A day to celebrate, advocate and spread global awareness.
The purpose of World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) is to raise awareness and advocate for the rights, inclusion and well-being of people with Down syndrome. On this day, people with Down syndrome are being asked to speak up and tell others what they have to offer, as well as to advocate for their rights and opportunities in their communities.
The World Down Syndrome Day 2025 Theme is “Improve Our Support Systems”. This theme highlights the importance of strengthening resources, education, healthcare, and community support to empower individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Learn more about this year’s theme at World Down Syndrome Day 2025.
Down syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. According to the CDC, approximately 6,000 children are born with Down syndrome each year.
This date was selected for WDSD to reflect the “uniqueness of the triplication of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome,” according to the WDSD website.
WDSD is being observed with a variety of activities and events around the world and virtually.
At NAPA Centre, we proudly participate in #LotsOfSocks, a campaign created specifically for this day to help raise awareness and celebrate all abilities worldwide. Our therapists generally sport fun socks, but on March 21st our sock game will be on an elevated level. Join this movement by wearing the most wild and out-there socks you own. Help spread awareness by explaining why you are wearing this statement piece when bystanders comment. In addition, you can post a picture of your socks using the hashtag #LotsOfSocks to reach people on a larger scale.
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Instagram is a great way to connect with some of our favorite friends with Down syndrome. Here are some of our favorite accounts to follow:
NAPA Centre is a world-renowned paediatric therapy clinic with locations throughout Australia, the U.S., and the U.K. NAPA was founded in 2008 by a mother who dedicated her life to finding the best therapies for her son with cerebral palsy. Over fifteen years later, NAPA is now recognised as a global leader in paediatric therapy, offering the best and most innovative tools and methods from around the world.
If your child needs our services, we will work closely with you to select the best therapies for them, creating a customised program specific to your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Contact our team today — we’ll start with a free discovery session where we pair you with one of our therapists to discuss your child’s needs and your family’s goals. Welcome to the NAPA Family!
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Cait Parr is a paediatric physiotherapist at NAPA Centre. Her favorite animal is snails, because they remind her to slow down and enjoy the beautiful details about life.