The first children who may hear a parent's explanation of what Down syndrome is and what it means may be the brothers and sisters of a newly diagnosed newborn. Depending on the age of the older sibling, any new baby taking parents' full attention and time may be seen as an intrusion or unwelcome visitor. It's good to keep in mind that Down syndrome means very little to the brothers and sisters of a newborn, and often babies with Down syndrome are just like babies without Down syndrome to their siblings.
Initially, just a casual mention is enough that their baby brother or sister has Down syndrome, and we will have to see what the effect will be when they get older. We introduce the baby as an amazing new member of the family, and remind older brothers and sisters that we were just as much in love with them from the first, as they took up all our time and attention when they were newborns, too.
We must always be aware that children, teens and adults with Down syndrome are likely to hear or read what we tell or teach their siblings, mainstream peers, and one another. Older sisters and brothers may need their own daily affirmations and reassurances that they each are very important members of the family; that they belong and are cherished no matter what their challenges or accomplishments. It could be a revelation to them that we would have cherished them if they had been born with Down syndrome, too.
We are often less aware than we could be of the developmental level of the children in our target audience, as well as their experience with other children with Down syndrome or developmental disabilities, in their own families, extracurricular activities, or inclusive classrooms. Children with Down syndrome are more like their mainstream peers than they are different, and that includes a diversity in personality, talents and interests as they grow up.
Children in elementary school who are each at the center of their own universe may appreciate being recognized for their own unique talents and challenges in the most positive way as the topic of Down syndrome is introduced. They may have already experienced the unpleasantness of being singled out, embarrassed, or left out because someone in charge felt they did not 'measure up' to an arbitrary and often irrelevant standard. Explaining what Down syndrome might mean, to a child who has Down syndrome, can follow the same standards used in explaining it to others. Challenges do not need to be an excuse not to set goals, have dreams, make plans, or try to accomplish the next task at hand.
Introducing the concept of celebrating differences and recognizing positive attributes in each child may be as helpful for mainstream peers as it is for creating an inclusive atmosphere for a child with Down syndrome. Teaching children about Down syndrome is an excellent opportunity for us to understand the worth and potential of every child. Having board books and other children's books at home featuring energetic and capable characters with Down syndrome can be delightful for the child with the diagnosis as well as other family members.
All children should be aware of writers, artists, and other creative adults who have Down syndrome and are the best ambassadors and advocates to be found.
Browsing at your local bookstore or library, or online booksellers like Amazon.com, can lead you to excellent childrens books that include characters with Down syndrome and that explain Down syndrome information you find important to share.
For more information on babies, children and adults with Down syndrome, you can find these books at Amazon.com, your local bookstore or at the publishers' websites.
Books on Down Syndrome at Amazon.com
