Association offers etiquette classes for those with Down syndrome

by Andrea Salazar from theeagle.com:
For teens with Down syndrome, a night out without their parents is almost unheard of.That's why the The Down Syndrome Association of the Brazos Valley offers etiquette classes that take the children out to nice restaurants and theaters without their folks.

"Without the expectation of a parent, it gives [the children] the opportunity to make these decisions themselves that this is how you act in public regardless of whether a parent is there or not," said Rose Schmitz, president of the local nonprofit group, working to support people with Down syndrome and their families.
The organization hosts classes for children and adults with Down syndrome throughout the year, including computer, math, reading, cooking, fitness and handwriting, to supplement lessons learned in school and help them gain life skills.

Etiquette, dance classes for students with Down syndrome are a hit

by Christie Lovvorn from AL.com:
Every Tuesday evening this year, the Icebreakers have put on their dancing shoes and gone to the Azalea City Center for the Arts where Ann Druhan taught them ballroom dances as part of the group's etiquette class. The young adult social and community service club of the Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County completed the classes June 8.
"We wanted to teach traditional ballroom dancing and etiquette skills to young adults with Down syndrome to help them gain poise and confidence when in social situations," said Lisa Gibert whose daughter Britt is a member of the Icebreakers.
"Our etiquette class covers the basics of a traditional etiquette class and provides extra time to learn and practice the skills being taught," Gibert said. "We also use methods used in drama classes such as role-playing, memorization, and improvisation to make the lessons fun, engaging, and memorable. The course includes lessons in ballroom dancing, table manners, and basic etiquette."
The classes, which averaged about 18 students all ranging between 18-30 years old, were part of a pilot program funded by grants provided by the Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County and the Global Down Syndrome Foundation. They were free to students with the exception of a $100 fee to offset costs for a dinner and a reception.
"I have taught them the proper dance positions, how to escort a girl to the dance floor, and a few other manners when at a social function," said veteran dance instructor Ann Druhan who also taught the group basic table manners and party manners.