I just cut and pasted this article. I think this sums up how I feel and what I think most of us feel. For those of you pregnant with a DS child or a family member that is concerned I hope you find some comfort in this because it so true.
"If these adorable creatures have Down syndrome they are at risk for certain physical and cognitive delays. It behooves parents to keep an eye open for problems that could arise. It's important that they know something about their child's diagnosis so that they can be alert and helpful. But my belief is that the most important things that parents of babies with Down syndrome can do are exactly those things that all parents do. You know: they cuddle, feed, sing and love. Not the kind of things you need a Developmental Therapist for… or any other therapist, for that matter."
"Very young babies with Down syndrome have specific concerns about early development. And doubtless, parents will find themselves driving this child about for ear infections, speech therapy, developmental evaluations, etc. But the main advice I have for parents of new babies with Down syndrome boils down to this:
You have a beautiful new baby.
There will be some areas that need work, but what you have right now IS PRECIOUS AND PERFECTLY RIGHT. "
I just cut and pasted this article. I think this sums up how I feel and what I think most of us feel. For those of you pregnant with a DS child or a family member that is concerned I hope you find some comfort in this because it so true.
"If these adorable creatures have Down syndrome they are at risk for certain physical and cognitive delays. It behooves parents to keep an eye open for problems that could arise. It's important that they know something about their child's diagnosis so that they can be alert and helpful. But my belief is that the most important things that parents of babies with Down syndrome can do are exactly those things that all parents do. You know: they cuddle, feed, sing and love. Not the kind of things you need a Developmental Therapist for… or any other therapist, for that matter."
"Very young babies with Down syndrome have specific concerns about early development. And doubtless, parents will find themselves driving this child about for ear infections, speech therapy, developmental evaluations, etc. But the main advice I have for parents of new babies with Down syndrome boils down to this:
You have a beautiful new baby.
There will be some areas that need work, but what you have right now
IS PRECIOUS AND PERFECTLY RIGHT. "
By Kate Sefton, Master Developmental Therapist