We hope to make people aware of the abilities and accomplishments of people born with Down syndrome.
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that babies are born with. They have an extra chromosome. Most people are born with 23 pairs of chromosomes for a total of 46.
A child with Down syndrome has an extra chromosome, 47 instead of 46.
Not all people with Down syndrome are the same. They all have different strengths and weaknesses and develop at their own rate like typical children do.
Quality educational progress, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from families, peers, and friend enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives.
Let’s support and spread awareness of people with Down syndrome.
On October,11th, 2016 teacher Helen shared some information about Down syndrome with Grade 4 to Grade 6 students.
The students asked very good questions after the presentation.
Some students participated in the activities about: Demonstrating Speech Delay and Understanding Fine Motor Skills challenge.
A Grade 4 student pulled a sock over one hand and tried to write some words on paper with the sock hand.
Her reaction: “It was very hard to write.”
Some grade 5A students had to place a marshmallow on their tongue and had a talk with their classmate.
Reactions: “I couldn’t understand my friend.” “I had a hard time to talk.”
These activities help the students to understand how difficult it can be to have to work harder at skills and to understand what it feels like to know what you are trying to say.
Thanks to Principal Diane and teachers for allowing me to spread the awareness.