Congratulations on the birth of your baby!

We understand if you have just received your baby’s diagnosis of Down’s syndrome you will feel understandably shocked. Allowing yourself time to absorb this new information will help but please realise we have heard so many times from parents down the line “I wish I had worried less and enjoyed those early days more”. You have had a beautiful baby and not a ‘down’s baby’.

The community you have joined is an exceptional one, call on them for support.

There have been great advancements in education and therapy interventions, but the promise of medical research means the future is brighter than ever for your baby.

Here are a few resources you will find useful:

We produce a popular booklet for new parents, Bright Beginnings free for new parents, get the pdf or contact us for a free paper copy.

“This booklet was hands down the best information source I received in the early days when my daughter was born almost 13 years ago.”

 

Positive About Down Syndrome is a website by parents for parents and aims to show the reality of life with DS and offer support through answering your questions and providing up to date information. We invite you to take some time to look through our stories – stories written by parents of and young people with Down syndrome who have discovered that there is much to celebrate. They also have a new book #NobodyToldMe  which is a collection of personal experiences written by young people with Down syndrome, their friends and family. #NobodyToldMe challenges outdated perceptions and attitudes towards those with Down syndrome by showing the reality of our lives.  There is a group on Facebook you may wish to join, exclusively for new parents.

Down syndrome Pregnancy have a book, Welcoming a Newborn with Down Syndrome: A New Parent’s Guide to the First Month, available free to download. The book covers topics like breastfeeding, adjusting to a diagnosis, preparing siblings, understanding medical issues, preparing for the future, and, most importantly, it shares diverse stories about the daily lives of families whose children have Down syndrome at different ages.

 

The Down’s Syndrome Association produce a “New Parents Pack”.

with information about Down’s syndrome, feeding your baby and about your baby’s development. 0333 1212 300  (Monday to Friday 10:00am – 4:00pm) or info@downs-syndrome.org.uk

We highly recommend finding and connecting with your local group.  Your local peers will have been in your shoes and know how to support you and your family the best.

If your little one has heart issues you may want to contact Down’s Heart Group via their helpline 0300 102 1644 or info@dhg.org.uk