Resources

We know that having the right tools can make everyday life a little easier and more empowering for children, young people, and their families.

Useful Resources

On this page you’ll find practical resources created with families in mind such as communication boards, visual supports, and helpful guides to help you feel more confident at home, in school, and beyond.

These resources are free to download and use. They’re designed to be flexible, so you can adapt them to suit your child and family.

World Down’s syndrome Day 2026: Together Against Loneliness

This year’s global theme is “Together Against Loneliness” highlighting the importance of tackling isolation and building meaningful, inclusive connections for people with Down’s syndrome.

Using member feedback, we have created a suite of resources that can be used in schools, sessions for parents and carers, WhatsApp groups, and workplaces. These have been designed to help raise awareness and build understanding.

Our suite of free resources are split according to age, check them out below:

Preschool

Key Stage 1

Key Stage 2

We have created a member-led presentation – members can use this to share their voice in school, college, work or volunteering settings:

Member-led presentation for editing

One page information sheets for sharing:

Resources for families

Needs and Wants Communication Board

A simple visual tool that helps individuals express their needs and wants more clearly. Using pictures alongside words supports understanding, reduces frustration, and allows more independence in communication.

Needs and Wants board (PDF download)

Now and Next Board with Symbols

This visual timetable helps children understand what’s happening now, and what will come next. It can reduce anxiety around transitions, build routine, and support positive behaviour. Ideal for use at home or in school.

Now and next board (PDF download)

Family Support Guide

This guide is full of practical information, contacts, and advice for families of children and young people with Down’s syndrome. It covers key areas such as health, education, local services, and where to go for extra help and support.

Family Support Guide (Will open Canva)

Resources for schools

School Support Guide

A practical resource to help schools to understand the specific learning profile of people with Down’s syndrome and strategies to help overcome barriers in their learning and settings.

School Support Guide (PDF Download)

Needs and Wants Communication Board

Being able to express needs and wants is an important step in helping children feel understood, confident and more in control. Our Needs and Wants Communication Boards use simple visuals and clear language to support children who benefit from non-verbal or early communication tools.

These boards can help reduce frustration, encourage independence and give children a meaningful way to make choices throughout the day. They can be used at home, at nursery or school, and adapted to suit your child’s communication style. Parents, carers and professionals should use the boards alongside speech to reinforce understanding and support language development.

Needs and Wants Board for Schools (PDF Download)

Lanyard Quick Symbols

Our Quick Visual Lanyard provides instant access to key symbols that support communication on the go. Designed for the school environment, it’s a practical tool that makes it easier to offer visual choices, explain activities or reassure a child.

The lanyard includes simple visuals for common needs, emotions, transitions and routines.

Having quick visuals at hand can make a big difference in helping children understand what’s happening, feel calm and communicate effectively.

Lanyard Quick Symbols (PDF Download)

Further resources

We’ll continue to add to this page as new resources become available so do check back regularly. If you have suggestions for resources you’d like to see, please get in touch with Suzi our Family Support Worker.

Contact Suzi