Down Syndrome, The Science, & Inclusion - Ep. 3
Below you will find Episode Three of Adventure Without Boundaries, along with lesson plans and classroom resources.
Scroll down for worksheets, activities, and ideas to help bring the adventure to life in your classroom.
In this episode of Adventure Without Boundaries, students learn what Down syndrome is in a clear, age-appropriate way. Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra chromosome, and that extra chromosome can shape how a person looks, learns, or communicates. But the most important lesson in this episode goes beyond science. Down syndrome does not define who someone is. It is only one part of a person, not the whole story.
Through the voices of Ren, his siblings, and their friends, students see Down syndrome through real-life moments, making Ren instantly relatable. They see him doing things kids love, like spending time with friends, learning, eating French fries, and being silly. This episode builds understanding, strengthens empathy, and gives students a simple message they can carry into everyday life. Everyone wants connection, kindness, and a sense of belonging. Inclusion starts with something as small as a smile, a wave, or a hello.
Video Overview - 5 Minutes & 8 Seconds Runtime
Intro
The episode begins with Ren hanging out with two friends as he shares what friendship means to him. This opening sets the tone right away by showing that inclusion is real and simple. Everyone wants connection, friendship, and to belong.
Mission Connection
All three kids mountain bike real Pacific Northwest single track, climbing hills and weaving through seas of ferns. The voiceover reinforces the mission of Adventure Without Boundaries. Big adventures and learning are for every child, and everyone deserves to be included.
Educational Segment
Through short clips and quick facts, students learn what Down syndrome is from Roake, Freyja, Ren, and their friends Haley and Hannah. The facts are simple, kid-friendly, and designed to help students understand Down syndrome clearly without making it feel heavy or overwhelming.
Educational Montage
The video montage is paired with Roake’s voiceover explaining Down syndrome in greater depth. Each clip is real and personal, showing Ren in everyday life. Students see Ren doing the kinds of things most kids love: playing, laughing with friends, being silly, and trying new things. It makes him relatable, and it reinforces the message that Down syndrome is only one part of who someone is, not the whole story.
Inclusion Call to Action
Freyja closes with a simple reminder that inclusion can start small. The next time you meet someone with Down syndrome, smile, wave, or say hello. It reinforces the heart of the episode and gives students a concrete way to practice kindness.
Closing
The episode ends on the water as Roake drives the dinghy with Freyja and Ren. The camera slowly pans to Ren being silly and laughing, reminding students that when you really see someone, you stop thinking about a diagnosis and start seeing a kid.
Worksheets (Core Activity)
Click the links below to download the lesson worksheets. Each one is designed for specific grade levels to support age-appropriate learning. These are quick activities that can fit into a short lesson block.
K–1 Student Worksheet: Coloring activity and inclusion message (5-10 min)
2–3 Student Worksheet: “Things in Common” and True/False Activity (5-10 min)
4–5 Student Worksheet: Reading comprehension and questions (8-12 min)
Sensory Exercise (Core Activity)
Have students stand up and look around the room for a classmate. Ask them to choose one simple kind action: smile, wave, or say hello. Remind students they do not need to do all three, just one.
After students share their greeting, have them return to their seats. Ask the class how it felt to be the person giving the greeting, and how it felt to receive it. Reinforce the idea that inclusion does not have to be a big moment. Sometimes it starts with something small, like a friendly hello, and that can make someone feel seen, welcomed, and included.
Episode Question (Core Activity)
Wrap up the lesson with a light, imaginative discussion. Ask your students:
“What is one way you can help someone feel included at school?”
Encourage a short discussion about how inclusion does not have to be a big moment. Sometimes the smallest thing, like a smile, a wave, saving someone a seat, or inviting them to play, can completely change someone’s day. Remind students that everyone wants to feel seen, welcomed, and like they belong. Inclusion starts when we notice the people around us and choose kindness.
Classroom Q&A (Optional)
At the end of the lesson, teachers are encouraged to invite students to share any questions about the episode or for Roake, Ren, and Freyja. Questions can be submitted as a comment below or via email, and selected ones will be featured in future episodes. This gives students a meaningful way to feel connected, knowing their voices matter and are part of the journey.
Please include the question along with the teacher’s name, class, and school so we can give your class a proper shoutout.
Extend the Lesson (Optional)
For classes with extra time, here are a few ways to build on today’s learning:
Science Connection: Talk about cells, chromosomes, and how genetics help our bodies grow and develop.
Communication Styles: Discuss different ways people communicate (speech, sign language, AAC devices).
Inclusion Roleplay: Ask, “What would you do if you saw someone sitting alone?”
Writing Prompt: Have students write one way they can be a good friend and classmate.