Congratulations on the birth of your new baby! As parents who have experienced the birth of a child with Down Syndrome, we know that this is a time of very mixed emotions, excitement over the birth of a new baby, yet confusion, uncertainty, loss, and questions about Down Syndrome. It is hard to be told that your beautiful child has Down Syndrome and unfortunately there will be days of incredible sadness, of agonizing decisions, and endless worry what you are feeling is normal. But there will also be lots laughter, joy, and thousands of little triumphs that will make the difficult times all worthwhile. It is our hope that through information and support, you will be able to gain an understanding of your feelings, of your baby's special needs, and of the love your baby has to offer. The outlook for children with Down Syndrome has improved tremendously in recent years due to the increases in the quality of medical care, early intervention, and educational support in our schools for individuals with Down Syndrome . As parents we are amazed daily by our children's capabilities and accomplishments. We know you will be too!

 

This person is your child, first and foremost. Granted, your child's development may be different from that of other children, but this does not make your child less valuable, less human, less important, or less in need of your love and parenting. Love and enjoy your child. The child comes first; the disability comes second. If you can relax and take positive steps one at a time, you will do the best you can, your child will benefit, and you can look forward to the future with hope.

What is Down Syndrome

Down syndrome occurs when an individual has three, rather than two, copies of the 21st chromosome. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome.

Down syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal abnormality. One in every 800 to 1,000 babies is born with Down syndrome.

There are more than 350,000 people living with Down syndrome in the United States.

Down syndrome affects people of all ages, races and economic levels.

The incidence of births of children with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. But due to higher fertility rates in younger women, 80 percent of children with Down syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age.