Contact Centre

Since 1990, the DSAQ has maintained a contact centre through which members and the wider community can access information and support. The DSAQ Office is open from 9am to 4pm Monday - Friday. Information about how to contact us can be found here.

New Parent Support

A very successful way of supporting new and expectant parents is through contact with other parents who share similar experiences. A dedicated group of volunteers is available to provide peer support to new parents when a baby with Down syndrome is born. These volunteers are able to visit at the hospital, at home, or to talk to on the phone. They can provide information, answer questions and give encouragement and support. To be put in contact with a New Parent Support Volunteer in your area please contact the office. Information for new parents can be found here.

On-going Information and Support

Our Information & Support Services Coordinator is available for 'not so new' parents who may want to talk to someone about a particular issue they are currently facing (toilet training, specific health issues, finding employment etc.) Various information resources are always available for families.

Education Support

The overriding vision of the education consultant is to promote improved educational outcomes for all students with Down syndrome. This is achieved through an unwavering belief and commitment to the capacity of students with Down syndrome to achieve educationally. This is coupled with a focus on education in all areas including physical, emotional, intellectual and social learning. The education consultant oversees programs and services designed to maximise the developmental achievements of students with Down syndrome both in their educational environment and in the wider community. This is done in partnership with families, educational institutions, industry, community and government. Services provided by the education consultant include the development of resource kits, research based trials, professional development workshops, education conferences in both rural and urban Queensland and workshops for parents. Conferencing facilities are also available to discuss educational issues.

Library

A borrowing library is available for use by members of the DSAQ. Library resources include books, journals, activities, DVDs, and CDs. Members are able to borrow 4 items for up to 4 weeks at a time, and items can be posted to regional members and those who cannot make it to the office.

A technology hub has also been set up to enable families to trial iPods and iPads, computer accessories and programs, and a variety of assistive technologies. 

Magazine

A quarterly magazine, the 'Digest', is an important form of communication for the DSAQ. It provides an avenue for keeping families up to date with current developments and covers topics of interest relating to Down syndrome. It is also an avenue for members to share their stories and successes, and to find out what's going on throughout Queensland with DSAQ. Subscription to the "Digest" is covered in membership of the DSAQ.

Social Activities

Coffee mornings, picnics and barbeques are organised by the DSAQ and our Regional Representatives as a way of linking families. These gatherings provide an opportunity for parents to share experiences and information. They also provide a chance for children to meet and form friendships. For information about upcoming events, please see our calendar here.

Parent Education

The DSAQ organises guests speakers and workshops on topics of interest to parents. In most cases these take the form of coffee mornings, however more intensive sessions are held on topics that are of greater need to our members.

Workshops & Training

DSAQ provides a variety of workshops and training sessions for educators, families and professionals. Workshops are held on a range of topics throughout Queensland and in-house training is also available. See our calendar of events for upcoming workshops in your area.