Meaningful relationships with family members, friends, and romantic partners are an important part of our overall health and well-being. In our friendship and dating groups for adolescents and adults with Down syndrome, we often talk about qualities of good friends and romantic partners. The image below is an example of a visual we use when discussing qualities of good friends. 

A wonderful example of friendship was demonstrated this past weekend at the end of the Northbrook Park District's ice show "Northbrook-On-Ice." Maddy, a senior at Glenbrook North High School, and Nicholas, a student in the District 225 Transition Program, both skated in the show. 

At the end of their act, Maddy held up a sign that read, "Will you go to prom with me?" Nicholas was thrilled and shouted, "Yes!" as the crowd cheered. Maddy and Nicholas have been friends for over a decade and look forward to attending prom together this Saturday. Photos from this special "promposal" are shared below and a video of the moment is available on the WGN TV website. 

Check out our Friendship Resources for visuals from our social skills groups that can be used to support individuals with Down syndrome in learning skills for developing and maintaining friendships.