Down Syndrome (DS) is a genetic abnormality due to an alteration in the genes that consists of having an extra chromosome, 47 instead of the usual 46. It occurs in approximately 1 in every 1000 births, in all races and cultures without exception. It is not a disease, it is a condition. A real inclusion in the society of people with Down Syndrome is necessary.
A child with DS is like any other child. Within his limitations, he is a child who wants to love and be loved, who wants to be independent, wants to have friends, with dreams and goals in life. They are very special children, who deserve more than anyone to be included in society.
Family Inclusion
The arrival of a child is a time of joy and happiness. Upon receiving the news that the baby has Down syndrome doubts and fears begin, many times due to ignorance.
The family is the nucleus of the people are Down Syndrome. The responsibility as a family is to provide an environment suitable to their demands, and for this it is necessary to raise awareness in the community. They are children who can and should study, work and socialize like any other child, and have the same opportunities to be independent.
If you have or are going to have a child with DS, find out well about the subject. Talk to specialized associations in your community so you can better understand your child and help him reach his full potential. Encourage him from a young age with physical therapy, manual activities, sports… Stimuli are very important in these children. Must be valued and respectedThey are people with many things to contribute to our society.
School inclusion
The school inclusion of children with DS has been slow in recent years but something has improved. Schools that have an education like integration centers will give the best opportunities to these children. Schools that have shared schooling or ordinary centers will have a significant benefit, like more skills in language, writing and reading.
Children with DS they need a curriculum to develop their skills, and that is very difficult in a special education setting. They have the right to have access to all educational opportunities and they need to live with children with DS and without DS, and with other disorders. In diversity they learn that everyone is equal with their differencesThey learn to be more understanding, respectful and empathetic. It is a mutual benefit.
Not just these kids gain in knowledge, but also in social skills and independence. That is why the school inclusion.
Labor Inclusion
Here it is where all social inclusion culminates. If a person with down syndrome even has a satisfactory school inclusion, then they are not given a job due to fear or ignorance, the system will fail. It is necessary a complete development of inclusion so that they can be part of society, be financially independent and feel like a part of society with much to contribute.
Integration is not the same as inclusion. The integration excludes and discriminates those who are differentWhile inclusion prepares them for society.
For the labor inclusion of people with DS to be a reality it is necessary for companies to know the capacities and performances that these people can offer in a job. Studies have shown that these workers are highly responsible, punctual, and provide a fun work environment.
Both governments and international organizations need to care about people with Down Syndrome. For this it is necessary promote social policies so that they can develop fully, both at school, social and family level. Social development is essential for the well-being of anyone, and so are they.
That social inclusion of people with Down syndrome is a reality.
Because remember… each of us with our limitations and capacities has the right to live fully.