week 4: Down Syndrome • DCD • FASD • Intellectual Disability • Epilepsy • Mental Health & PA

What is the most common chromosomal cause of Down Syndrome?

trisomy 21 due to nondisjunction of chromosome 21.

Name the three chromosomal types of Down Syndrome.

Trisomy 21, translocation, and mosaicism

Why does maternal age matter for Down Syndrome?

Increasing maternal age is associated with a higher occurrence of DS.

percentage of children with DS with norn with heart defect 

40-50

List three common motor-related issues in DS.

Hypotonia (low muscle tone), ligamentous laxity, and obesity.

What is atlantoaxial instability, and why does it matter in DS?

Instability between C1–C2 vertebrae; increases risk during activities like somersaults, so clearance is needed.

According to Latash (2000), why is early motor exploration important in DS?

t helps the CNS discover more efficient general rules of motor coordination.

What is Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD)?

A marked impairment in motor coordination not explained by ID or a known physical disorder.

prevalence of DCD in school-age children?

About 6–10%.

What is the Activity Deficit Hypothesis in DCD?

Poor skills → negative experiences → low confidence → withdrawal → even poorer skills and less PA.

What is meant by “culturally normative motor skills”?

Skills commonly performed in a culture, e.g., hockey in Canada, baseball in the USA.

What are the four diagnostic criteria for Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS)?

Maternal alcohol use, characteristic facial features, growth retardation, and brain damage.

Define Intellectual Disability (three key features).

current intellectual impairment, adaptive functioning deficits, and onset during the developmental period.

Name three domains of adaptive functioning.

Conceptual, social, and practical skills.

What are common associated impairments in ID?

Cerebral palsy, seizures, communication disorders, sensory impairments, and psychiatric disorders.

Why are people with developmental disabilities at higher risk for psychiatric disorders?

Syndrome-specific risks, impaired coping skills, frequent medical issues, visible differences, and environmental stressors.

What is the main finding of the Special Olympics depression study?

: Young adults with IDD who participate in Special Olympics have a 49% reduced risk of depression.

What might explain the mental health benefits of Special Olympics participation?

Combination of physical activity, social support, mastery experiences, and supportive environment.

What is “social prescription” in this context?

When professionals recommend PA programs (e.g., Special Olympics) as a health/mental health intervention.

Why should kinesiologists care about early identification of developmental delays?

Early intervention improves outcomes, supports motor skills, and may prevent widening gaps in participation and ability.

In DS, what three systems are often delayed in development?

Gross motor, language, and cognitive systems.

What does “hypotonia” look like in practice?

Increased ROM at joints, low resistance to passive movement, and unusual postures.