Welcome
to the home of the Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas!

The Down Syndrome Guild of Dallas provides accurate and current information, resources and support for people with Down syndrome, their families and the community.

Vision: People with Down Syndrome - valued and included.

How do I share the diagnosis with other family members and friends?

New parents sometimes worry about telling friends and family members about their baby’s condition. However, it is recommended that you do it as early as possible. Parents report that the longer you wait, the harder it gets. Not only will waiting add to the stress that you may already be dealing with, but you will likely miss out on the comfort and support your loved ones might be able to provide during this time. Keep in mind, too, that others will follow your lead. Family and friends will usually want to support you, and if your are able to focus on positive aspects of caring for your new baby, they will likely want to share in your joy! You should also consider offering friends and family members information about the developmental aspects of Down syndrome so that they, too, can share in celebrating your baby’s accomplishments.

If someone does not react in the way you would hope, remember that he or she may have personal reasons for doing so that have nothing to do with you or your baby. The person may be uncomfortable because they don’t have accurate information about Down syndrome, or have never met someone with the condition. It is also a possibility that they may also be dealing with their own grief or pain. Grandparents, for example, may be dealing not only with the news that their grandchild has a disability, but also with the knowledge that their child is in pain. Just as new parents often go through the stages of grief, grandparents may also go through shock, denial and other emotions before they are able to accept the news. It is important to let them deal with their emotions at their own pace so they too can heal and begin to find joy in helping to raise their grandchild. Support group membership is usually open to grandparents and other relatives, so you might consider letting them know that it’s an option available to them.

Don’t be afraid of sharing your emotions with trusted friends and family members. Often, these people are eager to provide emotional support or other assistance. If you share your feelings honestly and openly, you create opportunities for them to do so. Remember that whenever you do turn to others for assistance, it is a good idea to be specific about how much help you want or need, and what your needs are.

Source: National Down Syndrome Society: A Promising Future Together 2005