Parent Groups
The Down Syndrome Resource Foundation is pleased to offer a variety of parent groups. To register for any of these groups, please click here.
Crisis Support Group for Parents of Children with Down Syndrome
Are you overwhelmed? At the end of your rope? Burnt out? Parenting a child with Down syndrome can be a deeply meaningful experience, but it also brings unique challenges—especially during times of crisis. Whether you’re facing a recent diagnosis, navigating medical complications, or struggling with emotional overwhelm, you’re not alone.
Our Crisis Support Group offers a safe and supportive space for parents to process difficult emotions, connect with others who truly understand, and access practical tools for coping. Facilitated by a mental health professional, this group provides:
- Emotional support during periods of acute stress or crisis
- Validation and connection with other parents of children with Down syndrome
- Guidance on managing anxiety, grief, uncertainty, and medical trauma
- Strategies to support family wellbeing and resilience
This is an ongoing parent support community that meets online every week (Wednesdays at 7:30 pm). This group is designed for parents in high-stress or crisis situations.
You don’t have to navigate this alone. Support is here.
Dates: Weekly on Wednesday evenings starting Oct 2025 (7:30-8:30 pm)
Location: Zoom (virtual)
Group Size: 10
Price: Free
Facilitator: Christine Hoos, Clinical Counsellor
Registration: Click here to register online
After registering, you will be offered a free 15-30 minute consultation to ensure this group is a good fit for you.
There’s Ups and Downs Parent Support Group
For Parents of Children with Down Syndrome Ages 0-15
This group provides a welcoming, confidential space for parents and caregivers of children and young teens with Down syndrome to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Whether you’re looking for guidance, emotional support, or simply the reassurance of being among others who “get it,” this group offers a place to feel understood, empowered, and connected.
Dates: Monthly on Thursday evenings starting Oct 2025 (7:30-9:00 pm)
Location: Zoom (virtual)
Price: Free
Facilitator: Christine Hoos, Clinical Counsellor
Registration: Click here to register online
There’s Ups and Downs Parent Support Group
For Parents of Children with Down Syndrome Ages 16+
Parenting doesn’t stop when your child reaches adulthood—and neither do the unique challenges and joys of raising a child with Down syndrome. This group provides a welcoming, confidential space for parents and caregivers of older teens and adults to connect, share experiences, and learn from one another. Whether you’re looking for guidance, emotional support, or simply the reassurance of being among others who “get it,” this group offers a place to feel understood, empowered, and connected.
Dates: Monthly on Thursday evenings starting Oct 2025 (7:30-9:00 pm)
Location: Zoom (virtual)
Price: Free
Facilitator: Christine Hoos, Clinical Counsellor
Registration: Click here to register online