In the Media – Page 9 – 321Foundation

Play provides important foundations for social competence

From Down Syndrome Education International

The ability to get on with and learn from other children is hugely important for all children. Studies suggest that children with Down syndrome play with a playmate in ways expected for their cognitive level even though they have more delayed language. Further research is needed to explore how to compensate for language delays and promote age appropriate play.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

May 1, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

My Son Belongs in Your Child’s Class

Advocacy, In the Media

From BRIGHT | Innovation in Education

My four-year-old deserves a chance at a diploma and full life. So does every other child with special needs.

I sit in the elementary school conference room with my cornucopia of snacks and a throbbing headache. I recognize faces. I know their names and their role in our lives. But I don’t know what they believe a child with Down syndrome — like my son Charlie — is worth.

I want to trust them, but I am forever wary. The initiation mantra for every mother of a child with a disability rings in my ears: “No one will advocate for your child like you will. No one.”

April 28, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

Executive function influences most daily functions

Cognition, In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

Research is beginning to explore the development of executive function in children with Down syndrome. This skill underpins many aspects of cognition and learning. Further research is needed to explore if early interventions targeting executive function can improve outcomes.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

April 16, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

Motor development matters for cognition, language and social development

Cognition, In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

Children with Down syndrome develop motor skills more slowly than many other children. A number of studies have explored their motor development, and a few have begun to evaluate specific physical therapies. It is increasingly recognised that motor skills effect cognitive development. More research is needed to develop and explore effective interventions to improve motor and cognitive development for children with Down syndrome.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

March 9, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

Hearing loss is common and impacts speech and language development

Health, In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

It is well established that hearing loss is common among children with Down syndrome, although the reports of the prevalence and the extent of these difficulties vary. Hearing problems make it more difficult to learn spoken language and develop clear speech. Despite the importance of hearing for development, there is a lack of research and consensus on the most effective treatment options.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

March 4, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

People with Down syndrome may see the world differently

Health, In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

Research suggests that all children with Down syndrome experience impaired vision to varying degrees. Early detection, treatment and effective support are vital to minimize the impact of poor eyesight on development and learning. Teachers and parents should be aware of adaptations that can help children with Down syndrome see more clearly.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

February 23, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

Sleep problems are common and impact learning, development, health and family life

Health, In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

Sleep is important for development and learning, behaviour and general health. Research suggests that sleep problems are common among young people with Down syndrome and are likely linked to cognitive difficulties and behaviour problems. Further research is needed to evaluate treatments and potential therapies.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

February 18, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

The intensity of interventions matters – but how much?

Cognition, Education, In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

Understanding how best to help development not only involves discovering what approaches work, but also how much, and how frequently, intervention is necessary. Studies with children with Down syndrome are starting to offer some indications, but more research is needed.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

February 8, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

Training attention skills may improve later learning outcomes

Cognition, Education, In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

Research is beginning to explore the development of attention skills in children with Down syndrome and how these relate to later learning outcomes. Initial findings suggest that supporting the development of attention skills in the early years could help to improve later language, literacy and number outcomes.

View all examples: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

February 1, 2015/0 Comments/by Other

Behavioral approaches in early intervention

In the Media

From Down Syndrome Education International

Behavioral approaches take the view that behaviors are learned and continue to be used because they are rewarding for a child. These approaches can inform early interventions and behavior modification strategies. Research suggests these approaches can be helpful for children with Down syndrome.

View all examples at: www.dseinternational.org/en-us/education21/

January 26, 2015/0 Comments/by Other