I work at a convenience store and see many people everyday. I also have a daughter with down syndrome. When I see people with children who have downs also, how should I approach them? I like to see how other people's children are doing developmentally, but am unsure on how to go about approaching a complete stranger. I need some tips please!
2006-09-15 03:49:11 · 6 answers · asked by Jamie 2 in Pregnancy & Parenting ➔ Parenting
Maybe just strike up a conversation, "your daughter is adorable. how old is she?" Then once the basis for a conversation is formed, you can mention you have a little one who also has downs. You can then find out about development or exchange phone numbers or emails to chat later on things like that.
Think about how you would like to be approached... then take it from there!
2006-09-15 03:54:36 · answer #1 · answered by camoprincess32 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Are you allowed to talk to other people while you are working? Can you bring your daughter along?
If that is no problem for you, I would just take the risk. The only rule is to be polite: greet, smile, don't ask too many questions etc.
But nobody can guarantee that you will always be treated in the same fashion. Strangers are strangers, and not all of them may like to approached like that.
You just have to try to see if you are lucky with those customers, but perhaps the best thing would be for you to join a support group and meet people who like to share.
2006-09-15 04:47:30 · answer #2 · answered by JC 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I totally understand. I never see adults or teens or anyone really (except my 3 yr old son)for that matter w/ downs. I am extremely curious about teens & those a little older than Addison. We went out for our 8th anniversery. first time in three yrs we were with out any children. my hubby walked over to talk to a friend - i was looking at the menu- I heard an awkward laugh-I immediatly looked @ the table to my right -- we were seated right next to a family w/ a teen w/ downs - my theory is every thing has a reason- but like you I didnt want to offend & I was at a loss for words. I had been worrying about addisons future and I took it as a sign that everything would be just fine. I know I didnt answer your question i just wanted to thank you for asking it. Usually ppl love to talk about their children so any question asked in a sweet manner should be recepted well.
2006-09-15 07:50:58 · answer #3 · answered by CoC 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I'm a mom with a little boy with Down syndrome. I think a nice way is to just walk up and say "I see we have something in common...you're daughter/son is beautiful". Another one I have heard is "I see we both have angels".
It's all in the approach, as you know...just be friendly. I have the exact same desire as you do when I see other children with Down syndrome...I want to meet them and talk to the parents! They are, after all, some of the most wonderful kids I have ever met!!
Good luck!
2006-09-15 05:01:45 · answer #4 · answered by Smom 4 · 1⤊ 0⤋
My cousin has downs and her mother goes to a special kind of play/support group for children with downs. Her daughter has a great time playing with the kids, and the moms all get together and talk about development, schools, etc. You might ask your pediatrician if there is something like that in your area.
2006-09-15 04:14:49 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
i would just start up a conversation with them as the first guy said but i would take it on step farther and if the child was close to my childs age i would set up a play date for my child.
2006-09-15 04:10:39 · answer #6 · answered by steamroller98439 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋