Kids with Down syndrome
1489 W. Palmetto Park Rd, Ste 514
Boca Raton, FL US
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What is Down syndrome?Down Syndrome (DS) also called Trisomy 21, is a condition in which extra genetic material causes delays in the way a child develops, both mentally and physically. It affects about 1 in every 800 babies born in the United States. The physical features and medical problems associated with DS can vary widely from child to child. While some kids with DS need a lot of medical attention, others lead healthy lives.
Though Down Syndrome can't be prevented, it can be detected before a child is born. The health problems that may go along with Down syndrome can be treated, and many resources are available to help kids and their families who are living with the condition.
What causes it?Normally, at the time of conception a baby inherits genetic information from its parents in the form of 46 chromosomes: 23 from the mother and 23 from the father. In most cases of Down syndrome, a child gets a extra chromosome for a total of 47 chromosomes instead of 46. It's this extra genetic material that causes the physical features and developmental delays associated with Down syndrome.
How does Down syndrome affect kids?Kids with Down syndrome tend to share certain physical features such as a flat facial profile, an upward slant to the eyes, small ears, and a protruding tongue. Low muscle tone (called hypotonia) is also characteristic of children with Down syndrome, and babies in particular may seem especially "floppy". Though this can and often does improve over time, most children with Down syndrome typically reach developmental milestones- like sitting up, crawling, and walking - later than other kids. At birth, kids with Down syndrome are usually of average size, but they tend to grow at a slower rate and remain smaller than their peers. For infants, low muscle tone may contribute to sucking and feeding problems, as well as constipation and other digestive issues. Toddlers and older kids may have delays in speech and self-care skills like feeding, dressing, and toilet teaching.
Down syndrome affects kids' ability to learn in different ways, but most have mild to moderate intellectual impairment. Kids with Down syndrome can and do learn, and are capable of developing skills throughout their lives. They simply reach goals at a different pace — which is why it's important not to compare a child with DS against typically developing siblings or even other children with the condition. Kids with Down syndrome have a wide range of abilities, and there's no way to tell at birth what they will be capable of as they grow up.
How Can I Help?There are many ways in which you can help kids with Down syndrome provide resources, services and support to our community of individuals with Down syndrome, their families, friends, and caring stakeholders. Your monetary contribution will allow us to continue our support for new and expectant parents; outreach to the medical and education communities; expand parent support group activities; sponsor parent trainings and peer mentoring; facilitate skill building opportunities; and much more to enhance the lives of individuals born with Down syndrome.
Thank you for considering Kids with Down syndrome in your giving. Your Donation provides resources to continue our valuable programs and services to families in the State of Florida and beyond. Your contribution is very much appreciated.
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Kids with Down syndrome is a nonprofit, tax-exempt, publicly supported organization under Sections 501 (c)(3) of the IRS Code, and is incorporated and registered in Florida. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law.