The following is from  the site Down Syndrome with a Slice of Autism  nickspecialneeds.wordpress.com    Just another WordPress.com site, Nick is 22 years old and has Down syndrome and autism. This is his world, the rest of us are just trying to keep up!  Post signed by Teresa in recognition of Down Syndrome Awareness Month:

Since this is about awareness, it is important to educate people on the appropriate language that should be used. People with Down syndrome should always be referred to as people first.

Do NOT say:

*”A Down syndrome baby or child.”

*”Down’s baby or child”

*”Down’s”

*”He has Downs”

Instead say: “A child with Down syndrome”.  Finally it should be said “Down” and NOT “Down’s.” Down syndrome is named for the English physician John Langdon Down, who characterized the condition, but did not have it.

My son Nick is 22 years old, and has Down syndrome and autism.  I’ve heard all of these incorrect phrases over the years. Please help me educate the public on the proper way to refer to a person with Down syndrome.  Thank you for reading and spreading awareness about Down syndrome.  That’s what is in my noggin this week.

~Teresa