Q: how does having a child with DS impact a family?
A: How will a baby with Down syndrome affect one’s family?
Parents:
"It is understandable that parents are concerned about how a child with Down syndrome will affect their family, including siblings. Every family is unique and may deal with the idea of, or the birth of, a baby with Down syndrome differently. Despite potential challenges, personal accounts and studies show that many families that have a child with Down syndrome are stable, successful and happy, and that siblings often have increased tolerance, compassion and awareness. In fact, a major study on marriages and Down syndrome shows the divorce rate among parents of children with Down syndrome is lower than the national US average."
Siblings:
While having a sibling with Down syndrome may present unique challenges, it also provides many opportunities for children’s positive growth and character development. Studies have shown that children who have a brother or sister with Down syndrome can benefit in many ways. For example, these children often exhibit a level of maturity above that of their peers and tend to have more highly-developed communication and social skills. The experience and knowledge gained by having a sibling with Down syndrome also seems to make children more accepting and appreciative of differences. They tend to be more aware of the difficulties others might be going through, and often surprise parents and others with their wisdom, insight and empathy.
Brothers and sisters of an individual with Down syndrome are also very much aware of their sibling’s challenges and thus, often take a tremendous amount of pride in his or her accomplishments. In addition, parents often report that no matter what issues siblings may have with their brother or sister with Down syndrome at home, outside the home they are typically very loyal to their sibling and do their best to defend and protect him or her.
