World Down Syndrome Day is observed yearly on March 21. The 21st day of March (the “3rd” month of the year) was selected to signify the uniqueness of the triplication (trisomy) of the 21st chromosome, which causes Down syndrome. This day is observed to create awareness about Down Syndrome.
The children in Mrs. Roberts’ kindergarten class recently made a new friend who has Down syndrome. Their classmate, Harper Higgins, has a little brother named Jackson with Down syndrome. Harper’s mom brought Jackson to Harper’s classroom and read the book “D is for Down Syndrome,” discussing Down syndrome with the kids. They learned that chromosomes are part of our body and that they plan out how we are made. When we are born, we have 46 chromosomes. Down syndrome children are born with 47 chromosomes, with an extra copy of chromosome 21.
Even though Jackson has to learn differently, he still likes things that other kids like. He likes chickens, dancing, light-up shoes, jumping, & swimming, plus much more! He even wears glasses like some kids. Jackson has speech therapy to help him learn to talk, but he also knows some sign language, which he shared with the kids. He also undergoes physical therapy to become stronger.
Since Jackson’s chromosomes are mismatched, he passed out a pair of socks to each of the kids. Then, the kids went around the room & traded one of their socks so they would have a pair of mismatched socks. Their mismatched socks serve as a reminder to honor the children with Down syndrome. Mismatched socks are worn on 3/21 because children with Down syndrome have chromosomes that are “mismatched.” The colors for Down syndrome are blue and yellow.
Jackson showed the kids how to sign “I love you,” and his mom brought in little charms that displayed the hand sign for “I love you.” They then made a keychain with the charm.
We are all unique in God’s eyes and loved equally.
