fbpx

KidsKonnect

Down Syndrome Facts & Worksheets

Down syndrome, also called Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition occurring when a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21. Usually, humans have 46 chromosomes, but those with Down syndrome have 47.

Search for Worksheets

Worksheets /Science /Health /Down Syndrome Facts & Worksheets

Premium
Not ready to purchase a subscription? Click to download the free sample version   Download sample

Down syndrome, also called Trisomy 21, is a genetic condition occurring when a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21. Usually, humans have 46 chromosomes, but those with Down syndrome have 47. This additional genetic material affects how their bodies and brains develop, leading to unique physical features, learning differences, and health considerations.

See the fact file below for more information about Down Syndrome, or you can download our 25-page Down Syndrome worksheet pack to utilize within the classroom or home environment.

Key Facts & Information

TERMINOLOGY

  • Down syndrome got its name from John Langdon Down, a doctor who wrote about it in 1866 and earned him the nickname “father” of the syndrome.
  • Even though some parts of Down syndrome were recognized before, Down was the first to describe it as its own unique medical condition. 
  • In 1975, the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) met to decide how to name it officially.
  • They suggested dropping the possessive Down’s syndrome and using Down syndrome instead.

HISTORY

  • In the 1800s, a British doctor named John Langdon Down was one of the first to study and describe the condition now called Down syndrome.
  • He noticed that some people had certain physical features and learning differences that made them unique.
  • Down’s findings were further detailed in a widely circulated report in 1866. 
  • Separately, Édouard Séguin identified Down syndrome as distinct from cretinism in 1844.
  • By the 20th century, Down syndrome had become the most identifiable form of cognitive disability.
  • Down thought these people shared similarities with others from a race called “Mongolian.”
  • However, using this term is no longer acceptable because it can have a negative connotation.
  • In 1961, a group of scientists advocated for replacing “mongolism” due to its misleading associations, which led to its discontinuation by the World Health Organization in 1965. 
  • Recent scientific studies have found that the earliest known case of Down syndrome dates back to an infant buried in Ireland over 5,000 years ago.
  • Historically, individuals with disabilities, including Down syndrome, were abandoned or worse.
  • In the 1900s, people with Down syndrome were often put in institutions, and there were some unpleasant policies like forced sterilization.
  • In Nazi Germany, they even allowed the killing of people with disabilities.
  • In the 1950s, scientists discovered that people with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome 21. 
  • This fact helped doctors understand more about the condition.

CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS

  • Down syndrome is characterized by an additional full or partial chromosome 21.
  • It usually arises from a random error in cell division during the early growth of a baby in the womb rather than being inherited or linked to environmental factors or parental activities.
  • Most of the time, the extra chromosome is a whole extra copy of chromosome 21, called trisomy 21.
  • Sometimes, only some of the cells in the body have the extra chromosome; this is called Mosaic Down syndrome.
  • There are a few different ways this extra chromosome can happen, but the main one is when the chromosome does not split like it’s supposed to when the egg or sperm is forming.
  • The result is an egg or sperm cell with an extra chromosome 21, which leads to 47 chromosomes in the child, with three copies of chromosome 21.
  • Advanced parental age, particularly for mothers, heightens the risk, with approximately a 1% probability of recurrence in cases where parents possess typical genetic profiles.

COMMON CHARACTERISTICS AND SYMPTOMS

  • People with Down syndrome often share particular characteristics and symptoms.
  • Firstly, they might have distinctive facial features such as almond-shaped eyes, a smaller nose, and a shorter neck. 
  • Also, individuals with Down syndrome may have a shorter stature compared to their peers.
  • Another common characteristic is developmental delays, meaning they might take longer to learn particular skills like walking, talking, or socializing.
  • However, with proper support and therapy, many people with Down syndrome can still achieve these milestones, just at their own pace.
  • Individuals with Down syndrome might also experience some health issues more frequently than others.
  • For example, they might have heart defects or problems with their vision or hearing.
  • It is essential for them to have regular check-ups with doctors to monitor their health and address any concerns promptly.
  • Furthermore, people with Down syndrome often have a friendly and sociable nature. 
  • They enjoy being around others and forming friendships. 
  • However, they might face challenges in communication or understanding social cues, which can make interactions a bit different from what some people might be used to.
  • It is important to remember that each person with Down syndrome is unique, just like everyone else.
  • While they may share some common characteristics, they also have their own personalities, interests, and strengths.

DIAGNOSIS

  • Guidelines advise that all pregnant women, no matter their age, should undergo screening for Down syndrome.
  • These tests cannot give a definite answer, so if screening indicates a high chance of Down syndrome, more invasive tests like amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling can confirm it. 
  • Ultrasound during pregnancy can also help, looking for specific signs like the size of certain features.
  • Some blood tests during pregnancy can also help predict the likelihood of Down syndrome.
  • Sometimes, doctors might suspect Down syndrome based on how the baby looks when they are born.
  • Confirming the diagnosis involves analyzing the baby’s chromosomes, which can also help predict the chances of having another child with Down syndrome in the future.

MEDICAL MANAGEMENT

  • Individuals with Down syndrome need to visit the doctor regularly for check-ups to make sure they stay healthy.
  • These include checking their heart, eyes, ears, and other parts of their body because they might have some problems with them.
  • It is also crucial for them to eat healthy food and stay active by exercising.
  • People with Down syndrome might need extra help to keep their teeth clean and healthy.
  • When young, they might need specialized help with learning and developing different skills.
  • Called early intervention, this helps them learn and grow. 
  • Sometimes, they might need to see different doctors or therapists who can help them with specific concerns, like heart problems or speech therapy.

SOCIAL SUPPORT

  • Making friends, joining clubs or sports teams, and involvement in community activities can help them feel connected.
  • Also, teaching others about Down syndrome and being kind and understanding can make a big difference in how they cope.

Down Syndrome Worksheets

This fantastic bundle includes everything you need to know about Down Syndrome across 25 in-depth pages. These ready-to-use worksheets are perfect for teaching kids about the Down Syndrome. Usually, humans have 46 chromosomes, but those with Down syndrome have 47. This additional genetic material affects how their bodies and brains develop, leading to unique physical features, learning differences, and health considerations.

Complete List of Included Worksheets

Below is a list of all the worksheets included in this document.

  1. Down Syndrome Facts
  2. Down Syndrome 101
  3. Trait or False?
  4. Inclusion Infographic
  5. Health Concerns
  6. Chromosomal Disorders
  7. Diverse Careers
  8. Social Connections
  9. Learning Tips
  10. Personal Perspective
  11. Latest Research

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Down syndrome?

Down syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, specifically an extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome.

What are the common physical features of individuals with Down syndrome?

Common physical features of individuals with Down syndrome include slanted eyes, a flattened facial profile, a small nose and ears, a protruding tongue, and a short neck. They may also have low muscle tone and be shorter in stature compared to typical individuals.

What are some health issues associated with Down syndrome?

Individuals with Down syndrome have an increased risk of certain health issues, including congenital heart defects, hearing problems, vision impairments, thyroid disorders, and gastrointestinal issues such as celiac disease. Regular medical check-ups and early interventions can help manage these health concerns.

What are some common developmental characteristics of people with Down syndrome?

People with Down syndrome often experience delays in physical, cognitive, and speech development. However, with appropriate support and interventions, many individuals with Down syndrome can achieve significant milestones. They may also exhibit strengths in social skills, empathy, and emotional intelligence.

How can society support individuals with Down syndrome?

Society can support individuals with Down syndrome by promoting inclusive education, providing access to healthcare and therapy services, fostering employment opportunities, and advocating for their rights and inclusion in all aspects of community life. Additionally, spreading awareness and combating stereotypes can help create a more inclusive and accepting environment for people with Down syndrome.

Link/cite this page

If you reference any of the content on this page on your own website, please use the code below to cite this page as the original source.

Link will appear as Down Syndrome Facts & Worksheets: https://kidskonnect.com - KidsKonnect, April 17, 2024

Use With Any Curriculum

These worksheets have been specifically designed for use with any international curriculum. You can use these worksheets as-is, or edit them using Google Slides to make them more specific to your own student ability levels and curriculum standards.

Related Resources