Down syndrome is a genetic condition caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21. It affects physical development, learning, and communication—but with early support, children with Down syndrome can grow into happy, confident individuals who thrive at home, in school, and within their communities.

At Panassea, we believe in nurturing every child’s potential while offering caregivers practical guidance, tools, and hope.

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Feeding and Swallowing in Down Syndrome

Many children with Down syndrome face oral motor challenges due to low muscle tone (hypotonia), anatomical differences, or delayed coordination. These difficulties can affect everything from breastfeeding to chewing to managing saliva.

With supportive strategies and a patient approach, feeding can become a safer, more enjoyable part of your child’s day.

Common Feeding Concerns

🥄 Weak Sucking or Chewing
Infants may struggle to latch or tire quickly during feedings. Older children may avoid tougher textures or require longer mealtimes.

👅 Tongue Thrust and Open Mouth Posture
These are common in Down syndrome and may interfere with effective swallowing, speech clarity, and drooling control.

🍎 Delayed Introduction of Solids
Some children need additional time and preparation before they are ready for new textures like mashed food or finger snacks.

🌬️ Risk of Aspiration
Feeding difficulties may increase the chance that food or liquid enters the airway. This is why professional guidance is essential.

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Tips for Feeding Success

✅ Work with a Feeding Therapist
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) with expertise in feeding can assess your child’s specific needs and build a plan tailored to your family’s mealtime routines.

✅ Use Proper Positioning
An upright, stable seat with foot support makes swallowing easier and safer.

✅ Offer Small, Repeated Opportunities
Expose your child to new textures and tastes slowly and consistently. Try giving them control with dips, finger foods, or adaptive utensils.

✅ Incorporate Sensory Play with Food
Encourage your child to explore food with their hands and face during non-meal play. This can reduce anxiety and build familiarity with smells, shapes, and textures.

✅ Keep the Atmosphere Calm
Avoid pressure to eat or finish. Focus on making mealtime a low-stress, enjoyable time to explore food and connect as a family.

“We learned to follow our son’s pace. With help from our therapist and a lot of patience, mealtimes became less stressful and more joyful.”
– Parent of a 2-year-old with Down syndrome

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Final Thoughts for Families and Educators

Children with Down syndrome are capable, joyful, and full of potential. With early support, nourishing care, and inclusive education, they can build meaningful relationships, develop life skills, and participate fully in their communities.

At Panassea, we believe that families are the heart of every child’s success. That’s why we offer support that empowers—not overwhelms—with therapy services, caregiver coaching, and inclusive planning tools built for real life.

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📘 Looking for More?

Download our free caregiver guides:

• Understanding Down Syndrome: A Parent’s Guide
• Building Motor and Communication Skills

🎥 Upcoming Webinars
✔ Early Development & Physical Therapy for Down Syndrome
✔ Feeding Tools for Hypotonia and Oral Delay
✔ Making Inclusion Work in Your Child’s Classroom

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📩 Have questions or need personalized support?

— we’re here for you and your child every step of the way.

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