Upcoming Webinars

Join us as we explore what adulthood means for people with Down syndrome and how supports, services and opportunities are evolving.

Gina Grant, Branch Advocacy Co-ordinator, Down Syndrome Ireland, will discuss the landscape of Adult Services and how the Assisted Decision-Making (Capacity) Act has helped shift perspectives towards greater autonomy, choice and the right of individuals to have their own voice in decisions about their lives.

Sinéad Flynn, Head of Adult Education, Self Advocacy and Community Engagement, Down Syndrome Ireland, will discuss adult education including Education and Training Boards (ETBs), National Learning Network (NLN) and Programme for Access to Higher Education (PATH 4) options. She will discuss the important influence of regional and national councils in shaping opportunities, inclusion and lifelong learning.

This will be an open conversation with an opportunity to ask questions, share experiences and explore how we can continue to support meaningful adulthood for people with Down syndrome.

Date: Thursday August 20^th

Time: 5pm

Click here for the Zoom link.

For any questions or queries, please contact Ginagrant@downsyndrome.ie

Join Silvia Segales-Angel, Early Intervention Specialist, Down Syndrome Ireland, for two introductory webinars for early years educators and childminders supporting children with Down syndrome aged 1 to 5 in early years settings. Parents are also welcome to attend.

The sessions will offer practical guidance, simple strategies and reassurance for those working with young children with Down syndrome. The aim is to help educators understand the child’s needs, support early learning and communication, and feel more confident supporting the development of children with Down syndrome in early years settings.

Supporting Children with Down Syndrome in Early Years Settings – September 7th – 7pm

This first webinar will help educators develop a better understanding of Down syndrome and how it can affect early learning and development. The session will focus on how to get to know the child you are working with, understanding their current developmental level, and identifying the next small steps for learning. Educators will learn how simple supports such as routines, visual cues, and adaptations can help children participate and make progress. By the end of the session, participants will have practical ideas to support children with Down syndrome in everyday early years routines, play, and learning activities.

Supporting Early Communication and Language with Children with Down Syndrome in Early Years Settings – September 14th – 7pm

This second webinar will help educators understand how communication and language develop in young children with Down syndrome and how to support these skills throughout the preschool day. The session will explore early communication, first words and signs, ways to encourage children to communicate, and how to create natural opportunities for interaction during play and everyday routines. It will also include practical ideas for using visual cues, gestures, and Lámh signs to support children’s understanding and expression. By the end of the session, participants will feel more confident supporting children’s communication and understanding, helping them to take part more fully in their early years setting.

Click here for the Zoom link for both webinars.

For any questions or queries, please contact silvia@downsyndrome.ie.

Webinar recordings will be available to all registered participants after both webinars have taken place.

Dr Dennis McGuire, renowned Down syndrome specialist, returns to Ireland in September to host informative seminars for both parents and professionals.

Locations and dates to be announced.

Venue: AIB conference facilities, Molesworth Street, Dublin city centre, D02 W260

Date: November 13th, 2026

Further details to be announced.