✓NDIS-registered provider✓Paediatric early-intervention focus✓In-home, in-clinic & telehealth
Understanding Down Syndrome
What is Down syndrome?
Down syndrome is a genetic condition, present from birth, caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21. It affects development and learning, and is often associated with low muscle tone and delays in speech, motor and cognitive skills — but every child with Down syndrome is unique, with their own personality and strengths.
Down syndrome is usually identified at or before birth, so support can start very early. Early intervention makes a lasting difference to communication, movement and independence, and children go on to learn, connect and thrive.
Signs by age
Developmental areas & milestones, by age
Children with Down syndrome reach milestones in their own time, often a little later than their peers. Therapy targets the areas that need a boost. These are common developmental patterns, not a checklist.
👶Babies (0–1)
- Low muscle tone (floppiness)
- Slower head control, rolling and sitting
- Feeding and sucking difficulties
- Delayed babbling
- Building early bonds and play
🧒Toddlers (1–3)
- Later walking and gross-motor skills
- Emerging first words, often delayed
- Learning to point, gesture and sign
- Fine-motor skills such as grasping
- Developing routines and play
🧑Preschool (3–5)
- Building sentences and clearer speech
- Self-care: dressing, toileting, eating
- Social play and turn-taking
- Pre-school readiness and attention
- Fine-motor for drawing and puzzles
🎒School age
- Literacy, numeracy and learning support
- Clearer communication and social skills
- Independence and daily-living skills
- Friendships and community participation
- Confidence and self-advocacy
Every child with Down syndrome develops differently, and progress continues throughout childhood. A coordinated therapy team — guided by your child’s paediatrician — targets the right areas at the right time.
Getting started
Getting started with support
Down syndrome is usually diagnosed early, so the focus is on connecting with the right early-intervention team as soon as possible — the earlier therapy starts, the stronger the foundations.
Down syndrome is listed on the NDIS List A, which means children are automatically eligible for the NDIS. Your early childhood partner or planner can help set up supports.
How we help
How Daar supports children with Down syndrome
Children with Down syndrome benefit most from a coordinated, multidisciplinary team working together across communication, movement, learning and independence.
Funding
Down syndrome and the NDIS
Down syndrome is on the NDIS List A, so children are automatically eligible without needing to prove functional impact. For participants, therapies such as speech, occupational therapy and exercise physiology are funded at no out-of-pocket cost. Our team can help you make the most of your plan.
Not sure where to start?
Answer a few quick questions and we’ll match your child with the right support — and our team will be in touch.
Find the right support →FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is Down syndrome covered by the NDIS?
Yes — Down syndrome is on the NDIS List A, which means children are automatically eligible for NDIS support.
When should therapy start?
As early as possible. Because Down syndrome is usually identified at birth, early intervention can begin in the first months and builds the strongest foundations.
What therapies help children with Down syndrome?
A coordinated team — commonly speech pathology, occupational therapy and exercise physiology — targeting communication, movement, learning and independence.
Will my child go to school and be independent?
Every child is different, but with the right support children with Down syndrome learn, attend school, build friendships and grow their independence throughout life.
Do we need to prove eligibility?
No — because Down syndrome is on List A, eligibility is automatic. Your early childhood partner or planner can help set up the plan.
Last reviewed 16 July 2026Reviewed by Daar’s clinical teamGeneral information — not a diagnosis or medical advice
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