Down Syndrome in Your Teen: Care Instructions

Overview

Most teens with Down syndrome have the same social needs as other teens. Most will want to date, spend time with friends, and have other close relationships. You can help prepare your child to do these things.

You can help your child learn about proper social skills and behavior. But be aware of the social challenges and risks your child may face at this time. For example, they may not have the same understanding of physical boundaries as other teens. They may be more at risk of being abused or harmed.

Your teen may need extra support to learn adult life skills. And your teen may also need support to take care of their mental health. Your doctor can help you find resources for occupational therapy and counseling.

How can you care for your teen at home?

• Encourage your teen to take part in school and community activities.
• Support your teen's interests, such as in art or music.
• Start early to prepare your child for healthy adult relationships. Puberty starts at about the same age for teens with Down syndrome as for other young people. Your teen will have many of the same sexual feelings as other teens.
  • Discuss love, mutual respect, kindness, and how to form friendships.
  • Discuss birth control in a clear, simple way.
  • Teach safer-sex practices to prevent sexually transmitted infections.
  • Teach respect for their own body and the bodies of others.
  • Talk openly about your morals and beliefs.
• Be involved with your teen's education. They may need an adapted curriculum and might attend special classes.
• Help your teen set a daily routine to take care of hygiene needs. Remind them to shower or bathe and use deodorant.
• Encourage your teen to be active. Help them find activities that they enjoy. Regular exercise is important for your teen's health and well-being.
• Help your teen avoid abuse by teaching them how to be assertive and to recognize threats. They may be more at risk for sexual abuse, injury, and other harm. Carefully screen caregivers. Teach your teen to go out with a buddy. Talk about how to respond to strangers.
• Seek counseling for your teen if you notice signs of depression. Some teens need support to take care of their mental health. Your teen's doctor can help you find a counselor.
• Start planning for your teen's future. Many adults with Down syndrome have jobs and live in group homes or apartments with support services. Occupational therapy can help teach your teen the skills they need for adult life.