This year has been different to previous as we have not been able to host an event on 21st March to celebrate World Down Syndrome Day.
This is due to the current outbreak of COVID-19 across the UK and so many other countries.
Instead, we hosted an online catch up and boogie to bring some of our families together in such uncertain times. Although it isn't possible to hold our groups and sessions currently, a number of our groups are available online. Please see our calendar on the website to see what's on.
Thank you for joining in and escaping from the madness with us.
Why do we celebrate on 21st March?
The month of March is special to Sunshine & Smiles and people all over the world who have Down syndrome. The reason we celebrate on 21st March is because every person born with Down syndrome has 3 copies of chromosome 21 – hence 21/03. WDSD is a celebration of people who have down syndrome and an opportunity to raise awareness and challenge preconceptions in society. Lots of people wear odd socks on this day because chromosomes are shaped like socks.
More news articles
Help Shape a New SEND Homeschool Provision - Parent Focus Groups
26th Jan 2026
We’re excited to share that RISE Learning Hub is launching in April, and they’re inviting parents and carers of children with SEND and/or mental health needs to help shape this new provision.
Read more...Places still available for the Leeds Endure24!
26th Jan 2026
Do you fancy taking on a challenge in 2026 and raising vital funds for Sunshine and Smiles? Endure24 (the North’s biggest 24-hour trail race) is taking place from 4th-5th July.
Read more...We’ve been nominated for an award!
26th Jan 2026
We’re thrilled to say that Sunshine and Smiles has been nominated for Disability Service Provider of the Year in Yorkshire- please could you vote for us?
Read more...