Congratulations!

We want to welcome you to the touching, inspirational and joyful world of raising a child with Down syndrome! 

You probably have many questions, concerns and fears right now. That’s okay. The Down Syndrome Society of Mobile is an organization created by parents, and we intimately understand the mixed feelings you currently have. We want to offer our support and information to help you get started on your new, and likely unexpected, journey.  As parents who have walked in your shoes, we offer the suggestions and advice below.

• Enjoy your baby! The most important thing to keep in mind is that a Down syndrome diagnosis is not as “life changing” as the fact that you have a new baby. And in most ways, your baby will be just like other infants. 
• Connect with other parents of children with Down syndrome. Our new parent outreach representatives are available for phone calls, emails and home visits to offer support and answer any questions you may have. All your information will be kept strictly confidential. Please fill out the contact form below or email us at downsyndromesociety@gmail.com.
• Learn more about Down syndrome, but don’t go too crazy at the beginning. You have plenty of time. You might have lots of questions about your child's diagnosis and what it means for the future. Our outreach representatives can help with some of your questions, as well as provide a welcome basket that includes helpful books and literature.  Much information is available on the internet as well, but be sure to check out the copyright dates. Anything published before 2000 probably is out-of-date and may not be very helpful. We recommend visiting the following websites: National Down Syndrome Society,  National Down Syndrome Congress, Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network and Down Syndrome Pregnancy (specifically for those parents with a prenatal diagnosis).
• Start with the Early Intervention program in our area as soon as possible. Ask your hospital social worker for more information, call 1-800-543-3098, or click here to visit their website.
• Take care of yourself. While it's probably the last thing on your "to do" list right now, you can better care for your child if you care for yourself, too. Spend time nurturing the relationships with your partner, other family members and friends. Accept help when it's offered.
• Connect with a health care provider familiar with Down syndrome and its unique medical issues. You can contact us for physician  recommendations.
• Don't be afraid to grieve. Grieving is normal and people express it differently—sadness, tears, anger, fear, or withdrawal. It's okay to cry. The baby you have may not be what you were expecting. Many parents of children with Down syndrome feel this way initially. 

It gets better. It really does. Life starts to feel normal again, maybe even sooner than you think! Let us show you how at our play dates and other get togethers, just for babies, toddlers and kids under the age of 6.  We call this group the Down Right Cuties and we’d love to have you join us!  

Congratulations again on your new arrival!  We can’t wait to meet him or her and you!