Congratulations!
LUCKY FEW CLUB
Learning that your baby has Down syndrome may be unexpected news that generates a wide range of emotions and unanswered questions. DSNetwork is here to assist you and your family members, whether you are having a baby or just had a baby with Down syndrome. Please know that we care about your family and we are here to help. An exciting journey lies ahead, and DSNetwork is here to provide information and support along the way.
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Provides guidance and individualized support for you and your family along your journey
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Connecting with other parents can be one of the most helpful resources
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New parent packets provide helpful information, resources, facts, and encouragement for families who first receive the news that their child has Down syndrome.
“We were diagnosed at 18 weeks gestation and were so pleased when we found the DSNetwork one month prior to Joanne’s birth. DSNetwork represented a place to call “home” in a sense. It brought us together with others going through similar experiences, so we did not feel alone.” – Lisa, mother of Joanne
Request a New Parent Packet & Support
Positive Outlook
Promising Future
Being a parent in the 21st century can be overwhelming at times, regardless of a child’s abilities. DSNetwork believes it is critical for families to receive accurate information and know that raising a child with Down syndrome can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. According to a study published in the American Journal of Medical Genetics by Dr. Brian Skotko, the study found that Down syndrome is positive for a vast majority of parents, siblings, and people with Down syndrome.
- Out of the 2,044 parents surveyed, 79% reported their outlook on life was more positive because of their child with Down syndrome.
- Surveyed siblings (ages 12 and older) – 97% expressed feelings of pride about their brother or sister with Down syndrome and 88% were convinced they were better people because of their sibling with Down syndrome.
- The study evaluated how adults with Down syndrome felt about themselves. 99% responded that they were happy with their lives; 97% liked who they are; and 96% liked how they look.
Support & Resources
A Healthy Start
Down syndrome usually causes varying degrees of learning and developmental delays and associated medical issues. Advances in medicine have rendered many of the health issues treatable. As with all children, taking an active role helps ensure your child receives the best health care. Some steps that are recommended soon after birth include:
FINDING A DOCTOR
Choose a pediatrician who has experience with children with Down syndrome or connect them with the latest resources and health care guidelines.
HEART HEALTH
It is important that children born with Down syndrome have their heart checked in the first few months of life. An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to check for heart conditions.
POSITIVE DIAGNOSIS
Every person with Down syndrome is unique and may possess some common physical characteristics at birth or none at all. A special chromosome test known as a karyotype needs to be performed before a positive diagnosis is made.
EARLY INTERVENTION
Early intervention of therapies can make a major difference in improving quality of life. Because each child with Down syndrome is unique, treatment will depend on individual needs.
ONLINE PARENT SUPPORT
Join the private Down Syndrome Network AZ chat group on Facebook to meet and connect with other families touched by Down syndrome in Arizona.
GUIDE FOR NEW PARENTS
View the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) comprehensive guide for new & expectant parents. NDSS is one of the leading organizations for all individuals with Down syndrome.
MEET OTHER FAMILIES & CHILDREN
Sign up to receive news on upcoming events in the ClubXtra group program where parents can meet and support other parents, play and interact with other children their age (0 -7 years old).