Northland Down Syndrome Support Group


Information and Resources for Schools
While every child with Down syndrome is different -- just as we are all different -- there is a significant body of research that suggests that there are common characteristics of learners with Down syndrome.
This learning profile can be summarised as follows:
General Strengths of Learners with Down Syndrome
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Visual, spatial, and kinaesthetic skills, giving the ability to:
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Use gesture, sign and symbols effectively
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Learn and use the written word (reading and writing)
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Learn from demonstration and visual resources
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Learn using practical hands-on activities
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Copy behaviours and attitudes of peers and adults
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Social skills:
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Empathy
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Good humour and likeability
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Desire to communicate and participate
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Emulation and aspiration, driven by peers
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Developing learning avoidance strategies!
General Areas of Challenge for Learners with Down Syndrome
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Delayed and impaired cognitive functioning
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Delayed fine and gross motor skills
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Hearing and visual impairment
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Delayed and impaired speech and language
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Difficulties with short term auditory memory
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Shorter concentration span
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Difficulties with consolidation and retention
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Difficulties with generalisation, sequencing, and reasoning
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Feel failure very strongly, leading to easily giving up and losing self-esteem
To support schools working with learners with Down syndrome, we offer the following services:
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Books and resources for loan to teachers, teacher aides, SENCOs, and school leaders - both primary and secondary
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Reading programmes designed specifically for learners with Down syndrome available on loan
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Numicon kits (on loan) and annual Numicon training days free of charge for schools with learners with Down syndrome
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Individualised support and advice for school staff working with learners with Down syndrome from our School Liaison Officer
For more information, please contact Jo Morrison on 0210 822 4584 or