Down Syndrome
Information About Down Syndrome
March 21st- World Down Syndrome Day
WDSD is the 21st day of the 3rd month, representing the trisomy 21, 3 copies of the 21st chromosome which causes Down syndrome. We celebrate WDSD by wearing silly mismatched socks! Why Socks? Chromosomes look like pairs of socks.
Chromosomes make up who you are…they are the building blocks of YOU! What you look like, a person’s personality, preferences, talents, abilities, etc. Everyone has a different makeup that makes them unique. Different isn’t bad…different is just DIFFERENT! Differences can be a WONDERFUL thing!
Why Socks?
We wear crazy mismatched socks because no two people are exactly the same, and those differences can make the perfect pair!
So now you know… the connection between crazy socks and Down Syndrome. Do you have yours ready for World Down Syndrome Day on March 21st?
What’s the most important thing to teach your kids?
Above all else, let them know that Down syndrome is a health condition that some children are simply born with, and that their classmates with Down syndrome are just like them in so many ways and deserve the kind, big-hearted friendships that all kids need.
What Causes Down Syndrome?
Down Syndrome is caused by an extra chromosome that makes the 21st grouping of chromosomes a trio instead of a pair.
🧬 DNA is contained in chromosomes.
Chromosomes are inside the nucleus of a cell.
Cells make up every part of a person.
Every person is uniquely made to be different.
Different is a good thing!
Down syndrome is diagnosed with a karyotype test. This is a test to examine chromosomes in a sample of cells. This test can help identify genetic problems as the cause of a disorder/disease or identify chromosome abnormalities, such as Trisomy 21 (which is commonly referred to as Down Syndrome.)
A karyotype test produces a “picture” of the chromosomes in an isolated cell that is arranged and labels each set of chromosomes. This image looks like pairs of silly colorful socks.
End Stereotypes About Down Syndrome:
Each person with Down syndrome is different. Each person with an intellectual disability is different. They don’t all act the same way or like the same things. Everyone has their own individual identity, interests, likes and dislikes, gifts and talents, just like everyone else. Having Down syndrome or an intellectual disability is just ONE part of who they are! They are people who should be treated like people.
It is important to get to know an individual, learn about them, discover their talents and abilities and treat them as the incredible human being they are!
Resources
Video Explaining Down Syndrome (Great for classroom)
WDSD Activity: Sock Coloring Page
Favorite Books About Down Syndrome (link to another page with list of books)
National Down Syndrome Society Information:
Preferred Language Guide (Language to use when to referring to Down Syndrome)
