We’re all hoping for great friends for our kiddos, right? And as parents of kids with Down Syndrome, we might be hoping for those great friends even more than most. That’s why we are so excited to talk to you all about Best Buddies, an international non-profit organization that focuses on creating meaningful, one on one, friendships between students with and without different abilities. Here today to tell us all about the program and share their amazing friendship story is (our co-producer) Val Schlieder & her sister, Allison Covell. Starting out as high schoolers in the program and then eventually going on to co-launch their own college group, both ladies have been involved with Best Buddies for nearly 10 years! This set of sisters credits Best Buddies for introducing them to the Down Syndrome community and their best friend/sister, Linzey! Because of what they learned about inclusive friendships, they’re now strong advocates in the differently-abled world, both online and off! You can follow @linzeyslight on Instagram for all things dancing, adults with Down Syndrome, friendship, & more!

So friends, join us as we answer your questions about all things inclusive friendship and Best Buddies! How can parents of kids without different abilities encourage their children to have inclusive friendships? How can we make sure students value friendships with their peers who have different abilities? And, how can you join or start a Best Buddies program at your school?

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SHOW LINKS

Find out more about Best Buddies and how to join (or start) a program near you!

Keep up with today’s guests on Instagram: @linzeyslight

Watch Val’s “In Search Of The Lucky Few” video here.

Curious about the AAC (augmented alternative communication) device Micha mentioned? Check it out here!

SHOW SPONSOR: BEHNO

Guided by ethical principles and sustainability, Behno is a NYC fashion brand that creates beautiful and quality products, including the ‘Nini’ tote to support NDSS! Purchase a tote (or two) and use code: NDSS at checkout to receive a complimentary Tara cardholder, valued at $75.

SHOW SPONSOR: QRI (Quantum Reflex Integration)

QRI empowers individuals to reach their potential by strengthening neurological connections through cold laser and reflex integration! Head to reflexintegration.net and use code: QRILuckyFew for a FREE QRI Computer Harmonizer valued at $159 with the purchase of an Essentials Package.

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