Social Groups

Gold Coast Down Syndrome Organization provides various social groups that give families of children with Down syndrome opportunities for socializing and learning. We encourage families to access these "mini" support groups and invite you to visit...we hope you will want to continue to attend these family centered activities.

We have informational activities as well as those designed to enhance physical and social development of our children. Please select a link on the right to learn more. Contact gcdso@bellsouth.net or call 561-912-1231 for more information.

Each year we have a summer picnic and a holiday party. The 2011 Summer Picnic was held at Loggerhead Park where families enjoyed time together at the beach, under the pavilion, and viewing the amazing turtles at the park rescue area.

This year's 2011 Holiday Party was absolutely wonderful! Thank you to Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation for donating the space at the Therapeutic Rec gymnasium and to the The Junior League of Boca Raton for sending volunteers who helped make the occasion most enjoyable for our families. There was lots of delicious food to share and the kids waited anxiously for Santa to call their name. There was dancing to the music of our official DJ Byron and lots of yummy cookies being decorated for dessert.   

The National Down Syndrome Society has this to say about Parent Support Groups: 

What is a Down Syndrome Parent Support Group?

A Down syndrome parent support group is usually comprised of parents whose children have Down syndrome. Parent support groups provide information, resources and emotional support to new parents looking for answers and solutions to rearing a child with a disability and, in particular, Down syndrome. The group may also include relatives, friends, siblings, foster parents, professionals and interested members of the community.
 

What is the Purpose of a Down Syndrome Parent Support Group?

A parent support group can be organized to do whatever the members agree their mission or purpose will be. Some groups are informally organized and hold occasional meetings over coffee in a parent's living room. They might discuss and compare the developmental changes in their children, or help one another locate a good pediatrician. They might share information on medical or educational services, programs and other resources available within the community, state or nation.
 

Another group may want to invite guest speakers who are experts on topics related to Down syndrome. Parent support groups that have a membership program often develop a newsletter to keep their members informed and up-to-date on relevant issues. Some groups evolve into non-profit organizations and operate programs and services for the wider community.
 

What are the Benefits of a Down Syndrome Parent Support Groups?

Ideally, a Down syndrome parent support group benefits each and every member. The primary benefit of parent support groups is that they serve as a forum for discussing common fears and concerns. There is a therapeutic value in knowing that other families experience similar situations, and participation in group meetings helps to alleviate feelings of isolation and helplessness. By sharing their concerns and problems with one another, parents are able to garner valuable insights and advice. Lessons learned, especially from more experienced parents, can help to build successful coping skills that will make life easier for parent and child.
 

Another key benefit of parent support groups is coalition-building. When parents and other members of a support group are united, their combined voice is more often heard by school administrators, legislators and community leaders. This goes a long way in providing for the needs and rights of children with Down syndrome. Parent support groups can be instrumental in educating teachers, medical professionals and the community at large about the facts and issues concerning Down syndrome.