Possible Futures Copy
Video Transcript
Dr. Young
I would not tell them that there is anything different about Craig, at least for now. Craig is their new baby brother, let them mother him and enjoy him. They will not notice anything different.
Mr. Brown
But what about Craig’s own future? I have heard that many children with Down syndrome never really grow up, that they never are able to live independently and work and everything.
?Decision Point: What would you say next?
A) Of course the future is hard to tell, but there are special programs they can attend to help them achieve the best they can.
Not a good choice; people with Down syndrome are, first and foremost, included with everyone else in the community and at school, sometimes with supports. They only receive specialized services in a separate setting when they need a significantly higher level of support.
B) The majority of these children grow up to have moderate intellectual disability, which means that, while they learn at a much slower rate than other children, they do learn. As adults, most work in sheltered types of employment with other adults with disabilities, and can live productive lives.
Not a good choice; intellectual level is nearly impossible to predict, and more and more adults with Down syndrome are securing regular employment in the community.
C) While I cannot tell you what Craig’s future will be like, I can tell you that with early intervention and good schooling, children with Down syndrome can grow up to live on their own or with just minimal assistance, that they hold jobs, and that a few have even gone on to college. Remember, we cannot predict the future.
Good choice; you have emphasized the uniqueness of every child, and have offered hope based on realistic expectations of what is possible for children with Down syndrome.