How to Live Well with Down Syndrome (Teens)
Learn the basics of what Down Syndrome means., Learn where Down Syndrome comes from., Check out Down Syndrome websites.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Learn the basics of what Down Syndrome means.
Down Syndrome has several symptoms, most or all of which you will experience.
Different face and body—This includes wide slanted eyes, a flat face, little hands and feet, short height, and other unique features.Intellectual disability—You may have extra challenges learning in school.
Low muscle tone—Babies with Down Syndrome can be very "floppy" and it may take longer for them to learn to walk.By teen years, though, many people with Down Syndrome are quite strong! Health problems—People with Down Syndrome are more likely to have heart problems, stomach problems, hearing disabilities, eye problems, and more.
You may get sick easily. -
Step 2: Learn where Down Syndrome comes from.
Down Syndrome is in your DNA, the code that gives instructions on how to build your body.
You have had it since before you were born, and you will have it all your life.Chromosomes are groups of DNA.
People with Down Syndrome have an extra chromosome—specifically, the 21st pair comes with one extra.
You may have one whole extra chromosome, or just part of one. , There are groups that focus on helping people with Down Syndrome and their families.
They may have useful advice for you.
Here are a few websites:
National Down Syndrome SocietyNational Association for Down SyndromeSelf Advocacy Online -
Step 3: Check out Down Syndrome websites.
Detailed Guide
Down Syndrome has several symptoms, most or all of which you will experience.
Different face and body—This includes wide slanted eyes, a flat face, little hands and feet, short height, and other unique features.Intellectual disability—You may have extra challenges learning in school.
Low muscle tone—Babies with Down Syndrome can be very "floppy" and it may take longer for them to learn to walk.By teen years, though, many people with Down Syndrome are quite strong! Health problems—People with Down Syndrome are more likely to have heart problems, stomach problems, hearing disabilities, eye problems, and more.
You may get sick easily.
Down Syndrome is in your DNA, the code that gives instructions on how to build your body.
You have had it since before you were born, and you will have it all your life.Chromosomes are groups of DNA.
People with Down Syndrome have an extra chromosome—specifically, the 21st pair comes with one extra.
You may have one whole extra chromosome, or just part of one. , There are groups that focus on helping people with Down Syndrome and their families.
They may have useful advice for you.
Here are a few websites:
National Down Syndrome SocietyNational Association for Down SyndromeSelf Advocacy Online
About the Author
Victoria Vasquez
Creates helpful guides on DIY projects to inspire and educate readers.
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