Our therapeutic programs are designed to enhance physical, speech, and social development. These programs aim to improve overall quality of life by addressing communication difficulties, motor delays, and social interaction. These programs, often implemented in a combination, are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. They provide valuable opportunities for growth and help individuals with Down syndrome gain greater independence, improve socialization, and develop essential life skills.
Our programs rotate on a quarterly basis (Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall). Below are examples of therapeutic programs we offer throughout the year.
Drumming for Wellness: Drumming for Wellness focuses on enhancing cognitive, physical, and emotional well-being through rhythmic activities. Tailored to meet the specific needs of this population, drumming is used as a tool for improving motor skills, coordination, and social interaction. Participants engage in structured sessions where they learn basic drumming techniques, rhythms, and patterns, in a group setting to foster a sense of community and shared purpose. Research has shown that such programs can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote better physical health by encouraging movement and exercise. The rhythm and coordination required in drumming also help stimulate brain function and improve attention span, memory, and executive function. Additionally, drumming provides an outlet for self-expression, allowing individuals to communicate in ways that might be more accessible than traditional verbal communication.
Fall Prevention with Balance Screenings: Falls are a leading cause of injury, especially as we age. Adults with Down syndrome may have decreased balance, strength, or vision issues that can contribute to increased falls at a younger age. During this program, adults go through balance screening tests performed by licensed physical therapists, Kelsey Haynes PT, DPT and Stephanie Dailey PT, DPT. Following the balance screen, participants are provided with resources to assist with improving balance to decrease incidence of falls and potential injury.
Music Therapy: Music therapy helps individuals with Down syndrome improve their communication, motor skills, and emotional expression. It utilizes instruments, singing, and rhythm exercises to stimulate cognitive development, improve social skills, and boost self-esteem. Music therapy can also be used to enhance sensory processing and emotional regulation.
Play with the Pros: Play with the Pros is a play-based program with certified therapists (OT, PT, or Speech) on site to facilitate conversation with parents about therapy related goals.
Skills for Daily Success: Occupational Therapist, Abigal Burton, designed a unique program focused on enhancing skills for daily living activities – like laundry, scheduling, and time management. Enhancing these skills will foster greater self-sufficiency and confidence. Therapists work closely with each participant, using a variety of hands-on techniques, adaptive tools, and strategies to improve motor skills, coordination, and cognitive abilities. The program may also incorporate social skills training, communication support, and the use of technology to assist with learning. By focusing on real-life tasks and routines, the program aims to increase the teenager's ability to navigate their environment with greater autonomy and confidence.
T.E.L.L. Speech Program: T.E.L.L. stands for Teaching Engagement and Lifelong Language. The T.E.L.L. Speech Program is led by University of Cincinnati Speech-Language Pathology graduate students under the supervision of licensed Speech-Language Pathologist, Kendra Thornock.
This program is designed to improve communication skills using personalized supports for each participant. The program focuses on addressing challenges related to speech articulation, language comprehension, and social communication. Tailored to meet individual needs, it may involve exercises to improve pronunciation, sentence structure, vocabulary, and conversation skills.
Over 10 weeks, participants in the program work with a speech-language therapist and SLP grad students who use a variety of techniques, such as speech drills, auditory discrimination exercises, and social communication practice. The program often includes group activities to encourage real-life conversation and social interaction, fostering confidence in speaking with peers, family, and within the community.
In addition to improving verbal communication, the program also focuses on enhancing non-verbal communication, such as body language, facial expressions, and gestures, which are key to effective interaction. The program is designed to support both functional and expressive language, helping adults with Down syndrome to better express their thoughts, needs, and emotions. Communication comes in many forms, and our team is experienced with many different forms of AAC devices.
TheraPLAY: TheraPLAY is a play-based group that facilitates development of play skills, language and communication, emotional regulation/sensory needs, and social skills. TheraPLAY is led by developmental specialists, including pediatric speech and occupational therapists who will also provide parents with strategies and education on how to implement these practices at home and suggestions for developmentally appropriate toys.
The Buddy Walk is the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati’s largest fundraising and awareness event of the year, attracting over 13,000 participants and raising half of our annual revenue. Over 380 teams, from across the 12 counties we serve, come together to celebrate our loved ones with Down syndrome. Learn more
