The Down Syndrome Ireland Podcast
Welcome to The Down Syndrome Ireland Podcast. The purpose of this podcast is to bring resources to family members, professionals and carers in an accessible way. Our first series focuses on Education, with practical episodes covering topics across both Primary and Post-Primary school. Whether you’re supporting a child with Down syndrome at home or in the classroom, you’ll find expert advice, helpful guidance and real-world insights.
The podcast episodes will be updated regularly and are available on Spotify, Apple and Podbean as well as here, on our website.
The first series will be hosted by Down Syndrome Ireland’s Nicola Hart, National Research and Support Specialist, and Dr. Fidelma Brady, Head of Primary and Post Primary Education.
Listen here for our latest episodes:
Episode One: Learning Profile of Children with Down Syndrome & Accessing the Primary Curriculum
In the first episode of the series, we explore the learning profile commonly associated with children with Down syndrome, highlighting both the strengths they bring to the classroom and the barriers they may face. We discuss why every child is unique, how development is shaped by both biology and environment, and the important role teachers, SNAs and parents play in creating positive learning experiences.
We also tackle common questions about accessing the primary curriculum. Can children with Down syndrome follow the same lessons as their peers? How can teachers make learning meaningful without lowering expectations?
Whether you’re a teacher, SNA, school leader or parent, this episode offers practical advice, evidence-informed guidance and real classroom strategies to support inclusive education for children with Down syndrome.
Click here to listen on Spotify.
Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts.
Click here to listen on Podbean.
Episode Two: Language Development & Understanding Behaviour in Relation to Communication Difficulties
This episode explores the close connection between communication and behaviour for children with Down syndrome. It discusses the impact of speech and language difficulties in the classroom, sharing practical strategies for supporting understanding and communication, including using visuals, building vocabulary, allowing extra processing time and adapting teaching approaches. The episode also explains how behaviour is often a form of communication, helping parents and educators recognise the underlying reasons behind behaviours and create supportive environments that enable children to communicate, learn and thrive.
Resource mentioned: Supporting SLT in the Classroom
Click here to listen on Spotify.
Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts.
Click here to listen on Podbean.
For any queries in relation to this podcast, please contact the communications team on communications@downsyndrome.ie.