How does Down syndrome affect a persons development?
All people with Down syndrome have some level of mental retardation; however, the level usually falls into the mild to moderate range and is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Children with Down syndrome learn to sit, walk, talk, play, toilet train and do most other activities – only somewhat later than their peers without Down syndrome. Because speech is often delayed, careful attention should be paid to the child’s hearing, as retention of fluid in the inner ear is a very common cause of hearing and speech difficulties.
