Useful Information for People with Down syndrome
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is something that happens in babies when they begin to grow in their mum’s tummy before they are born.
Nobody knows why Down syndrome happens.
Sometimes you can have health problems or learning difficulties with Down syndrome.
Many people with Down syndrome are very healthy and can learn lots of different things.
Down syndrome happens when you are born with an extra chromosome inside your body.
Chromosomes are tiny thread-shaped things inside your body.
Chromosomes contain the instructions that tell your body how to grow.
About Down Syndrome Ireland
Down Syndrome Ireland gives help and information about Down syndrome.
Down Syndrome Ireland gives help and information to people with Down syndrome and their families.
Hobbies
Sport
There is lots of different kinds of sports. It is nice to find a sport you like. Some people like swimming, playing football or running. Get involved with your local Special Olympics group.
Find out more here: Special Olympics Ireland
Cooking
Here are some recipes you can try at home.
Read the step-by-step guides. Click on each image for the recipe.
Gardening
Gardening is a great way to keep fit and strong. You do not need a lot of space to start growing herbs and vegetables. The food you grow is healthy and very good for the environment. Click the image for some gardening videos.
Movies, Drama and Theatre
“Drama helps you think more to keep your brain active”
Sinéad Friel – Chair, National Advisory Council
“Acting is a very good thing to do, it helps you to keep confidence and have faith in yourself, as well as making friends. It is a great way to put your name out there in the big bad world and show the people around the world that you have an intellectual disability, like James Martin who plays Lorcan in An Irish Goodbye”
Conor O’Donnell, National Advisory Council
Check out some TV shows our members have been in:
- Bad Sisters with Conor O’Donnell
- Bodkin and Clean Sweep with Orla Casey
- Also check out An Irish Goodbye with James Martin, it won an Oscar!
- Sanctuary is an Irish film about rights for people with Down syndrome.
Independence
This Easy Read leaflet from The Down Syndrome Association has some great tips on being independent.
Washing the dishes
It is good to tidy up your house and keep it clean. Do you do the washing up?
It is another great way to build independence.
Watch this video on how to wash the dishes.
Changing bedsheets
Do you change your own bedsheets?
It’s a great way to build your independence.
Watch this video on how to change your bedsheets.
Keep fit with housework
Housework is exercise too!
Can you hoover? Can you clean windows? Can you tidy your room? Can you mop the floor?
Phone safety
Phones are really great. Here are some tips to keep safe.
Walk the walk!
It is important to get fresh air and move your body.
Go for a walk every day.
Wellbeing
Five fabulous Fruit and Vegetable Recipes
It is important to eat fruit and vegetables to help you stay healthy. Click the image for a recipe book full of delicious fruit and vegetables.
Managing Anger
Do you feel angry sometimes?
Click the image for an Easy Read leaflet from The Down Syndrome Association that has some great tips to help you manage anger.
Being Healthy
How can you be healthy?
You can eat 5 pieces of fruit and vegetables a day. You can exercise regularly. You can go for walks. You can drink lots of water.
Wellbeing
Your wellbeing is always important. Click this image to try these great tips for wellbeing in this UK Down Syndrome Association document.
Advocacy Easy Reads
