Just Like You Movie

Over the past few days I have seen numerous posts on Facebook about a new movie that was premiered on Monday called "Just Like You".  It isn't available for online viewing yet, but I am hopeful it will be available soon and I will share it with you if/when it is.  In the mean time, enjoy this trailer:



From the official website:
JUST LIKE YOU – DOWN SYNDROME – explores the life, hopes, challenges and dreams of three kids living with Down syndrome. Elyssa, Rachel and Sam share personal stories to help viewers better understand their condition and why they wish to be treated just like you. Each of our stars has their own talents, characteristics, strengths and challenges. Down syndrome is just one part of who they are and this film identifies how to handle and accommodate differences while celebrating the many similarities our friends with Down syndrome have with their peers.

Kids are naturally curious and the special needs of peers with Down syndrome can raise a lot of questions. When questions are left unanswered it can lead to fear of the unknown, which may cause peers to lash out, ostracize or judge their classmates with Down syndrome. Just like You, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit which makes films to answer kids’ questions about unique circumstances. This film was made in collaboration with the Down Syndrome Guild of Greater Kansas City with the hopes it will be utilized as a tool by parents and educators to open the door to inclusion, acceptance and friendships.

Our kids in the film speak on behalf of all people with Down syndrome. Elyssa, Rachel and Sam look straight into the camera and into the eyes of their audience to tell them exactly what it feels like to be a kid with Down syndrome and what you can do to support them and be a friend.

Medical and health concerns, communication difficulties, learning needs and friendships are explained with straightforward candor and humor. The stars of the film breakdown myths and stereotypes, educate kids about the unknown, illuminate the human ties they have to each other and allow them to look past labels and accept people for who they are on the inside.

The film’s primary goal is to open hearts and change perspectives because, “when you have the knowledge you understand, and when you understand you can accept that kids with Down syndrome just want to be treated like any other kid, just like you.”