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.
Register Your Team or Donate to the Down Syndrome Walk Today!
Help us create a world where everyone is seen, valued, and respected for who they truly are. Register your team today, make a donation, or attend a local Down Syndrome Walk Ambassdor event near you!
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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We are very proud to present Unified Voices: Part 1, a new documentary film exploring the lives of Canadians with Down syndrome like never before, as we take you across this vast country to tell the stories of our community.![]()
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In Part 1, director Moses Latigo Odida introduces us to three Canadians, their communities, and their unique challenges and triumphs with education, employment, and social inclusion.![]()
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This federally funded film in celebration of National AccessAbility Week highlights the diverse voices of people with Down syndrome; Canadians who are woven into the fabric of every community across this country. ![]()
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Watch Unified Voices: Part 1 at www.unifiedvoices.ca/![]()
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#unifiedvoicesfilm #canadianfilm #downsyndrome #NationalAccessAbilityWeek
Paul’s 2024 Year in Review
CDSS Awareness Leader Paul Sawka shares some highlights from his activities during 2024, including ukulele lessons and a trip to Jamaica, and his hopes for 2025!
Supportive Roommates: Paul and Winnie’s Story of Independent Living
Discover how Paul, a man with Down syndrome, and Winnie, his supportive roommate, create a positive and organized living environment. Learn how they balance independence with teamwork, share household responsibilities, and build strong communication skills. Their story offers valuable tips for anyone considering living with a supportive roommate and highlights the benefits of shared living for personal growth and companionship.
Changes: Navigating Mental Health
Hey everyone, my name is Paul Sawka. I am the Awareness Leader for CDSS. I have been thinking and writing a lot about feelings and changes lately. I really wanted to share these thoughts with the world, so I would like to invite you to read my new blog series about my...