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Pack your bags and grab a gelato because we're going to Italy! In this episode, Mary takes you along on her family's Italian adventure with Dennis and Ainsley.  From Rome to Florence, this trip had a little bit of everything-amazing food, beautiful sights, shopping, trains, missed stops, wine windows, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Sistine Chapel, LOTS of gelato and temperatures that made them wonder if they had accidentally travelled straight into the sun! But this episode is about more than just sightseeing.  Mary talks about what it's like to travel internationally with a child with special needs and shares some of the challenges, surprises, laughs and incredible memories along the way. Mary also talks about why she believes families shouldn't let the challenges of travelling with a child with special needs stop them from seeing the world.  You don't have to start with a huge international trip-start small, take the road trip, build your confidence, and then maybe one day you'll find yourself in Italy! Because sometimes you just have to be brave, take the trip, and make the memories. And yes...there may be a few stories about getting on the wrong train along the way!

Care Protect, Grow: Empowering Your Family Through Special Needs Financial Planning As parents of children with Down syndrome and other disabilities, we spend SO much time planning-doctor's appointments, therapies, IEP meetings, school transitions, activities and all the little things that come with raising our amazing kiddos. But what about planning for 10, 20 or 30 years from now? That part can feel a little more overwhelming.  In this episode of the T21Mom podcast, Mary chats with Mary McDirmid, on of the authors of Care, Protect, Grow: Empower Your Family Through Special Needs Financial Planning.  Mary talks about why financial planning looks different for families raising a child with a disability and, most importantly, how we can take those first steps without feeling completely overwhelmed.   As parents, one of our biggest worries is "what is going to happen to my child when I'm no longer here?"  We may never be able to completely erase that worry-but having a thoughtful plan in place can help us feel a whole lot more prepared.   And if you haven't started yet, don't panic.  You don't have to have everything figured out today. Find Mary's book here: https://www.amazon.ca/Care-Protect-Grow-Financial-Planning/dp/1394334664 https://www.wiley.com/en-us/shop/general-finance-investments/care-protect-grow-empower-your-family-through-special-needs-financial-planning-p-9781394334667 Book a consult with Mary here:   https://calendly.com/marymcdirmid/all-needs-planning-introduction-clone-1

Thinking of travelling with your child with Down syndrome but feeling a little overwhelmed? You're not alone! In this episode of the T21Mom podcast, Mary is sharing everything she has learned from travelling internationally as a family.  As Mary prepares for her third European adventure-this time to beautiful Italy, she looks back on what worked, what didn't and the lessons she has learned from her trips to Paris and Prague. From navigating airports and surviving long-haul flights to packing essentials, sightseeing and embracing the unexpected, this episode is packed with practical tips and encouragement for families considering their own adventures. Mary also shares a few recent family updates, including her second annual T21Mom Mingler for moms raising kids with the dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism, and her annual Ups and Downs BBQ. If you've ever wondered whether travelling with your Rockin' kiddo is possible, this episode is your reminder that it absolutely is!  It may not always be perfect, but the memories you'll make together are worth every challenge.

What happens when a viral story about Down syndrome reaches millions of people-but leaves out the voices of those who actually live it every day? In this episode of the T21Mom podcast, Mary is joined by fellow rockin' mom and advocate Misty Snyder for an important conversation about a recent viral YouTube video that has sparked strong emotions throughout the Down syndrome community. Together, they discuss why this story resonated so deeply with parents, self-advocates and families; the impact of fear-based messaging and misinformation; and how language shapes public perception of people with Down syndrome. Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that people with Down syndrome are not diagnoses, statistics, or assumptions.  They are individuals with dreams, personalities, relationships, challenges and extraordinary contributions to makes.  Whether you're a parent, family member, educator, advocate, or someone who simply wants to better understand the Down syndrome community, this conversation offers perspective, compassion and hope. MistyCoySnyder.com

After a little post-Christmas hiatus (and recovering from hosting 26 people...send help :), Mary is back with a life update, and wow, there's a lot to share! In this episode, Mary catches you up on what's been happening in her world, from holiday memories and reunions with dear friends, to big transitions at school and the emotional rollercoaster of navigating challenging behaviours, and of course, World Down Syndrome Day! Last year was, quite honestly, one of the hardest that Mary has ever had.  Between intense behaviours, constant dysregulation, and just trying to keep it all together, it pushed Mary to her limits.  But something shifted and she wants to share that with you, because if you're in a season of hard right now, you need to hear this.

The holidays can be magical-and complicated-especially when you're parenting a child with Down syndrome.  In this heartfelt and lightly funny episode of the T21Mom podcast, Mary is joined once again by fan-favourite guest Ron (and his Dollar Store bells!) for the annual Christmas show. This episode explores what Christmas with a child with Down syndrome and the dual diagnosis of autism, really looks like-from changing traditions and Advent cookie calendars to headless gingerbread men and quiet Christmas mornings.  Mary shares an honest look at special needs parenting during the holidays, including the joy, the grief that can quietly creep in, and how both can exist at the same time. You'll hear conversations about: Navigating holidays while raising a child with disabilities  Finding joy when traditions change Quiet Christmas mornings and realistic gift-giving Community, connection, and supporting other special needs moms This episode is for anyone looking for an honest Down syndrome parenting podcast, a reminder that they're not alone, and encouragement that it's okay when your holiday season looks a little different. So grab a cookie (or three) pour yourself something festive, and join Mary & Ron for a Christmas conversation that will make you laugh, reflect and find meaning an a beautifully imperfect Christmas.

It's the annual Rockin' Mom Retreat episode that was held at the beautiful resort called the Callaway Resort and Gardens in Pine Mountain, Georgia.  Mary shares the challenges of going away for a few days-from lunches, to Pro D days and early dismissal and how much it means to her to get away.  From guided hikes, to a murder mystery (so much fun) to golf carts, beach parties, a cottage pub crawl, pajama parties to emotional guest speakers (hint, Ruby's Rainbow), it was a fun filled and emotional retreat.  The Haunted Rockin' Moms had their own Murder Mystery in 80's style and Mary chats with lots of Rockin' Moms about what the retreat means to them.  Listen to hear from amazing women from all walks of life who are on a similar path of raising a child with Down syndrome and what it means to find a tribe and a community that supports you.

In this episode, Mary shares memories from a magical summer adventure in Prague, Czech Republic with Ainsley and Dennis. From wandering cobblestone streets to surviving the metro with a stroller, the magical scenery, the wild water slides  and meeting up with an old university friend, this trip was one for the books! Join us as we chat about: Old Town magic-astronomical clocks, the Powder Tower, the John Lennon Wall and why Prague looks like a fairytale you accidentally stepped into The Beer and Beer Spa-nothing beats a cold beer on a summer day or bathing in it! Getting around-metros, trams and a little confidence Our top family moments-including what Ainsley loved most (it was a "wild" ride!) Whether you're planning your own European getaway or just listening with a cup of coffee in hand, this episode is warm, funny and honest peek into our summer abroad and travelling with our rockin kiddo and a family that loves to explore!

Summer may be over, but the new school year is just beginning-and for Mary and Ainsley, that means BIG transitions.  In this episode, Mary shares the highs and the lows of saying goodbye to daycare after eight years (yes there were tears), their fun-filled trip to the PNE, and what it was really like starting Ainsley's first week of high school. From emotional goodbyes, daredevil rides, and locker practice, to the ongoing saga of the 45 minute two block school bus ride, this episode is a mix of laughter, nerves and love. If you've ever faced a big transition with your kiddo, you'll know exactly what Mary means.  And if not-well, you'll probably laugh with her as she navigates this new chapter.  What stories or topics do you want more of on the podcast? Visit T21Mom.com to send a message or even a voicemail!

In this milestone 150th episode, Mary takes us on a rollercoaster of emotion, celebration, and cookie-fueled chaos as she shares all the beautiful-and bittersweet-moments from Ainsley's final days of school.  From surprise awards and handmade cookie trays to an incredibly thoughtful gift from Ainsley's EA (spoiler: tears were shed), this episode is a love letter to growth, community and motherhood. Plus, Mary dishes on the epic summer BBQ for her parent support group (water balloons + gourmet burgers = perfection), and gives a sneak peek into their upcoming trip to Prague-castles, Gravol and all!

In this fun, heartwarming, and very real catch-up episode, Mary shares what life has looked like lately-spoiler alert: it includes a lot of cookies, a masquerade-themed "non graduation" and yet another pair of Ainsley's glasses lost, this time to the deep, blue sea. Mary chats about: - Ainsley's upcoming transition to high school(!) -Midnight cleanups and post-celebration tummy troubles -Fundraising in a monsoon for the Run Up For Down Syndrome -Hosting her first ever T21Mom Mingler -The epic Boat For Hope even (and how glasses and water still don't mix) - Summer adventures, Prague plans and podcast reflections It's funny, honest, chaotic, and full of heart-just the way life is Listen now on Apple, Spotify of wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode, Mary is joined by child author Jeana Atkison to talk about her new children's book How to Eat a Cupcake.  They discuss the inspiration behind the story, how it subtly and beautifully includes characters with disabilities, and why representation in children's literature is so important.  Jeana shares her thoughts on integrating inclusion naturally through storytelling and the message she hopes kids and families take away from the book. Order your copy of How to Eat a Cupcake at paperseedpress.com Follow T21Mom: Facebook: @T21Mom Instagram: @Trisomy21Momma X: @Trisomy21Momma

Please like and subscribe and even leave a review! In this deeply personal and heartfelt episode of the T21Mom podcast, Mary opens up about a heavy season filled with hospital visits, health scares, and the current challenges of parenting.  But through it all, one thing has kept her going-her tribe of Haunted Rocking Moms. These incredible women, all moms of children with Down syndrome have wrapped Mary in love, laughter, and support when she's needed it most.  From surprise gifts to heartfelt messages, they've reminded her that she's never alone. This episode is a love letter to her tribe-a warm thank you and a reminder of the power of community when life gets hard.

Please subscribe and leave a review! In this heartfelt episode, Mary chats with Cathy Middlestetter, mom to 27 year-old Cassie, who has Down syndrome. Cathy received a prenatal diagnosis just 11 days before Cassie was born-without the support of social media or online communities. Mary loved hearing Cathy's journey-how her strength, determination, and how she found connection in those early days.  From breastfeeding to inclusion, Cathy was a true trailblazer for the Down syndrome community. Tune in to hear a story of courage, love and finding your people. Connect with Mary: T21Mom.com  Follow, subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

Happy World Down Syndrome Day! Today we are celebrating the incredible individuals who rock that extra chromosome-and yes, we're also rocking our mismatched socks!  In this episode we dive into the fun and the real talk of World Down Syndrome Day. World Down Syndrome Day is a day for joy, advocacy, and raising awareness, but let's be real-it can also be a tough day for some parents. Whether you're dancing in celebration or feeling all the emotions, this episode is for you! So grab you mismatched socks, hit play, and let's celebrate together-whatever that looks like for you today.