Visit these blogs to read about families who have adopted a child with Down syndrome:

Our Eyes Opened
Eager Feet
Jenifer Parris
A Table for Six
A Miracle for Meg
Ni Hao Y’all
Mama on a Wire
Diplofam

Visit these blogs to read about families who have a biological child with Down syndrome:

Enjoying the Small Things
Noah’s Dad

Read an excellent Q and A post on adopting a child with Down syndrome here.

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition. Human cells typically have 23 pairs of chromosomes, half from each parent. Down syndrome occurs when cells have an extra copy of chromosome 21. In the vast majority of cases, Down syndrome is completely random and not hereditary.

People with Down syndrome tend to have distinct physical characteristics, such as an upward slant to the eyes, small stature, low muscle tone, and a deep crease across the palm. Most have mild to moderate cognitive delays. They are also at an increased risk for certain medical conditions such as heart defects, leukemia, Alzheimer’s disease, and thyroid conditions. Their current life expectancy is 60 years.

Children with Down syndrome are able to attend public and private schools. Some are able to attend a regular classroom for all subjects, while others may need a full-time special education classroom. Most schools work to have children with Down syndrome fully included as much as possible. Many people with Down syndrome graduate from high school and are able to hold a job as adults.

A few things for parents considering adopting a child with down syndrome to consider:

1. Possible medical complications
2. A wide range of possible cognitive and developmental delays
3. Partnering with the child’s school to develop an individual education plan
4. The possibility of the child never being completely independent as an adult
5. Dealing with stigma, from extended family and the general public
6. The joy that a person with Down syndrome brings to a family!

For much more detailed information, please see National Down Syndrome Society.

Resources:
National Down Syndrome Society
Reeces Rainbow
Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network
Rainbow Kids
International Down Syndrome Coalition

Read blog posts about Down Syndrome on No Hands But Ours.