How To Raise A Child With Down Syndrome?
Does your little one suffer from Down syndrome? Are you looking for tips on how to raise him? If you can relate to these questions, or you know someone who can, read our post. Here we look at raising a child with Down syndrome.
About Down Syndrome:
Down syndrome is a condition in which the extra genetic material cause delay in the way the child develops. The condition affects both physical and mental well-being. The problems of Down syndrome can differ from child to child. While, some kids with the condition need medical help, others lead a normal life. The condition is diagnosable and can occur before the child is born, though the health problems of the child can be treated, the syndrome is chronic, and children have to live with it.
Causes Of Down Syndrome In Children:
A baby inherits genetic information from the parents when he is born. The information, or the 46 chromosomes, include 23 from the father and 23 from the mother. In rare cases, the child gets an extra chromosome, which causes development and physical delays.
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Symptoms Of Down Syndrome In Children:
Some of the symptoms of Down syndrome in children include:
- Upward slanting eyes
- A flat face
- A shorter neck
- Loose ligament and poor muscle tone
- Abnormal shape of ears
[ Read: Symptoms Of Marfan Syndrome In Children ]
Diagnosing Down Syndrome In Children:
Prenatal Diagnosis:
There are two tests that can detect Down syndrome in the baby. The first is the prenatal screens that assess the chance of the fetus having Down syndrome. Screen tests only offer a probability of a child having Down syndrome. The blood test looks for the extra chromosome and confirms whether the child will be born with Down syndrome. The diagnostic test includes amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling; these tests are 100% accurate.
At Birth:
At birth, the syndrome is identifiable due to the presence of physical traits like a single deep crease across the palm and low muscle tone.
[ Read: Muscular Dystrophy In Children ]
Treating Down Syndrome In Children:
Studies say there is no specific treatment for Down syndrome; treatment depends on a child’s needs. You can treat a child at home or in a community based on their limitation and strengths. Regular medical care is required immediately after birth. Some kids might require a surgery to correct a heart defect, and few others might have severe digestive problems and hence may follow a strict diet. Hearing and vision are other problems that might need medical attention.
Therapy For Down Syndrome In Children:
There are many therapies, throughout the child’s life that promote their development, productivity and also independence. Therapies are divided into:
- Physical therapies
- Speech-language therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Emotional and behavioral therapy (1)
Raising A Child With Down Syndrome:
If you have an infant with Down syndrome, it might be difficult to adjust to the reality. Discuss the apprehensions with family and friends. Watch your baby learn and grow. Parenting a child with Down syndrome is challenging, but at the same time it is heart-warming and fulfilling. It is important that the parents have the know-how to care for a child with Down syndrome. As parents, it is important to support the child mentally and understand his apprehensions. The child might have learning deficit that makes him eligible for special programs. Send the child to a school where they get a special education, designed and individualized for them. Ask the experts or educators as to which environment will best suit your child (2).
[ Read: Parenting Tips For Raising Kids With ADHD ]
In this world of technology and internet, it is easy to gather information on deficiency and syndromes. It is highly important to discuss anything you read with the child’s doctor, as these treatments are highly individualistic. If you have any information on caring for a child with down syndrome or know of a person who has, please write to us. We would love to add your views to the post.
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