Down Syndrome

Definition

In every cell in the human body there is a nucleus, where genetic material is stored in genes. Genes carry the codes responsible for all of our inherited traits and are grouped along rod-like structures called chromosomes. Typically, the nucleus of each cell contains 23 pairs of chromosomes, half of which are inherited from each parent. Down syndrome occurs when an individual has a full or partial extra copy of chromosome 21.

This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm – although each person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees, or not at all. (National Down Syndrome Society)

Overcoming the fear of Down Syndrome.

Hayley Goleniowska will challenge you to think differently about Down syndrome, talking honestly about overcoming fear. Hayley is gently changing perceptions of Down syndrome with her powerful words. She is the founder of award-winning blog Down Side Up, which offers encouragement and advice to new families with a Down syndrome diagnosis.

Books Supporting Children with Down Syndrome

Own Syndrome Parenting 101 Must-Have Advice (Hale)

Gross Motor Skills for Children with Down syndrome (Winders)

Fine Motor Skills for Children with Down Syndrome (Bruni)

Supporting Positive behavior in Children and Teens with Down Syndrome (Stein)

How I know including people is Good.

Why is it GOOD to include individuals with Down Syndrome in the work place? As an advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Matthew Schwab shares his idea on how to create a win/win that is GOOD on many levels. This engaging talk raises awareness about Down Syndrome, and demonstrates with compassion and humor, why it’s important to employ the differently-abled. Matthew Schwab is an advocate for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His passions include raising awareness about Down syndrome and demonstrating why it’s good for all to employ the differently-abled. Matthew is a 22-year-old North Carolina native from Holly Springs. He graduated from Holly Springs High School in June 2017 with an occupational course of study diploma. After high school, he completed Project Search, an internship based educational program through Wake Tech. Matthew works at AMC Theaters, Fuquay Revolution Volleyball, 321 Coffee, Chick-Fil-A and has launched his own public speaking business. He volunteers with WCPSS and serves on the Advisory Council at 321 Coffee and with GiGi’s Playhouse, a Down syndrome achievement center, as an ambassador and on their Youth Advisory Board. He has attended workshops on advocacy, spoken to Governors McCrory and Cooper and was a paid intern in the NC State legislature. Matthew has a long-term girlfriend, loves to travel and spend time with his family and friends. Matthew aspires to live on his own, be self-supporting, get married and have a career as a public speaker.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd for Children with Down Syndrome

This is a resource offered by a presenter at CGS’s 2024 conference. It is a way that a co-op is supporting Downs Syndrome children.

3 Minute Theology – Down Syndrome

March 21st marks the celebration of World Down Syndrome Awareness Day, due to the 3rd copy of chromosome 21, hence 3-21. Here at De Smet we have all been graced by the presence of two amazing Spartans with Down Syndrome with joy-filled hearts and who have touched us in many ways. Through our experience with our Inclusion Program, we have seen God work in our school and in our lives in so many ways. Take a moment in this video to hear from members of Peter and Aiden’s family and peer mentors as they share how Down Syndrome has affected their lives for the better. God created us all unique and with our own specific purpose. What can you learn about yourself, the world, and God through interactions with people who are different than you?