Down Syndrome

Down Syndrome: What You CAN Do was written to give parents and families hope through positive and truthful information about Down syndrome.

While this book is an invaluable resource for families when they first hear their child has or will be born with Down syndrome, it is also very helpful for families who are already on the journey of raising a child with Down syndrome.

This book is an excellent reference for doctors and other professionals to assist when giving a diagnosis, both prenatally and postnatally.

Down Syndrome: What You CAN Do covers many topics, beginning with a chapter which deals with the acceptance and capability of children with DS. Other chapters include how to breastfeed a child with Down syndrome, nutritional intervention, and more. Important medical information including heart defects, thyroid concerns, and gastrointestinal problems are discussed. Some of the other chapters detail what can be done through early intervention such as oral motor speech therapy, physical therapy and other therapies. Adoption stories and adoption resources for families are provided. Many stories from parents and siblings are featured to give support to those who read this book. A long list of support groups & recommended books are also included.

The forward of the book is written by self advocate, Karen Gaffney and the introduction is written by Dr. Lawrence Leichtman.

“The book is excellent and filled with a lot of great resources.” Donald Michael, MD, PC

When I received the book, after glancing through it, I plunked it into my husband's lap and said, ‘That's all the things I have been reading about and researching these past 5 years.’ Now it's all in one place, with research references to back everything up Gail Udell, Co-founder/Co-President Emerald Family Down Syndrome Network