Early intervention for Down syndrome brings together several therapies that support movement, communication and daily skills during the years when the brain is most adaptable. Starting early makes the most of that adaptability.
Physical therapy
Physiotherapy addresses low muscle tone and helps babies build the strength and coordination behind sitting, crawling and walking. Therapists coach parents on positioning and play that reinforce these skills at home.
Speech and language therapy
Communication support can begin long before first words — through gestures, signing and play. Speech therapists also help with the oral-motor skills that underpin both feeding and talking.
Occupational therapy
- Fine-motor skills like grasping, self-feeding and, later, dressing.
- Sensory processing and play skills.
- Adapting the home environment to encourage independence.
Building the team
Early intervention works best as a coordinated plan involving families, therapists and paediatricians. Research such as the IBIS-DS study is helping identify which supports matter most and when. If you are just starting out, our guide to developmental milestones month by month is a useful companion.