Why choose us?
KDSN Pathways Lunch & Learn is a family education program created to help parents, caregivers, self-advocates, educators, service providers, and community members learn from trusted presenters in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Each session focuses on practical information families can use right away — from understanding services and supports, to learning about development, communication, behavior, inclusion, advocacy, health, education, and lifelong planning.
Our goal is simple: to help families feel more informed, more connected, and more confident as they support their loved one with Down syndrome.
About Lunch & Learn
Lunch & Learn is part of KDSN Pathways, Kern Down Syndrome Network’s education and empowerment program designed to increase access to information, strengthen family knowledge, and connect families with meaningful resources in Kern County.
These sessions are designed to be approachable, family-centered, and easy to understand. You do not need to be an expert to attend. Whether you are newly connected to KDSN or have been part of our community for years, Lunch & Learn is a place to ask questions, learn from professionals, and connect with other families walking a similar path.
Whenever possible, our sessions focus on topics that are specific to Down syndrome, because individuals with Down syndrome and their families often have unique needs, strengths, questions, and experiences. We also include related topics that support the broader disability community when the information is helpful and meaningful for the families we serve.
Who Can Attend?
Lunch & Learn sessions are open to families, caregivers, self-advocates, professionals, and community members who want to better support individuals with Down syndrome.
This may include:
Families do not need to have everything figured out before attending. These sessions are meant to meet families where they are.
What you can expect
Each Lunch & Learn will feature a speaker, trainer, or community resource partner presenting on a topic that supports family education, advocacy, inclusion, or service access.
Topics may include:
Sessions may include a presentation, time for questions, printed or digital resources, and opportunities to connect with other families.
Bilingual Support
KDSN is committed to making our programs welcoming and accessible for families in our community.
Bilingual support is available at Lunch & Learn sessions, and we work to provide Spanish-language access through interpretation, translated materials, and family-friendly communication whenever possible.
When registering, families are encouraged to let us know if they need Spanish interpretation or other support so we can plan well and make the experience as comfortable as possible.
Transportation Support
We want families to be able to participate in KDSN Pathways Lunch & Learn without transportation being a barrier.
Transportation support may be available for families who need assistance getting to and from a Lunch & Learn session. Because transportation must be scheduled in advance, families must contact KDSN before the event so we can review the request and coordinate support properly.
If transportation assistance would help your family attend, please reach out to us as early as possible.
Why this program matters
Families often receive information in pieces — from schools, doctors, therapists, regional center staff, and other agencies. Lunch & Learn brings families together in one place to receive trusted information, ask questions, and build confidence.
For many families, especially those who are newly diagnosed, Spanish-speaking, under-connected, or unsure where to start, having access to clear and supportive education can make a major difference.
Through KDSN Pathways, we want families to feel seen, supported, and equipped with tools that help them advocate for their loved one at every stage of life.
part of our Pathways Programming
Lunch & Learn is one part of our larger KDSN Pathways programming offered on the same day.
On KDSN Pathways program days, families may also find:
0–5 Developmental Series
A learning and connection opportunity for families of young children with Down syndrome, focused on early development, communication, sensory needs, and early support.
Sibshops
A supportive space for siblings of individuals with Down syndrome to connect, learn, and share experiences through guided activities.
These programs are designed to work alongside Lunch & Learn while still giving each group its own focused support.
Interested in Presenting?
KDSN welcomes professionals, organizations, service providers, and community partners who are interested in sharing helpful information with our families.
Our priority is to offer presentations that are especially relevant to individuals with Down syndrome and their families. We are also open to presenters with expertise in broader disability-related topics when the information is practical, respectful, and beneficial to the families we serve.
We are especially interested in presentations that are family-friendly, easy to understand, and focused on helping families take the next step with more confidence.
Possible presentation areas may include:
- Down syndrome-specific development and support
- Regional center services and access
- IEPs and education
- Communication and behavior
- Health, therapy, and wellness
- Transition planning
- Inclusion and community participation
- Caregiver support
- Advocacy and family empowerment
If you are interested in presenting at a future Lunch & Learn, we would love to hear from you.