Avoiding Behavioral Issues in down Syndrome Toddler

i was there a few months ago. What we did was... whe would all eat together. if she threw something, we would simply take it away and keep on eating, ignoring the behavior. also we made a rule that no one is finished until everyone is finished. my mosaic downs daughter has really caught on and improved when the fit and actin is simply brushed off and given little attention. hope that helps!!

I have never had to raise or work with a child with Downs Syndrome but want to provide a few links below that I feel will be of help to you and your grandchild. Here they are:

http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/medical/genetic/down_syn...

http://www.betterhealthchannel.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcArticl...

http://www.handsonhealth-sc.org/golocal/golocal.php?nid=2...

The last link is a web link to a local Savannah area support group; if you are in the Savannah or outlying area.

All three links should be able to put you well on the way with answers and support. Please let me know if these link are defective or if you have any further questions.

Good Luck,
A.

I have a friend who is an occupational therapist and she told me a story about a similar situation. She said to repeatedly (ad nauseum) give positive messages (e.g. "we keep our plate on the table") instead of negative messages (e.g. "no throwing") with specific instructions: "when you are ready to eat, you may have your fork back". She also uses sign language with her own children and her clients. I know from personal experience that sign language cut down on the screaming and whining for my children. You don't have to buy a book, just make up your own signs - as long as you're consistent and your grandson knows what you're talking about. Good luck.

Do not have any experience with a child with Down's Syndrome, however, it seems you can handle the situtation in the same way with any child. I would just take his food and cup away and let him know that you assume he is finished with his meal, and can now get up from the table. This behavior is unacceptable and will not be tolerated at the table.
My kids seem to begin playing with their food, throwing things when they are bored or through.

Is he involved in Babies Can't Wait?
Down Syndrome diagnoses automatically make a child eligible for the program until the child is 3. This is a great resource for parents (or grandparents). A service coordinator could get you information, along with any therapies that are needed for your grandchild. To make a referral call 1-888-736-5329.

As a speech pathologist, I would also recomend that he be evaluated for speech-language as well as occupational therapy. Does he speak now? How many words does he have? How does he communicate with you? It may be that screaming and yelling is the only way he has to let you know there is a problem. Sign language is sometimes very helpful with these children because it helps to reduce the frustration for both of you. Therefore, his speech and language sklills may improve. As a down syndrome child under age 3, he would qualify for early intervention services in most states. Speech and/or occupational therapy could come to your home to provide therapy at little or no cost to you (depending on income level, the state, and other factors). He may need occupational therapy too to help him work on feeding himself and performing other activities of daily living. Good luck!

As an occupational therapist, I would suggest talking to your pediatrician about an occupational therapy and/or speech therapy evaluation, if he has not already had one.

I don't know how to specifically correct the problem. Given he is considered a special needs child, you may want to contact a local down syndrome support group for help. You may also want to consider whether he may need physical or occupational therapy. If he's not already receiving it, he may need some extra help learning different skills. His yelling and screaming may be from frustration as much as temper.

Is there a Down Syndrome support group in the area?

I was a cetified Occupational Therapy Assistant befor I left my career to raise my young boys. If you have insurance on this child he would greatly benefit from OT. First you go to your peditrician and tell them you are interested in trying OT for your Child, the Dr will then write a prescription for an OT evaluation and then you go from there. I actually specialized in behavioral issues in the Pediatric field. I worked with ages 3-6, and my experience included Downs. You need a good OT!!! Look at what your city has to offer in special needs. Your child has the right to an equal public educational as well. Strart loooking at what you school district will offer him. Look on the internet at the benefits of OT and what it can do for you. Good luck and god bless....

I worked as a preschool teacher in an early intervention program. I have some experience working with children with Down Syndrome. I know language is a common issue with children who have this special need. Although this is typical behavior of a 2 year old, he is letting out his frustration because of his inability to communciate (I am assuming). Be persistant, make picture cues for him to refer to (transition cards). You can make pictures of emotions, things he wants needs, etc. I used to carry the cards on my name tag. I would have pictures of every step of the day. Down to going potty. Here is an example of how it can work:

Instead of saying time to go potty, most likely he will ignore.
1. Show the picture of the potty to the child
2. State what it means to the child.
3. Have the child repeat it back.
4. Follow through on task.

When he is frustrated make a board of emotions. Have him go to the board and point to the happy, sad, mad etc.

This sounds long and tedious but believe me it works like magic!!