Parent FAQs
We know that a diagnosis of Down syndrome can be unexpected news.
Whether your child was diagnosed prenatally or at birth, it’s natural to have many questions about Down syndrome, what life will look like for your family, and more. Below you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions from parents navigating a diagnosis of Down syndrome.
Down syndrome (also called Trisomy 21) is a genetic condition that people are born with. People with Down syndrome have an extra copy of chromosome 21. That extra chromosome affects how the body and brain develop.
People with Down syndrome have an average life expectancy of around 60 years, with many living into their 60s or 70s. Advances in healthcare, especially for heart defects, along with better support and living conditions, have greatly contributed to longer, healthier lives.
Each person with Down syndrome is unique. People with Down syndrome can go to school, have jobs, build friendships, and live meaningful, happy lives. Take a look at some of the “You Make Me Better” stories featured on our website to hear from a wide variety of families, all raising a child with Down syndrome.
Jack’s Basket is a great place to start to get connected to other resources! Each of our baskets comes with the opportunity to connect with one of our Basket Delivery Parent Volunteers, who is also raising a child with Down syndrome. The basket also includes information about local and national resources, including local Down syndrome organizations customized to each state. For links to other avenues of support, visit the Resources page of our website.
By requesting a Jack’s Basket, you have the choice to opt into connecting with one of our Parent Volunteers, who is also raising a child with Down syndrome! Whether you choose to connect through an in-person basket delivery or via text/phone call, our volunteers are available to offer guidance, answer questions, and simply walk alongside you as a parent who is a little farther along on this journey. If you initially opted out of a volunteer connection but would like one later on, please email volunteer@jacksbasket.org, and we’d be happy to connect you with a volunteer in your area.
We know that sharing your baby’s diagnosis is a tender moment to navigate. When sharing this news, we recommend that you start with a simple but straightforward message, like: “We want to share that our baby has Down syndrome. It means they may develop a bit differently, and we’re still learning what that will look like.” Your words will set the tone for how others respond, so invite people to celebrate your baby in a way that feels good to you. A few examples might be: “We’d love you to celebrate this baby with us”, “Just being excited with us means a lot,” “We’ll let you know what we need as we go.” Also utilize the books and resources in your Jack’s Basket to support you in sharing the news. The book “47 Strings: Tessa’s Special Code” offers a child-friendly explanation of Down syndrome to help share the news with the little ones in your life.
If your baby has received a diagnosis of Down syndrome (prenatally or at birth) and is under 1 year of age, they are eligible to receive a basket! Our baskets can be shipped internationally – we have celebrated babies in all 50 US states and over 60 countries worldwide. Visit the Request a Basket page of our website to submit your request.
Yes! The basket is created just for your family, and requesting one for your child is exactly why Jack’s Basket exists. You don’t need to wait for someone else to request on your behalf. We look forward to celebrating your precious baby and offering your family support and encouragement as you begin this journey. Visit the Request a Basket page of our website to fill out a request form and learn more about the process.
