Tips & Tricks for

Parents

PICTURED

Tucker Tillman, Dad to Bonnie Jayne

Thoughts from an Alaskan father

I remember shortly after Bonnie was diagnosed with DS, someone told me, “I know you may not understand this right away but Congratulations, you hit the jackpot!”
— Tucker

I remember shortly after Bonnie was diagnosed with DS, someone told me, "I know you may not understand this right away but Congratulations, you hit the jackpot!" I very truly did NOT understand what they meant.

Mostly I just tried to stay positive and accept the fact that life would be different than I had imagined and I needed to figure out how to navigate some new challenges.

A little over two years later though, It all makes sense. This little bug has brought all the good stuff out of myself and my wife.

Yeah, we have to do things a little differently, but the "challenges" I was anticipating have turned out to be doors that lead to some pretty great places.

I've learned to laugh harder than ever before, I've fallen in love with my wife all over again, I've gained empathy and perspective in areas where I needed it, and my faith in God has strengthened...so thanks kiddo!

Welcome, Little One 

We’re so excited to welcome you and your newest family member to our local Alaskan Down syndrome circle.

We know these first days can be an overwhelming tumble of emotions. Just know we’re here with you in all of it, and we can’t wait to get to know your family—lumps, bumps, bruises, and smiles!  

We have a

special gift for you

and your latest addition.

Let us know when we can drop by!

Tips and resources for expecting and new parents

This little bug has brought all the good stuff out of myself and my wife.

What is life going to look like? 

“Welcome to Holland,” a short essay written by a parent of a child with Down syndrome. 

https://www.emilyperlkingsley.com/welcome-to-holland 

Caring for a child with Down syndrome- from pregnancy to preparing for school, varied resources: https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/caring-for-a-child-with-down-syndrome 

Rough Day?  

Don't let it get you down.

Pour another cup of coffee and check out these behavioral tips and educational resources for your child with Down syndrome:

Educational resources from Down syndrome education USA

https://www.down-syndrome.org/en-us/ 

 

Free online tutoring for k-5 kids with special needs

https://www.upachievements.org/ 

 

Behavior and Down syndrome: A practical guide for parents - downloadable from Children’s Hospital Boston and the Institute for Community Inclusion

https://dsagsl.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/Behavior-Guide-for-Down-Syndrome.pdf 

You’re …never alone.

We care for you & your family.

Resources Close to Home 

Get connected with local organizations and resources for families of children with Down syndrome. 

HOPE Community Resources 

https://www.hopealaska.org/ 

 

FOCUS Outreach & ILP 

https://www.focusoutreach.org/ 

Programs for Infants & Children (PIC)   

https://www.picak.org/ 

 

Special Olympics Alaska 

https://specialolympicsalaska.org/ 

 

Challenge Alaska 

https://www.challengealaska.org/ 

Join the Global Down Syndrome Community

Is This Normal? 

We’re all different, but for kids with Down syndrome, different might look a little, well, different!

Start here to learn about the developmental milestones, learning styles, challenges, and joys you might experience as you get to parent the incredible little person in your life.

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is just that little “extra.” 

7 Hidden Benefits of Parenting a Child With Down Syndrome 

https://www.scarymommy.com/7-hidden-benefits-of-parenting-a-child-with-down-syndrome 

 

How do people with Down syndrome learn?

https://gigisplayhouse.org/howilearn/ 

 

Watch and share these ideas for helping students with Down syndrome learn more effectively.

“Wouldn’t the world be a better place if every family had a kid with Down syndrome?”

Hear one family’s story about how Down syndrome has made their lives fuller.

https://www.crosswalk.com/family/parenting/children-with-down-syndrome-bring-joy.html 

Don’t worry; you and your little one are right where you need to be.

Learn about developmental milestones for children with Down syndrome, along with common medical concerns.

https://www.ndsccenter.org/wp-content/uploads/MilestonesMed-Issues.pdf 

 

Did you know that people with Down syndrome require a little extra TLC when it comes to their teeth?

Have an emergency? 

https://www.emergencydentistsusa.com/down-syndrome-and-dental-care/ 

Born to Fly 

Watching your child succeed and thrive should get to be the standard, not the exception.

Set them up to spread their wings, sit back, and be amazed by all they accomplish. We’ll be here cheering them on with you! 

  • Helpful tips, tricks, FAQs, and more…

How to involve your adult child in decisions about their healthcare:  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcvntwZvP6w 

 

Set your child with Down syndrome up for a successful, safe, and independent dating experience:

https://www.globaldownsyndrome.org/dating-and-down-syndrome/