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World Down Syndrome Day
World Down Syndrome Day
March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day, which has been officially recognised by the United Nations since 2012. Down syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs when an individual has an extra (third) copy of their 21st chromosome. This is why World Down Syndrome Day takes place on the 21st of March (the 3rd month) each year.
On this day, people all around the world celebrate the lives and achievements of people with Down syndrome. It’s also an opportunity to raise awareness about their rights and inclusion in all aspects of society.
The international theme for World Down Syndrome Day 2025, was a call to governments to Improve Our Support Systems.
How can your school get involved?
Get involved by hosting a Lots of Socks Day at your school! Students, teachers and staff are encouraged to wear their own odd or colourful socks to raise awareness of Down syndrome and bring a gold coin donation to support the cause. All funds raised can then be donated through our Donation webpage.
When chromosomes are put under the microscope, they resemble socks. This is why socks are our symbolic representation for Down syndrome. The idea behind the ‘Lots of Socks’ initiative is that socks come in all shapes, sizes and designs, just like each of us.
For more ideas and activities to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day, download the PDF below.
Downloads
Books - Inspiring and Educating Story Books About Down syndrome and Celebrating The Acceptance of Differences
If you are looking for a way to introduce and educate students about Down syndrome and celebrate the acceptance of differences in a Kindy or school setting, there are some really great books that inform and encourage kindness, patience, inclusion and acceptance.
Below are two story books we often recommend to kindergartens and schools:
If you are looking for a way to introduce and educate students about Down syndrome and celebrate the acceptance of differences in a kindy or school setting, there are some really great books that inform and encourage kindness, patience, inclusion, and acceptance.
Author Becky Carey has written 47 Strings. Tessa’s Special Code as a love letter to her son about her daughter, Tessa, who has Down syndrome. It is a beautiful story that explains in a simple and sensitive manner how Tessa’s special code makes her different in some ways, but also how Tessa and her brother are the same in so many other ways. Additional information about Down syndrome can also be found at the back of the book.
My Friend has Down’s Syndrome by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos is a beautiful introduction to Down syndrome. It is about two girls at a summer camp who become best friends; one of the girls, Ella, has Down syndrome. This book sensitively explores the other children’s hesitation about Ella being there because they don’t understand what Down syndrome is. It explains what Down syndrome is in a very child-friendly way through its storyline. The children soon learn that all children have their own strengths and weaknesses, and this is what makes us unique. There is information about Down syndrome for adults at the back of the book.
(Note: In the United Kingdom, Down syndrome is still known as Down’s syndrome. However, in Australia, the USA, and many other countries, Down’s syndrome is considered outdated and Down syndrome is preferred.)