What Can I Do at Home to Help My Child?

Parenting a child with Down syndrome comes with a unique set of joys, challenges, and accomplishments. While the diagnosis, information, and appointments might seem overwhelming at first, you do not have to undertake the task alone. A combination of organizational planning and home resources can provide you with the support you need for rearing a child with this condition.

If you need additional guidance, you do not have to do this alone. The Warren Center has an abundance of resources for helping families of children diagnosed with Down syndrome. For more information on our therapy and support services, contact us.

HELP FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME

HELP FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH DOWN SYNDROME

With the balancing act of childcare, work, and doctor’s visits, it is important for parents to find resources for themselves. In this way, parents can remain at their best to accommodate their child’s needs.

Build a Support System. Find an organization that specializes in help for children with Down syndrome. For example, The Warren Center offers a range of therapy services, support groups, and resources for families of children diagnosed with Down syndrome.

Keep a List. Maintain a list of things you need in advance, and do not be afraid to use it. The list does not need to be complicated. In this way, the next time people in your support system ask how they can help, you will have a simple answer ready. Having a checklist system can also help you feel less overwhelmed.

Find Time for Friends. Even if it is once a week for coffee or a daily phone call after the children go to bed, having friends can help you laugh, recharge, and maintain a sense of personal identity.

HELP FOR BABIES, INFANTS & TODDLERS

HELP FOR BABIES, INFANTS & TODDLERS
Children with this condition may take a little longer than others to reach developmental milestones. Yet each accomplishment is just as important, exciting, and deserving of accolades as all the other children. Here are ways to support your child as he or she reaches key milestones:

Motor Skills Development – Use directed play at home to build gross motor skills. Your child can also work with a physical therapist at The Warren Center to learn exercises that you can also practice at home.
Self-Feeding – Sit down with children as a family while allowing them to feed themselves at meals. Eating together plays an important role in socialization, and it is a good way to monitor your child if necessary. Give your child a sense of accomplishment by allowing the child to start with safe finger foods and thick liquids to drink.
Getting Dressed – Allow you child to practice dressing in loose clothing, and then move on to large buttons and other milestones.
Communication – Looking at children while speaking, showing expressive interest, and naming objects throughout the day can help them learn how to speak.
Grooming, Hygiene, and Self-Care – Set up a daily routine for hygienic practices in the morning and evening. You can also use a pictograph or flow chart. It is best to gradually add items to the list. For example, you can add “put on deodorant” once your child reaches early adolescence.

HELP FOR SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN

HELP FOR SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN

Become an active participant in your child’s education. Most children with Down syndrome can participate in a regular classroom, but they may also use an adapted curriculum as well as attend special classes.
Understand that your child has a legal right to receive an education. There are also laws protect your parental rights to remain informed as well as challenge educational decisions regarding your child.
Schedule homework help sessions and reward your child for trying and doing well.

HELP FOR TEENS

As your child enters puberty, be sure to update the grooming and hygiene flowchart to give your child the best resources and support for self-care.
Teens with Down syndrome have the same social needs as anyone else. Encourage your child to participate in support groups and fun community activities that accommodate your child and boost a sense of belonging.
As with all teens, it is important to start early to prepare your teen for knowledge about healthy adult relationships and the possibility of an intimate relationship. Teach your child to respect his or her body and gather as many resources as possible to teach reproductive education in a way that is honest but easy for your teen to understand.

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