Programme Overview

19th August 2009

1st International Synod of People with Down Syndrome
The inaugural International Synod of people with Down syndrome will take place on Wednesday 19th August the day before the main Congress begins. This prestigious and high profile event will give adults and young people with Down syndrome an opportunity to meet their peers from across the globe and to discuss issues that affect their daily lives including employment and living in the community. The format will be in a parliamentary style and the Synod will be afforded appropriate recognition by political representatives in Ireland.

DSMIG – Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group - Meeting
The DSMIG Meeting will take place on Wednesday 19th August the day before the main Congress commences. This is an International group of healthcare professionals whose aim is to share and disseminate information relating to the medical aspects of Down syndrome and support best practice healthcare management worldwide.

Research Directions Meeting:
This international group whose aim is to identify and prioritise the research directions that promise to deliver practical benefits for the development and quality of life of people with Down syndrome and their families in the near to medium term (5-10 years) and identify current best practice in development, education and healthcare. It is multidisciplinary and comprehensive, including genetics, development, cognition, education, behaviour and medicine and is open to researchers, practitioners and families.

There will be an opportunity during the course of the congress for these two groups to meet and discuss future research directions and possible collaborations.


Main Congress: 20th to 22nd August 2009

The theme of the 10th World Down Syndrome Congress is "Lifelong Living and Learning"

Structure: The main plenary sessions will be held in the mornings and will include the following themes

Themes:
• Life Possibilities with Down syndrome
• Family perspectives – Parents, siblings & extended family
• Health Care Management
• Maximising individual potential with early intervention
• Education & Inclusion ~ Who, What, Where and How?
• Hearing, Speech & Vision
• Psychosocial development - Pleasure of Play, Drama & Friendship
• Independent living & employment
• Mental wellness throughout life

Break-out sessions will take place in the afternoons where these themes and other important topics will be discussed in greater detail. These sessions will be in various formats including formal/informal lectures and workshops. There will also be opportunities to "meet the expert" as well as poster presentations of current international research.

Children, Adolescent & Adults
There will be a full programme for Children, Adolescents and Adults with Down syndrome which will run concurrently with Congress

Other Events during the Congress will include: Welcome Reception, Cultural Evening and a Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony

For more detailed programme information, please see Preliminary Programmes