Partners Resource Network has gathered together a variety of resources available online about Down Syndrome. These resources include fact sheets, web sites, articles, a listing of Texas support groups, and more. The online resources follow some frequently asked questions (faq's) pertaining to Down Syndrome and Early Childhood Intervention (ECI).

If you have questions about down syndrome or need help with issues related to education, please contact your PATH, PEN, or TEAM Regional Coordinator. To find your Regional Coordinator, check our Texas PTI Map or call us at 1-800-866-4726.

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Syndrome

1. What is Down Syndrome?

Down syndrome is a genetic condition involving an extra 21st chromosome. Chromosomes carry our genes. The extra genes present because of this extra chromosome causes a collection of characteristics which can result in some degree of developmental delay and some typical physical traits. Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic birth conditions.

For more information about Down Syndrome, see these resources:

• A Baby is a Baby First
  
  
• Disability Solutions
  
  
• Down Syndrome Fact Sheet - HTML or PDF*
  
  
• Riverbend Down Syndrome New Parent Packet
  
  
• You Are Not Alone: For Parents When They Learn That Their Child Has a Disability
  
  
• Your Baby and Down Syndrome*

2. What is Early Intervention?

Based upon patterns of development, early intervention is a systematic program of physical therapy, exercise and activity designed to remedy developmental delays that may be experienced by children with Down syndrome. In many instances, the program is individualized to meet the specific needs of each child, and to help all infants and children reach growth milestones in every area of development. Early intervention helps in each of the four main areas of development: gross motor and fine motor skills, language, social development and self-help skills.

3. When should early intervention start?

Early Intervention should begin any time shortly after birth, and continue until the child reaches age three. The sooner early intervention begins, the better, however, it's never too late to start. Once it is determined that your baby has Down Syndrome, you may contact your local early intervention specialist and arrange for an evaluation and assessment.

4. How can early intervention benefit a child with Down syndrome?

Early intervention can help in many ways. During the first three to four months of life, for example, an infant is expected to gain head control and the ability to pull to a sitting positions (with help) with no head lags and enough strength in the upper torso to maintain an erect posture. Appropriate physical therapy may assist a baby with Down syndrome, who may have low muscle tone, in achieving this milestone.

One of the fine motor skills that an infant is expected to achieve is the ability to hold and reach for objects. Here again, the baby with Down syndrome may need help before mastering these tasks. Physical therapy and practice in achieving these and subsequent milestones can assist a baby with Down syndrome in the four areas of development. Early intervention can also prevent a child with Down syndrome from reaching a plateau at some point in development. Thus, the goal of early intervention programs is to enhance and accelerate development by building on a child's strengths and by strengthening those areas that are weaker, in all areas of development.

For more information about ECI, try these resources:

• Early Childhood Intervention (ECI): Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services - ECI is a statewide program for families with children, birth to three, with disabilities and developmental delays. ECI supports families to help their children reach their potential through developmental services. Services are provided by a variety of local agencies and organizations across Texas. Visit the DARS web site to learn more.
  
  
• Early Intervention Resources*

For information about Down Syndrome and education, try these resources:

• Down Syndrome Teaching Strategies
  
  
• Inclusion: Educating Students with Down Syndrome with Their Non-Disabled Peers*

Support Resources

Down Syndrome Support Resources

Web sites

Down Syndrome Association of Central Texas - DSACT
www.dsacentraltx.org
The mission of DSACT is to provide support and resources to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, professionals, and the community.

Down Syndrome Association of Houston - DSAH
www.dsah.net
The Down Syndrome Association of Houston is a non-profit organization. Our goal is to provide information and support to anyone interested in Down Syndrome.

Easter Seals
www.easterseals.com
Easter Seals has been helping individuals with disabilities and special needs, and their families, live better lives for more than 80 years. From child development centers to physical rehabilitation and job training for people with disabilities, Easter Seals offers a variety of services to help people with disabilities address life's challenges and achieve personal goals.

National Down Syndrome Society
www.ndss.org
The mission of the National Down Syndrome Society is to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families through national leadership in education, research, and advocacy.