Education is the most natural right of all individuals who need special education as well as normal individuals. It cannot be delayed, blocked or ignored.
People with Down syndrome learn a little later than their normal peers. Their training requires patience and dedicated work. For this reason, a careful, planned and special education program should be implemented starting from pre-school.
Pre-school education:
Pre-school education is given between the ages of 0-6. This is the period in which they learn the fastest and get catchy information. In this period, the person and the social environment are introduced. Personal self-care and hygiene training is given. The traditions, customs, expectations, environment, living environment, relations with people, approach to others are shaped in this period. During this period, people who receive proper education gain the ability to live more independently.
Different training programs have been developed for this period. These mostly aim to start education in the early period and a family-centered education. Evaluations are made for each individual and training is given in small steps according to the result.
It is important for children with Down syndrome to attend the same nursery or kindergarten as other normal children in the preschool period, for their social and psychological development, and for their adaptation to society. It is aimed to gain the ability to make friends, play games with their peers, participate in activities, and help others.
Special education:
Persons with Down syndrome who are found eligible are subjected to special education in line with their educational needs, interests, abilities and competencies. This education can be in the form of full-time or part-time inclusive education in the same educational institutions as normal children. The aim here is to ensure that these children receive education without leaving the social and physical environment as much as possible.
The training program is planned by taking into account the adaptation of the individual with Down syndrome to this program and the educational performance. While some of them receive the whole education program in the same classes as normal children, some of them receive education in special classes in a part of the education process. The physical facilities in the classrooms are adjusted for these children.
Parent involvement in education programs is important. The education process in Down syndrome is not limited to school or just the child. Families also need to be educated in order to be able to approach the child, understand the child and respond to their needs. On the other hand, it should be ensured that children continue their education outside of school with the support of their families.
In order for the education to continue uninterrupted in the special education process, it is necessary to work in coordination with the institutions and organizations that provide rehabilitation services.
In the future, individuals with Down syndrome can be trained in different fields, taking into account their personal abilities and interests.