Japan Down Syndrome Society (JDS)

The Japan Down Syndrome Society (公益財団法人 日本ダウン症協会), known as JDS, is the national parent-and-family organization for people with Down syndrome in Japan. It supports individuals across their whole life, from families who have just learned their baby has Down syndrome, through the infant, school-age, and young-adult and adult stages, and it also has resources for people with hearing loss, which often accompanies Down syndrome. For a parent, especially one who has just received a diagnosis and feels alone, this is a warm and steady first place to land. Its guiding message is simply “you are not alone.”

JDS offers information and consultation in several forms, including a telephone consultation line, local and regional consultations, and dedicated support around hearing. It publishes materials for families, such as a child-rearing notebook (子育て手帳) and a mini-book series on Down syndrome, and it lends out books and DVDs. It also provides thoughtful, non-directive information and support around prenatal testing (出生前検査), making clear that it does not push any particular choice but respects the decision each family reaches. Local chapters and affiliated parent groups (親の会) give families a way to connect with others nearby.

Beyond direct support, JDS runs awareness work including World Down Syndrome Day events, the Japan Down Syndrome Conference, seminars, and research into how people with Down syndrome live, including the growing needs of adults as they age.