therapies have been touted as treatment for people with Down syndrome, there is no effective medical treatment available at the present time. Today early intervention programs, and pre-school nurseries, have demonstrated children with Down syndrome can participate in many learning experiences which can positively influence their overall functioning. Research has shown that early intervention, environmental enrichment, and assistance to the families will result in progress that is usually not achieved by those infants who have not had such educational and stimulating experiences. Later, the school can give the child a foundation for life through the development of academic skills and physical as well as social abilities. Experiences provided in school assist the child in obtaining a feeling of self-respect and enjoyment. School should provide an opportunity for the child to engage in sharing relationships with others and help to prepare the child to become a productive citizen. Contrary to some views, all children can learn, and they will benefit from placement in a normalized setting with support as needed. During adolescence, youngsters with Down syndrome should be exposed to prevocational training in order to learn good work habits and to engage in proper relationships with co-workers. It is important that society develop attitudes that will permit people with Down syndrome to participate in community life and to be accepted. They should be offered a status that observes their rights and privileges as citizens, and in a real sense preserves their human dignity. When accorded their rights and treated with dignity, people with Down syndrome will, in turn, provide society with a most valuable humanizing influence....
