What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome
Down syndrome, also known as Down's syndrome, is a type of disability. People with Down syndrome may find it hard to learn new things and may need support. They may have more problems with their health too.
, also called Down's syndrome, is caused by an extra chromosome in your cells. In the majority of cases it can't be inherited, and occurs by chance at the time of conception.
Let's talk about it
Down syndrome is more than just a diagnosis or definition, hear from Liam Bairstow about what having Down syndrome means to him.
Down syndrome and learning disability
A person with Down syndrome will have some degree of
learning disability
A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things.
, but the level of ability will be different for each individual.
A child with Down syndrome might take longer than other children their age to reach
certain
Certain means you are sure about something.
milestones and to develop certain skills. They may also need ongoing support for different aspects of their life when they become an adult.
As with other conditions associated with learning disability, every person with Down syndrome is an individual and, with the right support and opportunities, can lead a happy and fulfilling life.
People with Down syndrome will typically have some level of learning disability and characteristic physical features.
There are some health problems associated with Down syndrome, such as heart problems and difficulties with sight and hearing, but these will not affect everyone with the condition.
"I'm excited about his future"
"With each year that passes my son, Seb, teaches me something new. Something that no text book or leaflet ever could have." - Caroline, Sebs mum.
Advice and support
People with Down syndrome will live with the condition for their whole life, but there are ways to help children develop into healthy adults who are able to live the lives they choose. This includes:
- access to good healthcare
- early intervention programmes to provide support for children and parents
- good
relationships
Relationships are about the people in your life. You might have different types of relationships like friendships, family relationships, or a boyfriend or girlfriend.
and family life -
education
Education is when you learn things. When you fill in a form to get a job, education means you write where you went to school, college or university.
and support groups.
Language Creates Reality is a project about the importance of the words people use when talking about Down syndrome. Created and designed by Rebecca Hulbert and design studio Bear and Pear these cards are a new way of sharing and using appropriate language around Down syndrome.
The Down's Syndrome Association also offer lots of information and support.
Positive About Down's Syndrome offers support for parents and parents to be.
For more information and advice about Down syndrome, contact our helpline.
More conditions linked with Learning Disability
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