New Parent Resources

Congratulations on the birth, or expected birth, of your baby! As a parent group, managed by parents of children with Down syndrome, we know you have lots of questions, concerns and fears. The most important thing to keep in mind is that a diagnosis of Down syndrome is not as life changing as the fact that you have a new baby. And in many ways, your baby will be just like other infants. Every baby needs to be fed, held and most of all, loved. When you are ready, we will provide you with a new parent packet, which includes the most up to date medical information and research as well as resources available in Delaware for your child with special needs. A parent is available to meet with you and your family to answer questions and discuss concerns you may have. Experience shows that contact with peer families can be very beneficial. Through this type of support and encouragement, families become empowered to be the best possible advocate for their children.

For a new parent packet contact outreach@dsadelaware.org.

View a copy of the New Parent Letter.

Although it is very hard, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
Allow yourself to grieve for the child you longed to have,
then allow yourself to learn about the child to come.
Talk with parents of other children with Down syndrome and
you’ll learn that the differences are not as great as you may have thought.
Most of all, love your child – your dreams for him/her may change but you can still dream.

Susan – Cranston, Rhode Island

The following online resources may also be of interest:

Publications

The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati created the New Parent magazine, “Expecting an Extraordinary Life….A New Parent’s Guide to Down Syndrome.” This new publication, includes stories from families, siblings and grandparents, an introduction to Down syndrome for new parents, information on medical issues, and wonderful full color photographs. Download the Publication (PDF)

Gifts – Edited by Kathryn Lynard Soper

Babies with Down Syndrome – Edited by Susan J. Skallerup

Road Map to Holland – by Jennifer Graf Groneberg

(the above books can be borrowed through our lending library…contact info@dsadelaware.org)

A new and expectant parent DVD was created by the DSAGC families to highlight the surprising and unanticipated joys of raising a child with Down syndrome. This 14 minute video, entitled, “The Journey Ahead…Consider the Possibilities” contains footage of their local families as they share their experience of family life with a child with Down syndrome.

Center for Women’s Emotional Wellness at Christiana Care – A great resource for moms.
Visit website
Email: cwew@Christianacare.org
Address: 4755 Ogletown-Stanton Rd. Suite 1901 Newark, DE 19718
Patient Line to make new appointments: 302.733.6662