Have you just heard the news "Your baby has Down Syndrome"?
Or, are you dealing with the new diagnosis of
Down Syndrome in a sibling, relative, or a friend? -
Also be sure to see the post on our blog called "Diagnosis Down Syndrome - what to do?" and The Joy of Raising A Child with Down Syndrome!
CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!
God has just blessed you with a wonderful child with Down Syndrome! There does not need to be any sadness, depression, or grief over this. God is the one who has given you a wonderful little child. All you need to do right now is to love that child in every way.
There is hope for your child with Down Syndrome. Have you been told, "I'm sorry to tell you this, but your baby has Down Syndrome.''? I'm sorry you were told that. Sad to say, this is something that is said all too often. What you should have been told is, "Congratulations, your baby has Down Syndrome!". There is a sad stereo-type of a person with Down Syndrome - "they can't talk, they can't read, they don't learn to walk, and if they do, it is really delayed, they won't be like a "normal" child, it's too bad you had a baby with DS."
What you need to know is the truth about Down Syndrome and what a person with Down Syndrome really is - they can learn to talk & read and, in fact, most of them do. They do learn to walk and there is a wide range of when they can - they can walk at 12 or 13 months, some may walk at a later age, but that is ok. They won't, of course be like a "normal" child, because they have an extra chromosome.
It is wonderful that you had a baby with Down Syndrome!! Babies with Down Syndrome are a big blessing, just like God says "Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward." (Psalm 127:3). It doesn't matter if this child has a medical issue, a physical delay, or a tendency toward mental retardation! The Lord is the one who has made that child and he is the one who does all - He has given you a special child. Even though children with Down Syndrome may require some extra work, they are all the while worth it.
Just like it is written,
Psalm 139: 13-16
"For You formed my inward parts; you covered me in my mother'€™s womb. I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well. My frame was not hidden from You, when I was made in secret, And skillfully wrought in the lowest parts of the earth. Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed. And in Your book they all were written, The days fashioned for me, when as yet there were none of them."
Psalm 100:3-5
"Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; We are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, And His truth endures to all generations."
Exodus 4:11
"Who has made man'€™s mouth? Or who makes the mute, the deaf, the seeing, or the blind? Have not I, the LORD?"
Individuals with Down Syndrome are very sweet. My brother with Down Syndrome is the happiest little one. He always warms my heart and puts a smile on my face when he dives for me to give me a hug, looks at me and smiles with his big grin, and starts laughing and clapping with me.
Please feel free to contact us with any questions.
