My Research | Medical Booklets | Resources | Donate

   Table of Contents
  • Down Syndrome Facts
  • Down Syndrome Information & Statistics
  • Characteristics of Down Syndrome
  • Educational Implications
  • Keeping on Top of Your Condition
  • More Information on Down Syndrome
    		•       

    Down Syndrome Educational and Employment Implications



    Search our Archive for the Latest News on Down Syndrome

    Shortly after a diagnoses of Down syndrome is confirmed, parents should be encouraged to talk with their doctors to understand the relevant down syndrome facts, and to enroll their child in an infant development/early intervention program. These programs offer parents special instruction in teaching their child language, cognitive, self-help, and social skills, and specific exercises for gross and fine motor development. Research has shown that stimulation during early developmental stages improves the child's chances of developing to his or her fullest potential. Continuing education, positive public attitudes, and a stimulating home environment have also been found to promote the child's overall development.

    Just as in the normal population, there is a wide variation in mental abilities, behavior, and developmental progress in individuals with Down syndrome. Their level of retardation may range from mild to severe, with the majority functioning in the mild to moderate range. Due to these individual differences, it is impossible to predict future achievements of children with Down syndrome.

    Because of the range of ability in children with Down syndrome it is important for families and all members of the school's education team to place few limitations on potential capabilities. It may be effective to emphasize concrete concepts rather than abstract ideas. Teaching tasks in a step-by-step manner with frequent reinforcement and consistent feedback has been proven successful. Improved public acceptance of persons with disabilities along with increased opportunities for adults with disabilities to live and work independently in the community, have expanded goals for individuals with Down syndrome. Independent Living Centers, group shared and supervised apartments and support services in the community have proven to be important resources for persons with disabilities.

    Cunningham, C. (1999). Understanding Down syndrome: An introduction for parents (2nd ed.). Cambridge, MA: Brookline. (Telephone: 1-800-666-2665. Web: http://www.brooklinebooks.com/)

    Pueschel, S.M. (Ed.). (2001). A parent's guide to Down syndrome: Toward a brighter future (2nd ed.). Baltimore, MD: Paul H. Brookes. (Telephone: 1-800-638-3775. Web: http://www.brookespublishing.com/)

    Uhruh, J.F. (1994). Down syndrome: Successful parenting of children with Down syndrome. Eugene, OR: Fern Ridge Press. [Telephone: 1-800-816-5679. Web: http://www.fernridgepress.com/]

    Woodbine House (at 1-800-843-7323; Web: http://www.woodbinehouse.com/) publishes a series of books on Down syndrome, including:
    • Babies with Down syndrome: A new parent's guide
    • Teaching reading to children with Down syndrome
    • Differences in common: Straight talk about mental retardation, Down syndrome, and life
    • Communication skills in children with Down syndrome: A guide for parents
    • Medical and surgical care for children with Down syndrome: A guide for parents
    • Gross motor skills in children with Down syndrome
    • Fine Motor skills in children with Down syndrome



    Home     Site Map     Terms of Use     Contact Us     Information Partners     Link to Us

    All information on this web site is for general knowledge only and is not intended to function as, or substitute, professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never disregard, or delay in seeking, professional medical advice because of something you have read on or through this web site. Use of the CaringParents.org online service is subject to our Disclaimer.

      Copyright c 2003 CaringParents.org    All rights reserved.