This post will be an educative post on Down's syndrome.
Down's syndrome is when you're born with an extra chromosome. You usually get an extra chromosome by chance, because of a change in the sperm or egg before you're born.
Therapies for Down Syndrome
Speech-language Therapy: Speech-language therapy addresses communication and language skills by focusing on articulation, cognitive skills, and strengthening the oral muscles (tongue, lips)
Physical Therapy
Occupational Therapy
Assistive Technology
Special Education
What it's like to have Down's syndrome
People with Down's syndrome will have some level of learning disability. This means they'll have a range of abilities.
Some people will be more independent and do things like get a job. Other people might need more regular care.
But, like everyone, people with Down's syndrome have:
their own personalities
things they like and dislike
things that make them who they are
What its like to have Down's Syndrome
∙People with Down's syndrome will have some level of learning disability. This means they'll have a range of abilities.
∙Some people will be more independent and do things like get a job. Other people might need more regular care.
∙But, like everyone, people with Down's syndrome have:
∙their own personalities
∙things they like and dislike
∙things that make them who they are
Things that you can do to help
Children and young people with Down's syndrome are likely to have some level of learning disability. This means they may need help with daily life. What they need help with is different for each person. And this can change as they get older. You can try these things to help with their development.
Do
praise them when they learn something new
speak clearly and calmly so they can learn from you
play, sing songs and read books together to help with sounds and words
try showing them how to do something instead of just giving instructions – this can be easier to follow
try to set routines so they feel more settled – for example, for getting up and at mealtimes
encourage them to be healthy and active – find activities on the Down's Syndrome Association DSActive website
look out for changes in mood or behaviour – they may not be able to tell you something's wrong or they're unwell
take them for regular hearing, eyesight and health checks
Don’t
do not talk down to people with Down's syndrome – treat them like anyone their age
do not just talk to parents or carers, talk directly to people with Down's syndrome
do not use outdated and offensive language when talking to people with Down's syndrome – see the Down's Syndrome Association language guide
Where you can get support
It might help to speak to other parents, families and charities who know how you're feeling.
Down's Syndrome Association
For people with Down's syndrome, their parents and carers.
Call their helpline: 0333 1212 300
Visit their website: www.downs-syndrome.org.uk
Email: info@downs-syndrome.org.uk
Author:
Mrs. Queen Nwokporo
Ward Sister,
Prescriber,
Advanced Clinical Practitioner.
References
∙NHS (2019) Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/downs-syndrome/advice-for-new-parents/. Accessed: 18/02/2022.
∙Down Syndrome UK (2021) https://www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/ Accessed: 18/02/2022.