A chromosomal condition, Down syndrome is characterized by an extra copy of genetic material in place on the 21st chromosome. This can be either complete (trisomy 21) or partial (e.g. caused by translocations).

Depending upon chance and genetic history, the effects of the extra copy may vary from person to person.

Generally, Down syndrome manifests at a rate of approximately 1 per 733 births.  Statistically speaking, it is more common for older parents (mothers and fathers) to produce children with Down syndrome because of increased mutagenic exposures. Frequently, people with Down syndrome exhibit some cognitive impairment as well as impairment of physical growth. Additionally, many people with Down syndrome possess a particular set of facial characteristics. The cognitive abilities of people with Down syndrome are often impaired. They may experience disabilities in the mild to moderate range.

With proper family support, enrichment therapies, and tutoring, many children with Down Syndrome have graduated from high school. http://www.nzdsa.org.nz/.  One in a thousand babies born in New Zealand has Down syndrome. That averages out to at least one baby being born with Down syndrome weekly.

While people with Down syndrome may exhibit typical characteristics of the disease, they also bear a family resemblance to their own family members. Of course, there are typical characteristics that are often seen in people with Down syndrome; however, individuals usually only exhibit a few of these. Every person is unique and possesses his or her own appearance, strengths, and abilities. You cannot judge the mental capacity of a child with Down syndrome by the extent to which s/he exhibits the typical physical characteristics.

What possible learning problems could a child with Down syndrome have?

People with Down syndrome are each unique. Their abilities vary greatly; however, there are some typical problems children with Down syndrome may face:

• Trouble translating ideas into words.
• The skill to select words but difficulty saying them aloud.
• Fine motor skills may be limited, and this may cause them to be unable to write by hand; however, they can usually use a computer keyboard.
• Can understand a lot of words but may have problems with retaining and then saying them.
• Trouble learning how to read.

What are the social difficulties that children with Down syndrome must deal with?

Children who have Down syndrome tend to be very social.

But: Children with Down syndrome might feel socially alone because of their uniqueness.

The majority of them have a hard time keeping up with peers cognitively, emotionally and physically due to social immaturity.

It may be difficult to create relationships with non-Down’s kids.

My little one seems to have a hard time sucking. Is it possible for me to do something about it?

These are a few suggestions:

• Have patience. Babies with Down syndrome may have a protruding tongue and poor muscle tone which can make feeding time difficult and time-consuming.
• Many babies have a hard time coordinating breathing, swallowing, sucking and keeping a tight seal. To assist your child with nursing, lift your infant’s chin up.
• Be sure your baby is awake and alert at feeding time. There are babies who have difficulty eating due to being tired. They must be completely awake prior to eating so they can fully focus on the task.

What positive traits do children with Down syndrome usually have?

Here are some of the strengths children with Down syndrome may exhibit:

• Work and play well with others!
• A very friendly outlook.
• Kindness.
• Generosity.
• Attentiveness to visual stimulation.

Do children with Down Syndrome make friends easily?

In multiple ways, children with Down syndrome are just like other children. They, too, want to enjoy life, play, learn about things, and freely and safely experience emotions and moods. You should present your child with frequent opportunities to have these experiences. Play and interact with your child as you would with any other boy or girl. Assist your child by making new places and people a positive experience.

With early intervention programs, children with Down syndrome can have the best chance of success with social, language, and motor skill development.

Additional Problems with a Down’s syndrome child:

• Short attention spans are common with pupils with Down’s. Provide chunks of learning. Give direct instruction in short periods at intervals to insure successful learning. For the greatest success in learning, you should introduce new materials bit-by-bit in sequential order and measured steps.

• Easily Distracted: Down’s students are often distracted. Here are some strategies you can employ to keep distractions at a minimum:
1. Prevent students from going to the window.
2. Make sure your environment is very structured and orderly.
3. Control noise and keep a peaceful atmosphere.
4. Make your expectations and rules very clear.
5. Establish routines and keep surprises to a minimum.

• Speech and Language: Children with Down’s syndrome typically have problems with articulation and with hearing. Occasionally they will need speech/language assistance and a large amount of direct instruction. Sometimes facilitated or augmented communication techniques will help support clear communication. Utilize patience and model the correct interactions each time.

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