The incidence of Down syndrome is strongly influenced by maternal age at the time of conception. Persons with Down syndrome at the upper end of the IQ range might attain 4th to 6th grade reading skills. Persons with Down syndrome can provide for basic self-help needs, and have varying degrees of educational achievement and social and occupational skills. They need special education, training facilities, and frequently sheltered living and work situations. This is just a brief overview of Down syndrome, written for those who do not have a Down child but wish to know a little more about the condition.
Many resources exist on the web for parents of Down syndrome children.