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Heath Hayes play café highlights support group for families with Down syndrome

A play café in Heath Hayes is raising awareness and celebrating inclusion ahead of World Down Syndrome Day by highlighting a special monthly group for families of children with Down syndrome.

By contributor Sharna Hann
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Kids Rule Play Café, based in Heath Hayes, Cannock, runs “Trisomy & Me”, a welcoming meet-up designed specifically for children with Down syndrome and their families to connect, play and support one another.

The group takes place on the fourth Sunday of every month from 12pm to 2:30pm, providing a relaxed environment where children can enjoy the play facilities while parents and carers have the opportunity to meet others who understand their experiences.

“Trisomy & Me” was created by café owner Sharna Hann, whose own daughter Charlie-Rae has Down syndrome.

Sharna said the group was started to create a safe and supportive space for families who may not always feel fully included in typical play environments.

Charlie-Rae enjoying playtime at Kids Rule Play Café in Heath Hayes, where the monthly “Trisomy & Me” meet-up takes place for children with Down syndrome and their families.
Charlie-Rae enjoying playtime at Kids Rule Play Café in Heath Hayes, where the monthly “Trisomy & Me” meet-up takes place for children with Down syndrome and their families.

“As a parent of a child with Down syndrome, I know how important it is to meet other families who truly understand the journey,” she explained.

“The group allows children to play freely while parents can connect, share advice, support each other and build friendships.”

Kids Rule Play Café has become known locally for its inclusive approach, regularly hosting SEN sessions and creating an environment where children of all abilities can feel comfortable and welcome.

Charlie-Rae enjoying playtime at Kids Rule Play Café in Heath Hayes. Her mum, Sharna Hann, runs the monthly “Trisomy & Me” meet-up for children with Down syndrome and their families.
Charlie-Rae enjoying playtime at Kids Rule Play Café in Heath Hayes. Her mum, Sharna Hann, runs the monthly “Trisomy & Me” meet-up for children with Down syndrome and their families.

The Trisomy & Me meet-ups are open to children with Down syndrome of all ages, along with their siblings and families, helping to build a supportive local community.

With World Down Syndrome Day approaching on March 21, Sharna hopes the group will also help raise awareness and celebrate the unique personalities, abilities and joy that children with Down syndrome bring to their families and communities.

Sharna added: “World Down Syndrome Day is about celebrating our children for who they are. Groups like Trisomy & Me help families realise they’re not alone and create friendships that mean the world.”

Families interested in attending Trisomy & Me can join the group on the fourth Sunday of each month from 12pm to 2.30pm at Kids Rule Play Café in Heath Hayes, Cannock.