Down syndrome
Down syndrome is a chromosomal disorder that causes delays in physical and mental development. Students with Down syndrome have a particular set of facial and other physical characteristics. The student's abilities and the severity of associated medical conditions can vary greatly, from mild to severe. Heart problems, thyroid issues and gastrointestinal (bowel) issues are common with Down syndrome. Other physical issues include hearing and visual impairments, low muscle tone, and instability in the ligaments holding the neck vertebrae together. (http://www.learnalberta.ca/content/inmdict/html/down_syndrome.html)
A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all. Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent
decades - from 25 in 1983 to 60 today. People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways. All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. (http://www.ndss.org/Down-Syndrome/Down-Syndrome-Facts/) For more information on down syndrome visit www.ndss.org
In the most severe cases, children diagnosed with Down syndrome should be reported under Severe Multiple Disability (Code 43). If their behaviour is extreme, however, the child may be coded as a Severe Emotional/ Behavioral Disability (Code 42) instead. (http://education.alberta.ca/media/825847/spedcodingcriteria.pdf)
A few of the common physical traits of Down syndrome are low muscle tone, small stature, an upward slant to the eyes, and a single deep crease across the center of the palm. Every person with Down syndrome is a unique individual and may possess these characteristics to different degrees or not at all. Life expectancy for people with Down syndrome has increased dramatically in recent
decades - from 25 in 1983 to 60 today. People with Down syndrome attend school, work, participate in decisions that affect them, and contribute to society in many wonderful ways. All people with Down syndrome experience cognitive delays, but the effect is usually mild to moderate and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Quality educational programs, a stimulating home environment, good health care, and positive support from family, friends and the community enable people with Down syndrome to develop their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. (http://www.ndss.org/Down-Syndrome/Down-Syndrome-Facts/) For more information on down syndrome visit www.ndss.org
In the most severe cases, children diagnosed with Down syndrome should be reported under Severe Multiple Disability (Code 43). If their behaviour is extreme, however, the child may be coded as a Severe Emotional/ Behavioral Disability (Code 42) instead. (http://education.alberta.ca/media/825847/spedcodingcriteria.pdf)
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