New & Expectant Parents
NEW & EXPECTANT PARENTS
Parent Connections matches expecting or new parents with other families who are part of the Down syndrome community and who can give you support and advice.
New Parent Welcome Packet includes many helpful resources for families. Click for your copy in ENGLISH or SPANISH
EARLY INTERVENTION
Early Steps provides early intervention services for children with Down syndrome in Palm Beach County. The main number is 561-881-2822. You can reach the intake/referral line directly at 561-882-6426.
All children with the “established condition” of Down syndrome are eligible to receive early intervention services. Because research shows that children with Down syndrome benefit from early intervention services, you should contact Early Steps as soon as possible.
After Early Steps does an assessment of your child, they will provide you with services such as occupational, physical and/or speech therapy. For most children between birth and three, the therapists come to the family home or daycare. Your child will have one primary service provider who oversees all of your services.
Once your child turns three, it is important to apply for the Medicaid Waiver. Even though your child may not access services through the Med Waiver until they are much older, it takes as long as ten years or more to become eligible.
To apply for the Medicaid Waiver go to APD (Agency for Persons with Disabilities) or call 561-837-5564.
Programs
Information and Support
"Talk Abouts"
Educates families through workshops, structured support groups, Face Book support groups and telephone and in-person consultations
Best Start
Newborns through Pre-K
Offers new parents information, education, connections, support and programs
The Family Education Program
Children and Teens
Gives parents the tools to navigate their children’s educational and life issues while kids work on their reading, math, social and life skills
Educational Advocacy
Ages 2 ½ to 22
Provides families with an experienced advocate free of charge to help manage IEPs, classroom placements and more so that children can thrive in a learning environment tailored to their needs.
The Exceptional Educators Program
Trains classroom teachers, paras, school administrators and school district staff to be the most effective educators for children with Down syndrome.
Adult Enrichment Programs
Ages 18+
Encourages adults to continue to learn and create through activities that develop social skills, literacy, self-advocacy and a healthy lifestyle
Without Walls
Parties and Outings around Palm Beach County.
Because sometimes you just want to have fun!
The DownRight ExtraOrdinary Walk
Committed to raising community awareness of the abilities of people with Down syndrome for over a quarter of a century!