The compassionate, trustworthy guide which has benefited thousands of families since it was first published in 1985, is completely revised and updated in a new, third edition. Covering the best practices for raising and caring for children with Down Syndrome from birth to age five, this book is invaluable to new parents of a baby with Down Syndrome. The new edition incorporates updated information on scientific, medical, and educational issues, such as: prenatal testing and gene mapping; links between early behavior and later learning; visual learning styles; the transdisciplinary approach to early intervention, and the latest on special education laws. Parents find excellent practical information on everything from toilet training to using visual supports, as well as dozens of parents' suggestions and feedback. Many new authors, both parents and professionals, appear in this edition, -- Professor Sue Buckley, Jo Ann Simon,M.S.W., Mary Wilt,R.N. and Len Leshin, M.D., -- and more than ever are parents of children with Down Syndrome. Chapter topics include: What Is Down Syndrome?: A primer on the causes, characteristics, and diagnosis Adjusting to Your Baby: Coping with common emotions and announcing the news to friends and family; Medical Concerns & Treatments: An overview of possible health issues, including celiac disease, sleep apnea, diabetes, reflux, and skin problems Daily Care: From breast feeding to hygiene Family Life: Sibling and Spousal Relationships, Behavior Issues, and Independence Development & Learning Early Intervention: An overview of services and therapies for babies & toddlers. Legal Rights & Financial Issues: Explains your child's educational and legal rights This comprehensive guide is full of new photos, parent statements, updated and expanded resources and reading lists. It's everything parents need to build a bright and healthy future for their child with Down Syndrome.