Why puberty education matters for Malaysian children with Down syndrome

Vocational training skills matter for children with Down syndrome because they can help them move towards independence. Photo: Segi University

It is crucial for parents of children with Down syndrome (DS) to begin educating their kids about puberty at an early age. This proactive approach ensures that special needs children are well-prepared for the physical and emotional changes that come with adolescence, says consultant developmental paediatrician Dr Rajini Sarvananthan.

“Children with DS may not always follow the same stages of development as other girls. For example, menses starts when breast development is more advanced in most girls, but for girls with DS, breast development may be later. So it is important to have conversations about puberty by around eight years old or earlier if parents notice any physical changes like body odour, hair growth and early breast development,” said Dr Rajini during Alumni Kiwanis Down Syndrome Foundation’s (AKDSF) talk, “Supporting Young People with Down Syndrome through Puberty and Adolescence”, in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, recently.