Filtering by: youth
A Look at Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder
May
2
7:30 PM19:30

A Look at Down Syndrome and Autism Spectrum Disorder

Down syndrome and autism can be challenging disabilities separately, however when combined the challenges can be quite complex and oftentimes are misunderstood by the family members and professionals in the individual’s life.  This workshop will take a look at what we know about DS-ASD, discuss commonalities in family experiences, explore basic behavioral red flags, discuss treatment recommendations and the importance of building a support network and care team through the lifespan.

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Moms' Day Out: Candle Making Experience
May
18
12:00 PM12:00

Moms' Day Out: Candle Making Experience

DSG Moms! Don't miss out on an exclusive Candle Making Experience at our offices on Saturday, May 18th, from 12 pm to 1:30 pm, led by CRAV Company! Enjoy expert instruction led by a seasoned chandler, guiding you through the candle making process. Plus, take home your very own 11 oz customized candle with the fragrance of your choice! Reserve your spot now and get ready for a delightful afternoon of creativity and relaxation!

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Annual Family Picnic
May
19
1:00 PM13:00

Annual Family Picnic

The DSG is so excited to be returning to The Southern Cross Ranch this year for a day of family fun for the DSG Annual Family Picnic. The event includes a petting zoo, fishing ponds, playground, bubble garden, clown/balloon artist, face painting, bounce house, rock climbing wall, pedal boats, and sports fields, games, swimming pool, and lunch.

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FULL: Empower Youth OT Summer Camp (Ages 5-12)
Jun
10
to Jun 14

FULL: Empower Youth OT Summer Camp (Ages 5-12)

  • Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for some OT fun hosted by the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas and UTMB OT student, Lizzie Thompson. Camp will consist of fun and interactive activities for your child to practice developmentally appropriate skills. Activities will target gross and fine motor skills, handwriting, visual perceptual skills, emotional regulation, sensory integration, and provide your child with the opportunity to build relationships with their peers!

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FULL: 2024 iCan Bike Camp for Ages 8 and Older
Jun
17
to Jun 21

FULL: 2024 iCan Bike Camp for Ages 8 and Older

iCan Shine uses customized adapted equipment, trained professionals and volunteers. With 75 minutes of instruction over 5 days, approximately 80% of riders learn to ride a conventional bicycle independently by the end of camp.  The remaining 20% often make great progress towards that goal. 

To be eligible to enroll, riders must: be at least eight years old; have a disability; be able to walk without an assistive device such as a walker or cane; be able to side-step quickly to both sides; have a minimum inseam measurement of 20 inches from the floor; and weigh no more than 220 pounds.

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FULL: 2024 iCan Swim Camp for Ages 3 and Older
Jul
15
to Jul 19

FULL: 2024 iCan Swim Camp for Ages 3 and Older

  • Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas (Aquatics Center) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

iCan Shine's iCan Swim program is designed to teach individuals with disabilities ages 3 and older the foundation of safely enjoying aquatic environments and promoting as much independent movement in the water as possible! Each swimmer participating in iCan Swim has their unique goals. Goals will range from an introduction to water exploration, learning water safety in aquatic environments, learning to swim, and/or skill refinement in preparation to join a Special Olympics, Paralympic or other swim team. These goals are accomplished in a safe, supportive, inclusive and fun environment with the assistance of volunteers.

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2024 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®
Oct
20
11:00 AM11:00

2024 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®

The Dallas Buddy Walk® is the signature fundraising and awareness event for the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas bringing together more than 5,000 individuals with Down syndrome, their family members, and community supporters annually. The event features family-friendly activities like inflatables, music, games, face painting, vendor booths, and more for kids and adults alike. The event also includes an awareness walk that celebrates the abilities and accomplishments of all individuals with Down syndrome.

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April Community Groups- In the Park
Apr
28
2:00 PM14:00

April Community Groups- In the Park

Bring the family and get to know others in your community on Sunday April 28 from 2 pm - 4pm at a park near you! Families of the DSG will be hosting park playdates in your community and staff will not be present at locations. Please register for a park that is closest to your home. The hope is that you will meet and connect with other families in your area.

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Dallas Mechanical Group Crawfish Boil Benefitting the DSG
Apr
21
12:00 PM12:00

Dallas Mechanical Group Crawfish Boil Benefitting the DSG

  • 2791 MacArthur Boulevard Lewisville, TX, 75067 United States (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us for the 5th annual Dallas Mechanical Group Crawfish Boil benefitting the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas. There will be fun for the whole family including bugs, shrimp, beer, music, bounce houses, raffles, and more.

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2024 World Down Syndrome Day
Mar
21
6:00 PM18:00

2024 World Down Syndrome Day

World Down Syndrome Day was first observed in 2006 in many countries around the world. WDSD is celebrated on the 21st day of March to honor and share our love for those living with Down syndrome and to create awareness and acceptance for others. March 21st (3/21) was chosen as the day to signify the uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome, which is what causes Down syndrome to occur.

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Dads Night Out: Guided Tour & Tasting
Feb
10
3:00 PM15:00

Dads Night Out: Guided Tour & Tasting

Dads Night Out! We will walk you through the process of making Texas Whiskey, from the farm to the glass. Hear about our humble beginnings and bright future from our Head Distiller & The BTE himself. Grab a cocktail, and bring your best Dad Jokes, the best one wins a prize!

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FULL: Breakfast with Santa for families of children with Down syndrome ages 0-12
Dec
9
10:00 AM10:00

FULL: Breakfast with Santa for families of children with Down syndrome ages 0-12

  • Plano Nature and Retreat Center (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

The Down Syndrome Guild invites families of children with Down syndrome ages 0-12 to join us for everyone’s favorite holiday activities! This year, children will have the opportunity to enjoy a light breakfast, create a craft, stir up their own hot chocolate and more! And of course the whole family will be able to take a picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus!

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2023 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®
Nov
12
11:00 AM11:00

2023 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®

The Dallas Buddy Walk® is the signature fundraising and awareness event for the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas bringing together more than 5,000 individuals with Down syndrome, their family members, and community supporters annually. The event features family-friendly activities like inflatables, music, games, face painting, vendor booths, and more for kids and adults alike. The event also includes an awareness walk that celebrates the abilities and accomplishments of all individuals with Down syndrome.

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Moms' Night Out
Nov
11
6:30 PM18:30

Moms' Night Out

Enjoy meeting other moms from the Down syndrome community with a night of dinner and fun! Moms of all ages are welcome. Dinner includes chips, salsa, bean dip, queso blanco, two types of tacos: Chicken Tinga and Veggie, Mexican Rice, Borracho Beans, and Sopapillas. Non-alcoholic beverages will be included- beer, wine, margaritas and additional drinks may be purchased by the guest. 

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New Parent Connection for Families of Children with Down Syndrome Ages 0-2 Years
Nov
5
2:00 PM14:00

New Parent Connection for Families of Children with Down Syndrome Ages 0-2 Years

Parents of children with Down syndrome ages 0-2 are encouraged to join us to connect with other families and learn about resources in our community.  This informal session will give parents the opportunity to ask questions and seek advice from DSG alumni parents who have graduated beyond the baby/toddler years.  This roundtable format offers plenty of time for Q&A and discussion with families in a small group setting who understand and share your greatest challenges, fears, and joys.

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Dual Diagnosis Connection
Nov
4
10:00 AM10:00

Dual Diagnosis Connection

The Dual Diagnosis Connection serves families whose loved one with Down syndrome has an additional diagnosis, such as Autism or ADHD. This session is also applicable for those who may suspect their child has a dual diagnosis. Session led by Sherry Parma, parent of a son with co-occurring Down syndrome and Autism, and Joli Webberman, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA, Senior Director of Clinical Services, Behavioral Innovations.

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POSTPONED- 2023 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®
Oct
29
11:00 AM11:00

POSTPONED- 2023 DALLAS BUDDY WALK®

Due to the inclement weather timeline for this Sunday, October 29, the Down Syndrome Guild has made the tough decision to postpone the 2023 Dallas Buddy Walk® until Sunday, November 12, at Toyota Stadium from 11 am-3pm.  The event will still feature family-friendly activities, music, exhibitor booths, an awareness walk, and more.  This decision was not taken lightly as our team must evaluate many factors that go into such a large event including volunteers, vendors, set up timeline, sponsors, participants, and more.  We are thankful for the ability to pivot and reschedule this important day for our community.

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Community Groups- In the Park
Oct
15
2:00 PM14:00

Community Groups- In the Park

Bring the family and get to know others in your community on Sunday October 15th from 2 pm - 4pm at a park near you! Families of the DSG will be hosting park playdates in your community and staff will not be present at locations. Please register for a park that is closest to your home. The hope is that you will meet and connect with other families in your area.

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Indoor Pool Party for Families of Children with Down syndrome ages 5-17
Sep
16
7:00 PM19:00

Indoor Pool Party for Families of Children with Down syndrome ages 5-17

We invite individuals with Down syndrome ages5-17 and their families to join us for an indoor pool party at The Epic in Grand Prairie (2960 Epic Place, Grand Prairie, TX 75052). Youth and teens can enjoy the indoor pool with their families and other members of the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas. 

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Dads Night Out- Ballpark Edition
Sep
9
6:05 PM18:05

Dads Night Out- Ballpark Edition

Join DSG Dads for an evening of baseball, all you can eat food, and great company. The All You Can Eat Seats for a Rangers game are located in left-field sections 27-33 at Globe Life Field. This Rangers fan-favorite space offers a spectacular view from lower left field, along with a ticket that includes all-you-can eat items like grilled chicken sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, nachos, peanuts, popcorn, and unlimited soft drinks.

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Dual Diagnosis Connection
Aug
26
10:00 AM10:00

Dual Diagnosis Connection

The Dual Diagnosis Connection serves families whose loved one with Down syndrome has an additional diagnosis, such as Autism or ADHD. This session is also applicable for those who may suspect their child has a dual diagnosis. Session led by Sherry Parma, parent of a son with co-occurring Down syndrome and Autism, and Joli Webberman, M.Ed, BCBA, LBA, Senior Director of Clinical Services, Behavioral Innovations.

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FULL: 2023 iCan Swim Camp for Ages 3 and Older
Jul
10
to Jul 14

FULL: 2023 iCan Swim Camp for Ages 3 and Older

  • Jesuit College Preparatory School of Dallas (Aquatics Center) (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

This camp is currently full and no longer accepting registrations.

iCan Shine's iCan Swim program is designed to teach individuals with disabilities ages 3 and older the foundation of safely enjoying aquatic environments and promoting as much independent movement in the water as possible! Each swimmer participating in iCan Swim has their unique goals. Goals will range from an introduction to water exploration, learning water safety in aquatic environments, learning to swim, and/or skill refinement in preparation to join a Special Olympics, Paralympic or other swim team. These goals are accomplished in a safe, supportive, inclusive and fun environment with the assistance of volunteers.

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Parents Night Out
Jun
24
6:00 PM18:00

Parents Night Out

Time for you and/or your significant other to have a night out and enjoy time with other parents. Any parent or guardian of a child with Down syndrome will join together for a fun evening at El Fenix in Dallas sharing a meal with others, and getting to know new friends and catching up with old ones. Child care is NOT provided, so please plan accordingly.

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Annual Family Picnic
May
21
1:00 PM13:00

Annual Family Picnic

The DSG is so excited to be returning to The Southern Cross Ranch this year for a day of family fun for the DSG Annual Family Picnic. The event includes a petting zoo, fishing ponds, playground, bubble garden, clown/balloon artist, face painting, bounce house, rock climbing wall, pedal boats, and sports fields, games, swimming pool, and lunch.

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March to Independence: The Essential Guide for Families with Down Syndrome
Apr
25
6:30 PM18:30

March to Independence: The Essential Guide for Families with Down Syndrome

The DSG of Dallas presents Steve & Gwendolyn Friedman’s ‘March to Independence.’ The Friedman’s have compiled an essential reference guide for  families with Down syndrome. They are thrilled to share learnings, tips, and essential information to help you navigate the oftentimes overwhelming path toward independence for your son or daughter. Topics will include social, safety, health, financial/benefits, legal instruments, housing, and more. While special focus will be afforded to teen and adult years, they will also talk about what new parents can do to begin their independence journey. Ample time will be provided for Q&A. The is an in-person event, and dinner will be provided by the DSG.

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Dual Diagnosis Connection
Apr
22
1:00 PM13:00

Dual Diagnosis Connection

The Dual Diagnosis Connection serves families whose loved one with Down syndrome has an additional diagnosis, such as Autism or ADHD. This session is also applicable for those who may suspect their child has a dual diagnosis. Board Certified Behavior Analyst, Joli Webberman will discuss aggressive behaviors and self-harm including tips for parents and caregivers. This session will also include plenty of time for Q&A and general group discussion led by Sherry Parma, parent of a son with co-occurring Down syndrome and Autism.

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WDSD Park Playdate
Mar
19
2:00 PM14:00

WDSD Park Playdate

Bring the family and celebrate World Down Syndrome Day on Sunday March 19th from 2 pm - 5pm at Flag Pole Hill! Flag Pole Hill is a one of a kind park with an all inclusive playground, a walking trail, and lots of green space for outdoor activities. All ages are invited to attend this informal playdate to meet other local families while enjoying some outdoor fun (weather permitting). The DSG has rented the pavilion near the park. We will provide small water bottles and cookies. We encourage families to bring their own food and snacks. 

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Spring Break Jump for Families with School Age Children Ages 5-17
Mar
14
10:00 AM10:00

Spring Break Jump for Families with School Age Children Ages 5-17

Enjoy some time with DSG at Altitude Trampoline Park in Richardson! Families with children ages 5-17, join us at Altitude Trampoline Park in Richardson on Tuesday, March 14, from 10 am-12 pm to explore their indoor trampoline park. The DSG will provide socks for jumping and water for those registered.

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