Down's disease.

There is a special kind of organic mental underdevelopment, called Down's disease. It includes not only mental, but also physical deviations. Physical growth is slowed down, and the child does not reach adult parameters. In most cases, the intellect develops very slowly, but in some cases it is quite developed. Such children usually have a flexible, gentle nature.

The chances of having a baby with Down's disease increase by the end of the childbearing period. If a young woman has a first child with Down's disease, she can be sure that at her age there is very little chance of a second child of the same type.

Down's disease is usually diagnosed at birth, but in some cases it can be confidently diagnosed only after several months of observation.

As in other cases of delayed mental development, the decision about the future of the child depends on how it develops, what are the opportunities for learning and playing with other children, how much the mother will be able to perform other duties, along with caring for him. Some such children are brought up at home without much strain from their parents and in a supportive environment. In other cases, when a child grows up, it becomes clear that it will be better for him and for the rest of the family if he is kept in a special institution. With this in mind, you need to apply in advance, because in such institutions you have to wait a few years for the queue. Later you can always give up the place. Permanent advice of specialists will help to make the right decision.

Some doctors advise wealthy parents from the very beginning to bring up such a child in a private home that takes care of themselves so as not to become attached to a child from whom one can not expect much and pay enough attention to other children. For some families this is suitable, but not for everyone. I believe that parents should not rush to a decision, and if they doubt, they need to consult a psychiatrist. However, only a few families can afford private care for a child for many years. And very few public schools can accept such children for various reasons.