All Abilities Playground For Fun And Skill Development

Down Syndrome Queensland (DSQ) provides a DSQ Kids program for primary school-aged children (five to 11 years) with Down syndrome, to help develop their skills in a new environment, and to have fun and build friendships while doing so.

The program is held once a month at the Kidspace Playground in 7th Brigade Park, and there are two parts to the program: the first part is a time to catch up with new and old friends and to discuss the program, and the second is a chance to participate in a range of therapy-based activities run by DSQ's student occupational therapist.

Senior programs coordinator Teagan Cossor said the chance to interact with others and build friendships and confidence was just one of the program's strengths.

DSQ Kids is a great way for our members and parents to interact and create lasting connections,� Teagan said.

The therapy-based activities can change each month, with the focus always being on helping children work on their coordination, muscle building, team building, visual tracking, and fine motor skills. A few examples of the activities that might be run are jumping on or over obstacles, bowling, and throwing bean bags to a target. Children can also work on their social skills.

Ellen, a parent, said, I like the combination of some activities and the groups aspect, together with fun in the park. I like it, my child gets to meet other children with Down syndrome and make friends, and for myself; it's always nice to meet the parents.�

Teagan said the DSQ Kids program started as a trial in October 2020, and following its success, the program was permanently implemented from February 2021 as one of our base activities�.

DSQ also hosts monthly programs for teens (12 to 16 years) and adults (16 years and older). While for the moment, the kids program is based solely in the Brisbane region, the teens and adults programs are held in several different regions.

To find out more and to register for the June event, visit www.downsyndrome.org.au/blo... or email Down Syndrome Queensland at seniorcoord@downsyndromeqld.org.au.

DSQ Kids program
Saturday, 12 June, 9am-11am
Kidspace Playground, 7th Brigade Park,
Murphy Road, Geebung