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!" 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
New diagnosis?
Get connected with parents who are navigating the same emotions and expectations as you are.
Check out New Beginnings Magazine, a resource for parents expecting a baby with Down syndrome.
Join an online community forum for parents and expectant parents of a child with Down syndrome.
What health needs will my child have?
Headed to the doctor’s office? Here are suggested health checks by age for your child.
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:
Common behaviors of people with Down syndrome
https://www.massgeneral.org/children/down-syndrome/behaviors-of-children-with-down-syndrome
Tips for navigating common behaviors for children with Down syndrome
Sensory-seeking behavior in children with Down syndrome
https://www.chop.edu/news/managing-behavior-children-down-syndrome-part-1
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
FOCUS Outreach & ILP
Programs for Infants & Children (PIC)
Special Olympics Alaska
https://specialolympicsalaska.org/
Challenge Alaska
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…
Assume that I can:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4fHGsLuA76w
Caregiving & Down syndrome:
A companion Guidebook (downloadable)
Download the GLOBAL Medical Care Guidelines for Adults with Down Syndrome
Plan, save, and care for your child, even after you’re gone:
https://www.americanadvocacygroup.com/how-to-financially-prepare-for-your-child-with-down-syndrome/
Estate planning for families who have a loved one with Down syndrome
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/