Some babies and children with Down Syndrome struggle
throughout early childhood and later seem to bloom
almost effortlessly; others blossom early and continue
to make great strides throughout their lifetimes; some
struggle their whole lives in certain areas no matter
how hard they work or how diligently we encourage them.
How Serious Is the Mental Retardation?
The degree of mental retardation varies widely, from mild to
moderate to severe. However, most fall within the moderate range,
and studies suggest that, with proper training, fewer than 10 percent
will have severe mental retardation. There is no way to predict the
mental development of a child with Downs syndrome based
on physical features.
What Can a Child With Down Syndrome Do?
Children with Down syndrome usually can do most things that
any young child can do, such as walking, talking, dressing and
being toilet-trained. However, they generally do these things
later than other children.
The exact age that these developmental milestones will be achieved
cannot be predicted. However, early intervention programs beginning
in infancy can help these children achieve their developmental
milestones sooner.
Can a Child With Down Syndrome Go to School?
Yes. There are special programs beginning in the preschool
years to help children with Down Syndrome develop skills
as fully as possible. Along with benefiting from early
intervention and special education, many children can be
fully integrated in the regular classroom. The outlook for
these children is far brighter than it once was. Many will
learn to read and write and participate in diverse
childhood activities both at school and in their neighborhoods.
While there are special work programs designed for adults
with Down Syndrome, many people with the disorder can hold
supported employment. Today an increasing number of adults
with Down syndrome live semi-independently in community
group homes where they take care of themselves, participate
in household chores, develop friendships, partake in leisure
activities and hold jobs in their communities.
Do Children With Down Syndrome Have Special Health Problems?
From 30 to 50 percent of babies with Down Syndrome have heart defects.
Some defects are minor and may be treated with medications, while others
may require surgery. All babies with Down syndrome should be examined by
a pediatric cardiologist, a doctor who specializes in heart diseases of children,
and have an echocardiogram in the first 2 months of life so that any heart
defect can be treated.
About 10 to 12 percent of babies with Down Syndrome are born with intestinal
malformations that require surgery. More than 50 percent have some visual or
hearing impairment. Common visual problems include crossed eyes, near- or
far-sightedness, and cataracts. Most can be improved with glasses, surgery or
other treatments. A pediatric ophthalmologist should be consulted within the first
year of life. Children with Down Syndrome may have hearing loss due to fluid in the
middle ear, a nerve defect or both. All children with Down Syndrome should have
regular vision and hearing examinations so any problems can be treated before they
hinder development of language and other skills.
Children with Down Syndrome are at increased risk of thyroid problems and leukemia.
They also tend to have many colds, as well as bronchitis and pneumonia. Children with
the disorder should receive regular medical care including childhood immunizations.
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*Some graphics by: Lucia Pape