Congratulations on the birth, or expected birth, of your baby! You probably have many questions, concerns and fears right now. That’s okay.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that a Down syndrome diagnosis is not as “life changing” as the fact that you have a new baby. And in most ways, your baby will be just like other infants. Every baby needs to be fed, held and most of all, loved.
There will be challenges in raising your child, but there will also be many joys. It’s normal to be nervous about what lies ahead, but remember that Down syndrome is a condition your baby has, it is not who your baby is. Now is the time to begin learning all you can about Down syndrome and this section is a great place to start.
NDSS RESOURCES
Local Support
If you would like to speak with someone from a local parent group in your area, search the NDSS Affiliate Map to find the group nearest you.
Helpline
To speak with an Information & Referral Specialist at the National Down Syndrome Society, call 800-221-4602 (Monday – Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM ET) or email info@ndss.org.
Publications
Download the NDSS new parent packet, A Promising Future Together: A Guide for New and Expectant Parents and Un Futuro Prometedor Juntos: Una Guía Para Padres Primerizos y Futuros Padres. You can order a complimentary copy of this publication in English or Spanish by calling 800-221-4602 or emailing info@ndss.org.
EXTERNAL RESOURCES
Brighter Tomorrows is a web-based resource on receiving a diagnosis of Down syndrome prenatally or at birth. This site provides answers to questions that families and prospective parents may have at this critical moment in their lives. In both English and Spanish.
Down Syndrome Pregnancy is an online resource for expectant parents that provides information and support to expectant parents preparing for the birth of a baby with Down syndrome.
Congratulations Project is an initiative in which members of the PALS family write letters to new members of the Down syndrome community. These letters are designed to inspire, encourage, welcome and, most importantly, congratulate new parents and siblings of a child with Down syndrome. At each PALS Program, participants are invited to write letters sharing about their lives. Counselors and siblings are also invited to share their perspective, and letters are paired and dispersed as packages.