Welcome to the Health page

The Lending Library, located at the Centre du syndrome de Down (DSAHRC), has a wide variety of books available to individuals with Down syndrome, their families, and professionals. Books are loaned out for 4 weeks at a time.

Continue on to the Lending Library »

Read a list of facts about Down syndrome.

Babies with special needs are often bombarded with a variety of health problems early on. Those babies who have Down syndrome often face respiratory tract infections and bowel problems. They can benefit from the gentle protection human milk provides. Breastfeeding also helps establish a bond in the midst of the strong emotions and high stress surrounding the birth of a child who has special needs.

(Based on “Health Supervision for Children with Down Syndrome” as published in Pediatrics August 2011)

(Based on “Health Supervision for Children with Down Syndrome” as published in Pediatrics August 2011) Infant (1 - 12 Months)

Ann Nobis, Speech-Language Pathologist

From first cry, to first look, to first smile, to first sound, to first thought, to first word, to first expressed idea, your baby will communicate with you and continue to grow with his or her communication skills throughout life.  Your baby has been born with the innate ability to learn to communicate as all babies have been.

The New York State Early Intervention Program (EIP) is part of the national Early Intervention Program for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families. First created by Congress in 1986 under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the EIP is administered by the New York State Department of Health through the Bureau of Early Intervention. In New York State, the Early Intervention Program is established in Article 25 of the Public Health Law and has been in effect since July 1, 1993.

Maryanne Bruni, BSc OT(C)

If you are a parent reading this, you likely have a child with Down syndrome, as I do.  My intent with this article is to provide you with some information about how an occupational therapist (OT) may be able to help you and your child.  Occupational therapists who work with children have education and training in child development, neurology, medical conditions, psychosocial development, and therapeutic techniques.  Occupational therapists focus on the child's ability to master skills for independence.  This can include:

• self care skills (feeding, dressing, grooming, etc.)
• fine and gross motor skills
• skills related to school performance (printing, cutting, etc.)
• play and leisure skills

When your child is an infant, your immediate concerns relate to his health and growth, development of the basic motor milestones, social interaction with you and others, interest in things going on around him, and early speech sounds and responses.  At this stage, an OT may become involved to:

(Based on “Health Supervision for Children with Down Syndrome” as published in Pediatrics August 2011) Ages 1 – 5 Years

(Based on “Health Supervision for Children with Down Syndrome” as published in Pediatrics August 2011) Ages 5 – 13 Years