What is Down's syndrome?
Down's syndrome is a lifelong condition that causes delays in learning and development. It cannot be cured, but people with the condition can be supported to live a happy and independent life.
Most parents find out that their baby has Down's syndrome soon after their birth - it occurs because some babies' cells contain an extra chromosome 21.
All people with Down's syndrome will have some degree of learning disability. Children with Down's syndrome do learn to walk, talk and be toilet trained but in general will meet these developmental milestones later than children who do not have Down's syndrome. They may find it easier to learn visually, like many people with autism, and learn to talk more easily if their main words are signed as well as spoken.
Where can I get more information?
The Down's Syndrome Association
Tel: 0845 230 0372 (open 10.00am-4.00pm, Monday-Friday)
Website: www.downs-syndrome.org.uk
Their website also has a special section all about Down's Syndrome and autism.
Reproduced by kind permission of the Down's Syndrome Association