New Parents

Congratulations on your new baby! 
If your newborn has just received a Down syndrome diagnosis, you are probably experiencing a wide range of emotions. The first thing to understand is that you are not alone. DSAGNO represents the interests of all families, providing critical support and programs, such as the Parent-to-Pareent Support Program, the latest information and opportunities to connect with a parent mentor.  

Parent-to-Parent Support Program
For new parents of babies with Down syndrome, an opportunity to speak with other parents who have experienced what you are experiencing can be invaluable. The DSAGNO Parent-to-Parent Program is a volunteer group of trained parent mentors available to listen, share, answer questions, and provide valuable information.  If you would like to speak with a parent mentor please call 504-259-6201 or e-mail ldire@dsagno.org.

New Parent Welcome Package
DSAGNO offers all new parents of children with Down syndrome a welcome package that includes the book Babies with Down Syndrome: A New Parents’ Guide by Susan Skallerup and a new parent packet of information. To request the package, call 504-259-6201 or e-mail ldire@dsagno.org.

Online Resources
• Visit our national affiliate, the National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC), for a wealth of information for new parents.
• The National Down Syndrome Society’s “A Promising Future Together” guide is written specifically for new and expectant parents.
• Brighter Tomorrows provides families with balanced information about receiving a prenatal or postnatal diagnosis of Down syndrome.

Recommended Books 
• Down Syndrome Parenting 101 by Natalie Hale
• Gifts: Mothers Reflect on How Children with Down Syndrome Enrich Their Lives, edited by Kathryn Lynard Soper. 
• Common Threads: Celebrating Life with Down Syndrome by Cynthia Kidder and Brian Skotko. 
Woodbine House Publishers specialize in books on a variety of developmental disabilities, including Down syndrome.
Adoption

We understand that not all birth families feel they are able to meet the needs of children with Down syndrome. The National Down Syndrome Adoption Network provides information to birth families who may be seeking alternatives. The network currently has over 200 registered families, each waiting to adopt a baby with Down syndrome.