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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Why do we walk?![]()
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To move forwards, not backwards.![]()
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To build a more inclusive future.![]()
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To support people with Down syndrome across Canada.![]()
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This year’s Walk Ambassadors—from coast to coast—have shared their voices, their stories, and their passion. Together, we have raised over $30,000. Your support can help us reach our $35,000 goal.![]()
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This community is powerful—let’s keep it going! Donate today at DownSyndromeWalk.ca ![]()
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#DownSyndromeWalk![]()
#DownSyndromeAwareness
Sports and Fitness
How can sports and fitness impact your life? We spoke to Paul Sawka, CDSS's Awareness Leader, about the many activities he has enjoyed as a young man and into his 30's. Paul's decades of activities have helped him to make friends, feel healthy, and feel more involved...
Changes: Holiday Traditions with Family and Friends
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...
Changes: Independence and Self-Advocacy
I have been living with a supportive roommate for about ten years. I wanted to move out when I saw my sister live on her own and my older friend with Down syndrome also moved out on his own. My parents agreed that I could live independently if I developed some much-needed skills.