Early Years
Whether you’re an expectant parent or you have a child with Down syndrome,
we are here to support your journey.
Early stages are a crucial time for children’s development.
During this stage, children begin building essential skills in movement, communication, learning, play, social interaction, and independence. These early experiences shape the foundation for future learning.
Early intervention refers to the supports, approaches, activities, and therapies that promote a child’s early development.
Children with Down syndrome may take longer to reach certain milestones, and early intervention plays a key role in supporting their growth and helping them succeed.
Early intervention goes beyond therapy sessions. While individual support is important, it also focuses on integrating learning and skill-building into everyday routines at home, preschool, and other familiar environments. The goal is to create natural opportunities for children to develop and grow through daily experiences.
At Down Syndrome Ireland, we provide a network of early intervention supports for families of children from birth to seven years of age.
Parent and Baby Groups
Our weekly Baby and Me groups are currently running from May 5th – June 9th 2026 at our National Office in Ballymount, Dublin 12.
Each session is carefully planned with early intervention principles in mind. We use music, movement, songs and play to support early learning. Our aim is to support children’s growth in all areas, including communication, motor skills, play and independence.
These sessions are for children with Down syndrome aged from birth to 18 months. Expectant parents are welcome to attend too.
If you are not sure if this group is for you or you have any questions please contact Down Syndrome Ireland’s Early Intervention Specialist, Silvia Segales-Angel at silvia@downsyndrome.ie
Upcoming events and training
Please see below upcoming training sessions for parents and early years educators.
These training sessions are open to all families and professionals supporting young children with Down syndrome.
- Supporting Children with Down syndrome in Early Years Settings – Workshop for early years educators. – Date to be announced.
For confidential support, call our National Office at 01 426 6500, or email us at info@downsyndrome.ie
Tell It Right ™️
The Early Years Team have worked closely with the Down’s Syndrome Association in the UK to bring Tell It Right ™️ to Ireland.
This training helps medical professionals learn how to share this news with sensitivity, accuracy, and confidence.
MEET THE TEAM
