Sharing the News: Real-parent tips
Sharing the news that your baby has Down syndrome can feel overwhelming. Discover real parents’ experiences, gentle advice, and reassurance that you’re not alone.
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Parent Tips
Our Top Tips blogs bring together advice, ideas and experiences from parents and carers of children with Down syndrome. Each post focuses on a specific topic – like building friendships, visiting the dentist, or preparing for new experiences – and shares practical, real-world strategies that have made a difference for other families.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, reassurance, or simply to know you’re not alone, you’ll find parent-powered wisdom here, alongside extra suggestions from the Down Syndrome UK team. These blogs are designed to be easy to read, full of actionable ideas, and grounded in the lived experience of our community.
Toothbrushing tips for children with Down syndrome: real-parent tips
Discover practical toothbrushing tips for children with Down syndrome. Parents share creative strategies – from songs and games to tools and routines – to make brushing easier and more fun.
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Helping your child with Down syndrome settle at night: Real parent tips
Discover real-life strategies from parents to support bedtime routines for children with Down syndrome, including sensory calming, routines, rewards, and self-soothing.
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Helping your child with Down syndrome start solids: Real parent tips on weaning
Discover real-world weaning tips from parents of children with Down syndrome – from baby-led weaning and purées to embracing mess and following your baby’s lead.
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Making holidays smoother: Real parent tips
Real-life travel tips from parents of children with additional needs, from sensory comfort hacks to using special assistance. Discover ideas to make holidays less stressful and more enjoyable for the whole family.
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Best hairdresser tips for parents of a child with Down syndrome – Real parent tips
Haircuts can be tricky for children with Down syndrome. Discover real parent tips on finding the right barber, trying home haircuts, using routines, and keeping haircuts calm and positive.
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Helping your child with Down syndrome build water confidence: Real parent tips
Discover real-life parent tips on swimming and water confidence for children with Down syndrome. From lessons and equipment to encouragement and routines, here’s what helps.
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Helping your child with Down syndrome build friendships: Tips from parents
Discover practical tips for supporting children with Down syndrome to make friends, build confidence and connect with others. Advice from parents and additional expert suggestions.
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Helping your child with Down syndrome visit the dentist: Real parent tips
A heartfelt letter from a young boy with Down syndrome (and his mum) to those meeting him for the first time. A gentle challenge to break down fear, ask kind questions, and discover the joy of connection.
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