Low Incidence Disabilities- Down Syndrome
The National Down Syndrome Society seeks to better the lives of people with Down Syndrome, in order to provide knowledge to professionals, teachers, and parents about the disorder. The history of Down syndrome is summarized, in which John Langdon Down is considered the "father" of the disorder. The causes of Down syndrome are addressed beginning with the early French physicist Jerome Lejuene, who discovered it as a chromosomal anomaly. Information is provided especially for soon to be parents who are interested in prenatal testing and early diagnosis. Affecting one out of 733 births, NDSS further breaks down the incidence and facts of Down Syndrome. Lastly, myths and truths of the disorder are supported by journal article publications and further research.
Posted by: Jem
Low Incidence Disabilities- Visual Impairments
The American Foundation for the Blind is a non-profit organization that promotes endless opportunities for people with visual impairments. It strives to provide equal rights and possibilities for people with low vision and/or vision loss. Thus important information is provided about the importance of technology, educating teachers of students with visual impairments (TVI), and teaching parents about resources available in order to help their child achieve academic and lifelong success. Those interested in learning more about causes, incidence, and living with visual impairments, may find helpful information provided within this site and foundation's publications.
Posted by: Jem
Low Incidence Disabilities- Hearing Impairments
The American Speech and Hearing Association (ASHA), is a helpful site for professionals involved with children and adults with speech or hearing difficulties. ASHA advocates for hearing health, more importantly early detection and intervention of children with hearing impairments. There are numerous journal articles available for professionals, who are not necessarily members of the organization, but are interested in discovering answers from simple to complex questions about causes, effects, incidence, current research, legislation, and professions involving speech and hearing impairments.
Posted by: Jem
Low Incidence Disabilities: Mental Retardation & Multiple Disabilities
The National Dissemination Center for Children with Disabilities (NICHCY), addresses helpful information for teachers, health professionals, parents, and students who are interested in finding more information about the myriad of disabilities affecting our infants, children, and youths. Each disability is thoroughly described including characteristics of the disorder, resources available, organizational references, educational strategies, and multicultural issues. NICHCY is a website dedicated to disability awareness and laws enacted to provide equal rights for people with disabilities.
Posted by: Jem
