Enjoy your baby. Play with him/her, read to him/her, rock him/her, cuddle with him/her, talk to him/her, gaze at him/her when they are sleeping, figure out what he/she likes – and do it often!
Connect with other parents of children with Down syndrome. Get involved with local support groups.
Learn more about Down syndrome. You’ve probably got lots of questions about your child’s diagnosis and what it means for the future. Much information is available on the internet; some through local bookstores and libraries. Check out the copyright dates, though. Anything published before 1990, probably is out-of-date and may not be very helpful. Woodbine House Publishing (www.woodbinehouse.com) is a wonderful resource on Down syndrome, including books on developing gross motor skills, developing fine motor skills, developing communication skills, teaching reading and math, and medical and surgical concerns. There are also helpful DVD’s and books for children. NEMDSS also has an extensive library, see website for details on checking out books.
Find out about early intervention programs in your area. Every state has an Early Intervention Program for babies, from birth until the third birthday. Early Intervention Program for Mississippi District II, which includes the following counties: Lee, Lafayette, Pontotoc, Prentiss, Union, Itawamba, Alcorn, Tishomingo, Marshall and Benton may be reached at 662-871-8017. Most often the social worker at the hospital where you delivered will make the referral to Early Intervention for you, if you like.
Take care of yourself: While it’s probably the last thing on your “to do” list right now, you can better care for your child if you care for yourself, too. Spend time nurturing the relationships with your partner, other family members and friends. Accept help when it’s offered.
Investigate county resources. Check your local phonebook and look for a county department name such as Human Services, Community Services or Developmental Disabilities. Your county also may have a Web site where you can find out how to connect with a case manager. A case manager should be able to help you find services that may benefit your child and your family. A case manager can help you connect with a school district, find available community services and tell you about financial resources you may qualify to receive. Families often use these services when their children are older. It’s helpful to have connections in place to use when you need them.
Don’t be afraid to grieve. Grieving is normal and people express it differently – sadness, tears, anger, fear, depression or withdrawal. It’s okay to cry. The baby you have may not be the baby of your dreams. Many parents of children with Down syndrome feel this way. Most also learn that – eventually – they dream new dreams.
Remember to enjoy your baby. Marvel at his fingers and toes, stroke the hair (or fuzz!) on his head, read Goodnight Moon again and again, watch him watching you, sing to him and give him one or two – or more! – hugs and kisses.