welcome new parents
congratulations!
Congratulations on the birth of your beautiful baby!
If this is your first child, then you are about to experience one of life’s greatest joys and treasures. If this is not your first child, then you are truly lucky to bring another precious little joy into the world.
Babies with Down syndrome need what all babies need: cuddles, nourishment and love. They will grow, learn, develop, and reach childhood milestones – just at their own rate. Although your baby may have some physical characteristics common to people with Down syndrome, he or she will also look like members of your family. Your baby also needs health care, a rich stimulating learning environment and the company of family and friends. It’s important to understand some of the common characteristics of babies with Down syndrome, including possible health and development issues.
what do you do?
Your first and most important job is to love and cherish your child. Every child needs the love and support of their parents, especially a child who might have extra hurdles to overcome in life. Reach out to as many resources and people you can. Do your research and educate yourself on Down syndrome. Feel free to reach out to the Down Syndrome Association of Peel as we would love to meet with you and your family.
become a member
What is down syndrome?
Down syndrome, also referred to as Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition that affects approximately 1 in 800 of every births in Canada. A person with Down Syndrome has 3 copies of the 21st chromosome instead of two. The effects of this extra ‘genetic material’ vary from individual to individual but can include mild to moderate developmental delays, the potential for heart defects, as well as, issues with the stomach and bowel. There are also some distinguishing physical attributes that individuals with Down syndrome might have, including almond shaped eyes and low muscle tone. Again, the prevalence and severity of associated attributes varies from individual to individual.
myths
- Individuals with Down syndrome are always happy and smiling
- Only older mothers have babies with Down syndrome
- The mother must have done something during pregnancy to cause their baby to have Down syndrome
- Individuals with Down syndrome are unemployable
facts
- There is absolutely nothing that a father/mother could have done either before or during pregnancy to have caused a child to have Down syndrome as the cell division occurs at conception.
- It is the most common genetic condition affecting 1 in every 800 births in Canada
- Down syndrome does not discriminate and can occur regardless of nationality, race, religion or socio-economic status
- People with Down syndrome ARE PEOPLE and have the same range of emotions and feelings as anyone else
Special Education Advisory Committee (SEAC)
SEAC is governed through legislation the Education Act. It is recognized by the boards as a powerful group of concerned members who are acting in the best interests of students with special needs.
If you need any help with the public or separate board, please email us
