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Programs

STEP PROGRAMS

We are proud to offer our STEP Program — A therapeutic program that is educational and developmental geared specifically to the needs of children born with Down syndrome. The STEP Program embodies a unique combination of cognitive skills and social/behavioral interaction.

BABY STEPS (*ages 0-3)

This group meets twice a month and is helpful in understanding and supporting your baby's development and provides the opportunity to share friendship, information, and the celebration of our delightful kids together! Music therapy is offered the second group of each month.

SMALL STEPS (*ages 3-5)

Activities focused on improving motor skills through challenging obstacle courses, cognitive tasks as we learn to follow, interpret and comprehend a story, social interaction as we learn to wait our turn encourage others and adapt to an environment of cooperation, interaction and socialization.

FIRST STEPS (*ages 6-10)

The goal of this class is to provide an environment of cooperation, interaction and socialization that allows children with Down syndrome:

• To improve their motor skills by navigating a challenging obstacle course.
• To work on cognitive tasks as they learn to follow, interpret and comprehend a story.
• To foster social interactions as they learn to wait their turn and encourage others.

NEXT STEPS (*ages 12-15)

Goals of this class are to improve student's language development, reading comprehension, confidence and self expression. The emphasis on enhancing socialization skills, building friendships and practicing teamwork, cooperation and respect for self and others.

STEP IN (*ages 20-30's) (Danville), BENICIA STEP (*ages 20-30's) (Benicia), STEP OUT (*ages 20-30's) (Oakland) and SF STEP (*ages 14-20's) (San Francisco)

These are teen and young adult groups which support key skills for this 'transition' aged population. We focus on skill building in three main areas: Social/Friendship, Leisure/Recreation and Inter/Independent Living. These very active and fun groups emphasize positive communication and social values, personal awareness and empowerment through vital peer and group relationships, fitness and recreation and creative movement and the expressive arts. Emphasis is on "Ability" and personal responsibility in a safe and exciting group. We utilize peer volunteers called PALS-Peer Assistance Leadership and Support.

ADVOCACY (Danville)

We provide a variety of advocacy services, including professional consultation, developmental evaluations and attendance with parents at IEP's (Individual Educational Plan). We partner with other organizations and professionals in order to offer a well-rounded support system to the child and their families.

PARENT SUPPORT GROUP

Martha Hogan, Director of Parent Advocacy and Support

Parents of children with Down syndrome are welcome and encouraged to join our monthly support group. Exchange information, share common experiences and be encouraged by other parents with similar issues and concerns. This group usually meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month (check the schedule) from 7:00pm to 9:00pm at the Connection office in Danville at 101 J Town & Country Drive.

NOTE: Childcare is NOT available. Babies under 10 months are welcome. This group is for Parents

IN A PINCH

Our "In A Pinch" program is designed to help members who find themselves “In A Pinch”. Examples are:

• Giving birth to a baby (with or without Down syndrome)
• Having a child, partner, spouse or yourself in the hospital
• Relocating residences

Examples of ways you can be supported:

• Childcare
• Help with Errands
• Meals

Participation: If you would like to participate in this program by helping others in your area or you find yourself “In A Pinch” please email Angie Rettig at familia.rettig@sbcglobal.net or call the Connection at 925-362-8660.

*AGE DISCLAIMER: Ages listed are just a range. The DSCBA staff will work with you to determine what STEP program would work best for your child, teen or adult. Please call the office for more details.