If you are a new parent who just received a Down syndrome diagnosis, the amount of information can be overwhelming. That’s why I added this Down syndrome resource page to News Anchor to Homemaker. Here are some Down syndrome resources, Down syndrome books and Down syndrome websites that I found to be particularly helpful when we found out our son would be born with Down syndrome.
National Down Syndrome Organizations:
Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network
The Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network offers support for parents receiving a Down syndrome diagnosis through information and connections. They also give medical providers the tools and resources needed to discuss Down syndrome in a way that is supportive and educational.
I love this organization. Joining their online pregnancy group changed my perspective on Down syndrome drastically. Check out their Facebook support groups and get connected!
National Down Syndrome Society
The National Down Syndrome Society is the national advocate for the value, acceptance and inclusion of people with Down syndrome. Get connected with a local group and attend your local Buddy Walk.
National Down Syndrome Congress
The purpose of the NDSC is to promote the interests of people with Down syndrome and their families through advocacy, public awareness, and information. They have a conference every year, read about my experience here.
Down Syndrome Books:
Here is a list of helpful and insightful books I read either before my son with Down syndrome was born or shortly after his birth.
The Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome
As a parent of a child diagnosed with Down syndrome, you may be feeling unsure of what to do next or where your child’s journey will take you. In this book, authors Jen Jacob and Mardra Sikora share their experiences and guide you through life with Ds with expert advice from diagnosis to adulthood. Each page teaches you ways to support your child through major milestones; nurture their development; and ensure that they succeed behaviorally, socially, and cognitively. You’ll also find valuable information on:
- Sharing the news with loved ones
- Transitioning into primary school
- Developing your child’s social skills
- Discussing future opportunities, including employment and housing options
What I love about this book is that it contains very important information, but also weaves in parent’s stories about their experience of having a child with Down syndrome. Read my book review here.
This book takes you on a journey of a mother’s postnatal Down syndrome birth diagnosis experience. This is a very raw and honest read with a beautiful and hopeful message. Buy by clicking the Amazon banner below: [amazon template=banner easy&asin=http://www.amazon.com/Bloom-Finding-Beauty-Unexpected—Memoir/dp/0062045040/ref=sr_1_1?s=books%26ie=UTF8%26qid=1446415745%26sr=1-1%26keywords=bloom+by+kelle+hampton]
A Good and Perfect Gift
“An Honest, Hopeful Look at Unexpected Challenges.”
Author Amy Julia Becker takes readers on an intense journey of her postnatal Down syndrome birth diagnosis experience. She originally thought Down syndrome was a disappointment, but later realized that it was in fact a blessing. Becker attended Princeton’s Theological Seminary and writes her book from a Christian perspective. Buy by clicking the Amazon banner below: [amazon template=banner easy&asin=http://www.amazon.com/Good-Perfect-Gift-Expectations-Little/dp/0764209175/ref=sr_1_1?s=books%26ie=UTF8%26qid=1446415802%26sr=1-1%26keywords=a+good+and+perfect+gift]
An Uncomplicated Life by Paul Daugherty
Paul Daugherty writes an honest an inspiring memoir about his daughter Jillian who has Down syndrome. “Paul tells stories from Jillian’s mischievous childhood and moves to her early adulthood, tracing her journey to find happiness and purpose in her adult life, sharing endearing anecdotes as well as stories about her inspiring triumphs.” Jillian graduated from High school and college and is married to the love of her life-read about that here. Buy the book here: [amazon template=banner easy&asin=http://www.amazon.com/Uncomplicated-Life-Fathers-Exceptional-Daughter/dp/0062359959/ref=sr_1_1?s=books%26ie=UTF8%26qid=1446415833%26sr=1-1%26keywords=an+uncomplicated+life]
Down syndrome blogs and Down syndrome websites:
Noah’s Dad is the most well-known Down syndrome blog out there. Follow adorable Noah and the rest of his family. This link also provides a list of other Down syndrome blogs to check out.
“Hope and encouragement for the special needs parent.” Stumbo has a daughter with Down syndrome and another daughter with special needs, she is a Pastor’s wife and writes from a Christian perspective.
“Stories about family, faith and farm.” Lauren writes with depth, but will also leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.
“We believe in the power of stories, the strength of communities and the beauty of the human spirit.” The Mighty is a fantastic website that focuses on special needs stories and disability articles. You can see my work featured here!
Disclosure: If you purchase any books I have linked through Amazon, you are supporting this blog! I will use whatever small funds Amazon gives me and put it straight towards *both* kids’ college funds. Read about that here.
