Day 6: Down Syndrome and Families

Day 6 - How will having a child with Down syndrome affect my family?

According to a study published by Dr. Brian Skotko in 2011 (found here):

• 99% of parents/guardians said they loved their child with Down syndrome
• 79% felt their outlook on life was more positive because of their child
• 5% felt embarrassed by their child
• 4% regretted having their child

Of siblings age 12 and older:

• 94% expressed feelings of pride about their sibling
• 7% felt embarrassed by their sibling
• 4% would "trade their sibling in" for another
• 88% said they felt they were better people because of their sibling with Down syndrome

Of siblings age 9-11:

• 97% said they loved their sibling
• 90% felt their friends are comfortable around their sibling

People with Down syndrome:

• 99% said they were happy with their lives
• 97% liked who they are
• 96% liked how they look
• 86% indicated they could make friends easily
• 4% expressed sadness about their life

The parents surveyed reported learning a variety of life lessons, the top five being personal self-growth, patience, acceptance/respect, love, joy.

What, exactly, does this show? It shows that raising a person with Down syndrome is a largely positive experience and people with Down syndrome are happy with their lives. Love them, value them. Your life will change immensely (for the better) because of your child.