In our newest episode, Antonella Signori of GiGi’s Playhouse Houston shares how this incredible nonprofit is empowering individuals with Down syndrome through free programs—from infancy through adulthood. From tutoring and speech therapy to music, dance, and adult social programs, GiGi’s Playhouse redefines what inclusion looks like. Listeners will also learn about Houston's expansion plans, community events, and ways to get involved, reinforcing that GiGi’s Playhouse is more than a program—it’s a lifelong, inclusive community built on human connection. Join us to hear more! You can learn more about Gigi's Playhouse here: https://gigisplayhouse.orgAnd here's the Houston location's website: https://gigisplayhouse.org/houston/

Check out our latest episode where we talk about all things Gigi's Playhouse. Locations for Gigi's Playhouse are all over the country and it's a fantastic resource for families who have loved ones with Down Syndrome.

In this powerful episode of Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives, hosts Anne Lewis and Leigh Frillici speak with journalist and author Jillian Benfield about her newest book Overwhelmed and Grateful as well as her first book The Gift of the Unexpected. Jillian shares her transformative journey after receiving a prenatal Down syndrome diagnosis for her son from sadness to growth, advocacy, and profound love.In our conversation, Jillian explores the emotional impact of a diagnosis, navigating medical and school systems, and the daily realities of raising a child with Down syndrome. She also dives into the concept of living in the AND—holding both the challenges and the beauty of disability parenting.For anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Down syndrome community, join us for Jillian’s remarkable story and her reminder that joy and hardship can coexist.

Former TV journalist Jillian Benfield joins Anne Lewis and Leigh Frillici to share her powerful story of raising a child with Down Syndrome. Jillian opens up about her journey from grief to gratitude, and shares the lessons she wrote about in her new book Overwhelmed and Grateful. An honest, heartfelt conversation about finding purpose and beauty in life’s hardest surprises.Watch the whole episode here:

New Episode Alert! Empowering Kids with IDD to Dance - Cammie O'Hara shares the joy of teaching her students with IDD how to dance and how her Empower Dance Group performs at some big venues! No matter where you are in the country, learn more about how you can join her virtual dance class.

In this uplifting episode of Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives, hosts Monique Johnson and Leigh Frillici welcome Cammie O’Hara, owner of The Dance Pointe, a studio dedicated to providing inclusive dance classes for individuals of all abilities. Cammie shares how her lifelong love of dance—and a gentle push from her daughter—sparked the creation of adaptive classes where students with Down Syndrome, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, and other disabilities can thrive. Her classes blend contemporary, ballet and lyrical styles, often set to Disney or popular songs that invite creativity, emotional expression, and joy. And...her classes are going virtual so kids with IDD across the country can take dance with her.

You can learn more about The Dance Pointe here - https://thedancepointetx.com/

In this episode of Down Syndrome: 21st Perspectives, we talk with Carly Durham—nurse practitioner, client care manager, and mom of three, including two children with Down syndrome. Carly shares her family’s adoption journey from Ukraine, their experiences navigating complex medical needs, and her work as an advocate helping families understand IEPs and push for inclusion. We also dive into the realities of special education in Texas—from STAAR testing to deciding whether a GenEd classroom is right for your child. This heartfelt and practical conversation highlights the challenges, victories, and everyday pursuit of belonging for every child.Resources that Carly Spoke about:SPEDTX - https://www.spedtex.org/TEA - https://tea.texas.gov/Disability Scoop - https://www.disabilityscoop.com/Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities - https://tcdd.texas.gov/ Disability Rights of TX – https://disabilityrightstx.org/en/home/Federal ARC – ARC.org

On this episode of Down Syndrome 21st Perspectives, Carly Durham shares her journey from adopting a child with Down Syndrome from Ukraine to their experiences navigating complex medical needs, and her work as an advocate helping families understand IEPs and push for inclusion. She talks candidly about IEP meetings and STAAR testing to considerations when deciding if a GenEd classroom is right for your child.  Join us for this heartfelt conversation.

In this inspiring episode, host Anne Lewis speaks with Amber Jackson, a dedicated homeschool educator to Anne’s son, Fritz. Amber shares her journey from early dreams of teaching to founding her own Montessori-inspired, Responsive Classroom-based homeschool. She offers insights into creating emotionally safe, child-centered learning environments and empowering students through independence, routine, and mutual respect. This heartfelt conversation is packed with practical wisdom and encouragement for parents, educators, and advocates seeking to nurture the full potential of every child.

Topics discussed include:

• Amber’s reasons for saying “yes” to working with Fritz, her belief in his potential, and how she adapts her teaching style to honor his individuality—focusing on curiosity over compliance.

• Practical school tools, like using a sand timers for emotional regulation.

• Embracing gentle parenting, letting go of perfection, and recognizing that some behaviors are tied to just being a kid.

You can find Amber on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kweensskorner/

Helpful Sections:

9:44 Home school and public school education

17:56 On teaching Fritz

19:35 On working towards a goal

21:10 Do you need a moment? Tactics for handling shut downs....

23:50 Realizing this is just kid behavior

24:25 Responsive Classrooms

27:39 Importance of Learning sounds

29:25 "I have to do this" vs "I get to do this"

30:40 IXL learning

31:56 Math

32:34 Comprehension

In this short clip, check out how one teacher is unlocking the joy of reading and learning for Anne's son who was born with Down Syndrome. Our new podcast season begins with a Back-to-School episode, join us on Down Syndrome 21st Perspectives!