Child development and growing up for additional needs
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Children develop in lots of different ways. Each child is unique and will develop at their own pace so it is often unhelpful to compare a child with their siblings or peer group. Take a look at our general advice pages for more information on child development and growing up.
Information and advice
Sensory processing differences
Some children and young people will experience their senses much stronger or weaker than other people. This can affect their day-to-day life. They may not want to take part in everyday activities. There are various strategies that can be used to help your child or young person.
Early intervention
Babies learn from every experience they have in a 24 hour period. Every moment is important for babies to adapt and learn. You can help your baby by varying the positions they are in. This will give them lots of different experiences to learn from.
Read moreSitting position and posture
Some children and young people can find sitting on a chair hard. Learn about how to create the set up for your child to sit comfortably and for longer. This includes information about helpful equipment that can help your child's sitting posture.
Read moreA whole person approach
The whole person approach is also known as a holistic approach. This is when you view every aspect of your child or young person's care as equal. Different elements of physical, mental and emotional wellbeing will affect other areas. For example, poor sleep habits can affect mood which can affect how they feel about themselves.
Read moreEarly development for children with Down's syndrome
Down's syndrome is a genetic condition that results in some level of learning disability and a particular range of physical characteristics. Children with down's syndrome are all individuals. This means that each child's health and development will vary widely.
Read moreEye care for children with Down's syndrome
Certain eye conditions are more common in children with Down's syndrome. Learn more about these eye concerns, eye tests and eye clinics for children with Down's syndrome.
Read moreCommon eye concerns
Read about how the shape of your eyes can impact your vision. Learn about astigmatism, long-sightedness and short-sightedness.
Read moreParents guide to glasses
Find information and advice on how to get glasses for your child or young person, where to get them from and the potential costs. Read more about where repaired or replacing your child or young person's glasses if they get damaged, broken or lost.
Read moreOther useful resources
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