Physical Skill Development
People with Down syndrome develop physical skills differently than their peers. This section covers sensory processing, executive functioning, gross motor development, fine motor development, feeding and swallowing, self-care, and life skills.
Sensory Processing
Sensory processing is the ability to take in, organize, and make sense of the sensory information received by the brain from the sensory systems and respond appropriately. It is the foundation for skill development.
Executive Functioning
Executive functioning skills are a collection of higher-order skills or brain processes considered to be the foundation of behaviour and learning.
Gross Motor Development
Gross motor skills involve performing functional activities through large movements that incorporate the entire body.
Fine Motor Development
Fine motor skills refer to performing functional tasks through small movements of the hands, wrists, and fingers.
Feeding + Swallowing
Supporting optimal feeding development throughout a person’s life ensures they are taking in adequate nutrition and hydration to grow and thrive.
Life Skills
The concept of independence should be introduced early on so that people are empowered to participate in certain tasks/activities as independently and safely as possible throughout their development.
Self-Care
Self-care refers to one’s ability to take care of themselves, including skills such as feeding, toileting, hygiene, and dressing.