the-front-door-to-learn-about-supported-decision-making/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/whaimana.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251008T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251008T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250926T070802Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T101756Z UID:17542-1759951800-1759957200@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Behind the Data: The Realities for People with Learning Disability in NZ DESCRIPTION:8th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Data-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nIn 2023\, IHC released a landmark report using New Zealand’s Integrated Data Infrastructure (IDI)\, a large government database holding information on nine million people. This research exposed stark inequities faced by people with intellectual disability\, including much poorer health outcomes\, higher rates of chronic illness\, and a life expectancy up to 22 years shorter than the rest of the population. It also revealed that people with intellectual disability are over three times more likely to be victims of crime\, and that families are disproportionately affected by child removals and family violence. \nIHC have now updated this research with new data\, allowing us to track whether outcomes for people with intellectual disability have improved since 2018. Alongside this\, IHC has released The Cost of Exclusion\, a new report showing the severe and ongoing economic disadvantage faced by people with intellectual disability and their families. They are three times more likely to live in material hardship\, often go without essentials such as fresh food\, heating\, and transport\, and children are far more likely to miss out on school and social activities because of cost. \nThis presentation will share key findings from these updated reports\, highlight trends over time\, and connect the data to the lived experiences of families. It will also discuss the action needed to create meaningful change and achieve equity for people with intellectual disability in Aotearoa New Zealand. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/behind-the-data-the-realities-for-people-with-learning-disability-in-nz/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/behind-the-data.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251009T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251009T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250927T073811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T102018Z UID:17554-1760011200-1760018400@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Keeping Children and Adolescents with Down Syndrome Healthy DESCRIPTION:9th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Health-Improved Lives \nAudience: All \nIn this presentation\, Dr Brian Skotko reviews all of the questions and concerns that parents most often have about their sons and daughters with Down syndrome. He provides the answers and action steps\, stemming from the latest clinical research on people with Down syndrome. Based on his clinical experience in the Down Syndrome Program at Massachusetts General Hospital\, Dr Skotko makes sure that every parent can anticipate medical conditions so that the potentials of all people with Down syndrome are maximized. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/keeping-children-and-adolescents-with-down-syndrome-healthy-2/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/keeping-children-and-adolescents-healthy.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251009T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251009T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250927T075302Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T102158Z UID:17560-1760038200-1760043600@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:How to improve education and employment outcomes for Whaikaha DESCRIPTION:9th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Education/Employment-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nThis presentation explores how education and employment systems can better support people with Down syndrome. Grant will highlight systemic barriers and share practical strategies to create equitable opportunities that value their strengths and contributions of the people we support. He will also spend time exploring ideas that have made a real difference for him and others in education and employment \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/how-to-improve-education-and-employment-outcomes-for-whaikaha/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/how-to-improve-education-and-employment.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251011T160000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251011T163000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250927T075633Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T102318Z UID:17565-1760198400-1760200200@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Creating\, Sharing and Empowering DESCRIPTION:11th October at 4pmMeeting ID: 861 7365 3928Passcode: 776200 \n Join zoom meeting URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/creating-sharing-and-empowering/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/NZDSA_WDSM25_Zoom_Headers12-scaled.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251011T163000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251011T173000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180251 CREATED:20250927T075914Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T102537Z UID:17568-1760200200-1760203800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:STRIVE and STEP-UP: Shaping Futures Through Advocacy DESCRIPTION:11th October at 4.30pmMeeting ID: 883 0045 4710Passcode: 720444 \n Join zoom meeting URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/strive-and-step-up-shaping-futures-through-advocacy/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/NZDSA_WDSM25_Zoom_Headers13-scaled.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251013T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251013T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T080639Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T102729Z UID:17573-1760356800-1760364000@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Books Beyond Barriers and more! DESCRIPTION:13th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Information-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nKrissy is the National Librarian at the CCS Disability Action Library and Information Service. Krissy will talk about her passion in sharing information to empower people. Krissy will share the different accessible forms of information and talk about sharing information through community radio and podcast.   \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/books-beyond-barriers-and-more/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/books-beyond-barriers-and-more.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251013T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251013T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T081540Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T102853Z UID:17579-1760383800-1760389200@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Supporting people with learning difficulties experiencing grief DESCRIPTION:13th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Wellbeing and Resilience-Improved Lives \nAudience: All \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/supporting-people-with-learning-difficulties-experiencing-grief/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/supporting-people-with-learning-disabilities-experiencing-grief.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251014T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251014T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T082005Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T103013Z UID:17583-1760443200-1760450400@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Home & School: Joyful connections and a strong relationship DESCRIPTION:14th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Education–Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nI’m presenting in my capacity as a parent\, not in a professional capacity. My daughter Charlotte is in Year 4 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 we have a strong relationship.  It’s a long-term relationship\, and it’s not always smooth – but I’ve learned some important things along the way. \nI’ll talk about how we communicate\, plan and solve problems together\, and how our focus has changed over the last 4 years. \nThis is suitable for anyone who is starting school in the next few years or who has already started primary school. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/home-school-joyful-connections-and-a-strong-relationship/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/NZDSA_WDSM25_Zoom_Headers16-scaled.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251014T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251014T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T082354Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T103147Z UID:17587-1760470200-1760475600@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:From Voices to Power: Making Accessibility a Political Priority DESCRIPTION:14th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Advocacy-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nHow do we transform lived experience into political influence? In her talk\, Juliana Carvalho will share the story and strategy behind the Access Matters campaign\, a grassroots movement working to make accessibility a political priority in Aotearoa New Zealand. Drawing on lessons from collective action\, community organising\, and coalition-building\, Juliana will explore how diverse voices can be amplified into a united call for change. She will highlight practical steps the campaign is taking to engage policymakers\, mobilise supporters\, and shift public narratives—demonstrating the power of collaboration to create a more inclusive society for all. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/from-voices-to-power-making-accessibility-a-political-priority/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/from-voices-to-power.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251015T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251015T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T082916Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T103326Z UID:17592-1760529600-1760536800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:The IHC Library - Responding to Change DESCRIPTION:15th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Information-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nA brief look at what the IHC Library is and how it can support parents\, caregivers and anyone with an interest in intellectual disability. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/the-ihc-library-responding-to-change/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/the-ihc-library.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251015T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251015T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T083321Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T103511Z UID:17597-1760556600-1760562000@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Babble Boot Camp DESCRIPTION:15th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Communications-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nThis presentation shares a pilot study of Babble Boot Camp\, a caregiver-led programme that supports early speech and language development in infants with Down syndrome\, offering insights into proactive strategies for lifelong communication \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/babble-boot-camp/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/babble-boot-camp.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251016T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251016T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T084021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T103642Z UID:17603-1760643000-1760648400@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Health equity for people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities DESCRIPTION:16th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Health-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nThis talk will cover the unfair health outcomes faced by people with Down syndrome and intellectual disabilities\, including findings from Down Syndrome International’s ‘Our Say in Our Health’ report. We will also discuss work happening on this topic from the World Health Organization\, and actions that we can all take to make things better.  \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/health-equity-for-people-with-down-syndrome-and-intellectual-disabilities/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/health-equity-for-people-with-down-syndrome.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251020T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251020T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T090458Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T103919Z UID:17608-1760961600-1760968800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Ageing and future aspirations: Navigating Ever-Changing Seas DESCRIPTION:20th October at 12pmFocus: Improved Aging-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals  \nNavigating Ever-Changing Seas is a new model for understanding the experiences of ageing people with intellectual (learning) disabilities and the family/whānau who support them. These relationships can be complex and change over time\, often involving multiple generations. Everyone’s experience is shaped by their identity\, relationships\, past and present support\, and the wider community and social context. Understanding these perspectives helps guide future planning\, support practices\, service development\, research\, and inclusive policies. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/ageing-and-future-aspirations-navigating-ever-changing-seas/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/ageing-and-future-aspirations.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251020T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251020T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T091113Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T104038Z UID:17613-1760988600-1760994000@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Improving Brain Health for people with Down syndrome DESCRIPTION:20th October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Aging-Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals   \nPeople with Down syndrome are at increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease. This talk will discuss common symptoms of dementia\, and how medical specialists can assess memory and brain health. It will cover current and emerging treatments. Lastly\, it will cover how to optimise brain health across all life stages. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/improving-brain-health-for-people-with-down-syndrome/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/improving-brain-health-for-people.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251021T120000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251021T140000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T091525Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T104538Z UID:17617-1761048000-1761055200@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Building Capability Through Supported Independence DESCRIPTION:21st October at 12pmFocus: Improved Wellbeing and Resilience–Improved Lives \nAudience: Parents\, whānau and professionals   \nDr Maree Kirk’s presentation situates the World Down Syndrome 2025 theme — Improved Support\, Improved Lives — within the New Zealand context. Drawing on her PhD research\, she developed the theory of wellbeing for children with a disability\, which identified three principles of acceptance\, recognition\, and supported independence. She highlights how capability must be intentionally built across home\, school\, and community. Supported independence is not about doing everything alone\, but about balancing autonomy and support to enable full participation in education\, family\, and community life. Maree also shares insights from recent Ministry of Education pilot projects and the national Network of Expertise (NEX) contract\, alongside findings from her action research on the Transition Capability Pathway. Her presentation shows how family-led\, holistic\, and rights-based approaches to support can transform independence and inclusion for learners with Down syndrome. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/building-capability-through-supported-independence/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/building-capability.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251021T193000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251021T210000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250927T092245Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T104707Z UID:17622-1761075000-1761080400@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Empowering Self-determination with Volition DESCRIPTION:21st October at 7.30pmFocus: Improved Supported Decision-Making-Improved Lives \nAudience: All \nHaving choice and control in your life starts with knowing what is important to you and then telling others. This session will walk through Volition\, a new app that empowers Decision Makers to work with their Supporters to understand and communicate the things that matter to them. \n Register here URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/empowering-self-determination-with-volition/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand CATEGORIES:Virtual Conference ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/empowering-self-determination.jpeg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251029T190000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251029T203000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20251017T220045Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251017T220045Z UID:17714-1761764400-1761769800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:Care and Wellbeing Workshop DESCRIPTION:Care Matters and the New Zealand Down Syndrome Association (NZDSA) are excited to bring the Down syndrome community a care and wellbeing workshop!\nTo mark the UN International Day of Care and Support\, we invite parents\, family\, whānau\, and aiga carers to a special workshop honouring your incredible mahi.\nThis free wellbeing workshop is designed as a calm\, welcoming space where you can pause\, connect\, and focus on you. Together we’ll explore tools and ideas to strengthen resilience\, nurture balance\, and support you in the important role you play.\nDate: Wednesday 29 October 2025\nTime: 7.00-8.30pm URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/care-and-wellbeing-workshop/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://nzdsa.org.nz/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/560607204_1230333005806931_5182930830507019469_n.jpg ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251108T170000 DTEND;TZID=Pacific/Auckland:20251108T180000 DTSTAMP:20260407T180252 CREATED:20250718T014427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250718T014427Z UID:17368-1762621200-1762624800@nzdsa.org.nz SUMMARY:NZDSA AGM DESCRIPTION:8th November at 5pm \nNZDSA AGM \nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/82780897188?pwd=CUqgXvMdUecIHZUpE7yQbVXhfLOqSP.1 \nMeeting ID: 827 8089 7188 \nPasscode: 206417 URL:https://nzdsa.org.nz/event/nzdsa-agm/ LOCATION:Zoom\, New Zealand ORGANIZER;CN="New Zealand Down Syndrome Association":MAILTO:na@nzdsa.org.nz END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR