Parent & Me Group
A warm and welcoming monthly gathering for families with babies and young children with Down syndrome.
Parent & Me is a gentle space for parents, caregivers, and children ages 0–5 to connect, build friendships, and be surrounded by families who understand the early years.
Whether you are an expectant parent, recently received a new diagnosis, or are already walking through the baby and toddler years, you are welcome here.
You do not have to come with all the answers.
You do not have to know what to ask.
You can simply come as you are.
Parent & Me meets on the 1st Friday of each month
Time: 10:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Location: New Life Church Nursery
Address: 4201 Stine Road, Bakersfield, CA 93313
Parents, caregivers, babies, toddlers, young children, siblings, grandparents, and expectant parents are welcome.
A place to feel supported
The early years can bring so much love and joy, but they can also come with questions, appointments, emotions, and moments when families simply need to be near people who understand.
Parent & Me was created to offer a calm, comforting place for families in this season.
Sometimes the most reassuring thing is not a brochure, a website, or a long list of information. Sometimes it is being in the same room with other parents and seeing babies and young children with Down syndrome being loved, supported, and celebrated.
At Parent & Me, families can connect with others who are walking a similar path. Children can play, parents can talk, and new families can experience a supportive community at their own pace.
There is no pressure to share.
There is no pressure to have everything figured out.
You are not alone, and you are welcome to come quietly, observe, ask questions, or simply be present.
Who is parent & me for?
Parent & Me is for:
Whether this is your first time reaching out or you have been connected with KDSN for years, your family is welcome.
What to expect
Parent & Me is relaxed, friendly, and family-centered.
Families can expect:
This is not a formal class. It is not a medical appointment. It is simply a safe place to belong.
Some families come every month. Some come when they can. Some come just to sit, listen, and take everything in. However you show up, you are welcome.
for new & expectant Parents
- If you recently received a prenatal diagnosis, a screening result, or a diagnosis after birth, attending something new may feel emotional or intimidating. We understand that.
- Parent & Me can be a gentle first step.
- You can meet other families, see young children with Down syndrome in a loving and supportive environment, and spend time with parents who understand what the beginning can feel like.
- You do not have to be ready to talk.
- You do not have to explain how you feel.
- You are welcome to come and simply be surrounded by support.
- Kern Down Syndrome Network is here to walk beside you.
Why parent & me matters
Families deserve more than information. They deserve connection, reassurance, and a place where their child is seen, welcomed, and celebrated.
Parent & Me gives families a place to celebrate the little moments, talk honestly, learn from one another, and be reminded that every child grows and develops in their own time.
Your child is welcome here.
Your questions are welcome here.
Your family is welcome here.
Additional Support for the early years
Families who attend Parent & Me may also be interested in Foundations for Growth: 0–5 Developmental Series, part of our KDSN Pathways program.
Parent & Me offers a relaxed space for connection, encouragement, and community. Foundations for Growth provides a more guided learning experience for parents and caregivers who want practical tools to support their child’s development during the early years.
Through Foundations for Growth, families can learn more about early development, communication, movement, play, learning, and everyday strategies that can help support their child at home and in the community.
Both programs are designed to support families with babies and young children, but each offers something different.
Parent & Me is a place to connect, feel supported, and build community.
Foundations for Growth is a place to learn practical strategies and gain developmental guidance.
Families are welcome to participate in both.
Have questions before coming?
We know walking into a new group can feel like a big step, especially if your family is still processing a diagnosis or adjusting to a new season.
Please feel free to reach out before attending. We would be happy to answer questions, help you know what to expect, or connect with you ahead of time.