Welcome to the Journey: Resources for New Families in York, PA

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Local Support + Community Connections

York Area Down Syndrome Association (YADSA)

Your hometown support network for social events, new-parent connections, advocacy, financial grants, and family meetups.
Meeting other families is often the most reassuring and empowering first step.

Buddy Walk & Family Events

Opportunities throughout the year to:

  • meet other parents

  • create friendships

  • celebrate abilities

  • build support networks

These events normalize the journey and help families feel truly welcomed.

Early Development + Early Intervention

Early Intervention Services (birth–3 yrs)

Pennsylvania provides Early Intervention at no cost to families. These services may include:

  • speech therapy

  • physical therapy

  • occupational therapy

  • family coaching

Early support helps build strong foundations for communication, movement, and independence. Families can contact EI directly — no referral needed.

‍⚕ Medical + Therapy Resources

Many new families focus on creating a care team. Common early specialists may include:

  • pediatrician familiar with Down syndrome care guidelines

  • cardiology screening

  • ENT and hearing checks

  • vision screening

  • therapy providers (speech, PT, OT)

York and surrounding areas include:

  • Leg Up Farm

  • Core Physical Therapy

  • Connections Early Intervention

  • UPMC and WellSpan pediatric networks

The providers listed above are experienced in working with children with developmental differences and can guide families gently through evaluations and next steps.

‍‍ Parent + Caregiver Support

Parents often share that finding community changed everything.

Local and online support groups can help you:

  • ask questions safely

  • process emotions

  • learn from experienced parents

  • celebrate milestones

  • connect with referrals

You are joining a community that understands.

Quick Tips for Families Just Starting Out

These are steps many families say helped the most in the beginning:

  • Take one step at a time. You don’t have to learn everything at once.

  • Reach out to a local parent community. Someone has walked this path before and is ready to help.

  • Contact Early Intervention. It’s an empowering first service to access.

  • Keep notes from appointments. A simple notebook or phone note works great.

  • Remember that milestones may look different — and that’s okay. Progress is progress.

  • Allow yourself to feel what you feel. All emotions are valid.

  • Celebrate your baby. They are so much more than a diagnosis.

Final Encouragement

Every family’s journey is unique — but you do not walk it alone. Your child will bring wonder, laughter, and joy. As you start navigating therapies, medical visits, and education, remember: progress is built step by step, together.