How to Prepare for the Birth of a Child With Down Syndrome

Learn About Down Syndrome

Learn the range of symptoms. Even if the diagnosis of Down syndrome has been confirmed, it will be difficult to know the severity of symptoms your child may experience in advance. Some children experience significant symptoms, while others exhibit very few physical or mental indications of the condition.

Learn about the delays your child may face. Most children with Down syndrome will experience delays in speech and physical growth. Although your child will likely need special education and extra attention to promote maximal learning and social skills, many children with Down syndrome can participate in a wide range of standard childhood activities.

Read about the type of lifestyle you can expect. With early intervention, nearly all children with Down syndrome can be educated in the public school system and prepare for jobs and fulfilling lives once they are grown. Raising a child with Down syndrome can be challenging, but your child may still be active, engaged in society, and a productive and employed adult.

Learn about respectful parenting. This strategy has been found to improve competence and manage difficult situations.

Network with Other Down Syndrome Families

Search for online Down syndrome parenting support groups. Many online discussion forums and support chat rooms can be an excellent starting point for learning how other families have coped with and adjusted to life with a child with Down syndrome. Take advantage of the chance to ask questions and share your concerns without fear of judgment or awkwardness. Other visitors to these sites are often experiencing (or have already experienced) the same emotions as you and will be glad of your participation.

Seek out local parenting support groups for Down syndrome families. Once you are ready for in-person meetings, local support groups for families raising children with Down syndrome can be invaluable resources. Not only can these groups offer friendship and support, they can also give pointers about physicians, education, activities, planning, babysitters, and other essential aspects of life with a child with Down syndrome.

Prepare Medical and Educational Resources

Select a pediatrician familiar with Down syndrome. Inquire at local pediatrician offices to discover whether they have worked with Down syndrome babies in the past. Pediatricians familiar with the condition can help teach you about healthy growth and development of your baby and refer you to relevant services for further assistance raising and educating your child.

Inquire about early intervention for your baby. Local government and education offices should be able to provide you with information about available services targeted toward giving your baby the best chance at fulfilling his or her potential. Many localities offer early home visits or specialty day care to provide speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy for young children with Down syndrome. Always be careful when getting services for your child, especially behavior therapy. While many therapists are kind and respectful, some use abusive restraint and seclusion tactics, or other practices full of ethical violations that may hurt your child. Check up with your child and care providers to make sure he or she feels safe and is having fun.

Acquaint yourself with your school district’s Down syndrome resources. Most school districts have services geared toward children with Down syndrome and other developmental delays. If you wish, you can often arrange advance meetings with the developmental therapists and special education staff to learn about what to expect once your child reaches school age.