Conversations about Down Syndrome 101
“Down syndrome isn’t a burden. How people react to it is.” – Stephanie Holland Ready to learn something new? Welcome to Conversations about Down Syndrome 101! Even the closest family members have been unsure how to bring up Down syndrome or what to ask. AND THAT IS OKAY! Honestly, language is a big deal to me. Words can either create barriers and promote stereotypes, or words can put people first and show respect. Theo is much more than a label, and I know you all agree. So here is my break down of how to have a conversation about Down syndrome with me. Tip 1: It is important to put a person before a diagnosis. Example: You don’t say: “I have a cancer brother.” You say: “I have a brother with cancer.” So DON’T say: “He is a Downs baby.” Please say: “He is a baby with Down syndrome.” Tip 2: It is important to understand (and use the language) that a person is not the diagnosis. Example: You don’t say: “My brother is cancer.” You say: “My brother has cancer.” ...