A detailed infographic titled "Navigating Your First Year with Jack's Friends Foundation," illustrating stages for children with Down Syndrome, from birth to age 12. It includes sections for celebrating birth, forming a plan, making friends, learning and growing, and planning for the future, with related activities like medical checklists, therapy, social activities, education, and birthday celebrations, with cartoon children, teddy bears, giraffes, and balloons.

Jack’s Roadmap

Always know, you are not alone.

Before you begin exploring this roadmap, I want you to know that I've walked this exact path. I've had sleepless nights filled with worry, spent countless hours researching online, and yes—I've even had moments where I felt completely overwhelmed by it all. But here's what I've learned: you and your child are exactly where you're meant to be.

We're living in an incredible time of medical advancement, countless resources, and a community of families who understand your journey. Most importantly, you have a beautiful child who will bring more joy to your life than you can imagine. This roadmap was born from my personal experience navigating Jack's first year, combined with guidance from over 8 medical professionals and insights from other families who've been where you are now. While I'm not a medical expert, every suggestion here has been carefully considered to help you feel more confident and prepared.

A note from Gio

Please use this as your starting point, not your rulebook. Every child is unique, and your journey will be too. If you feel overwhelmed at any point, it's okay to pause, breathe, and return when you're ready. We'll be here waiting for you.

Follow the road and numbers through each stage. Click on images and prompts to learn more about each important phase and milestone!

Navigating your first year

A child with a teddy bear in a green toy car with a giraffe standing behind them. The car has a license plate reading 'JACK' and is decorated with flags and a scarf.
A yellow flag with a golden pole featuring the word 'DISCOVERY' written on it, fluttering in the wind.

If you've received a prenatal diagnosis, your heart is probably racing with a thousand questions and emotions right now. Take a deep breath—everything you're feeling is completely normal and valid.

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01. Learn about Down Syndrome

Illustration of a ribbon in pale yellow and light blue colors, symbolizing awareness and support.
An illustration of a golden flag with the word 'BIRTH' written on it, attached to a pole.

02. Celebrate your Baby’s Birth

Congratulations on your beautiful baby! What an incredible moment this is for your family. We are absolutely thrilled for you and can't wait to support you through this amazing journey ahead.

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A cartoon teddy bear with light brown fur sitting with legs spread apart. It has a friendly face, a black nose, and one eye winking. The bear is dressed in a light blue vest with gold buttons, a yellow bowtie, and a small musical note embroidered on the vest.
A flag with a gold pole and cream-colored banner that reads "1-3 MONTHS" in brown text.

03. Form your Plan

While your precious baby rests peacefully in your arms, this is a perfect time to understand your medical coverage and set up the support systems your child will need to thrive.

Finding a local genetic counselor was one of the most valuable steps in Jack's early care journey.

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Two children sitting on the floor, playing musical instruments. The boy on the left is holding maracas, and the girl on the right is holding sticks, with a xylophone in between them. Musical notes are floating in the air.
A cartoon illustration of a boy and a teddy bear riding in a green toy car with a giraffe and stars in the background.

04. Make Friends

This age is really fun! Why not add more to the party? I strongly urge you to find one family who has a child close to your child’s age who also has Down Syndrome.

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A simple illustration of a rectangular block with a hole on top, a small archway on the side, and two balls in blue and yellow on a straight track leading to the arch.

05. Learn & Grow

A child with a teddy bear in a green toy car with a giraffe standing behind them. The car has a license plate reading 'JACK' and is decorated with flags and a scarf.

This is the perfect time to start thinking about your child's educational future, even though it might seem early.

There are a few important questions that helped guide our plan.

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A drawing of a boy and two teddy bears on a yellow cart, waving and smiling. The boy is holding a flag, and the teddy bears are wearing yellow bow ties. The scene appears cheerful and playful.

06. Plan for the Future

Can you believe it? One whole year of loving, learning, and growing together! This milestone deserves a proper celebration.

You've come so far as a family, and the routines and support systems you've built are truly something to be proud of. Your first year as parents of a child with Down syndrome is a testament to your love, dedication, and strength.

So, plan that party, take those pictures, and celebrate everything your beautiful child has brought to your life. You've all earned this moment of pure joy.