Respite Program

With the assistance of qualified staff, individuals will receive the following services:

  • Transitional independent living program - ages 21 - 25
  • Overnight Respite Program
  • Offering flexible services that meet the needs of the individual
  • Encouraging family support and offering assistance with the transition
  • A place for individuals to retreat to, giving families a break
  • Offering new services in the community of Peterborough

For more information view our Respite Brocure in PDF format or call us at 705-742-1603.

One to One Computer Tutoring

The Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough one-to-one computer-tutoring program initiated in 1990 familiarizes individuals with Down syndrome with computers while at the same time working on necessary life skills such as reading and phonetics, math and money skills in a fun, encouraging environment.

One-to-one computer classes can complement regular school classes, providing extra practice in those skill areas which need improvement. The lessons may include practice with reading math, logic, mapping or money skills. These classes may also explore areas of personal interest for students, outside the regular school curriculum, such as learning to type or exploring the internet.

There are many educational programs at all levels to reinforce basic literacy and math skills in fun and interesting ways. Students may complete puzzles, games, crafts, or other activities to promote learning and life skills as well. A personalized program will be designed for each student in consultation with the student, his/her parents, and the computer teacher.

The Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough tutoring program has something to offer all of its participants. Students have access to the latest computer equipment and programs. Being able to use a computer is a valuable skill for anyone. From playing to games, to completing reports, research assignments, to sending e-mail, everyone can find a use for a computer.

If you are interested in participating in this program please contact the Down Syndrome Association of Peterborough at 749-6695.

Fine Motor Skills Classes

Fine Motor Skills Classes are for people living with Down syndrome who have difficulty with poor muscle tone and find fine motor skills difficult like using scissors, printing, writing, using buttons, zippers, tracing etc. This class can assist people to be more independent by learning and practising these skills with an Instructor and volunteers to assist on a one to one basis.

These classes are held on Tuesdays from 6 - 7 pm. at the office.

New Parents

Our New Parent Package consists of current and useful information of pamphlets, booklets and brochures. It serves as a helpful resource tool to assist new parents with a variety of community services within Peterborough, and Northumberland Counties and The City of Kawartha Lakes. It is distributed through our office and Peterborough Regional Health Care Centre and Ross Memorial Hospital in Lindsay, Ontario.

We plan to make this resource available to other agencies soon.

Our objective is to help new parents understand what Down syndrome is and provide parents with a network of community services, access to current resource material, and a support group of parents, caretakers and family who share similar experiences. Parent volunteers are available to visit new parents and parents are ready to reach out.

Your Baby Has Down’s Syndrome: A Guide For Parents

This is an excellent resource from the Down’s Syndrome Association in the United Kingdom

“Your Baby” is just one of the many resources included in our New Parent Package. From Canadian Down Syndrome Society, 1996. Your Baby is a thoughtful introduction for new parents of an infant with Down syndrome. Commonly asked questions are addressed with straightforward and informative answers. The new parent will learn about the diagnosis of Down syndrome, the relation of maternal age to Down syndrome, development and health issues, early intervention and community services.

Breastfeeding a Baby with Down Syndrome

La Leche League Canada, 1997.

Parents soon discover that the hours and days following a diagnosis of Down syndrome are filled with shock, grief, and fear. While the sadness may seem over-whelming, at the same time you experience the joy of getting to know and love your new baby. Breastfeeding, while challenging, is a valuable part of this process. Breastfeeding a Baby with Down Syndrome offers practical advice for a new mom's special circumstances.

My Health Record, Part 1 - Birth to Eight Years

This package includes: growth charts, medical alert forms, professional and specialists records, medical and development considerations in children with Down syndrome and much more.

UPDATE

Our New Parent Information Package was updated and four new Information Packages were developed for distribution: the Preschool Information Package for Children ages 4-6, the Elementary School Package for Grades 2-8, the High School Package for Grades 9-12 and the Adult Living Package.

The updated New Parent Information Package will continue to be given to parents at the hospital by the social worker. The School Aged Packages will be distributed by the Special Education Departments of both the Public and Catholic School Boards and the Adult Packages will be distributed through community agencies that support Adults who have Down syndrome. Packages will also be available at our Peterborough Square office.

Members will receive their appropriate age packages in the near future. We know the information and resources included will be helpful and beneficial in many ways and we welcome your comments.

Wee Ups & Downs

Sharing & Play Group for Parents & Preschoolers with Down Syndrome

Parents and preschoolers with Down syndrome along with their siblings meet once a month. The sharing and play group gives parents a chance to meet other parents, meet children of similar ages to their own, discuss issues related to their child's development, share photos and stories. Guest speakers based on themes of interest to parents are also a part of this group. Wee Ups & Downs meet the second Tuesday of each month at Westdale United Church, Sherbrooke Street West from 10.a.m. till 12 noon.

For further information please call: 749-6695

Down Syndrome Summer School 2009

We are now offering a summer school program to help with Literacy, Numeracy, Oral Communication, Arts & Music, Gym & Yoga and Karate.

For further information please view: Brochure 1 and Brochure 2 or call: 749-6695.