The following materials are produced by and available from the Down's Syndrome Association. We aim to make as much as possible available to be read and/or downloaded free from this website.

You can also contact the Down's Syndrome Association on Tel: or e-mail and ask for printed materials to be posted. There may be a small charge for this service.

Benefits Information
Education Information
General Information
Medical and Health Information
Reports
Speech and Language Information
Videos

Sorry. This publication is not available on-line. Please contact the Down's Syndrome Association if you would like a printed copy to be sent to you.

A guide to benefits which can be claimed at age 16 for young people with Down's syndrome.

Guidelines to claiming Disability Living Allowance for people with Down's syndrome, from birth to 3 years.

Guidelines to claiming Disability Living Allowance for people with Down's syndrome. Ages 3-8

Guidelines to claiming Disability Living Allowance for people with Down's syndrome. Ages 8-16

Guidelines to claiming Disability Living Allowance for people with Down's syndrome. Age 16+

A basic guide to Social Security benefits which people with learning disabilities may be able to claim.

A guide to the new tax credits, Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit

Information and guidance about the Statement of Special Educational Needs for parents of children with Down's syndrome

A report on the barriers to education for children with Down's syndrome

A report on the experiences of transition from school to further education for children with Down's syndrome

Notes for teachers on sexuality and relationships education for students with Down's syndrome

Information for teaching professionals on alternative accreditation for pupils with Down's syndrome.

Notes for teachers on behaviour issues in children with Down's syndrome.

Notes for early years professionals on children with Down's syndrome.

All the DSA education information on one CD-ROM, including: Education Support Packs, mainstream and special versions; all Education Information Sheets; Including Pupils at primary and secondary levels, and the Guide to the Statement of Special Educational Needs. Plus P scales and assessment examples, and examples of differentiated materials across the curriculum plus an interactive visual timetable for parents & teachers use. CD-ROM suitable for Windows PC computers

A comprehensive range of practical advice, information and materials for any front line education professional who is including, or planning to include a pupil with Down's syndrome in mainstream school. WINNER OF NASEN/TES BOOK AWARD 2003

The Special Schools Pack is a comprehensive guide for pupils with Down's syndrome in special schools. It comes in loose-leaf binders format.

Notes for teachers on fine motor skills development in children with Down's syndrome.

Information on how computers can be used to facilitate learning for children with Down's syndrome, guidance on suitable software and resource list.

A comprehensive list of software suitable for use in the Early Years and keystage 1. Advice on getting started and making computers accessible for young children with Down's syndrome.

Information for Early Years practitioners on the learning profile of children with Down's syndrome and good practice in their education.

Informatio for teachers and support staff on providing positive and effective support for students with Down's syndrome

Information for teachers and learning support assistants in primary schools

Information for teaching professionals on including pupils with Down's syndrome in mainstream secondary school

Notes for teachers on strategies for teaching numeracy and maths to pupils with Down's syndrome.

Notes for teachers on reading strategies for pupils with Down's syndrome.

An easy-to-follow guide to making the big step from primary to secondary school.

Notes for teachers on short term auditory memory problems in children with Down's syndrome.

Information for teachers on transition planning and post 16 options for students with Down's syndrome

Notes for teachers on the transition in schools from Primary to Secondary School.

A booklet for those who have had a pre-natal diagnosis of Down's syndrome and are continuing pregnancy. With personal stories from parents as well as information about the condition.

This was written in response to a frequent enquiry: 'My friend has had a baby with Down's syndrome - how can I help?' Basic information and advice on supporting your friend or relative.

This booklet acknowledges the profound feelings experienced by many parents, addresses common questions and concerns, and includes practical tips on feeding and development. An older version of this booklet is available in Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, Gujarati, Punjabi, Urdu and Welsh.

People with Down's syndrome have much to offer employers. This leaflet contains basic information that employers need to know, a resource list, and tips on making your workplace work for people with Down's syndrome

A list of organisations and information resources which can help with housing for people with Down's syndrome

Answers to some of the questions most often asked about Down's syndrome.

Information for young people who have a sibling with Down's syndrome, tips for parents, and resources for siblings

'Tales of Normansfield' by Andy Merriman, is published by the UK Down's Syndrome Association (DSA). The book traces the history of Normansfield hospital from its beginnings to the building's current role as the home of the DSA. Spanning 150 years, this authoritative publication explores the vision of the hospital's founder, John Langdon Down, from whom the condition now takes its name. His groundbreaking use of educative ideas, drama and music therapy is a story of enlightenment and dedication.

A leaflet which explains this subject clearly and comprehensively

Highlighting issues that may prove particularly relevant to people with Down's syndrome and their carers as they get older

Up to date information, clarifying what carers need to know about detection, sporting activities etc. We suggest you also read the information pack from the British Gymnastics Association, below.

Guidance on screening for Atlanto-Axial Instability in people with Down's syndrome prior to taking part in gymnastics or other sports. Please note this is not a DSA publication. See also the DSA booklet above.

Some information and guidance on helping people with Down's syndrome cope with a bereavement.

Help for the carers or families of a person with learning disabilities who may be depressed.

This booklet discusses the relationship between diabetes and Down's syndrome and provides information on day to day management. Also answers the most common questions parents and carers have.

Information about Alzheimer's disease and ideas for treatment and support

This book primarily for support staff working with people with Down's syndrome who have dementia. It is designed for use with a specific named person, to enable staff to offer them the most effective care possible as the person's condition progresses and their needs change...

Up to date information on the eye problems that can occur in children with Down's syndrome.

An introduction to the gastrointestinal problems that can sometimes occur in children with Down's syndrome.

Accssible health information for adults with Down's syndrome including a photocopiable personal health record. This material comes with a separate 'notes for carers' section. See below.

Contains information on glue ear, nerve deafness, grommets, hearing aids and testing hearing.

Information about organisations and publications that focus on relationships and sexuality for people with learning disabilities

A guidance sheet for carers looking at preparing teenage girls with Down's syndrome for menstruation

This is a set of notes on medical issues to be used by the carers of adults with Down's syndrome. It complements Part 1 which is a Health Record to be used by the person with Down's syndrome.

Notes for carers on coping with sleep problems in children with Down's syndrome.

Up to date information on diagnosis and treatment

Summaries what doctors need to know for diagnosis and treatment

A report on the barriers to education for children with Down's syndrome

A report on the experience of early years provision for children with Down's Syndrome

A report on the experiences of transition from school to further education for children with Down's syndrome

A survey of member's experiences of claiming welfare benefits

Inclusion cases for children with Down's syndrome in the UK

A report on a Down's Syndrome Association survey into attitutes to people with Down's syndrome amongst medical professionals

A report on the experiences of parents of children with Down's syndrome during pregnancy and birth, including provision and handling of pre-natal testing, and the ways in which parents are told of their baby's disability, both pre- and post-natally.

An evaluation of a survey among people with Down's syndrome of working age to find out about their employment experiences.

Information about the Speech and Language Therapy Co-worker Training programme run by the DSA and Symbol UK. This programme has been set up to address the shortage of speech therapy provision for children with Down's syndrome. For course details go to the Training section.

This information is suitable for families, school staff and speech and language therapists. It includes practical activities and strategies to help with dysfluency and stammering as well as new makaton symbols for use in speech and language therapy.

Invaluable information for parents, therapists, teachers, and others involved in supporting the communication development of children with Down's syndrome. Includes a checklist to evaluate your child’s SALT provision, strategies for therapists, and advice on overcoming barriers to enable children with Down's syndrome to access sufficient and effective therapy.

Information for schools and colleges, community groups and services, employers, care staff, professionals, and families about what we can all do to tackle the challenges that people who have Down syndrome face when communicating

Answers to the most frequently asked questions on this topic

This video, made by a group of people with Down's syndrome is aimed at peole with Down's syndrome who would like to know about their condition. It is designed for group work enabling people to talk about their feelings about having Down's syndrome

This DVD is of Professor Tony Holland, talking about the effects of ageing on people with Down's syndrome. The video was recorded at the Down's Syndrome Association's AGM 2003.

This video (15 mins) shows aspects of the education of four children with Down's syndrome in a selection of mainstream and special schools. Available to order from the Down's Syndrome Association.

The Video/DVD shows people with Down's syndrome, aged nought to thirty, who have differing abilities and needs in the area of communication. However all of them are keen to communicate, and have a great deal to say, given the right opportunities.

This DVD helps parents and young children with Down's syndrome to develop language, while completing some everyday tasks 1994 (25 mins) Available from the Down's Syndrome Association.

The Down's Syndrome Association is not able to supply the following books but you should be able to get copies from a good book shop or library.

Recommended Reading
Recommended Reading - Accessible
Recommended Reading - Children
Recommended Reading - Health

a personal account of parenting a child with Down's syndrome - beautifully written, honest, funny and moving.

An American title, which provides a holistic approach to the issues usrrounding adolescence in young people with Down's syndrome. Focuses on health, behaviour, self-esteem, education, employment and recreational activities.

This book will help readers promote the health and well being of individuals with Down syndrome. Contains a good mixture of clinical, social, and personal information. Contributions from many respected experts, including people with Down's syndrome

Peggy Fray's moving account of life with her sister Kathleen, who was born with Down's syndrome. It reflects the changing shape of services over the last 70 years and highlights the gap in provision which still exists for those who develop dementia.

Collection of papers on health, education, psychological issues etc, for parents and professionals.

This book contains a collection of papers focussing on the advances in research and practice that make it possible for people with Down's syndrome to be fully included in society and have a better quality of life.

A comprehensive and up-to-date survey of current issues affecting people with Down's syndrome, including advocacy, medical, social and educational issues.

Second edition of this very readable and positive, information packed title which covers all aspects of Down's syndrome

A practical guide for parents and professionals on the development of speech, language and communication in children with Down's syndrome.

This book is the beautifully written, poignant, funny and true story of John and Martha Beck, and of the transformation that the birth of their son Adam brings to the life of the family. A mystical and magical story!

In a fresh approach on the problems raised by lack of communication, the author suggests common-sense methods of making contact and building relationships with people who do not use language.

An accessible guide to understanding and developing fine motor skills in children with Down's syndrome.

Children with Down's syndrome master gross motor skills - everything from rolling over to running - but need additional help and encouragement to maximise development. This practical guide explains how.

A collection of essays focusing on increasing participation in community life. Includes contributions from young adults with Down's syndrome, parents and professionals. (We suggest following DSA guidelines on AAI rather than those in this book.)

An anthology of prose, poetry and art by people with learning difficulties

Offers a range of easy to follow tips and strategies to help solve most behaviour problems in young children. Expensive for a paperback, but worth having a copy in each Branch or ordering from a public library.

A booklet for parents and carers who are supporting young people (aged 14 - 25) with learning disabilities. To order call the Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities on or visit their website www.learningdisabilities.org.uk

This book in the Need to Know series provides essential information in an honest and down to earth manner. The book looks at what it's like to have Down's syndrome and dispels some of the misconceptions about people with the syndrome.

An expansive account of the recent developments and research in the field of Down's syndrome and their practical implications. Contributions from international experts from many disciplines

'Tales of Normansfield' by Andy Merriman, is published by the UK Down's Syndrome Association (DSA). The book traces the history of Normansfield hospital from its beginnings to the building's current role as the home of the DSA. Spanning 150 years,

Describes in detail a reading programme devised by an experienced American teacher which is imaginative and functional and can be tailored to the needs of each student

Revised edition of this practical, comprehensive handbook. Particularly useful for those wanting a good introduction to the medical aspects of Down's syndrome.

A collection of essays by fathers reflecting on the life-altering experience of having a child with a disability

* New edition *A brief guide for parents and teachers

A book that looks at the physical, mental and emotional development of children with varying degrees of learning disabilities, taking into consideration the emotional and practical consequences for parents

Simon leaves a long-stay hostel to go to a group home. From 'Books Beyond Words', a series of picture books designed for people with learning disabilities.

Bob has been sexually abused by a male resident in a former home. (See entry for JENNY SPEAKS OUT) From Books Beyond Words.

Featuring a man with Down's syndrome, this title is designed to help people with learning disabilities to understand the feelings and situations which grow around depression. From Books Beyond Words

Designed to help people with learning disabilities learn about social skills and appropriate boundaries.

Jenny has been sexually abused by her father. Designed to enable people with learning disabilities who have been abused to talk about their experience. From Books Beyond Words.

Peter moves from his family home to a group home. Illustrated book designed to be read by or with a person with a learning disability to help prepare for a move to a new home. From Books Beyond Words.

(Addresses issues of death and cremation)- See entry for WHEN MUM DIED

(Addresses issues of death and burial) Colourfully illustrated with a brief text, these books are designed to help adults with learning disabilities prepare for or come to terms with, the death of a parent.

Cherry is a young woman who has Down's syndrome. She is also an artist and the book shows her preparing for an exhibition at art college. As the book says 'Having Down's syndrome doesn't stop Cherry from doing what she loves.'

Through lively colour photographs this book takes you through the day of an inclusive primary class where you are introduced to the children and shown the many activities that take place.

A simple story of two friends going to the seaside, one of whom has Down's syndrome. It also contains basic information about having a learning disability. Suitable for younger children.

An excellent book for younger children that follows a day in the life of Luke who has Down's syndrome. Luke is shown learning to read and attending his weekly cub scouts' meeting.

This book looks at the lives of several people with Down's syndrome of different ages. Provides a good clear explanation of the syndrome and stresses that 'just because you have Down's syndrome doesn't mean you should be treated any differently.'

A positive, realistic book that can be used for explaining Down's syndrome to young siblings and other young children. (Some of the language is now a little out of date, but still a useful book.)

A teenager comes to terms with the notion of disability when her brother is born with severe disabilities. Suitable for older children and teenagers

In three separate stories in this beautifully illustrated book, Rico who has Down's syndrome makes a new friend, helps his sister with a difficult decision and finally draws a picture that he likes.

A beautiful photographic work, which follows Victoria during her day at the nursery, while she paints, bakes cookies, goes to ballet and feeds the ducks in the park. A charming observation of a child who just happens to have Down's syndrome.

A delightfully illustrated book telling the story of Emma and how she and her father discuss what they will do when the new baby arrives. When her brother is born with Down's syndrome, Emma has to adjust some of her expectations.

In this book for older children (age 8 - 10)relevant information is nicely balanced with personal stories from children with Down's syndrome and their parents.

A story for young children, with lovely photographs, in which the main character has Down's syndrome.

A book for young children. It does not discuss disability itself, but difference more generally, e.g. height, where we live, different occupations. Can be used in conjunction with books on specific disabilities.

Clear and comprehensive information for families and carers on health issues for adults with Down's syndrome.

This book defines best practice in the asessment and provision for people with Down's syndrome who begin to experience dementia in their middle age.

Comprehensive guide on how to support and care for a person with Down's syndrome and dementia.

This guide covers medical conditions and treatments, from heart defects to skin conditions, that are more common among children with Down's syndrome.

Drawing on the authors' extensive experience from their clinic for adults with Down's syndrome, this book looks at promoting mental wellbeing, with chapters on specific issues such as self-esteem, flexibility, autism and mood disorders.

This book looks at all aspects of nutrition and healthy living for people with Down's syndrome from birth through to young adulthood. The author is a registered dietician and parent of a child with Down's syndrome.