Education Resources

Every student with Down syndrome deserves to learn, grow, and belong.

Education is one of the most important foundations for a fulfilling life. Students with Down syndrome have unique learning profiles - and with the right supports, strategies, and a truly inclusive environment, they can thrive alongside their peers in schools and classrooms across Manitoba and Canada.

This page brings together trusted resources for parents, educators, educational assistants, and school administrators to help support students with Down syndrome at every stage of their educational journey.

MDSS See Me Beautiful Educational Conference

Now in its 29th year - Manitoba's premier educational conference for Down syndrome.

One of the most impactful things MDSS does for our community is bring parents, teachers, and educational professionals together to share strategies, strengthen relationships, and champion inclusive education for students with Down syndrome in Manitoba.

The See Me Beautiful Educational Conference is an annual full-day event featuring keynote speakers, interactive workshops, group discussions, and Q&A sessions - all focused on the theme of working collaboratively to support students with Down syndrome in Manitoba classrooms.

Whether you are a parent, teacher, educational assistant, or school administrator, See Me Beautiful offers practical tools, meaningful connections, and renewed inspiration to support the students you care about.

Learn More About See Me Beautiful & Register

Resources for Educators & School Teams

CDSS Education Hub - Learning Together in the School Community

The CDSS Education Hub is filled with shareable, printable resources and quick guides that include practical tips and suggestions to help support students as they learn together in the school community. The hub includes the comprehensive resource Learning Together in the School Community, developed specifically to help educators welcome students with Down syndrome into regular classrooms.

Learning Together in the School Community (English)
Learning Together in the School Community (Français)
Visit the CDSS Education Hub

Quick Resource Guides for the School Community

CDSS has developed a series of quick, downloadable resource guides tailored for every member of the school community, including guides for teachers, educational assistants, support staff, substitute teachers, classmates and peers, parents, and school administrators.

The Source for Inclusive Education - Inclusive Education Canada

A free online resource launched in 2024 to help build inclusive learning environments across Canada. CDSS was proud to be part of developing this tool. Visit The Source for Inclusive Education

International Guidelines for the Education of Learners with Down Syndrome - Down Syndrome International

A landmark publication providing evidence-based guidelines for educators, families, and policymakers on how best to support learners with Down syndrome in educational settings. Access the International Guidelines

Education Toolkit - Down Syndrome Australia

A comprehensive toolkit developed for educators, families, and the broader community to promote better understanding and practice around inclusive education for students with Down syndrome. Access the Education Toolkit

Resources for Parents

DSRF Learn @ Home

DSRF's team of Down syndrome specialists has created a collection of learn-from-home activities to empower parents to work on essential skills with children and adults with Down syndrome. Down Syndrome Resource Foundation Activities cover reading, spelling, math, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, mental wellness, positive behaviour support, and more. Visit DSRF Learn @ Home

3.21 Magazine - Articles on Education

CDSS's 3.21 Magazine has published several excellent articles on education and inclusion for students with Down syndrome, including guidance on starting the school year right, understanding Individualized Education Plans, and approaches to learning and development. Browse the Education Articles

Speech, Language & Communication Resources

Speech and language support is one of the most critical components of a student with Down syndrome's educational journey. Early intervention and ongoing support from a qualified speech-language pathologist make a significant difference in communication development, academic success, and quality of life.

DSRF Speech & Language Resources

The Down Syndrome Resource Foundation offers an extensive collection of information on speech, language, reading, and communication for individuals with Down syndrome, as well as direct clinical services for families in BC.

The LowDOWN Podcast - Education & Communication Episodes (DSRF)

DSRF's podcast features several episodes dedicated to learning and communication for individuals with Down syndrome:

Children's Therapy Network of Manitoba (CTNM)

For Manitoba families, CTNM connects children from birth through the end of schooling with speech-language pathology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and audiology services across all regions of the province. Early referral is encouraged. Visit CTNM at Manitoba.ca

Manitoba Down Syndrome Society

Education