Powerful. That’s the first word that came to mind after reading the new book, A Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome. That may not be the word you would think one would use to describe a resource-based book, so let me explain.
When parents receive a Down syndrome diagnosis, they are often met with many lists: potential medical problems, potential developmental issues, therapies their children will likely require…I could go on.
This book uses those same lists, but there is one big difference: it’s personal.
Authors Jen Jacob and Mardra Sikora brilliantly interweave short narratives from parent’s own experiences with their children, alongside the issues that sometimes come with Ds. The narrative brings the reader in and lets them know the undeniable truth when they enter the Down syndrome world—you are not alone.
The book is broken down into three categories: the basics, the journey and support. The Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome takes the reader from prenatal testing, diagnosis stories, early intervention therapies, the transition to pre-school, IEP (individual education plan) help and even the transition into adult-hood. Each chapter ends with additional websites and other resources for parents.
I wish I had this book when I was pregnant and feeling scared and overwhelmed, but I am grateful to have it now to use as a reference as we reach different phases in Anderson’s life. I hope the publishers will consider printing their next edition with glossy pages that include pictures of families, as I think it will be even more impactful for new parents.
A month before Anderson was born I forced myself to read a resource-based book for parents of children with Down syndrome. The text was overwhelming and difficult to get through. The New Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome gives parents that same needed information, but in a way that assures them that they are part of a special collective journey—one filled with fears and obstacles, but also triumphs and hope.
“Life is, of course about the journey for our children, but also so much about our often-parallel journey alongside them.” – Jen Jacob, co-author of “The Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome”
Disclosure: Jen Jacob is one of the founders of DSDN, a non-profit where I volunteer as Communications Director. She asked me to review this book. All opinions are my own.
To read more about “The Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome” go here: ParentsGuideToDownSyndrome.com
To buy the book, click here: Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/dp/144059290X
Enter a fun Giveaway that includes the book, t-shirts, coffee mug and more: http://www.mardrasikora.com/wdsd16-giveaway/
