Resources for the Early Years
You’re off and running—but every new stage brings new questions. Here are resources that DSAMn families have found helpful during infancy and early childhood.
DSAMn New Parent Support Line
Available via call or text at 651-497-1349. Reach out with questions or concerns as they arise. Your outreach will be answered by a member of our staff, 365 days a year.
DSAMn New Parent Resource Packet
DSAMn New Parent Resource Packet including our new parent guide, helpful books, and a little something to celebrate your newest family member.
Request a New Parent Resource Packet
Parent-to-Parent Connections
Parent-to-Parent Connections include events and one-on-one mentorships, creating a community of support and a strong network of people you can trust and that have walked the same path before.
DSAMn Community Parent Groups
DSAMn Community Parent Groups are available in 17 communities across Minnesota as well as specialty support groups for new parents, grandparents, siblings, Somali families and Latinx families.
DSAMn’s Online Parent Support Resources for New Parents
Down Syndrome Association of MN Discussion Group: Our Private Group for Questions & Conversations
Minnesota Moms - Children 5 & Under with Down syndrome
Family Connectors
Family Connectors help parents navigate the complexities that come with raising a child with Down syndrome, including guidance regarding health care, education, county services, and other community resources.
Reach out for Family Connectors
Webinars and conferences
Webinars and conferences give parents and families access to trusted experts and the latest, most up-to-date information.
In addition, we’ve gathered helpful resources below, plus you can reach out to a Family Connector with specific questions or needs.
Every child with Down syndrome qualifies for free early intervention services from your local school district. In addition, you may qualify for a Follow-Along Program through the Minnesota Department of Health. We are here to make a referral to get you started.
Additional Resources:
Help Me Grow MN: Resources for Parent of Children Ages Birth To Three
MN Department of Health: Follow-Along Program
Preparing to breastfeed a baby with Down syndrome can seem daunting, but many moms have successfully breastfed their babies. We have compiled a few resources we find the most helpful. In addition, we have a few books we recommend that we can send directly to you.
Additional Resources:
A lot of information about your child’s health is thrown at you during your first few weeks and months. It can be overwhelming. Minnesota has a number of wonderful resources available, and we can help you sort through them. Our new parent program manager and family connectors can walk you through each of these resources to find what’s right for your family.
More Health Care Resources:
- Childrens MN Down Syndrome Clinic
- Gillette Hospital Complex Care and Transition Services
- DSC2U: A personalized care plan for individuals with Down syndrome*
- Medical Assistance: Resources from the Minnesota Department of Human Resources
- Minnesota Health Care Programs: Program Information and Eligibility Rules
*DSAMn offers a subsidy to families to access DSC2U, contact us to learn more.
- Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network: Info and Support
- Down Syndrome Pregnancy: A resource of National Center for Prenatal and Postnatal Resources
- Jack's Basket: Celebrating Babies with Down Syndrome
- GiGi's Playhouse Twin Cities: Programs in St. Louis Park, Apple Valley, and Hudson, WI
- St. David’s Center: Assessments and Services
- Arc of Minnesota: Promoting and Protecting Rights of All
- Disability Hub MN: Helping You Plan Your Best Life, Your Way
- Global Down Syndrome Foundation | Research, Care, Education, Advocacy
- Minnesota Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities: Info, Education and Training
- Minnesota State Council on Disability: Advisors to Legislators
- National Down Syndrome Congress: National Info and Support Resource
- NDSS: Human Rights Organization for Individuals with Down syndrome
- PACER Center: Parents Helping Parents Expand Opportunities
