Starting your child in any new environment is a scary prospect for parents.  Will your child like it; feel comfortable; thrive?  Will the staff in that environment feel confident in their abilities to support your child?  It is only natural that you should feel this way.  Below is a list of ideas to help ensure a smooth transition and good teamwork.

• First of all, recognise that other people (including professionals) will not have the same knowledge about Down syndrome that you do.  Even if they do, every child is different so they will not know what you do.  Don't be overly concerned that they won't be able to meet your child’s needs simply because they may not know much now.  Their attitude and acceptance is far more important.

• Most professionals are open to learning about Down syndrome and usually teachers and caregivers will ask you for information.  Don't overload them with lengthy articles and texts.  Find or make concise summaries of the main points they need to know about the syndrome.  Down Syndrome Ireland have an excellent booklet called Integrating Young Children with Down Syndrome in the Early Years Care and Education Setting which lays out what early years professionals need to know and gives practical strategies and resources.

• Make sure that you give professionals concise information about your child.  How does he communicate (e.g., signs, pictures)?  How do you calm him when he is upset?  What does he really like/ dislike?  What are his medical needs, if any?  Include just the information that you think another caregiver might need and write it in a readable format (e.g. bullet points.)

• Accept that the teacher/ caregiver is going to make mistakes.  As parents we sometimes try things that backfire and professionals will also get it wrong at times.  When this happens, be understanding and offer supportive advice.  Help them analyse what went wrong and how to change the approach in the future.

• When you are in the presence of the adults in the new environment, thoughtfully model how you wish your child to be treated.   For example, if you want them to sign, then you sign to your child.  Talk to your child the way that you wish them to speak to your child.  Caregivers will be watching what you do and working from your example, so make it a good one!

• Although you may not always feel positive, speak positively about your child in the presence of others.  Make sure that they are aware that you expect great things from your child even if he isn’t currently talking/ signing/ walking, etc.

• Give the adults in the new environment a number and address of a resource agency such as the Down Syndrome Centre and local agencies. 

• Start a communication book where you can write down any important information to inform the teacher/ caregiver and she can communicate back to you.  Avoid lengthy discussions at school/day care.  When you pick up your child, that time should be spent chatting between you and your child.

• Make sure that your child’s new teacher/ caregiver knows that she can call on you at any time for information. 

© Ann Haig Wheeler, DSC 2009

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