A Down Syndrome Diagnosis = My New Definition of “Family”

Down Syndrome Diagnosis = My New “Family”

KidsAreAlright.org

When receiving a child’s prenatal Down Syndrome diagnosis, there can be a sense of soul-crushing hopelessness. Hopelessness for what their child’s life would be and what this diagnosis means to the parents’ previous self-definition of their “family.”

The call, or email or text shifted EVERYTHING….

“But now, looking back on that moment four years later, I want to replace my anxiety, sorrow, and anger with different emotions…hopeful ones. There were things that I just didn’t know at the time, the depth of love I am capable of giving.”

#Parents.com

The stereotypical picture of a Down Syndrome child is a life with zero potential, a life spent trapped in a corner without truly living. This unfounded view does NOT have to exist.

* We ALL achieve typical milestones; don’t compare. Instead list your child’s milestones and know they might take a little bit longer... BUT, when they happen, the celebration is
that much more joyful.

* There is incredible support available such as

Early Intervention as early as 6 weeks. (You

can look into Susan Skallerup award-winning book, Babies with Down Syndrome: A New Parents’ Guide.)

* Early intervention includes specialists in motor skills, language and communication, learning acquisition as well as social-emotional development. Begin therapies NOW to help her/him reach milestones faster and correctly. Set good paths for their future learning!

* There is beauty in Down Syndrome: Sparkling almond-shaped eyes, laughter so infectious that the hardest of hearts will melt in response, small hands that are quick to seek mischief and then sign for forgiveness, a cute gap between toes that is perfect for wearing sandals.

* Allow others to truly get to know the person hidden under the label.

* Frustrations can be a good excuse to get creative with your teaching approach.
Embrace the unique frustrations you may face and realize that every child learns differently.

* If your child has difficulty communicating verbally, teach her or him sign language. A quote on the website of Signing Time, a
Parents Choice-approved DVD series for children, says: “Sign language is a wonderful tool that allows even very small children to express themselves.”

* Down syndrome does not define your child’s entire existence.

* There are bad days that have nothing to do with a diagnosis. You will laugh again and cry again about other things. You will enjoy a lot with your child that has nothing to do with chromosomes or therapy or doctors’ appointments.

The DS child’s zest to enjoy life in their own way and the ability to achieve whatever and wherever they set their mind, has already proven the naysayers wrong.

Your DS child gives his or her community a 

new perspective on ways to love and a deeper 

appreciation for the little things.

Ellen Hunter NYC KidsAreAlright.org #downsyndrome #newyork #specialneeds