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Children and young people with Down's syndrome have some level of learning disability. This means they may need help with daily life.
What they need help with is different for each person. And this can change as they get older.
You can try these things to help with their development.
praise them when they learn something new
speak clearly and calmly so they can learn from you
play, sing songs and read books together to help with sounds and words
try showing them how to do something instead of just giving instructions – this can be easier to follow
try ways to help them communicate such as Signalong, Makaton or PECS
try to set routines so they feel more settled – for example, for getting up and at mealtimes
encourage them to be healthy and active – find activities on the Down's Syndrome Association DSActive website
look out for changes in mood or behaviour – they may not be able to tell you if something's wrong or they're unwell
take them for regular hearing, eyesight and health checks
do not talk down to people with Down's syndrome – treat them like anyone their age
do not just talk to parents or carers, talk directly to people with Down's syndrome
do not use outdated and offensive language when talking to people with Down's syndrome – see the Down's Syndrome Association language guide
Children with Down's syndrome should have regular check-ups with a children's doctor (paediatrician) or a GP.
This is because there are conditions they may be more likely to have.
It could help for them to see:
Speak to a GP, health visitor or your local council to find out how your child can get these services.
Lots of children with Down's syndrome go to mainstream schools.
There are also special schools and colleges for children and young people who might need more help.
Where your child goes depends on:
You can visit schools and colleges in your area and ask the staff how they can meet your child's needs.
Children with Down's syndrome will get special educational needs support at their school or college.
Special educational needs support might include things like:
Find out more about support children with special educational needs can get on the GOV.UK website
You can apply for an education, health and care plan (EHC plan, or EHCP).
This plan says what education and health needs your child has and what support they should get.
Having an EHC plan can either help:
