Helping children with Down Syndrome

Every day in Ukraine a child is born with Down syndrome, which is almost 400 children annually. These people live among us, have their own needs, dreams, hopes – like all of us. And a huge part of the UBO Down Syndrome mission is to help people with Down syndrome unleash their unique potential and realize themselves in society. And this means – systematic work with people with Down Syndrome (DM) from childhood to adulthood. And we found a way to realize this through the main direction of our work: the Center for Early Development for children with Down syndrome.

It all starts from childhood. And in the case of a family where a child with diabetes is born, it all starts with the parents. After all, if parents cannot accept their child, find no internal resources for his upbringing, support development, such a child will not be able to realize himself at an older age. That is why our Center for Early Development works both with children with diabetes and with their parents. Joint experiences, games, movement, joy of communication, focused observation of children helps parents better understand the needs of their children and respond correctly to their behavior. Children, in turn, learn to establish social ties with their peers and trust only their parents, but also other adults.

To do this, we monthly carry out within the framework of the Center for Early Development for children from 3 to 8 years old and their parents:
- Initial consultations of specialists (psychologist, physiotherapist, early development teacher, speech therapist) for families from different parts of Ukraine;
- Groups of early socialization (correctional development of classes);
- Individual lessons with a physiotherapist, psychologist, early development teacher, speech therapist, neuropsychologist;
- Studio for parents “Dad and Mom in the know” (creating Video Tips, conducting training seminars, organizing a parent's workshop).

In order for the Center to function and have the opportunity to work with children for free, the foundation is always looking for funds.

On December 7, the Atlantic School and the English-language Playroom for children performed with the Saving the Christmas magic charity performance at the Kiev Opera and Ballet Theater. Funds were raised in part by selling tickets and proceeds from the fair. At the fair, students of institutions prepared their artwork, clay products, eco bags with prints. Parents donated books and toys. Employees of the institution - homemade lemonade and cookies.

The donors donated the entire amount raised to this charity project.