T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast

T21Mom.com
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A family podcast about Down syndrome, single parenting, special needs, and pretty much everything in between.

  1. 12/17/2025

    T21Mom: Episode 154-Christmas With a Child With Down Syndrome, Traditions, Joy & Real Life

    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.

    48 min

  2. 11/20/2025

    T21Mom: Episode 153-Rockin Moms Retreat at Callaway Resort

    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.

    1h 23m

  3. 10/22/2025

    T21Mom: Episode 152-Praha, We Love You-Our Summer Trip To Prague

    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!

    45 min

  4. 09/10/2025

    From Daycare Goodbyes to High School Hellos

    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!

    18 min

  5. 07/25/2025

    T21Mom: Episode 150-Cookies, Crying & Castles: Ainsley's Big Finish

    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!

    18 min

  6. 06/19/2025

    T21Mom: Episode 149-Cookies, Chaos, Confirmation Nights and a T21Mom Mingler!

    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!

    19 min

  7. 05/07/2025

    T21Mom: Episode 148-Sweet Stories of Inclusion: A Conversation With Author Jeana Atkison on Her Book How to Eat a Cupcake

    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

    35 min

  8. 04/23/2025

    T21Mom:Episode 147-Glitter Glue & Grace: A Love Letter to My Tribe

    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.

    13 min
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4.9
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

A family podcast about Down syndrome, single parenting, special needs, and pretty much everything in between.

Information

  • Creator
    T21Mom.com
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2019 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    T21Mom-A Down Syndrome Podcast