Etiquette and Down Syndrome

10 Tips for Polite Communication with a Person with Down Syndrome

It's Me - It's Only Down Syndrome

1. Be sure you make no sudden movements while approaching, or during your introduction to, a person with Down Syndrome. They become startled and fearful.

2. Treat those with Down Syndrome with respect, just as you would anyone else. People with Down Syndrome are sensitive, have feelings and emotions, just as others do.

3. When introducing yourself, give them time to process their thoughts and words regarding who you are. If a Down Syndrome person has trouble communicating, a caregiver, advocate or parent-guardian will usually step in to explain to them with sign language, or another means of communication, as to who you are, etc…

4. Patience is important when communicating with a Down Syndrome person. It takes them a while to process information, to understand a question and determine the correct answer.

5. During the course of introducing yourself to them, they may walk away, shake their head, and say “No,” or they may give you a hug. You never know! Just start your introduction again.

For a female version of the book click here

6. Down Syndrome people love to be included in social interactions. When introducing them to others, they may express themselves by waving, blowing kisses, hugging, facial expressions, etc... redirect them and then model the correct behavior.

7. Consider surroundings when communicating, socializing with Down Syndrome people. Use a quiet area for social interactions. Places which are busy and/or noisy are quite distractive for them.

8. Be precise, and use short sentences, with enough volume to communicate.

9. Do not interfere when they are communicating. This can become an awkward situation. They are doing their best!

10. Most of all, avoid being judgmental or making assumptions that all Down Syndrome people are the same. They have great sensitivity to the world around them. Please be kind!

“It's Me - It's Only Down Syndrome” (in both male and female versions) is first time author, etiquette enthusiast and founder of the Graceful Manners Academy, Carla M. West’s way of paying loving tribute to her wonderful and son. He was a boy who was full of joy and curiosity, who loved his husky dog, “Cookie,” and  who just also happened to have Down Syndrome. Etiquette and Dance Instructor, West, wanted people to know that her son was just like any other kid who loved to laugh, play and explore the world around him. Like any other kid, his feelings could get hurt as well. Brandon and his mom want every kid to know that kids with Down Syndrome are just like you - they just want to be loved!

🍽Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia