October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time to celebrate people with Down syndrome and raise awareness of their many abilities and accomplishments. Down syndrome is the most common chromosome-related condition in the United States, occurring when a person has an extra copy of chromosome 21. Although children with Down syndrome typically face some delays in gross motor, fine motor, and speech development, most of them reach their developmental milestones and grow up to be independent and capable individuals. Nearly half a million people in the United States have Down syndrome, and October is all about advocating for their acceptance and inclusion.
Here at Kyte Baby, we believe that all children deserve to be celebrated. We want all the little ones who wear our clothes to feel represented and see themselves across our many campaigns. Mila and her son Kingston, as well as Alexis and her daughter Luci, are all Kyte models who have helped us bring many of our collections to life. Kingston and Luci have Down syndrome, and in honor of Down Syndrome Awareness Month, we spoke to their moms about the many joys of parenting, the ways their little ones inspire them, and what they wish others knew.
How has your understanding of Down syndrome evolved over time?
“My understanding of Down Syndrome has definitely opened my eyes to a new world. It's taught us how to slow down. With Lucy, everything for her was on her own timeline—milestones, walking, talking. It taught us to just slow down, take each day and enjoy it.”
-Alexis
What ways has your child inspired you?
“My journey since having my son Kingston and finding out about his Down Syndrome diagnosis has been life changing. And if I could go back and hug my former pregnant self, I would because this journey has been so amazing. Kingston has inspired me to never give up, to stay resilient, and to always just try again and again.”
-Mila
What steps do you think can be taken to improve inclusion for children with Down syndrome?
“I think some steps that can be taken to improve inclusion for Children with Down Syndrome are to just properly educate and spread awareness with your family, your classmates, and your school.”
-Mila
“Our children are capable, and they're capable of more than society thinks that they are. Start from the home, start teaching every child that even if someone looks different or is doing things differently or in a different timeline, then that's ok. They're still a person, they're still an individual and we should accept them, love them, provide the support needed, and just be there for them.”
-Alexis
What advice would you give to new parents who receive a Down syndrome diagnosis?
“I would tell those new parents to celebrate your child first. I know learning about a new diagnosis is scary. It's unknown. Enjoy your baby first and then worry about the diagnosis second.”
-Alexis
If you could change one thing about society’s view on Down syndrome, what would it be?
“If I could change one thing about society's view on Down Syndrome, it would be to not give anybody with an extra 21st chromosome any limits, because if they put their mind to it, they will achieve it. There are no limits to these possibilities. All of them are endless.”
-Mila
What is your favorite memory with your child?
My favorite memory of my daughter would be seeing her walk on the beach for the first time. For children with Down syndrome, you don't know whether they'll walk or not because they're all on their own timeline. It was something that weighed heavy on my heart. So, seeing her walk on the beach for the first time was an amazing experience.”
-Alexis
“My favorite memory with Kingston would have to be spending time in the pool. That little man is a fish. Let me tell you he can just have so much fun and the memories are unmatched.”
-Mila
