Social Challenges of Kids with Down Syndrome

Posted by Shally Warner on February 26th, 2021

Down syndrome is the most common genetic disorder in the United States. A child with Down syndrome is often identified with distinct physical features, such as a flatter face, short neck, smaller than average head, and eyes slanting upward. It is also likely that medical problems such as congenital heart disease, obesity, and cataracts will arise. Still, despite the challenges, children with Down syndrome are highly capable and encouraged to attend mainstream schools and enjoy life as any other kid would.

Unfortunately, one of the most neglected aspects of a child with Down syndrome is their social life. Many parents have to address various physiological concerns first, and in doing so failing to address their kids’ struggle in fitting in in school, making new friends, communicating themselves, and more. Meanwhile, in many cases, kids who undergo the mainstream and widely accepted form of Down syndrome training are given more specialized form of curriculum and more focused attention from their teachers. These responses are normal and understandable coping techniques. However, the main focus should be on how kids can lead normal lives, not simply helping them live with the symptoms of Down syndrome.

Behavioral Challenges

At a very young age, children with Down syndrome often have to face different social and behavioral hurdles before they can interact with other people. Behavior-wise they can be disruptive, impulsive, hyperactive, and inattentive, coupled with short attention span. It is also during their formative years and early interaction with other kids that they tend to be anxious and self-immersed which made it difficult for them to socially relate. There are also other challenging factors such as chronic sleep difficulties, fatigue, and sudden shifts in mood.

Older children, adolescents, and young adults also suffer from the same behavior challenges, but often with better grasp due to age. However, they become more vulnerable to depression, social withdrawal, general anxiety, regression of social skills, and obsessive-compulsive behaviors.

Speech Impediments

Children, including those with Down syndrome, are wired to learn the language. Unfortunately, kids with genetic conditions find it more difficult to talk due to congestion and hearing problems or oral motor problems. As a coping mechanism taught in mainstream education and among parents is teaching children with Down syndrome sign language. Contrary to popular notion, however, this can be more detrimental than helpful to their social life. This is because the child will likely learn to sign very well, which will make them believe that there is no more need for talking to communicate. Neurodevelopmentalists still strongly recommend addressing the root causes of the negative symptoms associated with the diagnosis of Down syndrome in order to achieve more normalized functional abilities.

For more information on Down syndrome, Down syndrome training, and how you can revolutionize your child’s educational journey, call Brain Sprints today. They are a team of educators and coaches who have 25+ years of training and intensive knowledge on the NeuroDevelopmental Approach.  Significant advances are realized through their training services for children with Down syndrome and various learning disabilities. Their On-Site Training for Down syndrome is available in the Brain Sprints Center, which is located in Denton, Texas, while In-Home Training for Down syndrome can be done within the comforts of your own home anywhere in the United States. Call Brain Sprints today at 972-758-1260 or fill out a form on their website for a free 15-minute consultation with their NeuroDevelopmental experts.

Source- https://penzu.com/p/fc162f4f