Down Syndrome Queensland has registered as an NDIS Provider to provide services to any eligible person in Queensland. There are a range of services that we offer that can be funded through an NDIS Plan. Families need to be proactive in organising their NDIS funding in order to access these services. If you are entering into an NDIS plan in the near future or having a plan review, it is important that you consider the outcomes you want to achieve and how our services can help you achieve these.
At Down Syndrome Queensland (DSQ) we offer an excellent range of social programs to develop skills, build capacity and empower people living with Down syndrome and other Intellectual Disabilities now and in the future.
Social Programs are our monthly events (Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast), our Challenge Weekends, New Year’s Eve Ball and online virtual events (Lunch Club, Dance Parties, Karaoke & Talent Shows, Games and Trivia Nights).
We have listed below a range of different educational and social programs available through DSQ. If you would like more information please call the Program Manager on (07)3356 6655 or email tcossor@downsyndromeqld.org.au.
DSQ Challenge Weekend
The DSQ Challenge Weekend is a personal development weekend for people with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities aged 12 and over. Participants are allocated into small groups captained by a volunteer team leader who provides peer support for the duration of the weekend. The aim is for ‘Challengers’ to try new things and be pushed outside their comfort zones in a safe, supportive and encouraging environment.
DSQ Club 16+
The DSQ Club is all about getting out and about with your friends from DSQ and having some fun! But we always include opportunities where members can develop life skills and build independence. Held monthly, activities are aimed at having fun, but also provide an opportunity to try new things, develop confidence and independence. Things like going out for dinner, attending public events, arcade gaming and movie nights have been popular DSQ Club events in the past.
DSQ Teens 12 – 16
DSQ Teens is all making new friends and connecting with existing friends. Held monthly, activities are designed to be fun and engaging but also to support teenagers in developing their independence and social skills. Attending the outdoor cinemas, swimming at the waterpark and playing sports have been some popular DSQ Teens events.
DSQ Kids 5 – 11
DSQ Kids is an opportunity for primary school aged children to meet new friends their age, get active and develop social skills in a new environment. Held every 3 months, children will have the chance to partake in activities are designed to be fun and engaging but also support developing important social skills. Activities include visiting zoos and attractions, mini golf, movies and much more!
DSQ Playgroup
Playgroups are volunteer run social get togethers for parents of children with Down syndrome. Children can explore play and social activities with other children with Down syndrome, their siblings and friends, whilst parents/guardians connect informally.
The playgroup sessions are free however a small fee for catering may be charged in some areas.
Together Red Choir
Together Red is the Down Syndrome Queensland’s Choir of adolescents and adults. This service can be funded through your NDIS plan.
Why is choir good for you?
Adolescents and adults are constantly learning about themselves and the world around them. Sometimes music can help with exercise, relaxation, self-expression, and recreational enjoyment. Singing in a choir is an enjoyable way of social interaction and communicating. Other musical activities may include instrumental play, dancing, song writing, and relaxation. The choir will also perform in concerts. Through these concerts, the choir and its members will connect with the community through art and music.
Choir is held on Wednesday evenings at Coorparoo (except during school holidays) from 5:00 – 6:00pm.
Continued Education Program (CEP)
This is a program of curriculum instruction developed by Down Syndrome Queensland and other intellectual disabilities, based on current effective approaches in the education of people with Down syndrome. The program is a continuation of a students’ education after school and into adulthood, building on the students’ learning strengths.
The philosophy of the program is that students learn holistically and as such, the program includes elements of a student’s real-world experiences.
LATCH-ON
Are you, or someone you know, looking to enhance literacy, self-confidence,independence, and work placement opportunities?
Latch-On is an innovative, evidence-based literacy program that changes the lives of young adults with intellectual disabilities. The program provides opportunities for students to increase their literacy skills in a post-secondary school environment, using technology to enhance literacy, self-confidence, independence and work placement opportunities. Latch-On combines traditional literacy and numeracy teaching styles with technology instruction, also including health and fitness education.
• Research based, developed by the University of Queensland.
• 2 days per week for 2 years, may be funded through NDIS plans.
• For students with employment, further education or general independence goals.
• Scaffolding activities (activities become more challenging throughout the program)
Down Syndrome Queensland is currently running this program in Brisbane, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast; to register your interest contact tcossor@downsyndromeqld.org.au
Skills for Independence
Skills for Independence Program is a new program that focuses intensely on one specific and important life skill each term. Students will develop knowledge, skills and confidence through an intensive, one day per week curriculum aimed at providing real life, hands on, and regular opportunities to practice – learn – practice – learn – practice – learn – a relevant skill of independence.
It is considered an ongoing program for those who will benefit from each term’s focus, in a way that allows students to learn in the classroom and practice in the real world.
Music Playgroup
Music playgroup is a fun and developmentally stimulating program suitable for children with Down syndrome and their siblings (along with a carer) from birth up to 5 years old, facilitated by a registered music therapist.
Activities include; music and movement, singing, instrumental play and relaxation. The groups are small, interactive and fun for all.
The focus is on the children learning through involvement. Music playgroups can:
- Enhance early childhood development
- Nurture relationships between parent and child through musical play.
- Give parents hands-on ideas for using music at home to stimulate, calm and interact with their baby/child and other families.
The first session is FREE and then NDIS participants are able to use Capacity Building—Improved Daily Living funds for this program.
Please contact us if you want to find a similar session regionally as we have Regional Representatives who will be able to help.