In this section, we have provided a list of articles prepared and written by renowned specialists in their fields covering a variety of topics that most families will be interested in learning more about.

Consider these articles a starting point as you investigate different ways of parenting a child with Down syndrome. Remember that no one approach will work for everyone. Your child is unique and may respond differently than the research suggests.

If this is the case, please refer back to our Suggested Links and investigate the list of recommended resources there for further assistance.

Breastfeeding vs. Bottle Feeding

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You may be aware of the tremendous benefits that breastfeeding provides to newborns. Breast milk contains natural antibodies that fortify babies’ immune systems. This is especially important to infants with Down syndrome, who have higher rates of respiratory and other infections.

Healthy Eating Habits

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The first communication with babies centers on feeding. When you feed your baby from a bottle or breast, there is a natural interaction that occurs. You look in your baby’s eyes and pay attention to his or her gestures and movements to know when he or she is tired or full.

Weight Management Issues

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People with Down syndrome are more likely to be obese than their typically developing peers. Sometimes it is the result of untreated hypothyroidism. If there are new symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as increased sleepiness, confusion, or mood changes, then the individual's primary doctor should consider running a blood test to check thyroid function.

Toilet Training

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Many parents are eager to start a toilet training program for their children. However, for some children their parents may be ready to start before their children are ready. Starting before your child displays the necessary readiness signs will most likely increase the amount of time it takes for your child to learn this skill as well as decrease the amount of success your child experiences.

Physical Training

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Children with Down syndrome want to do what all children want to do. They want to sit, crawl, walk, explore their environment, and interact with the people around them. To do that, they need to develop their gross motor skills.

Speech & Language Therapy (Infant, Toddler, Young Child)

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Speech and language present many challenges for children with Down syndrome but there is information that can help infants and toddlers begin learning to communicate and that can help young children progress in speech and language.

Speech & Language Therapy (Child & Adolescent)

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Children with Down syndrome have strengths and challenges in development of communication skills, including receptive (understanding) language and expressive (speaking and composing sentences) language skills and reading.

Occupational Therapy

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The intent of this article is to provide you with some information about how an occupational therapist (OT) may be able to help you and your child.

Managing Behaviour

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The definition of a "behavior problem" varies but certain guidelines can be helpful in determining if a behavior has become significant.

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