Happy and Successful Lives
A study that asked people with Down's syndrome over 12 about their self-perception showed that the overwhelming majority of those surveyed live happy and fulfilling lives (1). There are many preconceptions about people with Down's syndrome, including the belief they won't be able to get a job or live independently. More recently, we are seeing this myth overturned more and more regularly within the mainstream media and within our own lives. Many people can achieve some level of work and independence. That said, a person's value is not set by their ability to work or live alone. Many of our community will have more complex needs and will face more challenges in living an independent life. To need support is not to be unhappy; it certainly doesn't lower your worth and right to life experiences and education.
It's about providing the best possible support to enable the person to be as independent as possible while celebrating every success, no matter how small it may seem to the outside world. Success for some may come in the form of mastering the skill of showing or saying or signing 'no' when they don't like something. It may be using a communication system to choose a meal. For others, it could be landing the job of their dreams, getting married and sailing off on the dream honeymoon. Both of those people will bring joy and love to their families. Learn and Thrive are merely here to provide the tools to support our young people to reach their best possible outcomes.
There are hundreds of stories across social media about people with Down's syndrome doing great things and achieving great success. Representation in different industries is so important, to showcase the dancers, the artists, and the business people. Reflecting the positive stories that change perceptions and build opportunity. That said we believe that everyone deserves to see themselves reflected in the media they watch and the resources they use. That's why we are committed to working with young people in our videos with various needs. Some verbal, some not. Some social butterflies, others that avoid the limelight. Some sports enthusiasts and some with more physical challenges. They all have the right to be represented in the media.
Learn and Thrive's new Learning for Life project takes young people step-by-step through the Relationship and Sex Education (RSE). Presenting it in an age-appropriate way but ensuring the foundation knowledge and skills are differentiated and taught throughout the teenage and young adult years. Reinforcing the key concepts of appropriate behaviour, touch, relationships and safety. Our first set is out NOW, with two more sets in the making. All the videos and printable resources are FREE, no catches, we just want to help young people with learning challenges to reach their potential and live full and happy lives!
1. Self-perceptions from People with Down Syndrome - PMC (nih.gov)