Down’s Syndrome Oxford organise an Early Development Group for pre school children.
Each child attends with a parent or carer and the maximum number of children in each group is 6 – this allows the children to observe and turn-take whilst still holding their attention.
The aims of the group are to develop communication skills through group activities and to coach parents to develop communication skills within everyday activities at home. There is an emphasis on using sign language to aid communication. The language used is Makaton which has been developed by professionals at the Makaton Vocabulary Development Project since its first appearance in 1976. The activities are engaging and fun to maximise the children's learning ability.
Babies & Toddlers Monthly Lunch
DSO meets at the Roundabout Centre in Headington (East Oxford) – a bright and cheery building full of toys, a library and comfortable chairs - sessions are managed by the charity and the parent volunteers (there’s even plenty of free parking).
There are monthly baby and toddler group meetings and during term time early development groups for pre-schoolers.
The NEW Primary Age Club launches with a visit to 'CBeebies at the Theatre', at the New Theatre in Oxford - Saturday 12th April 2008
9-16 Club
The DSO Youth Club is open to all young people with Down's syndrome in Oxfordshire. It meets regularly and provides a great opportunity for our children to make lasting friendships through fun and organised activities. Meetings are held monthly on Sundays (3-5pm) and siblings are also welcome.
Swimming Clubs
Pups Swimming
Our pre-school baby/toddler swimming groups meet for swimming lessons at 3.30pm and 4.30pm on Tuesdays during term time at the Ormerod School (adjacent to the Roundabout Centre).
Sharks Swimming
The ‘Oxford Sharks’ meet fortnightly on Saturdays at the Ormerod School, Headington, Oxford. The group lessons for beginners and intermediates are in a private warm hydro-pool without the distractions of members of the public – plus lots free parking right outside!
550
people benefit from Downs Syndrome Oxford
every year.
Major
Achievements -