Support: {verb} – to assist or help
parents
Did you know individuals with Down Syndrome are commonly affected by hypotonia? Simply put, hypotonia is a state of lower muscle tone. This low tone affects all parts of the body, both internally and externally. Oral motor and oral placement therapies are a series of exercises used to address issues related to low tone in the mouth.
One of our 21_Connect kiddos recently participated in an oral motor therapy workshop, presented by TalkTools Therapy feeding expert, Lori Overland. Check out TalkTools Therapy for more info!
hospitals and medical providers
21_ Connect believes the birth of a baby with Down syndrome is meant to be celebrated. Unfortunately, we have found it to be a somber experience for families, with little support or guidance as to what the future holds. For this reason, we have created a program called “First Connection”. We are reaching out to all hospitals offering the support of a basket filled with items that provide inspiration and education on raising a child with Down syndrome. We are also offering our own personal experience as support, if the family desires a visit.
If you know of a family that would benefit from our basket outreach program or if you are a part of a service or business that works closely with these families, please let us know at connect@21connect.org or by phone at 716-427-3575.
Medical Providers
It cannot be stressed enough that everything you do and say when giving a diagnosis of Down syndrome will have a profound impact on the parents. It is something they will remember for the rest of their lives.
Click here for a presentation created by parents who have experienced it first hand. It provides medical practitioners a guide to make it easier for new and expecting parents. 21_Connect and the Down Syndrome Parents Group of WNY have presented this topic in a series of seminars at Western New York area hospitals. Contact us if you would like to schedule a seminar at your hospital or office.
medical providers
Click here to view a brochure that you can to give to new or expecting parents that have received a diagnosis of Down syndrome for their child. Clear, relevant, and up-to-date information is critical!!
RESOURCES
Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network – DSDN is a group of parents from all over the United States and around the world who each have a child with Trisomy 21 (Down syndrome) and a great desire to ensure families who receive a Down syndrome diagnosis are receive current information and support.
Down Syndrome Pregnancy – Down Syndrome Pregnancy provides honest, compassionate, medically-reviewed, and informative support for those preparing for the birth of a baby with Down syndrome.
Lettercase.org – Lettercase offers a library of resources that provide accurate, balanced, and up-to-date information for new and expectant parents learning about a diagnosis of Down syndrome and other genetic conditions.
