Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome – is a genetic disorder caused by the presence of part of or all of a third copy of chromosome 21. It is typically associated with mild to moderate intellectual impairment, physical growth delays, and characteristic facial features. Down Syndrome can be described as a condition were a child presents with a significant delay in speech, cognition or physical ability in comparison to developmental norms. One or all areas can present with a delay (e.g. speech, cognition or physical development). Developmental norms need to be reached so that a child develops all necessary skills to engage in school and play activities as they get older. The condition would be confirmed by genetic testing conducted by a Paediatrician.

SYMPTOMS

  • Distinct facial features associated with this specific diagnosis
  • Child has skipped or not reached a milestone (e.g. sitting, crawling, standing or walking)
  • Child has skipped or not reached a milestone in terms of holding and releasing items from the hand
  • Child has not reached a milestone of paying attention and an engagement with an object or task
  • Child may have difficulty with cognition e.g. following instructions, memory and task completion.

HOW WE CAN HELP

  • At Q Enrichment Center, our Occupational Therapist will conduct an extensive, comprehensive assessment to determine the effects of Down Syndrome on the child. A detailed report will be completed, along with a treatment plan specific to each individual’s needs.
  • Intervention can focus on:
    • Encouraging and facilitating correct developmental milestone patterns
    • Exercises to develop postural control, muscle tone, muscle strength, coordination and cognitive abilities
    • Facilitation of development through play and sensory stimulation
    • Training the caregiver to perform a home exercise programme
    • Advising on appropriate assistive devices / technology, if required by the child
  • For more information on how a Speech, Language and Swallowing Pathologist can help with this condition, click here.

Testimonials

“What a fantastic team at Q Enrichment Center. I 100% recommend them for any family. They conduct themselves in the most professional attitude all around, they are welcoming and my son enjoyed the service thoroughly. Thanks again.”
– Jean (Mother of child client)

“Q Enrichment Center has “A brilliant speech therapist she single handily helped me overcome the difficulties of dysphagia. Her work truly is a vocation, her desire for me to make a full recovery was just as strong if not stronger than my own. By far the best therapist I was fortunate enough to deal with.”
– Chris (Male adult client)

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