Pediatric Therapy for Down Syndrome in Monroe,West Monroe, & Ruston, LA
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that can affect a child’s muscle tone, speech, and development, often calling for extra support to build everyday skills. Building Futures Pediatric Therapy offers occupational, physical and speech therapy and hippotherapy at clinics in Monroe, West Monroe, and Ruston, LA, to help children with Down syndrome grow more independent and confident, working alongside physical and speech therapists as needed.
Children who have Down syndrome will encounter unique challenges throughout their lives. With the help of pediatric occupational therapy, your child can gain the developmental skills they need for increased independence and success in school, relationships, and beyond. Keep reading to learn more about what Down syndrome is, how it can affect your child’s development, and what our compassionate occupational therapists can do to help your child build a brighter future.
What Is Down Syndrome?
In simple terms, Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. This means that instead of having 46 chromosomes (23 from their mother and 23 from their father), children with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes. This extra chromosome changes the way their bodies develop, which is why children who have Down syndrome tend to have distinctive facial features, low muscle tone, and other common developmental struggles.
Signs and Symptoms of Down Syndrome
The most common signs and symptoms of Down syndrome include:
- Distinctive physical features like upward-slanting eyes, a short neck, and a flat nose bridge
- Low muscle tone that can affect motor skills
- Delayed speech and language development
- Challenges in cognitive and social development
- Difficulty paying attention
- Behavioral struggles like stubbornness
How Occupational Therapy Treats Down Syndrome
Our pediatric occupational therapists use proven, play-based therapy techniques to help children with Down syndrome gain their developmental skills. Through engaging activities, simple exercises, and lots of encouragement, we empower your child to achieve more independence, social and academic success, and the ability to participate in daily tasks. Your child will likely work with a team of pediatric therapists including a physical therapist and a speech-language pathologist to ensure they achieve all of their developmental milestones for greater success in life.
Hippotherapy for Down Syndrome
As part of our play-based and holistic therapy approach, our occupational therapists may recommend hippotherapy to enhance developmental skills. This is a fun therapy technique that involves riding and caring for horses. This provides children with sensory experiences that contribute to their physical and emotional growth. Riding and brushing horses is not only therapeutic, but it’s also a great reward that motivates children to gain their developmental skills so they can enjoy this activity with their therapist.
Early Intervention is Vital for Developmental Delays
When it comes to your child’s development, early intervention is key. The longer it takes them to learn the basics, the harder it will be for them to master the more challenging skills they’ll need for success in school and beyond. Early intervention is vital for children with Down syndrome because it empowers them to be more independent and capable of handling daily tasks. The sooner you get your child support, the easier it will be for them to reach their milestones and succeed in all areas of their development.
Free Developmental Screening
If you’re concerned about your child’s development, you can take advantage of our free online developmental screening. This tool is a convenient way for parents to know with certainty if your child is achieving their developmental milestones or if they need extra support to achieve their brightest future.
FreQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How can pediatric therapy support a child with Down syndrome?
Therapy can help children with Down syndrome build strength, communication, feeding skills, fine motor skills, play skills and independence with daily routines. The plan should fit your child’s age, abilities and family goals.
Why do many children with Down syndrome need help with muscle tone?
Low muscle tone is common in children with Down syndrome. It can make skills like sitting, crawling, walking, chewing, speaking or using the hands harder. Therapy helps your child build strength and control in a supportive way.
Can therapy help with speech and feeding?
Yes. Speech therapy may support communication, speech clarity and feeding skills. Some children also need help with oral motor control, chewing, swallowing or safely managing different food textures.
What daily skills can occupational therapy work on?
Occupational therapy may help with dressing, feeding, handwriting, play, sensory regulation, hand strength and school readiness. These goals are usually practiced through activities that feel natural and engaging for your child.
How early should therapy start for a child with Down syndrome?
Support can begin very early, especially when there are concerns with feeding, movement, muscle tone or reaching age-related milestones. Early therapy gives families guidance and helps children build skills step-by-step.