World Down Syndrome Day: A Personal Reflection

This Friday, we celebrate World Down Syndrome Day to honour and recognise the incredible people with Down syndrome in our lives.

For me, this celebration is deeply personal. One of my childhood friends, Monica, had Down syndrome, and growing up together shaped my life in ways I did not fully realise at the time.

She was my friend. We played, we laughed, and we went to school together. There were no big awareness campaigns or classroom talks about disability; there was just kindness and a strong sense of community.

Looking back, I see how my experiences with Monica influenced my work, parenting, and understanding of what inclusion truly means.

Today, I want to share some of those lessons with you.

Children Learn by Watching Us

As a child, I always knew there was something unique about my friend, but there was never a conversation explaining it. Instead, I saw how our teachers and parents treated her. They were kind, encouraging, and supportive, always celebrating her achievements, no matter how small.

Naturally, we, as children, followed their lead. We cheered her on just as they did. No one told us what to do; we simply learned through their example.

Learning through example is something I often think about when talking to parents and educators. Children are always watching us. The way we treat others teaches them how to navigate the world. Small acts of kindness, inclusion, and encouragement mean more than any formal lesson on empathy.

Inclusion Supports a Child's Development

My friend attended our local school, which was unusual at the time. Many children with disabilities were either at home or in special schools. Looking back, I realise her parents were forward-thinking and understood the value of growing alongside same-age peers.

Inclusion benefits children with Down syndrome, and research supports this. Studies show that children with Down syndrome who attend mainstream schools tend to develop stronger language skills, cognitive abilities, and independence.

However, inclusion isn't one-size-fits-all—every child has unique needs. But from my own experience, I can say this with certainty: being part of our class helped her grow, and it helped us grow, too.

The school adapted Monica's curriculum, and she received extra support when needed, but as children, we did not even notice. However, I will never forget how alarmed we were one day when she got to use a calculator in math class when we were not allowed to! Our teacher, always wise, turned it into a teaching moment. Instead of shutting down our complaints, she asked Monica to teach us how to use the calculator. Suddenly, we were gathered around, watching her demonstrate, and just like that, she became the expert.

Inclusion is not just about allowing children to be in the classroom—it is about valuing their contributions and finding ways for them to participate actively.

Family, Love, and Strength

In our small town, everyone knew each other, and Monica's family was no exception. As she got older, she faced health challenges; she spent more time in hospital and at home. We visited often, and every visit felt like a big celebration for all of us.

Now, as a parent of a child with a disability myself, I look back with even greater appreciation for her parents. At the time, I was too young to see the challenges they faced, yet they navigated it all with grace, strength, and a deep commitment to making sure Monica felt loved and happy every day.

I have often heard discussions about the strain that raising a child with additional needs can place on a family. And while I completely understand those challenges, I have also seen the opposite—families coming together and growing stronger. Love, resilience, and a shift in priorities can bring families closer as much as they can challenge them.

Inclusion Teaches Kindness and Empathy

Growing up with my friend Monica taught me something important: given the opportunity, kindness comes naturally to children.

No one had to tell us to help her—we just did. Some naturally stepped into that role, looking out for her in their way. And I see the same thing in every school I visit today—some children instinctively take on a caring role, watching out for their friends.

While I often remind children to let their friends try things independently, I also love nurturing that caring nature, perhaps because I see myself in those children. Maybe because I know that those small, everyday interactions helped lead me to where I am today, dedicating my life to working with children with disabilities.

We talk a lot about teaching children empathy, but there is no better way than letting them experience it. Inclusion does not just benefit the child with additional needs—it shapes every child in the classroom, helping them grow into more understanding, compassionate people.

Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day

As World Down Syndrome Day approaches, I want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible people with Down syndrome in our lives.

Thank you, Monica, my childhood friend who taught me so much by being herself. Your presence shaped who I am today, and I carry those lessons with me every single day.

To the hundreds of children I have worked with, you have brought so much joy into my life. It has been an honour to watch you grow, and while I may have been your teacher, I have learned just as much from you!

To all the parents raising children with Down syndrome, to the teachers and SNAs supporting them, and to the friends walking alongside them, I see you, I celebrate you, and I honour the love, joy, and strength you bring to the world.

Happy World Down Syndrome Day! 💙💛

P.S. Why Do We Wear Odd Socks for World Down Syndrome Day?

If you see people wearing odd socks on World Down Syndrome Day, it is not just a fun fashion statement—it has a special meaning!

This idea started because chromosomes are shaped like socks, and people with Down syndrome have an extra chromosome. Wearing odd socks is a simple but powerful way to celebrate uniqueness, start conversations, and show support for inclusion and diversity.

So, if you have not already, pick out your brightest, most mismatched socks and wear them with pride!