Although parenting a Down child can be hard, it can also be a great opportunity to create a support network for your family. It doesn't matter if you're single or with a large family, having a support network can help ease the added responsibility. You can relieve stress by having family and friends help you look after your child. Even a small break can make you a stronger partner and help you deal with the day-to-day challenges of parenting a child with Down syndrome.
Family
Most families are proud of their Down-syndrome children. Many parents experience difficulties. These parents suggest that you find support groups and attend conferences.
Community
There are many ways you can get support from your community. The Down Syndrome Parent Support Group offers one option. These meetings offer information, support, as well as socializing. You can also hear from expert speakers about the challenges of raising a child with Down syndrome.
Early intervention
Early intervention programs can help your child grow and thrive. These services are offered by professionals including speech pathologists and occupational therapists as well as physical therapists and social workers. Federal law provides early intervention services for children with Down syndrome.
Financial assistance
The visible disability of Down syndrome means that families with Down syndrome children rely on government assistance programs in order to meet their financial needs. Parenting a Down Syndrome child is demanding. While there are many ways to get government assistance, the process can be overwhelming.
Talking to other parents
Although you may believe that you are the only one facing this problem, it is important to speak with other parents. It helps to have a supportive group of friends and family who understand your concerns. It is also good to talk to children and their parents. If you are open to discussing your concerns with your child, it can help create a special bond.
Screening tests for Down syndrome
When parenting a child with Down syndrome, it is vital to undergo screening tests to determine whether your child has Down syndrome. Although these screenings aren't invasive and can be performed during pregnancy, many parents choose not to have them. To diagnose Down syndrome, doctors first need to obtain a sample of the genetic material from your child. This sample will be analyzed to determine if your baby has an extra chromosome 21. The results of this test usually arrive within one week from the date of birth.
Physical features of children with Down syndrome
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that results in a variety of physical features. Children with Down syndrome may have flat faces, almond-shaped eyes and short necks. They also may have extra-flexible joints. Other physical issues that they may have include mild-moderate intellectual disability and congenital heart defects.
FAQ
How do I know if my child requires more discipline?
Different levels of development mean that children require different amounts and types of discipline.
If your child is very young (under about two years old), then he/she may benefit from being spanked occasionally.
Your child may require more structure and guidance if he/she is older.
Before making any major changes to your parenting style or behavior, you should discuss the changes with your doctor.
Is there a positive example of parenting?
Positive parenting teaches children how they should behave by setting high expectations and expecting them live up to them. It includes loving them and helping them when they fail.
Positive parenting teaches children that they should make decisions based upon what is best for them, and not on what is easiest or most convenient. This helps children grow into independent adults who are able to decide what they want.
Positive parenting is also about having fun together, and encouraging your children's happiness.
When children see their parents care about them and treat them like people instead of objects, they begin to trust them. This makes them less likely to get into trouble, which in turn makes them happier and healthier.
Is gentle parenting good?
It depends on the definition of what you mean "good." If you're talking about how children are treated, then I would say yes. But if you want to know if it is good for them, I will say no. They require firmness and discipline at times. Otherwise, they'll never learn how to behave properly.
Rules and limits are essential for children. Children will never be able to recognize what is acceptable and what is not. They won't know how to respect others and follow directions.
If you asked me which parenting style I prefer, I would say none. All three styles work equally well. It is important to find the best one for you, your family and yourself.
Statistics
- Students from authoritative families were likelier to say that their parents–not their peers–would influence their decisions (Bednar and Fisher 2003). (parentingscience.com)
- They are even more likely to have dental cavities because permissive parents often don't enforce good habits, like ensuring a child brushes their teeth. (verywellfamily.com)
External Links
How To
How can I discipline my child properly?
You can discipline your child in many different ways, but the goal should be to make them understand why they did that wrong and not repeat it.
Here are some suggestions.
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Discuss with your child what you believe they did wrong.
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Give them time limits. Give them a time limit, such as "I'm going with you for 5 minutes to clean my room." If you don't finish by the timer, you'll be required to stay after school.
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Praise good behavior.
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Do not punish poor behavior.
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You must make sure that your child understands the consequences of any behavior.
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Instead of punishing, reward. Rewards include praise, stickers, toys, etc.
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Set clear expectations for your child.
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Be consistent.
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Avoid shouting and yelling.
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You must follow through with punishments.
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Talk to your child calmly but firmly.
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Be in control of your emotions
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Speak softly and don't shout.
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Show love and affection.
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Do not hit your child.
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Take the time to be clear.
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Remember that children are only little once!
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Always keep your word.
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Listen to your child's feelings.
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Children aren't stupid, it is important to remember.
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Have patience.
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You shouldn't make your child mad.
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Be calm
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Encourage your child the freedom to express himself/herself.