World Down Syndrome Day
Down syndrome is a genetic condition where a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21, that is, they have three copies of chromosome 21. In a neurotypical person, each cell in their body has 46 chromosomes, which tell their cells how to grow and develop when they are conceived. A person with Down syndrome has 47 chromosomes. This can lead to varying degrees of learning and physical disabilities and associated medical issues. Approximately 1 in every 700 babies will have Down syndrome, so it is one of the most common chromosomal differences.
People with Down syndrome have a well-documented learning profile; they are visual learners, which means they learn best by watching and experiencing things, rather than just listening to someone talk. If you’d like to know more about how to support young people with Down syndrome there are lots of local and national Down syndrome charities that can help, many of whom can provide appropriate training too. We celebrate World Down syndrome Day on the 21st day of the third month every year to represent the three copies of chromosome 21 that every person with Down syndrome has. Every year on 21st March the world gets together to raise awareness about Down syndrome. We celebrate people with Down syndrome and advocate for the rights, inclusion and wellbeing of people with the condition. The #LotsOfSocks campaign was created for this reason. Wearing brightly coloured and/or mismatched socks provides us with an opportunity for open discussion about one of the most common chromosomal differences. Use the hashtag #LotsOfSocks to share your photos of mismatched socks!
The theme for World Down Syndrome Day 2024 is ‘End the Stereotypes’. It is important to remember that people with Down syndrome are individuals who often live independent and successful lives, who need to be treated fairly and have the same opportunities as everyone else, working with others to help improve their lives. If you’d like to find out more, have a look at the World Down Syndrome Day website.
We hope you decide to raise awareness and celebrate people with Down syndrome on 21st March. We’ll be wearing our brightly coloured, mismatched socks… will you?
