Dear future wife
A joyful letter from a man with Down syndrome to his future wife, full of hope, pride and ambition. A celebration of love, independence and challenging outdated expectations — together, anything is possible.
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Supporting children with Down syndrome in early years settings: understanding learning strengths and challenges
Discover practical strategies for supporting children with Down syndrome in nursery and EYFS settings. Learn how to use visuals, adapt routines, build speech and language skills, and create inclusive environments where every child can thrive.
Targeted strategies for teaching pupils with Down syndrome
Discover targeted strategies for teaching pupils with Down syndrome. Build on their learning strengths, address challenges, and create inclusive classrooms where every child can thrive.
Making holidays smoother: Real parent tips
Real-life travel tips from parents of children with additional needs, from sensory comfort hacks to using special assistance. Discover ideas to make holidays less stressful and more enjoyable for the whole family.
Best hairdresser tips for parents of a child with Down syndrome – Real parent tips
Haircuts can be tricky for children with Down syndrome. Discover real parent tips on finding the right barber, trying home haircuts, using routines, and keeping haircuts calm and positive.
How Down Syndrome UK supports education: Early years, primary schools and parents
Discover Down Syndrome UK’s education services for nurseries and schools, plus support for parents, behaviour and communication.
Dear future intensive care doctors and nurses
A powerful letter from a premature baby with Down syndrome to the intensive care team who fought for his life. A message of gratitude, hope and humanity — reminding us all what compassionate care can do.
Helping your child with Down syndrome build water confidence: Real parent tips
Discover real-life parent tips on swimming and water confidence for children with Down syndrome. From lessons and equipment to encouragement and routines, here’s what helps.
How to support a child with Down syndrome in mainstream primary school: Practical tips and funding help for professionals
Discover practical strategies, resources and funding guidance to support a child with Down syndrome in mainstream primary school. Tips for teachers and professionals on inclusion, communication, learning and EHCPs.
Helping your child with Down syndrome build friendships: Tips from parents
Discover practical tips for supporting children with Down syndrome to make friends, build confidence and connect with others. Advice from parents and additional expert suggestions.
Dear future new mum
A powerful letter to a new mother processing her baby’s Down syndrome diagnosis. A message of love, cultural honesty and hope — reminding her that her voice, her pride and her daughter will change everything.
10 tips to help a child with Down syndrome settle into nursery
Discover practical strategies to support children with Down syndrome in settling into nursery. From preparation and communication to routines and social interaction, these tips help create a smooth and positive transition.
Helping your child with Down syndrome visit the dentist: Real parent tips
A heartfelt letter from a young boy with Down syndrome (and his mum) to those meeting him for the first time. A gentle challenge to break down fear, ask kind questions, and discover the joy of connection.
How to support a child with Down syndrome in nursery: Practical tips and funding help for professionals
Discover practical strategies and funding guidance for nurseries supporting children with Down syndrome, including SENIF, DAF and training resources.
Dear future parent in the playground
A heartfelt letter from one parent to another, challenging assumptions about children with Down syndrome and celebrating the strength, kindness and determination they bring to school life — and to our children’s friendships.
8 tips to help a child with Down syndrome settle into primary school
Helping children with Down syndrome settle into primary school requires careful planning and collaboration to create a learning environment tailored to their individual needs. Here’s how to make the transition smoother:
Women offered prenatal screening for Down syndrome “left abandoned” with little information and support from healthcare professionals
Ahead of National Learning Disabilities Week (16th – 22nd June), national charity Down Syndrome UK (DSUK) is celebrating the fact that more children with Down syndrome than ever before are thriving in mainstream education.
Dear future health visitor:
A moving letter from a young child with Down syndrome to their health visitor, offering a fresh perspective on ability, progress, and potential. A reminder to approach every visit with openness, warmth and high expectations.
Dear future nurse & doctor
A powerful letter from a newborn baby with Down syndrome to the medical professionals delivering the diagnosis. A must-read message for doctors and nurses about compassion, language, and the lasting impact of their words.
Dear future teacher
A heartfelt letter from a child with Down syndrome to their future teacher, helping educators understand their unique strengths and needs. Use this template for your own child.
Teaching a child with Down syndrome: a complete guide for teachers
Just discovered you’ll be teaching a child with Down syndrome? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know to create an inclusive, supportive classroom environment where every child can thrive.
The complete guide to EHCPs for children with Down syndrome: how to apply and what to expect
Essential guide to applying for an EHCP for children with Down syndrome. Learn the assessment process, required professionals, timelines, and how to secure the right support for your child’s education.
Celebrating an extraordinary year: Down syndrome UK’s 2023/24 achievements
As we reflect on our fifth year as a registered charity, we’re filled with immense pride at what we’ve accomplished together. From expanding our educational support to reaching thousands of families across the UK, 2023/24 has been a year of remarkable growth and impact.
Beyond the finish line: the inspiring journey of Josie Rice
Discover the inspiring story of Josie Rice and Lloyd Martin’s London Marathon journey. Learn how their partnership is breaking barriers in sport for people with Down syndrome and creating lasting change in their community. Find out how you can support Down Syndrome UK’s mission.
Laxatives for children with Down syndrome: a complete parent’s guide
Essential guide for parents managing constipation in children with Down syndrome. Learn about different types of laxatives, proper dosages, and safe administration methods from healthcare professionals.
Down Syndrome UK welcomes national maternity care investigation, calls for focus on inclusive care standards
Down Syndrome UK has welcomed the Health Secretary’s announcement of a national investigation into maternity care standards, emphasising the need for inclusive care that recognises and supports the diverse experiences of all families, including those receiving a Down syndrome diagnosis during maternity care.
Little Wights Clothing chooses DSUK as their 2025 Charity of the Year
We’re delighted to announce that Little Wights Clothing, a beautiful small business based on the Isle of Wight, has chosen Down Syndrome UK as their charity of the year for 2025. Behind this heartwarming partnership is a personal story.
Class Acts: More Young People Than Ever With Down Syndrome Thriving In Mainstream Schools
Ahead of National Learning Disabilities Week (16th – 22nd June), national charity Down Syndrome UK (DSUK) is celebrating the fact that more children with Down syndrome than ever before are thriving in mainstream education.
The Learning a New Way: AQA Unit Award Scheme Centre
Justine, PADS parent and mum of Toby, explains how she discovered the Learning a New Way AQA Unit Award Scheme Centre and has been using them to progress Toby’s education.
An overview of the speech, language and communication profile associated with Down syndrome
Explore the unique speech, language and communication profile of Down syndrome. Learn about challenges and strengths for effective speech and language therapy support.
Toilet training in 4 steps: challenging readiness myths
Discover our proven 4-step toilet skill development programme that challenges common readiness myths. Expert guidance from June Rogers MBE on toilet training for children with Down syndrome.
Understanding your child’s school start: options for delaying, deferring, and repeating
Learn about delaying, deferring, and repeating school start for children with Down syndrome. Access expert advice, support resources, and official guidance links to make informed decisions for your child’s education journey.
Highlighting DSUK’s work in maternity care
DSUK CEO, Nicola Enoch shares her story with the Maternity & Midwifery Forum’s #midwiferyhour podcast. She offers advice on the importance of language, sensitivity, and best practices when delivering a Down syndrome diagnosis.
Understanding the Mental Capacity Act 2005
The Mental Capacity Act 2005 empowers individuals with Down syndrome to make their own decisions and ensures their rights are protected when they can’t. This guide helps families understand the Act and plan for their loved one’s future.
Lasting powers of attorney (LPA) and deputyship
Planning for the future means ensuring your loved one with Down syndrome has the right support in place. Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) let a trusted person make decisions if your child loses capacity, while Deputyship provides a solution if no LPA is in place. In this post, we explain both options and how to protect your child’s best interests.
Using trusts to protect the financial future of a loved one with Down syndrome
Trusts are a powerful way to protect the financial future of a loved one with Down syndrome. They allow families to provide for their child’s needs while safeguarding means-tested benefits and shielding them from financial risks. In this blog, we explain how Trusts work, the types available, and why creating the right Trust can provide peace of mind for years to come.
Creating a will for families of people with Down syndrome: why it matters and how to do it right
Planning for the future is essential for families of people with Down syndrome. A well-drafted Will doesn’t just distribute your assets – it protects your child’s inheritance, safeguards their means-tested benefits, and shields them from financial risks. In this post, we break down why a simple Will may not be enough, how specialist Trusts can help, and the steps you can take to provide lasting security and peace of mind for your loved one.
Celebrating World Down syndrome Day: Nicola Enoch’s inspiring story on the Wild Card Whose Shoes podcast
Discover Nicola Enoch’s inspiring journey from despair to advocacy for families of children with Down syndrome. Listen to her powerful conversation on the Wild Card Whose Shoes podcast for World Down syndrome Day.