Down syndrome is a chromosomal condition that causes learning delays, speech and motor skill difficulties, and other distinct physical features. Approximately 400,000 people are living with Down syndrome in the United States. It’s also the most commonly occurring genetic condition. Many people feel uncomfortable when they meet someone with Down syndrome for the first time. This can be challenging for those who have this condition as well as their loved ones. However, being an ally to someone living with Down syndrome can make a world of difference in their life. Here are five ways to be an ally to someone with Down syndrome:
Be patient
People with Down syndrome are at a different developmental stage than people without this condition. They may move through life at a slower pace and require more time to understand new things. This doesn’t mean they are any less smart or capable than anyone else. It just means they may need a bit more time to reach certain milestones. So, be patient while they learn new information and skills. This will help them feel more comfortable and give them the time they need to understand a new concept.
Remember that they are individuals, not diagnoses
People with Down syndrome are first and foremost their diagnosis. They are not a statistic; they are people with hopes, dreams, and feelings. The diagnosis is just a small part of who they are and what they contribute to the world. When meeting someone new with Down syndrome, try to move away from the diagnosis and focus more on who they are as an individual. This can help you begin to understand their lives and challenges on a deeper level. This can also help you put aside any preconceived notions or stereotypes you may have of people with this diagnosis.
Don’t make assumptions
Making assumptions about a person with Down syndrome and their abilities is a surefire way to make them feel uncomfortable. If you meet someone with this diagnosis, try not to make any assumptions about their abilities. Instead, ask them how they’d like you to interact with them. You can also ask their loved one how they prefer to be treated. Because Down syndrome is a wide-ranging diagnosis, you may meet people with this condition who can do certain tasks while others may need assistance. And, if you meet someone who may be able to do something, don’t assume they can’t. Allow the person to show you their abilities.
Practice inclusion
Inclusion is about striving for equality for all people. It involves removing barriers that may prevent someone from fully participating in society. When you practice inclusion with someone with Down syndrome, you are taking away barriers to their ability to fully participate in society. This can be as simple as holding open a door for someone in a wheelchair or offering to help a parent with a child in a stroller go up or down the bus steps.
Help build resilience
Inclusion is about striving for equality for all people. It involves removing barriers that may prevent someone from fully participating in society. When you practice inclusion with someone with Down syndrome, you are taking away barriers to their ability to fully participate in society. This can be as simple as holding open a door for someone in a wheelchair or offering to help a parent with a child in a stroller go up or down the bus steps Building resilience is important for everyone, but it’s especially important for those with Down syndrome. This may come as a surprise, but because they are an oppressed minority group, people with Down syndrome are more likely to be bullied than other minority groups. So, helping these people build resilience can help them avoid self- esteem issues that often stem from this type of bullying. You can do this by being a positive role model in their life. Also, encourage these people to be involved in activities they enjoy.
Conclusion
Learning disabilities can make school a daunting task for any child. It may take a little more effort, but with effective strategies and a positive attitude, kids can succeed in school with or without a learning disability. When you or your child has a learning disability, it’s important to get help. A tutor can provide not only academic assistance but emotional support as well. Learning disabilities are common, and with the right support, kids can succeed in school no matter what challenges they face. With these tips, you or your child will be able to better cope with these conditions and excel at school.