What is Down Syndrome & What do I need to know?

Understanding the Basics

Down syndrome is a genetic condition in which a baby is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21, or, in some cases, extra genetic material from part of chromosome 21.

Down syndrome is also commonly referred to as Trisomy 21.

A dual diagnosis of Down syndrome and autism is not uncommon, with autism sometimes being identified at later stages of development. ADHD can also occur alongside Down syndrome.

There are slightly more boys than girls born with Down syndrome, and in Australia, the condition occurs in approximately 1 in every 1,100 births.

Interestingly, the old adage that babies with Down syndrome are only born to older mothers is a total misconception!

In fact, the majority of babies with Down syndrome are born to mothers under the age of 35. Although the likelihood of having a baby with Down syndrome increases with maternal age, more babies are born to younger mothers overall.

What Is This Page About?

This page offers information in a simple, easy-to-understand format, providing movement therapists, yoga teachers, aerial therapeutic instructors and personal trainers with a general outline of HOW TO work with clients with Down syndrome.

The Down syndrome body can have distinct physical characteristics that require special consideration to support safe, healthy and inclusive movement.

We'll also share tips and tricks for communication, along with some practical dos and don'ts when working with our wonderfully neurodivergent communities.

Some of the Areas We'll Cover

• Physical challenges

• Cognitive variations

• Atlantoaxial instability

• Hyper-mobility of the joints

• Limbs and digits

• Proprioception and interoception

• Sensory processing challenges

• PDA – Pathological Demand Avoidance

• Communication options

• Safety around props and equipment

Short videos will also be added along the way to support your journey working with clients with Down syndrome and our neuro-spicy community.