This extra genetic material is then present in every cell in the individual's body and is responsible for the physical and intellectual differences apparent in a 'Down's child'. Children with the condition vary in ability from some who have multiple and profound difficulties to those whose IQ scores favourably with many 'normal' children with slight intellectual impairments.
Most children grow up to live a full and semi-independent life.
Medical conditions associated with Down's Syndrome which can affect development. Children with special educational needs may make slower progress throughout their educational careers but products highlighted in the special need supplement and illustrated on this web site will be particularly helpful. On average, a child with Down's Syndrome develops physically and intellectually at about 6 months for every year of chronological time. Developmental gaps increase as the child gets older, babies with Down's are much like other babies and the differences become obvious as the child gets older. As the child will be developing at a much slower rate, learning will require both more time and more patience and a parent can be invaluable in supporting all aspects of development.