World Down’s Syndrome Day - Things You Can Do to Raise Awareness

People with Down’s Syndrome are born with an extra copy of their 21st chromosome. This can cause some physical and cognitive disabilities and delays. Some people with Down’s Syndrome may live independent lives and some may require a level of care, but just like everyone else each person has their own personality, likes and dislikes. Their genetic condition doesn’t define them.

Down’s Syndrome Awareness Day 2021 is this Sunday, 21st March and it’s important to raise awareness not only to fundraise for charities that support people with Down’s Syndrome but to educate others about the condition. With that in mind, here are some things that you can do to raise awareness.

Wear odd socks for World Down’s Syndrome Day

Wearing bright and funky mismatched socks is one of the easiest ways to help raise awareness of Down’s Syndrome. The ‘Lots of Socks’ initiative is really fun and anyone can take part. It doesn’t matter if you’re at home, at work or at school – you just need to wear odd socks! Wearing odd socks is a great way to make a statement, show support and raise awareness.

The idea of ‘Lots of Socks’ arose because chromosomes are shaped like socks and people with Down’s Syndrome have an extra chromosome.

Don’t forget to use the hashtag #LotsOfSocks when sharing your odd socks on social media! Or check out our range of Ez-Sox for some inspiration.

Host a virtual tea party or bake sale

Hosting your own virtual tea party or bake sale is a lovely way to celebrate World Down’s Syndrome Day. It’s a great excuse to catch up with family and friends and raise awareness. After all, anything with tea and cake is bound to get people to join in!

Participate in the 21 in 21 challenge for World Down’s Syndrome Day

Down’s Syndrome Scotland are suggesting the 21 in 21 challenge to help raise awareness this year. The idea is to pick a challenge of your choice and do it for 21 days. You could decide to walk 21 miles in 21 days or sing and sign 21 songs. There are so many things that you could do!

Share your story to help educate other on Down’s Syndrome

There is nothing more powerful than sharing your own story with family and friends. Personal experiences are a great way to educate others and raise awareness. We would love to hear your story in the comments below.

Ask your child’s school to take part

Speak to your child’s school and if they aren’t already doing something ask if they can help to raise awareness this Down’s Syndrome Awareness Day. Perhaps all of the children can  wear odd socks or the school could put up posters and notify parents in their newsletter. A school fundraiser would be an amazing thing to do. 

Use hashtags on social media platforms

There are lots of fantastic charities that support people with Down’s Syndrome, such as the Down’s Syndrome Association and Down’s Syndrome Scotland. They are all using hashtags to help spread the word about World Down Syndrome Day 2021. Here are a few that you can use:

• #WorldDownSyndromeDay
• #WorldDownSyndromeDay2021
• #WDSD2021
• #Connect - to celebrate the power of connections and how they can make a huge impact.
• #TakeAStepForward; asking people to take a step forward and join in celebrating the value and contribution of people with Down’s Syndrome.
• #LotsOfSocks

What will you be doing this year to raise awareness?