Support, education, and connection for families from prenatal diagnosis through the early years.
The early years can bring so many emotions — joy, questions, uncertainty, hope, and sometimes a feeling of not knowing where to start. For some families, those questions begin during pregnancy after receiving a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome.
KDSN Pathways 0–5 Developmental Series was created to support families from prenatal diagnosis through age 5 with practical information, trusted guidance, and a welcoming community.
This series is designed for expectant parents, parents, and caregivers of young children with Down syndrome. Each session focuses on early childhood development, family education, and tools that can help families feel more informed and confident as they prepare for and support their child’s growth.
Whether you have recently received a prenatal diagnosis, are a new parent, are newly connected to KDSN, or are simply looking for more support during the early years, this series is here to help you feel less alone and more prepared.
About the 0-5 developmental series
The 0–5 Developmental Series is part of KDSN Pathways, Kern Down Syndrome Network’s education and empowerment program for families, individuals with Down syndrome, siblings, educators, and community partners.
This portion of the program focuses specifically on expectant parents and families with babies, toddlers, and young children. Sessions are designed to help families better understand early development, learn practical strategies, connect with resources, and build relationships with other families in a similar stage of life.
Our goal is not to overwhelm families with information. Our goal is to make information easier to understand, easier to use, and easier to access — especially during a time when families may have many questions and need support they can trust.
Why early support matters
The journey for many families begins before birth. A prenatal diagnosis can bring questions about health, development, services, family life, and what the future may look like. Families deserve support that is compassionate, balanced, and rooted in real connection.
The first five years are also a meaningful time for learning, connection, and development. For children with Down syndrome, early support can make a real difference in communication, movement, sensory processing, social development, independence, and family confidence.
Parents are often given a lot of information after a diagnosis, but not always in a way that feels clear, personal, or easy to follow. This series gives families a place to slow down, ask questions, and learn from professionals and other parents who understand the importance of early support.
Attending these sessions can help families:
You do not need to have everything figured out before attending. This series is built for families who are learning as they go.
Who should attend?
This series is designed for expectant parents, parents, and caregivers connected to a child with Down syndrome from prenatal diagnosis through age 5.
Families may benefit from attending if they:
Grandparents, foster parents, adoptive parents, and other caregivers are also welcome when they are part of the child’s support system.
A welcoming place for new and expectant parents
For many families, walking into a support program for the first time can feel intimidating — especially after a new or prenatal diagnosis. We want families to know this is a warm, low-pressure space.
You do not need to know the right questions to ask. You do not need to know what services your child may need. You do not need to explain your feelings or your family’s journey before you are ready.
You can come to listen, learn, meet other families, or simply be in a room with people who understand.
At KDSN, many of us are parents and family members too. We know how important it is to have support that feels personal, respectful, and grounded in real life.
Interested in presenting?
KDSN welcomes professionals, organizations, service providers, therapists, educators, medical professionals, and community partners who are interested in sharing helpful information with families during the prenatal stage and early childhood years.
Because this series is designed for families connected to young children with Down syndrome, we are especially interested in presentations that include Down syndrome-specific information, examples, or strategies whenever possible. Families often benefit most when they can understand how a topic connects directly to their child’s development, strengths, learning style, medical considerations, and support needs.
We also understand that not every helpful topic is exclusive to Down syndrome. We welcome presenters with broader early childhood, disability, health, education, therapy, prenatal, or family support expertise when the information is practical, respectful, and meaningful for the families we serve.
Presenters do not need to have every answer. What matters most is a willingness to offer family-friendly information, honor parent questions, and help families feel supported.
Possible presentation topics may include:
- Prenatal diagnosis support and family preparation
- Early speech and communication
- Feeding and oral motor development
- Gross motor milestones
- Occupational therapy and sensory support
- Early intervention services
- Social-emotional development
- Parent-child play and connection
- Behavior support for young children
- Preparing for preschool
- Regional center services
- Medical or developmental topics related to Down syndrome
- Family wellness and caregiver support
If you are interested in presenting at a future 0–5 Developmental Series session, we would love to hear from you.