Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS)
We provide reliable information and connections to people with Down syndrome and those who support them, while positively shaping the social and policy contexts in which they live.
Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS)
We provide reliable information and connections to people with Down syndrome and those who support them, while positively shaping the social and policy contexts in which they live.
Introducing Unified Voices
The Canadian Down Syndrome Society is very proud to present Unified Voices: Part 1, a new documentary film exploring the lives of Canadians with Down syndrome like never before, taking you across this vast country to tell the stories of our community.
This federally funded documentary in celebration of National AccessAbility Week highlights the diverse voices within the Down syndrome community. In Part 1, director Moses Latigo Odida begins the story by introducing us to three Canadians and their unique challenges and triumphs with education, employment, and social inclusion.
Listening and Learning from Our New Series Caregiver Conversations
In honour of National Caregiver Awareness Month, we are taking the opportunity to listen and learn from our fellow caregivers in the Down syndrome community in our new series, Caregiver Conversations.
This four-part video series will introduce you to four caregivers who are at different stages of their journey with their loved ones. We will be releasing a new episode each week in May. Watch Episode 4 with Special Guest Drew Hyttenrauch today.
Learning Together in the School Community
The CDSS Education Hub is filled with shareable, printable resources and quick guides that include practical tips and suggestions to help support students as they learn together in the school community.
3.21 Canada’s Down Syndrome Magazine
3.21 Magazine is Canada’s resource for advocacy news, community stories, exclusive interviews, free resources, and upcoming events. Subscribe to 3.21 Magazine today and receive new issues for free.
Having a baby should be one of the happiest times in your life. Sometimes, though, it comes with an unexpected twist that throws you for a loop. For many, finding out that your baby has Down syndrome is scary, and can even overshadow the thrill of becoming a parent to a beautiful new life.
It doesn’t have to be this way.
While a magazine is no substitute for flesh-and-blood people, in these pages you will find the collective wisdom of parents who have walked these steps before you, supplemented by the knowledge of professionals who have served as reliable guides for many families.
Every child’s path is beautifully unique, and we hope this special New Parents issue of 3.21 Magazine will help you and your child on your way.
Welcome to the family!
We’re here to help
Resources and Information
Welcoming New Parents to the Down Syndrome Community
21 Welcomes is Canada’s guide for new parents who are expecting or just had a baby with Down syndrome. This booklet has just been updated to feature:
- New parent stories
- Self-advocate experiences
- Development milestones
- Feeding advice
- Early intervention programs
Resources for Every Stage of Life
Learn More About the Canadian Down Syndrome Society
About CDSS
Your Impact in 2023
Have questions? Connect with us! 1-800-883-5608 or email info@cdss.ca
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What Life with Down Syndrome Is Like: Q&A with Self Advocate Paul Sawka
What Life with Down Syndrome is Like: Q&A with Self-Advocate Paul Sawka Hello, everyone. My name is Paul Sawka. I am the CDSS Awareness Leader. Everyone really should learn about the Down syndrome world because it tells us who we are from within ourselves. I think...
Making Independence Possible: Why Support Matters
I have had many people support me in the past and in the present in lots of different ways. These are the types of support that I have received over the years.My Community Support PeopleI have had many community support workers in the past like Anne, Ross, Brandon,...
Federal Election 2025: Key Issues for Canadians with Disabilities
Make These Issues a Priority in the Upcoming Federal Election1. Income Security and the Canada Disability Benefit Increase payments so recipients are above the poverty line, accounting for the additional costs of disability. Expand eligibility so all people with...