The document provides information on Down syndrome, including that it was first identified in 1866, it causes mild to moderate intellectual disabilities, and about 5,000 infants are born with it each year in the US. It discusses the three types of chromosomal abnormalities that cause Down syndrome and common physical features. It also outlines some common health problems, developmental milestones, cognitive and communication characteristics, adaptive skills development, and social/emotional traits of individuals with Down syndrome.

1. The Characteristics of Down Syndrome Candace M. Orr Early Intervention: Early Childhood Special Education

7. Physical Milestones 2 – 3 years (Routh, 2004, p. 25) 3 – 5 years Copies a circle 9 – 10 months 1 – 3 years Builds a tower of two cubes 9 – 17 months 1 – 4 years Walks alone 9 – 16 months 1 – 3 years Stands alone 2 – 6 months 4 – 11 months Reaches out and grasps object 1- 4 months 3 - 9 months Holds head steady Other Children Child with Down Syndrome Milestone

14. October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month