Why can't Gabe jump high like me or run as fast? Gabe's muscles have to work alittle harder than your's to move. He's learning how to do all that stuff. You can teach him! Show him how high you can jump! Look, Gabe's trying to do it too! You're a good teacher! Good job Gabe.
Why can't Gabe talk very well? Sometimes it takes Gabe awhile to make his mouth move to say what he wants to say. It's like his mouth is full of marshmellows. Be patient and wait for him to talk. Maybe we could all sing a song together.
Just some ideas....there are books as well. I haven't read "We'll Paint the Octopus Red" or "My Friend Has Down Syndrome", but I've heard good things. We are very fortunate that our local Down Syndrome Association has a School Age Matters Program. A leader from this group will go into your child's classroom and explain Down Syndrome to their classmates. They even have the kids wear mittens and try to write their name to give them an idea of fine motor delay. I will definitely use this resource next year when Gabe starts Kindergarten.
We are so fortunate to have supportive friends and family who recognize all of Gabe's similarities and strengths.
