[The experiences of a child with trisomy 21 after attending the Center for Early Medico-social Intervention during the 1st years of life]

Abstract

A physiotherapist's experience with Down syndrome children managed at an Early Medico-Social Intervention Center provides the opportunity for describing the different phases these children and their parents go through: shock upon learning of the disability at a time when the relationship between the parents and their baby has not yet been established; opening up of new horizons when the parents discover their child, with his or her abilities and development; adoption of the child who is gradually recognized, as a person with capacities, limitations and needs; separation and socialization; and the beginning of self-sufficiency with the attendance of school. Helping the child, family and caregivers to pass this series of milestones is probably more useful than applying predefined programs of stimulation.