Institute deputy director Dr Noppawan Sriwongpanich cited the institute’s 2016 report, which showed that about 26 per cent of children with Down syndrome received child development promotion treatment and attended the educational and vocational rehabilitation programme. About 67 per cent of those under the age of five who participated in the programme showed significant improvement in autonomy and small muscle development, she said.

“Infants and the under-fives with Down syndrome would enjoy better development if parents brought them to the programmes from a very young age, preferably in the first year of life. The parents, who are the key group in providing care, would also be equipped with knowledge on how to take care of the child’s health and promote development at home. This would contribute to Down syndrome kids being able to study in the normal educational system and have a job and play a full role in society,” she added.

Her comments were made on the occasion of the World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), which is observed on March 21 every year to raise public awareness and advocate for the inclusion and well being of people with Down syndrome. The Rajanukul Institute also organised an event for children with Down syndrome and their family members where they participated in activities such as games and a talent show. Multi-disciplinary teams and medical experts were on hand to provide information about Down syndrome.