Down’s syndrome, also known as Down syndrome, is a genetic condition that typically causes some level of learning disability and a characteristic range of physical features.

The NHS says that most babies born with Down’s syndrome are diagnosed with the condition after birth and are likely to have:

• reduced muscle tone leading to floppiness (hypotonia)

• eyes that slant upwards and outwards

• their palm may have only one crease across it (palmar crease)

• a below average weight and length at birth

Although children with Down’s syndrome share some common physical characteristics, they do not all look the same. A child with Down’s syndrome will look more like their mother, father or other family members than other children with the syndrome.

People with Down’s syndrome also vary in personality and ability. Everyone born with Down’s syndrome will have a degree of learning disability. The level of learning disability will be different for each individual.

Who is affected?

Down’s syndrome is one of the most common genetic causes of learning disability. Around 750 babies are born with the condition each year in the UK.

The condition is caused by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21 in a baby’s cells. It occurs by chance at conception and is irreversible. As yet, no one knows what causes the presence of the extra chromosome 21.

Speech and language in Downs’ syndrome

Children with Down’s Syndrome may have difficulty learning to speak and with using language.

The Down’s Syndrome Association suggests some ideas for parents to help your baby in their development:

• Listening: To you talking, To music and musical mobiles, To singing and nursery rhymes, To you copying their sounds

• Looking: At toys (wobble toys and baby gym are good in the early stages), At baby books, At baby mobiles and lights, At themselves in mirrors, At you: pulling faces, making funny noises, singing, smiling, talking

• Games involving their body such as: Rock-a-bye baby, Round and round the garden, This little piggy, Peek-a-boo, Waving bye bye

• Having a good time: Being with family and friends, Kissing, Cuddling, Massage, Laughing

Statement of Special Educational Need

Most children with Down’s syndrome will need a considerable amount of extra help in school. There is a formal process for arranging this through a statutory assessment and a statement of special educational needs. It is important to start this process well before your child starts school.

At this point it is a good idea to contact the parent partnership service in your local authority if you haven’t already done so.

Speech and language therapy

The Downs’ Syndrome Association has a fact sheet of speech and language practical activities that parents can do at home to support and encourage their child.

Primary School

As your child gets older there is also information to help with your child’s transition to school. The publications contain advice for parents and education professionals about preparation for starting school.

It is advisable to make sure that your child’s Statement of Special Educational Need is finalised and appropriate levels of provision specified before your child starts primary school.

Resources:

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Downs-syndrome/Pages/Introduction.aspx

http://www.downs-syndrome.org.uk/

Written by Rachel Harrison, speech and language therapist, on behalf of Integrated Treatment Services. www.integratedtreatmentservices.co.uk