The inclusion of children with down syndrome in mainstream primary schools - Essay Example

The educational system has been set up to provide special programs for these children, and these programs are usually not part of the mainstream primary educational system. Recent developments and studies however point out that including children with Down syndrome in mainstream primary schools may help these children learn faster and adjust better to normal and independent living. This paper will discuss the inclusion of children with Down syndrome in mainstream primary schools. It will first introduce the disease, highlighting developmental issues commonly manifesting.

An overview of the current laws for SEN and disability will then be established. The main discussion on the inclusion of children with Down syndrome in mainstream schools shall follow the legislative discussion. This essay will also discuss the special school alternative for these children. A summary and conclusion will then end this discussion. This essay is being carried out in order to provide an academic understanding of children with Down syndrome and their related needs. It will also provide educators with a guide on future considerations for the educational needs of children with Down syndrome.

Down syndrome is a disease which manifests with a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe. These children also have a widely recognized appearance with the head being smaller than normal, being round and flat at the back. The inner corner of the eyes also looks rounded (ADAM Encyclopedia, 2012). Physical symptoms manifesting include: decreased muscle tone, flattened nose, small ears, small mouth, upward slant of the eyes, wide and short hands with short fingers, and excess skin at the neck (ADAM Encyclopedia, 2012).

Their physical development is also slow and they are not likely to ever reach average normal height. In terms of their mental and social development, they manifest with impulsivity, poor judgment, are