Inclusive Programs
DSAMT offers inclusive programs and activities for individuals with Down syndrome of all ages and abilities, meaning that age-appropriate, typically-developing peers are a critical component of the program. Individuals of all ages - with and without Down syndrome both enjoy and learn from the experience.
DSAMT hosts One EXTRAordinary Evening, A dance for individuls with Down syndrome age 16+. This annual event is a free "come as you like" event with Dinner, a DJ, and FUN!!! Parents can come to the property for dinner and a couple hours of respite, but do not attend the dance.
Learn more about One Extraordinary Evening
Every child and adult deserves to be included, and every typically developing child and adult deserves to enjoy the experience of getting to know someone with Down syndrome. Extraordinary Fun with Friends program hosts inclusive activities to facilitate these experiences, develop social skills & friendships and have a lot of fun in the process!
Music & Fun with Belmont is part of our School Partnership Program. Education majors receive training from a board certified behavior analyst, the DSAMT Down Syndrome Specialist Training and then are responsible for creating the curriculum for this two-hour program held twice a semester, as part of their coursework. Students are paired 1:1 with children with Down syndrome age 5-11 for fun and learning on the Belmont campus. Parents also enjoy a two-hour break.
Circle of Friends is a monthly gathering from August to May for teens and adults with Down syndrome ages 13+. Meetings provide opportunities for education, recreation and socialization with peer volunteers in a fun and safe environment. Activities often include Tae Kwon Do, arts and crafts, service projects, field trips and much more! Participants have the chance to develop a social network and spend some time away from parents, while caregivers get a chance to catch up on errands or spend time with other children.
Next Chapter Book Club is a weekly book club meeting for people with Down syndrome or other intellectual disabilities and provides them the opportunity to read and learn to read, talk about books, and make friends in a fun, community setting.
The Meredith Brunner Achievement Scholarship is awarded annually to an individual with Down syndrome who lives in Middle Tennessee and is continuing their education at a post-secondary program. This fund was established in the fall of 2015 to honor DSAMT Board of Directors’ President Bob Brunner, whose exemplary dedication and effort serves as an example of everything that DSAMT strives to be.
DSAMT Creative Arts Camp is a five-day creative experience for teens and adults with Down syndrome age 14+ and siblings or peers in an inclusive environment. This unique and fun day camp provides a safe, enjoyable environment in which campers make friends and explore a wide variety of creative expressions. Camp counselors provide peer mentorship and supervision, while sibling and volunteer attendees provide peer friendships.
iCan Shine Bike Camp, for individuals with Down syndrome ages 8 and up, provides quality learning opportunities by creating an environment where each person is empowered to maximize their individuals abilities and learn how to ride a two-wheel bike independently. Each camper receives a t-shirt and certificate upon completion.
DSAMT holds this event every two to three years with the next one planned to occur in 2020.