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How do you deal with a child with Down syndrome?
Everyday Tips
- Give your child chores around the house.
- Have your child play with other kids who do and don’t have Down syndrome.
- Keep your expectations high as your child tries and learns new things.
- Make time to play, read, have fun, and go out together.
- Support your child in doing day-to-day tasks on their own.
What do you say to a parent of a Down syndrome child?
THINGS TO SAY – These are the things parents have found comforting or made them feel good:
- “Congratulations.” They just had a baby!
- “He/She looks just like you.” The baby probably does look like someone in the family.
- Tell them what you have learned from the RMDSA website and share the resources you’ve identified.
How can parents help kids with Down syndrome?
Have high expectations for your child. Be enthusiastic and encouraging. Encourage your child to be independent (i.e. getting dressed, grooming, etc.) Give your child chores, but make sure to consider his or her mental capacity, attention span, and abilities.
How does Down syndrome affect parents?
Like any child, those children with Down syndrome in cohesive and harmonious families were also less likely to have behavior problems and more likely to have higher levels of functioning. Mothers expressing poor relationships with the child and family were more likely to have high stress scores.
What are the positives of Down syndrome?
Specifically, children with Down syndrome appear to have a positive impact on parental relationships because divorce rates are lower in these families than in families of children with other birth defects and families of children with no known disability (Urbano & Hodapp, 2007).
What are the needs of someone with Down syndrome?
Children with Down syndrome have delays in speech and motor skills, and may need help with self-care, such as dressing and grooming. Medical problems associated with Down syndrome can vary widely from child to child. While some kids and teens need a lot of medical attention, others lead healthy lives.