How to Care for a Down Syndrome Infant

Taking care of any infant is a difficult task due to the amount of time and energy it takes to ensure that he develops properly. When you have an infant with Down syndrome, it can be even more difficult because of the physical and mental complications. However, while there is an added level of difficulty, it is not impossible, and hundreds of families do it each and every year.

Instructions

• 1

  Understand that although your baby has Down syndrome, she is a baby and therefore requires the typical baby regimen. She needs to be fed, bathed, dressed, diapered, played with, talked to, and loved regardless of her condition.

• 2

  Sign the baby up for some sort of a physical therapy. It is commonly found that babies with Down syndrome have a much harder time rolling over and learning to walk because they can't tone their muscles; however, a physical therapist who specializes in babies can help your child develop those muscles so that he can move more freely on his own.

• 3

  Keep an eye on any unusual medical conditions. Babies with Down syndrome are known to have heart problems, so it is important to have it checked as soon as possible to ensure there are no defects.

• 4

  Down syndrome infants have a difficult time swallowing sometimes, which can lead to choking and fatality. Ensure that your child is swallowing all the food that is put into her mouth, and if not, contact a doctor to see what he suggests. Surgery might be necessary.

• 5

  Treat your baby like a normal child. Read to him, play with him, teach him new things, and try to encourage creativity. Although Down syndrome children have certain defects, they are like any other kid and want to learn as much as possible. Encourage it, because the sooner you intervene and provide support for your Down syndrome infant, the more likely he will be to develop successful motor and language skills.

• 6

  Consistently monitor your child. Don't crowd over her and prevent her from learning, but make sure that things are working properly. If you notice behavior changes, mention it to the doctor, because he might be able to figure out what is going on.