An incredibly Brief Look at a Few Differences

As parents of children with Down Syndrome, we’re always looking for ways to better understand and support our children’s development. It’s no secret that their journey is unique, and so is their brain. 

But here’s the incredible thing—the brain is capable of great growth and change. When we understand how it works and what makes it different, we gain the tools to create strategies that unlock their potential.

The Cerebral Cortex

The cerebral cortex is the part of the brain responsible for higher-level thinking, “The thinking cap.” It outer layer of gray matter organized into bundles of bumps and grooves and handles complex tasks like problem-solving and reasoning. In children with Down Syndrome, the surface area of this part of the brain is often reduced. 

The Cerebellum

The cerebellum helps with balance, coordination, rhythm, timing, and motor skills. It too tends to be smaller in children with Down Syndrome. This can show up in everyday activities like walking, climbing stairs, or holding a pencil.

Dendrites and Synapses

Dendrites are like the little branches on neurons (brain cells) that receive messages. In children with Down Syndrome, these branches might be fewer or less complex, which can alter how they learn new skills. 

Synapses are the junction between brain cells where messages (impulses) are transmitted. Effective transmission requires neurotransmitters (chemical in the brain). These chemicals can be unbalanced and altered in our children’s brains.

Why This Knowledge Matters

Understanding these neurological differences isn’t about focusing on limitations—it’s about recognizing opportunities. By knowing how the brain works, we can tailor our strategies to meet our children where they are and help them grow into who they’re meant to be.

Vast amounts of research exists in disciplines outside Down Syndrome that demonstrates the ability for targeted epigenetic inputs (epigenetics is the science of how inputs to a system like targeted nutrition, specific exercise, and metabolic balance, to list a few, can alter the way genes are expressed, or if they are expressed at all), to create neuroplastic change (Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to grow and change).

For example, it has been established in the field of exercise science that specific types of cardiovascular exercise has been proven to increase dendrite formation in the brain. One type is interval running. Building a walking / running routine into your day increases the formation of dendrites in our children’s brains – and ours too!

The part of this that I always loved is that Lucas and I did it together – and that’s a very powerful epigenetic input. 

Understanding the differences in our children’s brains helps us turning knowledge into empowerment and challenges into progress. 

With the right mindset we can ask WHY.

With that information we are empowered to know WHAT.

We know with the Brain’s gift of neuroplasticity, there is no limit of WHEN.

Epigenetics and Integrating Neurodevelopmental approaches are the HOW.

And, 

Most exciting of all, 

We are the WHO.

Take Action Today. Learning about the brain is just the beginning.  As we apply this knowledge, we’re not just supporting our children’s development; we’re reshaping what’s possible for them. 

Join Us at the Down Syndrome Action Plan in January, for an entire month of Neurodevelopmental education, conversation, application, and transformation of Hope into Action.