faq
What is Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome is a chromosomal condition caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome twenty-one. It is the most common chromosomal abnormality in humans and is typically associated with a delay in cognitive development and physical growth, along with distinctive facial characteristics. In most cases, DS is diagnosed after chromosome tests have been administered shortly after birth.
Down Syndrome is a chromosomal condition caused by the presence of all or part of a third copy of chromosome twenty-one. It is the most common chromosomal abnormality in humans and is typically associated with a delay in cognitive development and physical growth, along with distinctive facial characteristics. In most cases, DS is diagnosed after chromosome tests have been administered shortly after birth.
When is Down Syndrome Diagnosed?
Down Syndrome is usually diagnosed before or shortly after birth. Down Syndrome is caused by an extra chromosome 21 and is most immediately visible by the distinct physical traits that characterize it. Some characteristics include: a flat facial profile, short neck, flattened nose, small ears and mouth, upward slant of the eyes, small broad hands with short fingers, decreased muscle tone, and a deep crease in the palm of the hand. Once the doctor notices these traits, a karyotype will be taken to confirm the diagnosis. Another trait that becomes more noticeable later is that individuals with Down Syndrome are mentally retarded.
Down Syndrome is usually diagnosed before or shortly after birth. Down Syndrome is caused by an extra chromosome 21 and is most immediately visible by the distinct physical traits that characterize it. Some characteristics include: a flat facial profile, short neck, flattened nose, small ears and mouth, upward slant of the eyes, small broad hands with short fingers, decreased muscle tone, and a deep crease in the palm of the hand. Once the doctor notices these traits, a karyotype will be taken to confirm the diagnosis. Another trait that becomes more noticeable later is that individuals with Down Syndrome are mentally retarded.
Who was the first person to discover Down Syndrome?
British Physician, John Langdon Down, was the first to publish findings associated with the distinguishing, physical characteristics of people with Down Syndrome. He referred to the people as ‘Mongoloids’ and called the syndrome “Mongolism” because the physical characteristics resembled those of people from Mongolia.
British Physician, John Langdon Down, was the first to publish findings associated with the distinguishing, physical characteristics of people with Down Syndrome. He referred to the people as ‘Mongoloids’ and called the syndrome “Mongolism” because the physical characteristics resembled those of people from Mongolia.
What types of research have been done on Down Syndrome?
Check out our Research Page!
Check out our Research Page!
What are IEP and 504 plans and is Down Syndrome included in these plans?
Down syndrome is one of the many disabilities covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This is a federal law amended in 2004 that governs how states and public firms provide special education, early intervention, and any other related services. It covers the needs of children with disabilities from birth to age 21. IDEA was designed to provide all children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) that will prepare them for employment, higher education, and independent living.
IDEA requires that schools create and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for each student meeting the eligibility requirements under both the federal and state standards. The IEP is the foundation of that child’s education. It lists the services that are to be provided and how frequently they are needed, describes the student’s current level of performance, and details how the student’s disability affects their academic achievement. When a child qualifies under IDEA a team is organized to design the IEP. The child’s parents, a regular education teacher, a special education teacher, someone who can interpret the educational implications of the child’s evaluation (usually a school psychologist), and an administrator who has authority of the districts services will make up the members of the IEP panel. The team collaborates to design the IEP and when it is finished and signed it becomes a legal binding agreement that will provide a free and appropriate education to the student (FAPE).
If the student does not meet the more rigorous requirements for special needs services such as an IEP this does not mean he/she will not receive any accommodations. Under IDEA schools are required to provide all students with an equal opportunity for success. This means providing reasonable adaptations and school facilities that are equally accessibly by individuals with disabilities. The 504 plan documents these adaptations; it is a written document similar to an IEP which clarifies what accommodations are necessary and required. The 504 plan is the best alternative to students with disabilities who do not qualify for an IEP plan.
Down syndrome is one of the many disabilities covered under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This is a federal law amended in 2004 that governs how states and public firms provide special education, early intervention, and any other related services. It covers the needs of children with disabilities from birth to age 21. IDEA was designed to provide all children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) that will prepare them for employment, higher education, and independent living.
IDEA requires that schools create and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for each student meeting the eligibility requirements under both the federal and state standards. The IEP is the foundation of that child’s education. It lists the services that are to be provided and how frequently they are needed, describes the student’s current level of performance, and details how the student’s disability affects their academic achievement. When a child qualifies under IDEA a team is organized to design the IEP. The child’s parents, a regular education teacher, a special education teacher, someone who can interpret the educational implications of the child’s evaluation (usually a school psychologist), and an administrator who has authority of the districts services will make up the members of the IEP panel. The team collaborates to design the IEP and when it is finished and signed it becomes a legal binding agreement that will provide a free and appropriate education to the student (FAPE).
If the student does not meet the more rigorous requirements for special needs services such as an IEP this does not mean he/she will not receive any accommodations. Under IDEA schools are required to provide all students with an equal opportunity for success. This means providing reasonable adaptations and school facilities that are equally accessibly by individuals with disabilities. The 504 plan documents these adaptations; it is a written document similar to an IEP which clarifies what accommodations are necessary and required. The 504 plan is the best alternative to students with disabilities who do not qualify for an IEP plan.
What accommodations and modifications may need to be provided for my student that has Down Syndrome?
- Shorter Lessons
- Re-takes on Tests
- Hands-On Modeling
- Enlarged Lessons
- Extended Time to Complete Assignments
- Assignments Sent Home for Completion
- Providing Books/Workbooks at Home
- Homework and Work Assignments Given to Families Early
- Assistant to Take Notes and Assist with Organization
- Peer Modeling and Tutoring
- Computer for Writing
- Alternate Handwriting Methods
- Equipment Modifications