Unless you are surrounded by the world of Down syndrome on a daily basis, you might not realize the myths and truths involved of children with special needs.
Since October is Down Syndrome Awareness month, I wanted to share a few myths and tell you how the truths relate to my little Molly and our family.
MYTH: Children with Down syndrome are born to older parents.
TRUTH: Most children with Down syndrome are born to women younger than 35 years old simply because younger women have more children. In fact, I was 31 years old when Molly was born with Down syndrome. I had a one in 841 chance of having a child with Down syndrome.
MYTH: People with Down syndrome are always happy.
TRUTH: Molly has feelings just like any other child. Sure, she’s happy a lot…but wow, she has a temper and the typical “terrible twos”. She usually wakes up on the wrong side of the bed, she gets that from me.
MYTH: Children with Down syndrome must be placed in segregated special education programs.
TRUTH: Molly is in a typical preschool this year surrounded by “typical” children and she loves it! In fact, just last week her teacher told me that in her eyes – Molly was just like any other child in the classroom.
MYTH: Parents will not find community support in bringing up their child with Down syndrome.
TRUTH: Here in Northeast Florida, we have the extremely active Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville. There are monthly playgroups, online support groups and even a Dad’s group that meets monthly. Check out the National Down Syndrome Society to see if your community has a group.
Do you have questions about Down syndrome? I’m clearly not an expert, but I’d love to chat if you have questions!
Comments
Crystal & Co
How awesome that you are sharing this. Molly is a beautiful little girl.
When I was in high school (18 years ago) I worked at a daycare and there was a little boy there who had DS. He was mean and had behavior issues and I was told by one of the daycare professionals that all kids with DS were mean. I just took it as truth, I was 17 years old.
As I became an adult I obviously learned the truth about this stereotype and now wonder why in the world that person would make such an ignorant blanket statement. I also think about that little boy often and wonder if there were reasons he came across as mean- who was mean to him? It was likely a learned behavior as he was only 4 or 5 years old. It breaks my heart to think about it.
I love that bloggers like you and Kelle Hampton are bringing awareness to DS. You guys are truly making a difference!
Carrie with Children
Thanks so much for sharing your story, Crystal. I appreciate your kind words. We couldn’t be more proud of our Molly. She’s a fantastic kid with a big personality! 🙂