You have probably seen people who have Down syndrome. They have
certain physical features, such as a flatter face and upward
slanting eyes. They may have medical problems, too, such as
heart defects. Kids with Down syndrome usually have trouble
learning and are slower to learn how to talk and take care of
themselves. But despite their challenges, kids with Down
syndrome can go to regular schools, make friends, enjoy life,
and get jobs when they're older. Getting special help early —
often when they are just babies and toddlers — can be the key to
healthier, happier, more independent lives. Chromosomes Are the
Cause To understand why Down syndrome happens, you need to
understand a little about chromosomes. What are chromosomes?
They're thread-like structures within each cell and are made up
of genes. Genes provide the information that determines
everything about people, from hair color to whether they are
girls or boys. Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a
total of 46. But a baby with Down syndrome