When a mother and father experience pregnancy together, every bit of care and attention is taken so that this precious moment in their lives goes as smoothly as possible. Eating the right foods, drinking lots of water and staying away from that gin and tonic are all recommended to ensure that the child has the right level of nutrients which they need to develop in the womb. By attending anti-natal classes and the hospital appointments which are arranged at the parents’ convenience, every effort is made by medical professionals to ensure that it all goes to plan. Just like with adults, there really isn’t anything we can do in the case of many medical ailments which, despite much hard work and effort, will always happen no matter what.
Am I to blame?
With Down’s Syndrome, there really isn’t anything the mother and father can do in order to prevent it from happening in the first place. Down Syndrome occurs after an extra chromosome is present in either the sperm or egg, which come together and creates the child initially. Genetic reasons such as this will not be helped no matter how many extra portions of fruit and vegetable the mother eats.
When a child enters the world and has Down Syndrome, the mother or father might feel that they have let their child down in some way. If you do feel like this, there are ways forward for you.
By talking to other parents who have Down Syndrome children is a good start. When the child is born, there are bound to be a thousand questions and by seeking this help from those who have lived the life you are about to lead with your own child, will enable you to have your fears quelled as much of the information you need will be right there in front of you.
Development
As your child grows up, they will take longer than able-bodied children to learn what they do, such as speaking, crawling and walking. Getting them to visit speech therapy professionals will allow for your child to develop their vocabulary. When they reach school age, parents start to wonder whether to send their child to local schools or to those, which are adapted to teaching those with Down Syndrome. Asking your local government or even your MP will allow for you to find out what the next best step is for you and your child, at this most precious moments in their lives.
Those who have Down Syndrome needn’t be hindered by them having this condition. With guidance and the love of their parents will allow for them to lead as much of a fulfilling life as possible.
