Programs & Services for Parents
Congratulations on the birth of your baby and on your growing family!
While there are many emotions you may be experiencing, you may also be wondering "What does this mean and what do I need to do first?" This list will help you get started.
New Parent Information Packet
If you didn't receive one already from your healthcare provider, request a New Parent Information Packet. We will happily send you our packet that includes some basic facts about Down syndrome, breastfeeding, most frequently asked questions, and local and national resources. If you'd also like to receive a free copy of the book "Babies with Down Syndrome: A New Parent's Guide," please add that to your request.
Request a free information packet or book using our contact form»
Join Your Local Down Syndrome Support Group
Click here to become a member of the DSACF. This will sign you up to start receiving updates, quarterly newsletters, and other information about upcoming meetings (held monthly), playgroups for newborns (2-3 times/month), and special events. Annual dues, to help offset the costs of items like our New Parent Information Packets, are only $20. Dues may be waived your first year or if there is a financial hardship.
Join the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida using our secure online membership center»
Meet Other Families
If you would like to meet other families who have a child with Down syndrome, sign up for our Parent Mentor Visitation Program. Include that request when you become a member or simply call the DSACF office at 407-478-5621. We try hard to match families based on ages of parents and child, gender, geography and other common issues.
Request to become a part of our Parent Mentor Visitation Program»
Contact Your Local Early Steps Office
Contact your local Early Steps office to schedule an evaluation to get started learning about early intervention (which may include physical, occupational, speech and/or oral motor therapies) and how to best meet your new baby's needs as he or she grows and learns. Early Steps offers early intervention services for families with infants and toddlers (birth to thirty-six months) who have developmental delays or an established condition likely to result in a developmental delay such as Down syndrome.
More information is available at the Early Steps Website»
Parent's Resources
Visit our parents' page to view links to more than a dozen resources that will help you meet your child's unique needs.